By Ronron
July 7, 2005
Coast Guard District Commander in Zamboanga Commodore
Alejandro Flora said that as of 5:45pm today, the M/V
Princess of the World was still on fire.
He said the Navy vessel, BRP 3504 Davao del Norte, was
not able to sustain the firefighting activity it was
carrying out on the vessel because it was just small
compared to the commercial ferry (more than 10,000
gross tonnage).
A Coast Guard ship from Cebu, particularly the
SAR-003, is now on its way to the site to continue the
firefighting activity, Flora added.
BRP 3504 Davao del Norte, instead, was pulled out and
directed to proceed to Sta. Maria pier in Siocon town,
Zamboanga del Norte where all the survivors were
brought.
Flora said the personnel of BRP 3504 Davao del Norte
is tasked to do the accounting of the passengers and
crew members of the ill-fated vessel at the said pier.
Afterwhich, the vessel is to bring the survivors to
Zamboanga City.
Flora said he still has no information as to the exact
number of survivors or possible casualties. The
vessel was carrying 108 passengers, 109 crew members
and five sea marshals at the time of the accident.
Initial reports reaching Flora indicate that the fire
started at the engine room of the vessel. It is not
yet known if there was an explosion prior to the
blaze.
But he said an investigation will be conducted to
determine if the accident was caused by some technical
problems, human-initiated, or terrorism-related.
Flora begged off in describing the extent of the fire,
or the damage it caused to the vessel, saying he still
has no information about the matter.
The vessel is now abandoned./DMS
Friday, July 8, 2005
Wednesday, July 6, 2005
"Emong" leave people stranded in RP
By Ronron
July 5, 2005
The Philippine Coast Guard belied reports that there were 400 persons stranded on Tuesday in Tabaco City, Albay due to the weather disturbance.
The PCG Public Information Office said there were only eight trucks, six small cars and three buses that were stranded there at 1:20 pm for about an hour. There were no details as to how many individual persons were on board these vehicles.
In Virac, Catanduanes, 46 persons were also stranded, as well as 12 small cars, one bus and one vessel beginning 1pm for one hour.
The PIO said that as of 6pm, there were already no reports of stranded passengers in the country./DMS
July 5, 2005
The Philippine Coast Guard belied reports that there were 400 persons stranded on Tuesday in Tabaco City, Albay due to the weather disturbance.
The PCG Public Information Office said there were only eight trucks, six small cars and three buses that were stranded there at 1:20 pm for about an hour. There were no details as to how many individual persons were on board these vehicles.
In Virac, Catanduanes, 46 persons were also stranded, as well as 12 small cars, one bus and one vessel beginning 1pm for one hour.
The PIO said that as of 6pm, there were already no reports of stranded passengers in the country./DMS
Saturday, July 2, 2005
Military opposes independent Mindanao Republic
By Ronron
July 1, 2005
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) vowed to quell efforts to establish an independent Mindanao Republic as reportedly suggested by local political leaders if another People Power uprising prosper in Metro Manila to unseat President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
"The AFP protects Philippine territorial integrity and will block any move to divide the country," Acting AFP Civil Relations Service chief Col. Gilberto Abanto said Friday in a statement.
Abanto was reacting to reports that southern Philippine leaders, among them Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, are calling for the setting up of a separate Mindanao if opposition groups stage another EDSA mobilization and succeed in removing the President from her post.
"The AFP will continue to safeguard the Constitution and uphold the rule of law," said Abanto.
Different anti-government groups have begun a series of protest actions in Metro Manila, particularly in the cities of Manila and Makati, to press the resignation of Arroyo following her admission last Monday of an act of impropriety by calling an elections officer even before the 2004 Presidential polls was completed.
The AFP and other authorities have repeatedly appealed for sobriety and calmness among the people and to leave instead everything to the Constitutionally-allowed processes as regards any possible liabilities of Arroyo.
"Our people should not allow themselves to be used by groups with political and ideological interests that threaten to destroy the peace and order situation in the country," Abanto said.
The AFP expressed fear that that different groups, including the communist terrorist New People’s Army, will take advantage of the situation by creating violence and chaos.
Nonetheless, "if the communist movement and other leftist groups decide to align themselves with the groups orchestrating destabilization efforts, the AFP will not hesitate to crush this unholy alliance," said Abanto.
The AFP said it is continuously monitoring the prevailing security situation, along with the Philippine National Police, as it expressed readiness to thwart any destabilization efforts that will be launched by anti-government efforts.
"The AFP has remained faithful to its core mission and mandated duty to defend and protect the country and the Filipino people," Abanto stressed.
The military leadership has consistently denied active AFP members are already breaking support and loyalty from Arroyo, their commander-in-chief, in light of the recent controversies hounding her administration.
"The AFP is an apolitical organization and its members do not engage in partisan politics, except to exercise the right to vote," said Abanto.
In light of allegations that the military took part in the massive fraud in last year’s polls, Abanto said the military would welcome any probe that will investigate the alleged involvement of several top AFP officials.
"Any AFP personnel found to have violated the country’s election code will be punished to the full extent of the law," said Abanto.
In the alleged taped conversation of Arroyo and Comelec Commissioner Virgilio Garcillano last May 28, 2004, the latter mentioned that then AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations (J3) Maj. Gen. Hermogenes Esperon and AFP Southern Command chief Lt. Gen. Roy Kyamko allegedly removed temporarily from his post Brig. Gen. Franciso Gudani as 1st Marine Brigade Commander because the latter was siding with Arroyo’s closest rival for the Presidency, Fernando Poe, Jr.
Esperon, who served then as deputy commander of the military’s Task Force HOPE (Honest, Orderly, Peaceful Elections), had denied the allegations, maintaining that there was definitely no cheating in Mindanao./DMS
July 1, 2005
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) vowed to quell efforts to establish an independent Mindanao Republic as reportedly suggested by local political leaders if another People Power uprising prosper in Metro Manila to unseat President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
"The AFP protects Philippine territorial integrity and will block any move to divide the country," Acting AFP Civil Relations Service chief Col. Gilberto Abanto said Friday in a statement.
Abanto was reacting to reports that southern Philippine leaders, among them Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, are calling for the setting up of a separate Mindanao if opposition groups stage another EDSA mobilization and succeed in removing the President from her post.
"The AFP will continue to safeguard the Constitution and uphold the rule of law," said Abanto.
Different anti-government groups have begun a series of protest actions in Metro Manila, particularly in the cities of Manila and Makati, to press the resignation of Arroyo following her admission last Monday of an act of impropriety by calling an elections officer even before the 2004 Presidential polls was completed.
The AFP and other authorities have repeatedly appealed for sobriety and calmness among the people and to leave instead everything to the Constitutionally-allowed processes as regards any possible liabilities of Arroyo.
"Our people should not allow themselves to be used by groups with political and ideological interests that threaten to destroy the peace and order situation in the country," Abanto said.
The AFP expressed fear that that different groups, including the communist terrorist New People’s Army, will take advantage of the situation by creating violence and chaos.
Nonetheless, "if the communist movement and other leftist groups decide to align themselves with the groups orchestrating destabilization efforts, the AFP will not hesitate to crush this unholy alliance," said Abanto.
The AFP said it is continuously monitoring the prevailing security situation, along with the Philippine National Police, as it expressed readiness to thwart any destabilization efforts that will be launched by anti-government efforts.
"The AFP has remained faithful to its core mission and mandated duty to defend and protect the country and the Filipino people," Abanto stressed.
The military leadership has consistently denied active AFP members are already breaking support and loyalty from Arroyo, their commander-in-chief, in light of the recent controversies hounding her administration.
"The AFP is an apolitical organization and its members do not engage in partisan politics, except to exercise the right to vote," said Abanto.
In light of allegations that the military took part in the massive fraud in last year’s polls, Abanto said the military would welcome any probe that will investigate the alleged involvement of several top AFP officials.
"Any AFP personnel found to have violated the country’s election code will be punished to the full extent of the law," said Abanto.
In the alleged taped conversation of Arroyo and Comelec Commissioner Virgilio Garcillano last May 28, 2004, the latter mentioned that then AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations (J3) Maj. Gen. Hermogenes Esperon and AFP Southern Command chief Lt. Gen. Roy Kyamko allegedly removed temporarily from his post Brig. Gen. Franciso Gudani as 1st Marine Brigade Commander because the latter was siding with Arroyo’s closest rival for the Presidency, Fernando Poe, Jr.
Esperon, who served then as deputy commander of the military’s Task Force HOPE (Honest, Orderly, Peaceful Elections), had denied the allegations, maintaining that there was definitely no cheating in Mindanao./DMS
Joint RP-US Marines exercises start in Cavite, Manila
By Ronron
July 1, 2005
The Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) and the United States Marine Corps (USMC) will start on Monday their joint training exercises to be held in Cavite and Manila "to improve the interoperability and combat readiness of both forces and enhance professional relationships."
Capt. Rommel Abrau, Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) Public Information Officer, said the PMC-USMC Interoperability Exercise ’05 and Philippine Subject Matter Expert Exchange ’05 was formally opened yesterday (Friday) at the Basic School parade ground of the Marine Base Ternate in Ternate, Cavite.
Around 500 from the PMC and more than 100 from the USMC will be participating in the activity that is expected to end on July 21, 2005.
Abrau disclosed that while the Engineering Civic Assistance Project (ENCAP) component of the activity had already started last June 25, the training proper will only begin this coming Monday at the Marine Base Ternate and the Marine Barracks Manila at Fort Bonifacio in Makati City.
Aside from ENCAP, the exercise also include the following components: Medical Civic Assistance Project (MEDCAP), Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE), Weapons Live-Fire Training, Staff Exercise (Staff-Ex) / Command Post Exercise (CPX), Explosive Ordnance Demolition (EOD) Training, USMC Combat Engineering Organization brief, Small Unit Leadership Lessons Learned Exchange, (Nuclear, Biological, Chemical) Warfare Training, Force Protection Training, Communications Training, Maintenance Processes and Procedures Training, Logistics Planning, and Medical Training.
Abrau said the MEDCAP and ENCAP activities are the scheduled humanitarian/civil military operations.
The MEDCAP, which will be held on July 4th and 8th, 2005, will provide free medical check-up and medicines to the residents of Sapang Uno and San Juan villages in Ternate, Cavite.
The ENCAP, on the other hand, is an engineering project designed to improve local infrastructure. It is expected to wrap up on July 18th.
As regards the training proper component, Abrau said the Staff-Ex / CPX will be held at the Marine Barracks Manila while the rest field training exercises will be at the Marine Base Ternate.
Col. Ariel Querubin of the PMC is the Exercise Director, while Maj. Ted Veggeberg from the USMC temporarily heads the US contingent that has begun arriving in batches last June 23.
Abrau said the budget of US$50,000 for the training activity will be shouldered by the PMC from the Philippine Navy’s training fund, and will be reimbursed afterwards by the USMC.
The exercise is covered by the 1951 RP-US Mutual Defense Treaty, while the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) will govern the conduct of US armed forces personnel who are taking part in the said exercise.
"The amount that will be expended by the US forces is immaterial in comparison to the tangible benefits like the proficiency and skills acquired from the US counterparts or the civil military projects that will remain after they will leave. More important are the intangibles – the mutual trust, respect, understanding and friendship this exercise will foster among the participants," Abrau quoted Querubin to have said of the exercise./DMS
July 1, 2005
The Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) and the United States Marine Corps (USMC) will start on Monday their joint training exercises to be held in Cavite and Manila "to improve the interoperability and combat readiness of both forces and enhance professional relationships."
Capt. Rommel Abrau, Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) Public Information Officer, said the PMC-USMC Interoperability Exercise ’05 and Philippine Subject Matter Expert Exchange ’05 was formally opened yesterday (Friday) at the Basic School parade ground of the Marine Base Ternate in Ternate, Cavite.
Around 500 from the PMC and more than 100 from the USMC will be participating in the activity that is expected to end on July 21, 2005.
Abrau disclosed that while the Engineering Civic Assistance Project (ENCAP) component of the activity had already started last June 25, the training proper will only begin this coming Monday at the Marine Base Ternate and the Marine Barracks Manila at Fort Bonifacio in Makati City.
Aside from ENCAP, the exercise also include the following components: Medical Civic Assistance Project (MEDCAP), Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE), Weapons Live-Fire Training, Staff Exercise (Staff-Ex) / Command Post Exercise (CPX), Explosive Ordnance Demolition (EOD) Training, USMC Combat Engineering Organization brief, Small Unit Leadership Lessons Learned Exchange, (Nuclear, Biological, Chemical) Warfare Training, Force Protection Training, Communications Training, Maintenance Processes and Procedures Training, Logistics Planning, and Medical Training.
Abrau said the MEDCAP and ENCAP activities are the scheduled humanitarian/civil military operations.
The MEDCAP, which will be held on July 4th and 8th, 2005, will provide free medical check-up and medicines to the residents of Sapang Uno and San Juan villages in Ternate, Cavite.
The ENCAP, on the other hand, is an engineering project designed to improve local infrastructure. It is expected to wrap up on July 18th.
As regards the training proper component, Abrau said the Staff-Ex / CPX will be held at the Marine Barracks Manila while the rest field training exercises will be at the Marine Base Ternate.
Col. Ariel Querubin of the PMC is the Exercise Director, while Maj. Ted Veggeberg from the USMC temporarily heads the US contingent that has begun arriving in batches last June 23.
Abrau said the budget of US$50,000 for the training activity will be shouldered by the PMC from the Philippine Navy’s training fund, and will be reimbursed afterwards by the USMC.
The exercise is covered by the 1951 RP-US Mutual Defense Treaty, while the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) will govern the conduct of US armed forces personnel who are taking part in the said exercise.
"The amount that will be expended by the US forces is immaterial in comparison to the tangible benefits like the proficiency and skills acquired from the US counterparts or the civil military projects that will remain after they will leave. More important are the intangibles – the mutual trust, respect, understanding and friendship this exercise will foster among the participants," Abrau quoted Querubin to have said of the exercise./DMS
Thursday, June 30, 2005
PMA alumni-chapter calls for Arroyo’s resignation
By Ronron
June 29, 2005
While it accepted the apology of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, a group of alumni of the elite Philippine Military Academy (PMA) wants the President to resign because she has "lost the moral ascendancy to govern" with her admission to the act of impropriety.
In a three-page resolution dated June 28, 2005, the Business, Industry and Retired Chapter, Inc. (BIRC) of the PMA Alumni Association, Inc. also asked all members of Arroyo’s cabinet to tender their resignations for participating in a series of lies and cover-ups in the last three weeks to protect the image of Arroyo.
Arroyo, on Monday night, confessed on national television that she called a government election officer while the 2004 Presidential polls was not yet over. She admitted it was a lapse in judgement of which she was sorry about.
"The (BIRC) of the PMAAAI believes that the apologies of the President should be accepted, whatever prompted her to do so… The BIRC nonetheless believes that the President has lost the moral ascendancy to govern and would not be the best person to heal, lead and unite the nation in these critical times," the resolution of the more than 1,000-strong organization reads.
The group, chaired by Col. (ret.) Mariano Santiago, also sought the public to respect the Constitution process of presidential succession should Arroyo resign "to avoid further disunity and deadly confrontation over the Presidency."
It also addressed the AFP to exercise prudence and neutrality and perform its constitutionally mandated duty to protect the people and the State and insure that the Constitutional process of succession, if any, is allowed.
In a phone interview with Manila Shimbun, Santigao said his group’s sentiments may not be shared by the four other chapters of the 7,000-strong PMAAAI who are in the active service.
It is not even a unanimous call but only by the majority of the BIRC.
But he said it is important that they express their opinion on the matter so that "nobody would grab power," particularly a military junta.
A retired Navy officer had earlier warned Arroyo that four or five military groups who are rebellious are just waiting to be instigated.
Commodore (ret.) Rex Robles said Arroyo must not let down her guard even if the military pronounces their loyalty to their Commander-in-Chief.
But the AFP yesterday belied Robles’ allegations.
"There is no truth in retired Commodore Rex Roble’s statements that groups within the AFP composed of disgruntled officers have united for the purpose of military intervention. The incoming (Chief of Staff of the AFP, Lt. Gen. Generoso Senga) has vowed to put an end to military adventurism, to ensure that misguided men in uniform will not be swayed into joining such activities," Col. Gilberto Abanto, acting Commander of the AFP’s Civil Relations Service, said.
The military leadership had consistently called for sobriety among the public following Arroyo’s confession./DMS
June 29, 2005
While it accepted the apology of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, a group of alumni of the elite Philippine Military Academy (PMA) wants the President to resign because she has "lost the moral ascendancy to govern" with her admission to the act of impropriety.
In a three-page resolution dated June 28, 2005, the Business, Industry and Retired Chapter, Inc. (BIRC) of the PMA Alumni Association, Inc. also asked all members of Arroyo’s cabinet to tender their resignations for participating in a series of lies and cover-ups in the last three weeks to protect the image of Arroyo.
Arroyo, on Monday night, confessed on national television that she called a government election officer while the 2004 Presidential polls was not yet over. She admitted it was a lapse in judgement of which she was sorry about.
"The (BIRC) of the PMAAAI believes that the apologies of the President should be accepted, whatever prompted her to do so… The BIRC nonetheless believes that the President has lost the moral ascendancy to govern and would not be the best person to heal, lead and unite the nation in these critical times," the resolution of the more than 1,000-strong organization reads.
The group, chaired by Col. (ret.) Mariano Santiago, also sought the public to respect the Constitution process of presidential succession should Arroyo resign "to avoid further disunity and deadly confrontation over the Presidency."
It also addressed the AFP to exercise prudence and neutrality and perform its constitutionally mandated duty to protect the people and the State and insure that the Constitutional process of succession, if any, is allowed.
In a phone interview with Manila Shimbun, Santigao said his group’s sentiments may not be shared by the four other chapters of the 7,000-strong PMAAAI who are in the active service.
It is not even a unanimous call but only by the majority of the BIRC.
But he said it is important that they express their opinion on the matter so that "nobody would grab power," particularly a military junta.
A retired Navy officer had earlier warned Arroyo that four or five military groups who are rebellious are just waiting to be instigated.
Commodore (ret.) Rex Robles said Arroyo must not let down her guard even if the military pronounces their loyalty to their Commander-in-Chief.
But the AFP yesterday belied Robles’ allegations.
"There is no truth in retired Commodore Rex Roble’s statements that groups within the AFP composed of disgruntled officers have united for the purpose of military intervention. The incoming (Chief of Staff of the AFP, Lt. Gen. Generoso Senga) has vowed to put an end to military adventurism, to ensure that misguided men in uniform will not be swayed into joining such activities," Col. Gilberto Abanto, acting Commander of the AFP’s Civil Relations Service, said.
The military leadership had consistently called for sobriety among the public following Arroyo’s confession./DMS
Susan Roces Speech June 29, 2005
April 14 nung huli tayong magtipon-tipon dito. Noon ay inilahad ko sa inyo ang lahat ng nasa aking damdamin sa pagkakabasura ng Presidential Electoral Tribunal sa kahilingan ko na sana ay maipagpatuloy ko ang protesta ni FPJ. Ang taning layunin ko noon ay malaman ang tunay na nangyari at kung papano tinatrato ang mga boto nating lahat, hindi lang po para sa akin, hindi lang po para sa aking pamilya, kung hindi para sa ating lahat na lumahok at bumoto sa araw ng halalan upang piliin natin kung sino ang ibig nating mamuno sa atin. Mayroon po tayong kanya-kanyang pinili. So ito po ay ginawa ko hindi lamang para sa bumoto kay FPJ, kundi para din sa kani-kanilang mga ibinoto… kaya lang, hindi tayo pinagbigyan. Nalungkot po ako noon sapagkat kailan po natin malalaman ang katotohanan. Lumipas po ang panahon, nanahimik po ako. Katulad ng sabi ng mga nakakaalam sa …, it was legal but not moral. Life must go on. Sinikap ko na gawin ang pang-araw-araw na dapat kong gawin, tulad ng isang mabuting mamamayan. Sinunod ko lahat ang mga batas. Sinunod ko kahit laban sa loob ko, kahit nakikita ko na na in spite of our economic state, our financial crisis, personal and business crisis, pinilit tayo whether we like it or not na nadagdagan ang ating VAT. Ganunpaman, sabi ko, kung lahat kayo ay nakakatiis, bakit hindi siya bigyan ng pagkakataon. Ngunit anong isinukli niya? Arogante siya. (applause) Hindi niya isina-alang-alang ang damdamin ng nakararami. Manhid. (applause) June 6, tulad ninyong lahat, nagulat na lamang ako. Dun pa man din sa Malakanyang inilabas ang dalawang discs. Hindi ko hinanap yun. Hindi oposisyon ang nakahanap nun. Kundi marahil ay naibigay sa akin yung kasalukuyang ipinaglalaban ko ang protesta ni fpj. Dininig ng langit ang aking panalangin (applause) kasama ng iba’t ibang… Langit ang humusga na may karapatan tayong malaman ang katotohanan. (applause) Para sa ating mga Pilipino, mahalaga ang karapatan nating piliin ang ibig nating mamuno sa atin. (applause) Sagrado ang ating mga boto sapagkat yan ay karapatang ipinamana sa atin ng ating mga ninuno, pinagbuwisan nila ng buhay, ipinaglaban nila ang ating karapatan at nanindigan sila para makamit natin ang ating kalayaan. (applause) Tuwing araw lamang ng halalan na tunay na lahat tayo ay pantay-pantay, mayaman man o mahirap. Tig-isa-isa lang tayo ng boto kaya yun ay sagrado. (applause) Nakalulungkot at nakagagalit ang kasalukuyang pangyayari. Noon ang sumusupil sa ating karapatan at nanlalamang sa atin ay ang mga dayuhan na sumakop sa ating bayan. Ngunit sa kasalukuyan, ang nanlalalamang at kumikitil ng ating mga karapatan ay sarili nating kalahi at kadugo. (applause) Nagpahayag si Mrs. Arroyo noong Lunes ng gabi. Labis akong nalungkot sa aking nakita at narinig. Napa-isip ako, nadagdagan ang mga katanungan sa aking diwa. Sorry daw at kinausap niya ang isang Comelec Commissioner. Kasalukuyan pang nagbibilangan noon. Alam niya yun. Alam niyang bawal yun. Alam ng lahat ng mga kandidato bawal yun. Perong ginawa niya, nilabag niya ang batas. At yun ay inilihim niya. At kung hindi pa lumabas ang tape, kailanman ay hindi natin malalaman. Kay tagal din niyang nanahimik. Kay tagal din niyang pinag-isipan, aaminin ba niya o hindi? Na boses niya ang boses ng babaeng nasa tape? Bakit? Bakit napakatagal niyang nag-intay? Dahil may higit siyang mabigat na pagkakasala na ibig niyang ilihim at ibig pa tayong muling isahan. Yun ang pinag-uusapan nila, at ayaw at bawal ito na ating marinig, ang pandaraya. (applause) Mrs. Arroyo, habang pinagmamasdan kita sa yung paghingi ng paumanhin sa amin, sa taumbayan, kitang kita ko sa iyong mga mata, hindi nanggagaling sa iyong puso ang iyong paghingi ng sorry. (applause) Kitang-kita ko sa iyong mga mata na ibig mo na naman kaming isahan. (applause) Pinaiikot mo na naman ang batas para sa iyong personal na interes, para ilihim ang katotohanan. May kasabihan tayong mga Pilipino, ang sinungaling ay kapatid ng magnanakaw. (applause) Hindi ko matatanggap ang iyong sorry. (applause) sinira mo ang pagtitiwala ng mga kababayan mo sa’yo. (applause). Wala kang karapatan na mamuno (applause). Remember mrs. Arroyo, before foreigners, before investors can trust you, you must first have the trust of your countrymen which unfortunately you have lost (applause). You have embarrassed the Filipinos enough. There is nothing we can find that we can be proud of that you have done for us from your day one to the present. (applause) You are full of empty promises. Obviously, you have no love for your country. (applause) the gravest thing that you have done is you have stolen the presidency, not once but twice. (applause)
Q&A
(you call for GMA’s resignation?)
yes, that is the most honorable thing she can do at present.
(handa na ba kayong mamuno if people ask you to lead their campaign for arroyo’s resignation?)
ang press conference na ito ay tungkol sa pinaglalaban natin sa katotohanan. Ayoko pong haluan ito ng pulitika. Ayokong haluan ito ng partisan politics.
(bunye said we must put to closure on the issue? Opposition said forgive with retributions?)
for your first question, sec. Bunye said that. I believe that is the administration’s problem right now. So it’s not for me to answer. You better ask them. As far as the retribution is concerned, again we have to consult people in the legal field. And other than that, it is our countrymen who can best decide her fate. Remember, laws were made for the majority, most especially for the oppressed, to protect them, not to abuse them.
(if gma resigns, who would you endorse to take her place?)
I am just like you, an ordinary citizen. Again I would say, it’s for the majority to decide.
(gma announced that mike will leave the country?)
that’s a personal decision of the couple. As for me, in my marriage, I don’t agree to it.
(kelan po kayo gagawa ng malaking rally para ibagsak si arroyo?)
wag niyo pong lalagyan ng di tamang pananalita ang aking bibig. Iisa lang ako, ordinaryong mamamayan tulad ninyo. Wala akong maipagmamalaking puwersa. Ngunit kung may mangunguna at depende kung kailan, handa ako.
(is mike’s flight tantamount to guilt?)
I don’t meddle with problems of the couple.
(you are calling for the immediate resignation of GMA?)
yes. She has done enough damage to our country. She has put our country and our countrymen to shame.
(wala raw intention si gma mag-resign, sabi ni bunye. Ano action niyo?)
ipadinig niyo yan sa nakararami, tingnan natin kung anong sagot nila. Oo, sasamahan ko sila.
(if gma resigns, noli will take over based on constitution. Agree kayo?)
sa mga nakikita ko, na kahit na mali ay kinakampihan, ano ang maisasagot mo?
(ano ang magiging role mo if gma resigns?)
kagaya ngayon ng role ko, isang simpleng mamamayan, kasama ninyo.
(do you favor military-junta?)
hindi ako ang makapagsasabi niyan. Hindi ko ginusto na magkaganito ang ating sitwasyon. Wag nilang isisi sa mga taong katulad ko na ibig lamang ipahayag ang tunay niyang niloloob at ang kanyang damdamin. Hindi natin alam kung kailan pa magkakaroon ng pagkakataong ito.
(no preference sa next option, snap election?)
ang mga bagay-bagay na ganyan ay hindi ipinagsasapalaran. Yan ay pinag-aaralan. Sa ngayon, marami nang pag-aaral. Iba’t ibang grupo na ang nag-aaral kung anong makabubuti sa ating bayan.
(message to arroyo?)
I don’t give unsolicited advice.
(will you endorse snap elections?)
hindi dahil sa dumi ng nakaraang halalan, sino ang mamahala ng snap elections.
(so paano papalitan ang pamahalaan?)
again, I would say, there are plans, different plans …
(what if majority asks you to lead campaign against gma?)
depende sa pagkakataon at mga pangyayari.
(so you’re open to it?)
malalaman niyo na lang. Ang importante ay magkakasama ang lahat ng taong bayan.
(kasama po ba ang people power sa pinaplano?)
hindi ko alam.
(are you calling people to go the streets?)
pinauubaya na sa amin ang lahat. Hindi tayo bulag. Hindi tayo tanga. Ikaw ang nagsabi niyan, hindi ako. Umpisahan mo, tatapusin ko.
(naumpisahan niyo na po, saan na ’to tutungo?)
atat na atat ka, ikaw ang mag-umpisa.
(were you able to listen to the tape before malacañang brought it out?)
katulad ng sinabi ko kanina, sabay-sabay nating nakita at narinig mula sa malacañang.
(saan hahantong itong nangyayari ngayon?)
yun din ang matagal ko nang itinatanong, saan ba tayo patungo.
(wala pang malinaw na kasagutan?)
I’m searching in my mind, and I just .. left wondering each day.
(gma said sakripisyo na yung pag-alis ng kanyang asawa)
hindi ko alam ang kasaysayan ng kanilang pagmamahalan.
(mensahe to fpj loyalists?)
ayaw ko silang tawaging loyalista ni fpj. Sila po ang ipinaglaban at naging dahil na si fpj ay lumaban sa nakaraang halalan. Para sa inyo, tuloy po ang laban.
(handa ba kayo to call for civil disobedience?)
makakarating tayo diyan. Tingnan natin kung gaano katigas ang ulo ng ating pangulo.
(handa ba kayong makausap si garcillano?)
alam mo ba kung nasaan siya?
(after edsa 1, edsa dos, anong option maibibigay niyo sa taong bayan?)
- nasa taumbayan ang pagpapasya. Naranasan nila ang edsa 1, edsa 2, at nagkaroon ng edsa 3. May nagbago ba? So naging leksyon yan para sa atin. Kailangan suriin natin sa ating mga isip kung ano ba ang gusto nating klase ng pamumuno.
Q&A
(you call for GMA’s resignation?)
yes, that is the most honorable thing she can do at present.
(handa na ba kayong mamuno if people ask you to lead their campaign for arroyo’s resignation?)
ang press conference na ito ay tungkol sa pinaglalaban natin sa katotohanan. Ayoko pong haluan ito ng pulitika. Ayokong haluan ito ng partisan politics.
(bunye said we must put to closure on the issue? Opposition said forgive with retributions?)
for your first question, sec. Bunye said that. I believe that is the administration’s problem right now. So it’s not for me to answer. You better ask them. As far as the retribution is concerned, again we have to consult people in the legal field. And other than that, it is our countrymen who can best decide her fate. Remember, laws were made for the majority, most especially for the oppressed, to protect them, not to abuse them.
(if gma resigns, who would you endorse to take her place?)
I am just like you, an ordinary citizen. Again I would say, it’s for the majority to decide.
(gma announced that mike will leave the country?)
that’s a personal decision of the couple. As for me, in my marriage, I don’t agree to it.
(kelan po kayo gagawa ng malaking rally para ibagsak si arroyo?)
wag niyo pong lalagyan ng di tamang pananalita ang aking bibig. Iisa lang ako, ordinaryong mamamayan tulad ninyo. Wala akong maipagmamalaking puwersa. Ngunit kung may mangunguna at depende kung kailan, handa ako.
(is mike’s flight tantamount to guilt?)
I don’t meddle with problems of the couple.
(you are calling for the immediate resignation of GMA?)
yes. She has done enough damage to our country. She has put our country and our countrymen to shame.
(wala raw intention si gma mag-resign, sabi ni bunye. Ano action niyo?)
ipadinig niyo yan sa nakararami, tingnan natin kung anong sagot nila. Oo, sasamahan ko sila.
(if gma resigns, noli will take over based on constitution. Agree kayo?)
sa mga nakikita ko, na kahit na mali ay kinakampihan, ano ang maisasagot mo?
(ano ang magiging role mo if gma resigns?)
kagaya ngayon ng role ko, isang simpleng mamamayan, kasama ninyo.
(do you favor military-junta?)
hindi ako ang makapagsasabi niyan. Hindi ko ginusto na magkaganito ang ating sitwasyon. Wag nilang isisi sa mga taong katulad ko na ibig lamang ipahayag ang tunay niyang niloloob at ang kanyang damdamin. Hindi natin alam kung kailan pa magkakaroon ng pagkakataong ito.
(no preference sa next option, snap election?)
ang mga bagay-bagay na ganyan ay hindi ipinagsasapalaran. Yan ay pinag-aaralan. Sa ngayon, marami nang pag-aaral. Iba’t ibang grupo na ang nag-aaral kung anong makabubuti sa ating bayan.
(message to arroyo?)
I don’t give unsolicited advice.
(will you endorse snap elections?)
hindi dahil sa dumi ng nakaraang halalan, sino ang mamahala ng snap elections.
(so paano papalitan ang pamahalaan?)
again, I would say, there are plans, different plans …
(what if majority asks you to lead campaign against gma?)
depende sa pagkakataon at mga pangyayari.
(so you’re open to it?)
malalaman niyo na lang. Ang importante ay magkakasama ang lahat ng taong bayan.
(kasama po ba ang people power sa pinaplano?)
hindi ko alam.
(are you calling people to go the streets?)
pinauubaya na sa amin ang lahat. Hindi tayo bulag. Hindi tayo tanga. Ikaw ang nagsabi niyan, hindi ako. Umpisahan mo, tatapusin ko.
(naumpisahan niyo na po, saan na ’to tutungo?)
atat na atat ka, ikaw ang mag-umpisa.
(were you able to listen to the tape before malacañang brought it out?)
katulad ng sinabi ko kanina, sabay-sabay nating nakita at narinig mula sa malacañang.
(saan hahantong itong nangyayari ngayon?)
yun din ang matagal ko nang itinatanong, saan ba tayo patungo.
(wala pang malinaw na kasagutan?)
I’m searching in my mind, and I just .. left wondering each day.
(gma said sakripisyo na yung pag-alis ng kanyang asawa)
hindi ko alam ang kasaysayan ng kanilang pagmamahalan.
(mensahe to fpj loyalists?)
ayaw ko silang tawaging loyalista ni fpj. Sila po ang ipinaglaban at naging dahil na si fpj ay lumaban sa nakaraang halalan. Para sa inyo, tuloy po ang laban.
(handa ba kayo to call for civil disobedience?)
makakarating tayo diyan. Tingnan natin kung gaano katigas ang ulo ng ating pangulo.
(handa ba kayong makausap si garcillano?)
alam mo ba kung nasaan siya?
(after edsa 1, edsa dos, anong option maibibigay niyo sa taong bayan?)
- nasa taumbayan ang pagpapasya. Naranasan nila ang edsa 1, edsa 2, at nagkaroon ng edsa 3. May nagbago ba? So naging leksyon yan para sa atin. Kailangan suriin natin sa ating mga isip kung ano ba ang gusto nating klase ng pamumuno.
Wednesday, June 29, 2005
Police and military vow loyalty to Arroyo
By Ronron
June 28, 2005
Amid her confession to committing impropriety by
calling an election officer in last year’s
Presidential polls which she participated, President
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo still enjoys the support and
loyalty of the police and the military.
In separate statements issued Tuesday, a day after
Arroyo made the public confession, the Philippine
National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the
Philippines even heeded to Arroyo’s call for the
public to continue supporting her program of
governance.
“The officers, men and women of the PNP fully support
President Arroyo in her courageous apology before the
nation,” national police chief Gen. Arturo Lomibao
said.
“The men and women of the AFP fully recognize and
remain loyal to the President as the duly constituted
authority and our Commander-in-Chief,” AFP Information
Officer Lt. Col. Buenaventura Pascual added.
Anticipating a series of mass actions that will be
launched by groups critical to Arroyo, the police and
military vowed not to tolerate any acts that border on
lawlessness and violence.
“The PNP shall remain faithful to its sworn duty to
enforce the law and maintain peace and order,” Lomibao
said.
Pascual, for his part, said: “While the AFP respects
every Filipino’s right to freedom of expression,
violent and armed actions to espouse such beliefs
shall never be tolerated. Let us respect each other’s
civil rights and follow the rule of law.”
Tomorrow (June 30), various multi-sectoral groups
critical to Arroyo, including members of the United
Opposition, will hold a rally at Plaza Miranda in
Quiapo, Manila City as a start of their intensified
campaign for the resignation of the President.
Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) Secertary General
Renato Reyes, Jr. said at least 10,000 people will
gather at noon time tomorrow at the historic site.
“Arroyo is completely mistaken if she thinks protests
will waver after her confession. Kami’y sawang sawa
na (We are already fed up). The Filipino people will
force her out of Malacanang if she does not come to
her senses soon,” said Reyes.
Bayan and other allied groups are rejecting Arroyo’s
apology, saying that the latter, in the first place,
does not have the right to be in power for cheating
her way to the Presidency.
Other activities are being planned by Reyes’ group
until Arroyo delivers her State of Nation Address
(SONA) on July 25 to continue pressing her to resign.
Among these activities are the planned mass leave by
teachers on July 8, and a mass caravan from Visayas to
Metro Manila by mass-based groups.
But Pascual is enjoining “each Filipino citizen to
stand behind the Constitution, and contribute to
national stability and progress by adhering to
calmness, sobriety, and genuine cooperation.”
With Arroyo’s confession, the police and military
sought everyone to put an end to the wiretapping and
election fraud controversies and direct their energies
to helping the government realize its programs.
“We must move on as a nation and take advantage of the
opportunities for progress that have been sidetracked
by the recent events,” Lomibao said./DMS
June 28, 2005
Amid her confession to committing impropriety by
calling an election officer in last year’s
Presidential polls which she participated, President
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo still enjoys the support and
loyalty of the police and the military.
In separate statements issued Tuesday, a day after
Arroyo made the public confession, the Philippine
National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the
Philippines even heeded to Arroyo’s call for the
public to continue supporting her program of
governance.
“The officers, men and women of the PNP fully support
President Arroyo in her courageous apology before the
nation,” national police chief Gen. Arturo Lomibao
said.
“The men and women of the AFP fully recognize and
remain loyal to the President as the duly constituted
authority and our Commander-in-Chief,” AFP Information
Officer Lt. Col. Buenaventura Pascual added.
Anticipating a series of mass actions that will be
launched by groups critical to Arroyo, the police and
military vowed not to tolerate any acts that border on
lawlessness and violence.
“The PNP shall remain faithful to its sworn duty to
enforce the law and maintain peace and order,” Lomibao
said.
Pascual, for his part, said: “While the AFP respects
every Filipino’s right to freedom of expression,
violent and armed actions to espouse such beliefs
shall never be tolerated. Let us respect each other’s
civil rights and follow the rule of law.”
Tomorrow (June 30), various multi-sectoral groups
critical to Arroyo, including members of the United
Opposition, will hold a rally at Plaza Miranda in
Quiapo, Manila City as a start of their intensified
campaign for the resignation of the President.
Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) Secertary General
Renato Reyes, Jr. said at least 10,000 people will
gather at noon time tomorrow at the historic site.
“Arroyo is completely mistaken if she thinks protests
will waver after her confession. Kami’y sawang sawa
na (We are already fed up). The Filipino people will
force her out of Malacanang if she does not come to
her senses soon,” said Reyes.
Bayan and other allied groups are rejecting Arroyo’s
apology, saying that the latter, in the first place,
does not have the right to be in power for cheating
her way to the Presidency.
Other activities are being planned by Reyes’ group
until Arroyo delivers her State of Nation Address
(SONA) on July 25 to continue pressing her to resign.
Among these activities are the planned mass leave by
teachers on July 8, and a mass caravan from Visayas to
Metro Manila by mass-based groups.
But Pascual is enjoining “each Filipino citizen to
stand behind the Constitution, and contribute to
national stability and progress by adhering to
calmness, sobriety, and genuine cooperation.”
With Arroyo’s confession, the police and military
sought everyone to put an end to the wiretapping and
election fraud controversies and direct their energies
to helping the government realize its programs.
“We must move on as a nation and take advantage of the
opportunities for progress that have been sidetracked
by the recent events,” Lomibao said./DMS
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
NPA is worse threat than destabilization plots against government, says PNP chief
By Ronron
June 27, 2005
The threat imposed by the communist New People’s Army (NPA) is worse than the on-and-off destabilization plots against the government, Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Arturo Lomibao said Monday.
This admission came as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also announced yesterday that the NPA remains the number one threat to national security despite the reported decrease of its strength.
In an interview with reporters at Camp Crame, Lomibao said the entry of the NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), in the mainstream society is more disastrous than any other groups.
"As we very well know, the entry of the armed elements of the left will not be very good for the situation on the peace and order, especially if they will be able to infiltrate the ranks of the other so-called legitimate opposition," Lomibao said.
Though there is no imminent threat, Lomibao said the PNP is watching out because "they (NPA) will always seize the initiative if they can see a revolutionary situation."
"That (take-over the government) has always been their dream, or their vision. So we are tying to watch out," Lomibao said.
Lomibao said a take over by the communist group is also more dangerous than the civilian-military junta being floated by the opposition in politics.
According to the AFP, the NPA has reduced to 7,709 in strength as of June 2005, 6.44 percent lower compared to the December 2004 figure of 8,240.
"But the NPA remains the number one threat to national security," AFP spokesman Lt. Col. Buenaventura Pascual told reporters in a briefing at Camp Aguinaldo.
Quoting AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence Rear Admiral Tirso Danga, Pascual said the decrease can be attributed to the military’s sustained internal security operations, infighting within the group, and disgruntlement from field fighters who particularly complain of not receiving their financial support.
"The NPA recruitment is down. They are having leadership problem. A lot of the communist terrorists have lied low and are disgruntled over corruption within their organization," added Pascual.
The military spokesman also noted the unusual silence of CPP Spokesman Gregorio "Ka Roger" Rosal, who is also the commander of the NPA’s Melito Glor Command that operates in the Southern Tagalog region.
Rosal was last sighted at the boundary of Camarines Norte and Quezon provinces last month during a military operation.
Yesterday morning, elements of the Philippine Army’s 16th Infantry Battalion seized an NPA camp after an encounter with the rebel group in Sitio Malatulan, Barangay Sablang in General Nakar town, Quezon.
Pascual said the government troops chanced upon some 20 NPA members in the area at around 6:30 am, ensuing a 30-minute firefight.
No casualty was reported on the government side while it is believed that the rebel group sustained an undetermined number of casualties who were brought along by their fleeing comrades.
The soldiers recovered later an enemy camp in the area with 25 bunkers and three M16 rifles loaded with live ammunitions./DMS
June 27, 2005
The threat imposed by the communist New People’s Army (NPA) is worse than the on-and-off destabilization plots against the government, Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Arturo Lomibao said Monday.
This admission came as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also announced yesterday that the NPA remains the number one threat to national security despite the reported decrease of its strength.
In an interview with reporters at Camp Crame, Lomibao said the entry of the NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), in the mainstream society is more disastrous than any other groups.
"As we very well know, the entry of the armed elements of the left will not be very good for the situation on the peace and order, especially if they will be able to infiltrate the ranks of the other so-called legitimate opposition," Lomibao said.
Though there is no imminent threat, Lomibao said the PNP is watching out because "they (NPA) will always seize the initiative if they can see a revolutionary situation."
"That (take-over the government) has always been their dream, or their vision. So we are tying to watch out," Lomibao said.
Lomibao said a take over by the communist group is also more dangerous than the civilian-military junta being floated by the opposition in politics.
According to the AFP, the NPA has reduced to 7,709 in strength as of June 2005, 6.44 percent lower compared to the December 2004 figure of 8,240.
"But the NPA remains the number one threat to national security," AFP spokesman Lt. Col. Buenaventura Pascual told reporters in a briefing at Camp Aguinaldo.
Quoting AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence Rear Admiral Tirso Danga, Pascual said the decrease can be attributed to the military’s sustained internal security operations, infighting within the group, and disgruntlement from field fighters who particularly complain of not receiving their financial support.
"The NPA recruitment is down. They are having leadership problem. A lot of the communist terrorists have lied low and are disgruntled over corruption within their organization," added Pascual.
The military spokesman also noted the unusual silence of CPP Spokesman Gregorio "Ka Roger" Rosal, who is also the commander of the NPA’s Melito Glor Command that operates in the Southern Tagalog region.
Rosal was last sighted at the boundary of Camarines Norte and Quezon provinces last month during a military operation.
Yesterday morning, elements of the Philippine Army’s 16th Infantry Battalion seized an NPA camp after an encounter with the rebel group in Sitio Malatulan, Barangay Sablang in General Nakar town, Quezon.
Pascual said the government troops chanced upon some 20 NPA members in the area at around 6:30 am, ensuing a 30-minute firefight.
No casualty was reported on the government side while it is believed that the rebel group sustained an undetermined number of casualties who were brought along by their fleeing comrades.
The soldiers recovered later an enemy camp in the area with 25 bunkers and three M16 rifles loaded with live ammunitions./DMS
PNP all set for Cardinal Sin's burial
By Ronron
June 27, 2005
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is all set for the burial today (Tuesday) of the remains of former Manila Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin at the Manila Cathedral in Manila City.
National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Director Vidal Querol said some 800 policemen will be deployed at the Intramuros district of Manila in anticipation of the thousands of people, including former and present government officials and foreign diplomats, who will attend the interment set at 9am today.
In addition, 130 traffic enforcers will be stationed at the vicinity of the Manila Cathedral to supervise the flow of traffic.
Sin will be buried in a crypt under the alter of the Manila Cathedral, which is the seat of the Catholic Archdiocese of Manila, in accordance with tradition. He succumbed to death last June 21 due to multiple organ failure. He was 76.
Querol said streets leading to the Manila Cathedral will be closed to traffic as early as 6 am./DMS
June 27, 2005
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is all set for the burial today (Tuesday) of the remains of former Manila Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin at the Manila Cathedral in Manila City.
National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Director Vidal Querol said some 800 policemen will be deployed at the Intramuros district of Manila in anticipation of the thousands of people, including former and present government officials and foreign diplomats, who will attend the interment set at 9am today.
In addition, 130 traffic enforcers will be stationed at the vicinity of the Manila Cathedral to supervise the flow of traffic.
Sin will be buried in a crypt under the alter of the Manila Cathedral, which is the seat of the Catholic Archdiocese of Manila, in accordance with tradition. He succumbed to death last June 21 due to multiple organ failure. He was 76.
Querol said streets leading to the Manila Cathedral will be closed to traffic as early as 6 am./DMS
PDEA monitoring five transnational and 130 local groups involved in illegal drugs
By Ronron
June 27, 2005
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) is monitoring five transnational and 130 local groups involved in the illegal drugs business in the country.
PDEA Director General Undersecretary Anselmo Avenido, Jr. said during Monday’s celebration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking that the transnational syndicates include mostly Chinese nationals who prefer to operate in the Philippines because of the cheaper cost of producing illegal drugs here and the lax justice system of the government.
"We have assigned specific teams to go after them (illegal drugs syndicates)… What we do is, periodically, we conduct intelligence workshop, not only among PDEA personnel, but also intelligence personnel from the Philippine National Police, from the (National Bureau of Investigation), from the (Bureau of) Customs. And we evaluate the status of these drug personalities," Avenido said.
The official refused, however, to disclose to reporters the profile of these groups pending their neutralization.
But he hinted that no Japanese syndicate is directly included in the five transnational groups they are observing.
Though he admitted that some of the equipment and precursors used in the manufacture of illegal drugs that were seized in previous anti-drug operations came from Japan, Avenido said no Japanese group is involved in the manufacture and distribution of illegal drugs here.
"Their (Japanese syndicates) concern is on bringing the illegal drugs from the Philippines to Japan. And their usual (preference) is marijuana," Avenido said, noting that marijuana is very rare in Japan.
Marijuana is only considered as the "poor second" widely-used dangerous drugs in the Philippines, far from the extensively circulated methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu.
Avenido said that involvement of foreign nationals in drug trafficking is very apparent in almost all the big-volume seizures by law enforcement authorities.
As of May this year, he said 11 foreign nationals have been arrested, resulting to the confiscation of 210.09 grams of shabu. Last year, 56 foreigners were arrested and a total of 717.56 kilograms of shabu, 13 kilograms of ephedrine (a shabu precursor), large amounts of other essential chemicals and several laboratory equipment were seized, all with an overall estimated value of P5 billion.
Avenido disclosed that since PDEA was established on July 30, 2002, a total of 32 shabu laboratories and 11 storage facilities all over the country have been discovered and dismantled, resulting in the confiscation of P40 billion worth of dangerous drugs, precursors and equipment.
He also reported that for the same period, more than 70,000 drug personalities have already been arrested.
Tagging the dangerous drugs problem as the number one concern of the country, Avenido appealed for the public’s support in solving it. "Our drug problem is the problem of everybody, not just of the Filipinos but all the people in the world. If we want to address this problem, we should not just rely on one sector, like the PDEA for that matter," he said.
His plea was echoed by United Nations (UN) Secretary General Koffi Annan, who sent a message through UN Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) Country Coordinator Dr. Maria Elena Borromeo.
"On this day, let us strengthen our collective resolve to live in a society free of drugs, and let us encourage all our fellow human beings to make personal choices to lead healthy lives," Annan said, consistent of the celebration’s theme, "Value Yourself, Make Healthy Choices."
Authorities have expressed alarm on the prevailing illegal drugs problem because of the fact that nearly 200 million people around the world are still consuming it, around 3.4 million of them coming from the Philippines.
Avenido said it remains a threat because the P300 billion industry as far as the Philippines is concerned continues to draw not just users, but also pushers and traffickers.
Speaking in the same activity, Ilocos Norte Representative Roque Ablan (1st District), Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Dangerous Drugs, said the problem thrives because of the government’s lack of political will to impose the maximum penalty of death on convicted drug pushers and manufacturers.
"I am seeking the signatures of my fellow Congressmen for the petition that I will submit to the President for the killing of all convicted detainees facing death penalties… Let us show to the people that you (President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo) mean business," Ablan said.
The solon said that as far as legislation is concerned, the Congress has been pushing for the inclusion of drug awareness in school curriculum, especially for the elementary level; the possibility of allowing policemen to do wiretapping on illegal drug personalities; the reduction from 50 to 10 grams of the minimum volume of illegal drugs that a suspect should possess so he/she can not post bail; and the advocacy to put up a special court, judge and prosecutor to handle only illegal drugs cases.
Meanwhile, with the intensive campaign against shabu, Avenido disclosed drug dependents are beginning to shift to the use of marijuana, resulting to the increase of the market value of the latter.
According to PDEA statistics, a gram of shabu is worth P2,000 while marijuana dried leaves cost only P25 per gram. The new marijuana price, however, has not yet been determined by PDEA.
Aside from the two, Avenido identified the third most widely used dangerous drugs in the Philippines as ecstasy which is limited to the wealthy because of its high cost, P1,200 per piece.
A new dangerous drug has also recently been approved by the Dangerous Drugs Board, identified as Ketamine or Super K.
Avenido said Ketamine, a liquid medical substance contained in small vials, have been misused and abused by drug dependents since December 2003. Sourced from India, the drug is supposed to be anesthetic, especially for animals, particularly horse and cows.
"They remove it from the vial, and heat it. When the evaporation starts to take place, a white powdery substance forms on the base of the container. This is what the users inhale," Avenido described the process of transforming the controlled drug to a dangerous drug.
The DDB approved the classification of Ketamine as a dangerous drugs last week, and is expected to be effective before end of July./DMS
June 27, 2005
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) is monitoring five transnational and 130 local groups involved in the illegal drugs business in the country.
PDEA Director General Undersecretary Anselmo Avenido, Jr. said during Monday’s celebration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking that the transnational syndicates include mostly Chinese nationals who prefer to operate in the Philippines because of the cheaper cost of producing illegal drugs here and the lax justice system of the government.
"We have assigned specific teams to go after them (illegal drugs syndicates)… What we do is, periodically, we conduct intelligence workshop, not only among PDEA personnel, but also intelligence personnel from the Philippine National Police, from the (National Bureau of Investigation), from the (Bureau of) Customs. And we evaluate the status of these drug personalities," Avenido said.
The official refused, however, to disclose to reporters the profile of these groups pending their neutralization.
But he hinted that no Japanese syndicate is directly included in the five transnational groups they are observing.
Though he admitted that some of the equipment and precursors used in the manufacture of illegal drugs that were seized in previous anti-drug operations came from Japan, Avenido said no Japanese group is involved in the manufacture and distribution of illegal drugs here.
"Their (Japanese syndicates) concern is on bringing the illegal drugs from the Philippines to Japan. And their usual (preference) is marijuana," Avenido said, noting that marijuana is very rare in Japan.
Marijuana is only considered as the "poor second" widely-used dangerous drugs in the Philippines, far from the extensively circulated methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu.
Avenido said that involvement of foreign nationals in drug trafficking is very apparent in almost all the big-volume seizures by law enforcement authorities.
As of May this year, he said 11 foreign nationals have been arrested, resulting to the confiscation of 210.09 grams of shabu. Last year, 56 foreigners were arrested and a total of 717.56 kilograms of shabu, 13 kilograms of ephedrine (a shabu precursor), large amounts of other essential chemicals and several laboratory equipment were seized, all with an overall estimated value of P5 billion.
Avenido disclosed that since PDEA was established on July 30, 2002, a total of 32 shabu laboratories and 11 storage facilities all over the country have been discovered and dismantled, resulting in the confiscation of P40 billion worth of dangerous drugs, precursors and equipment.
He also reported that for the same period, more than 70,000 drug personalities have already been arrested.
Tagging the dangerous drugs problem as the number one concern of the country, Avenido appealed for the public’s support in solving it. "Our drug problem is the problem of everybody, not just of the Filipinos but all the people in the world. If we want to address this problem, we should not just rely on one sector, like the PDEA for that matter," he said.
His plea was echoed by United Nations (UN) Secretary General Koffi Annan, who sent a message through UN Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) Country Coordinator Dr. Maria Elena Borromeo.
"On this day, let us strengthen our collective resolve to live in a society free of drugs, and let us encourage all our fellow human beings to make personal choices to lead healthy lives," Annan said, consistent of the celebration’s theme, "Value Yourself, Make Healthy Choices."
Authorities have expressed alarm on the prevailing illegal drugs problem because of the fact that nearly 200 million people around the world are still consuming it, around 3.4 million of them coming from the Philippines.
Avenido said it remains a threat because the P300 billion industry as far as the Philippines is concerned continues to draw not just users, but also pushers and traffickers.
Speaking in the same activity, Ilocos Norte Representative Roque Ablan (1st District), Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Dangerous Drugs, said the problem thrives because of the government’s lack of political will to impose the maximum penalty of death on convicted drug pushers and manufacturers.
"I am seeking the signatures of my fellow Congressmen for the petition that I will submit to the President for the killing of all convicted detainees facing death penalties… Let us show to the people that you (President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo) mean business," Ablan said.
The solon said that as far as legislation is concerned, the Congress has been pushing for the inclusion of drug awareness in school curriculum, especially for the elementary level; the possibility of allowing policemen to do wiretapping on illegal drug personalities; the reduction from 50 to 10 grams of the minimum volume of illegal drugs that a suspect should possess so he/she can not post bail; and the advocacy to put up a special court, judge and prosecutor to handle only illegal drugs cases.
Meanwhile, with the intensive campaign against shabu, Avenido disclosed drug dependents are beginning to shift to the use of marijuana, resulting to the increase of the market value of the latter.
According to PDEA statistics, a gram of shabu is worth P2,000 while marijuana dried leaves cost only P25 per gram. The new marijuana price, however, has not yet been determined by PDEA.
Aside from the two, Avenido identified the third most widely used dangerous drugs in the Philippines as ecstasy which is limited to the wealthy because of its high cost, P1,200 per piece.
A new dangerous drug has also recently been approved by the Dangerous Drugs Board, identified as Ketamine or Super K.
Avenido said Ketamine, a liquid medical substance contained in small vials, have been misused and abused by drug dependents since December 2003. Sourced from India, the drug is supposed to be anesthetic, especially for animals, particularly horse and cows.
"They remove it from the vial, and heat it. When the evaporation starts to take place, a white powdery substance forms on the base of the container. This is what the users inhale," Avenido described the process of transforming the controlled drug to a dangerous drug.
The DDB approved the classification of Ketamine as a dangerous drugs last week, and is expected to be effective before end of July./DMS
Saturday, June 25, 2005
Another batch of peacekeeping soldiers off to Haiti and Liberia
By Ronron
June 24, 2005
Three hundred Filipino soldiers are off to Haiti and Liberia in batches beginning Sunday to replace the Philippine contingents there on a peacekeeping mission.
Lt. Col. Buenaventura Pascual, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Information Officer, said the new batch of Philippine contingent to Haiti will consist of 145 AFP personnel while those for Liberia will be 155 soldiers.
Though the first batch is yet to leave tomorrow (Sunday, June 26), a send-off ceremony for all 300 soldiers was already held yesterday (Friday) afternoon at the AFP General Headquarters flagpole in Camp Aguinaldo during the flag retreat.
The deployment is set to be completed on July 10 when the remaining troops from Haiti is expected to have arrived in the country already.
Pascual said the new contingent to Haiti will be headed by Lt. Col. Nestor Merginio while those for Liberia will be led by Col. Emmanuel Ochotorena.
The Philippine contingents at present in Haiti and Liberia were sent in November last year. Col. Daniel Lucero heads the team in Haiti while Col. Delfin Pomposo, in Liberia.
Last April 14, a member of the Philippine contingent in Haiti was killed when gang members attacked a group of United Nations peacekeepers who were conducting security operations in the capital of Haiti.
Army Staff Sergeant Antonio Batomalaque, 22, was the first Filipino peacekeeper killed in action while serving in a United Nations peacekeeping mission. He died of a bullet wound in the head.#
June 24, 2005
Three hundred Filipino soldiers are off to Haiti and Liberia in batches beginning Sunday to replace the Philippine contingents there on a peacekeeping mission.
Lt. Col. Buenaventura Pascual, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Information Officer, said the new batch of Philippine contingent to Haiti will consist of 145 AFP personnel while those for Liberia will be 155 soldiers.
Though the first batch is yet to leave tomorrow (Sunday, June 26), a send-off ceremony for all 300 soldiers was already held yesterday (Friday) afternoon at the AFP General Headquarters flagpole in Camp Aguinaldo during the flag retreat.
The deployment is set to be completed on July 10 when the remaining troops from Haiti is expected to have arrived in the country already.
Pascual said the new contingent to Haiti will be headed by Lt. Col. Nestor Merginio while those for Liberia will be led by Col. Emmanuel Ochotorena.
The Philippine contingents at present in Haiti and Liberia were sent in November last year. Col. Daniel Lucero heads the team in Haiti while Col. Delfin Pomposo, in Liberia.
Last April 14, a member of the Philippine contingent in Haiti was killed when gang members attacked a group of United Nations peacekeepers who were conducting security operations in the capital of Haiti.
Army Staff Sergeant Antonio Batomalaque, 22, was the first Filipino peacekeeper killed in action while serving in a United Nations peacekeeping mission. He died of a bullet wound in the head.#
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
Nazareno, Morales respond to Doble's allegations
By Ronron
June 21, 2005
Lawyers of former Armed Forces Chief of Staff Joselin Nazareno and former Agrarian Reform Secretary Horacio "Boy" Morales also appeared Tuesday at the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) – National Capital Region (NCR) in Camp Crame in compliance with the subpoena issued to them in relation to the alleged detention of military intelligence agent T/Sgt. Vidal Doble.
Morales’ lawyer arrived at the CIDG-NCR office at around 1:30pm while Nazareno’s followed at around 3pm.
The two met separately for about an hour with CIDG NCR chief Sr. Supt. Asher Dolina at the latter’s office.
It could not be known however what exactly transpired during the meetings.
But as far as Nazareno’s counsel is concerned, reporters learned that the lawyer also sought to have a copy of Doble’s sworn statement, but to no avail.
"We are here to find out if he (Nazareno) is a respondent or a witness in a case," Nazareno’s lawyer said.
The police have yet to disclose why Nazareno and Morales are implicated in the investigation on Doble’s allegations. They were among seven persons summoned by the CIDG-NCR to shed light on their probe.
But despite the grayness, Nazareno’s lawyer assured that his client will cooperate in said investigation./DMS
June 21, 2005
Lawyers of former Armed Forces Chief of Staff Joselin Nazareno and former Agrarian Reform Secretary Horacio "Boy" Morales also appeared Tuesday at the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) – National Capital Region (NCR) in Camp Crame in compliance with the subpoena issued to them in relation to the alleged detention of military intelligence agent T/Sgt. Vidal Doble.
Morales’ lawyer arrived at the CIDG-NCR office at around 1:30pm while Nazareno’s followed at around 3pm.
The two met separately for about an hour with CIDG NCR chief Sr. Supt. Asher Dolina at the latter’s office.
It could not be known however what exactly transpired during the meetings.
But as far as Nazareno’s counsel is concerned, reporters learned that the lawyer also sought to have a copy of Doble’s sworn statement, but to no avail.
"We are here to find out if he (Nazareno) is a respondent or a witness in a case," Nazareno’s lawyer said.
The police have yet to disclose why Nazareno and Morales are implicated in the investigation on Doble’s allegations. They were among seven persons summoned by the CIDG-NCR to shed light on their probe.
But despite the grayness, Nazareno’s lawyer assured that his client will cooperate in said investigation./DMS
Friday, June 17, 2005
200 grams of shabu seized, 4 suspected pushers nabbed
By Ronron
June 16, 2005
Anti-illegal drug agents seized 200 grams of
methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) and arrested
four persons involved in the sale of the said illegal
drug during a buy-bust operation on Wednesday in
Quezon City.
Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Director
Anselmo Avenido Jr. said the operation, led by Police
Chief Inspector Primitivo Bayongan of the PDEA Special
Enforcement Service, took place in front of Mercury
Drugstore on P. Tuazon St., Barangay Tagumpay, Proj.
4, Quezon City at around 3:45 pm the other day.
A poseur-buyer had earlier arranged to buy 200 grams
of shabu for P300,000 at said place from the four
suspects, identified as Ali Sultan, 30; Alandag
Sultan, 28; Alimo Sultan, 22; and, Macmud Sultan, 26,
all residents of Baguio City.
When the transaction was completed and the arrest was
about to be carried out, Avenido said the suspects, on
board a black Toyota Rav 4 with plate number XTS-868,
tried to escape by bumping one of the arresting
officers.
This prompted a back-up cop to shoot the left rear
tire of the vehicle, preventing the suspects from
escaping.
PDEA agents are now preparing to file charges against
the four for violation of Republic Act 9165, or the
Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. All four
are now detained at the PDEA National Office in Quezon
City./DMS
June 16, 2005
Anti-illegal drug agents seized 200 grams of
methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) and arrested
four persons involved in the sale of the said illegal
drug during a buy-bust operation on Wednesday in
Quezon City.
Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Director
Anselmo Avenido Jr. said the operation, led by Police
Chief Inspector Primitivo Bayongan of the PDEA Special
Enforcement Service, took place in front of Mercury
Drugstore on P. Tuazon St., Barangay Tagumpay, Proj.
4, Quezon City at around 3:45 pm the other day.
A poseur-buyer had earlier arranged to buy 200 grams
of shabu for P300,000 at said place from the four
suspects, identified as Ali Sultan, 30; Alandag
Sultan, 28; Alimo Sultan, 22; and, Macmud Sultan, 26,
all residents of Baguio City.
When the transaction was completed and the arrest was
about to be carried out, Avenido said the suspects, on
board a black Toyota Rav 4 with plate number XTS-868,
tried to escape by bumping one of the arresting
officers.
This prompted a back-up cop to shoot the left rear
tire of the vehicle, preventing the suspects from
escaping.
PDEA agents are now preparing to file charges against
the four for violation of Republic Act 9165, or the
Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. All four
are now detained at the PDEA National Office in Quezon
City./DMS
Tuesday, June 14, 2005
Three rebel soldiers sentenced after pleading guilty to AW 97
By Ronron
June 13, 2005
Three of the six rebel soldiers who exposed alleged politicking in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) early last year were sentenced Monday to reduction of their salary and holding of their promotion within a year after they pleaded guilty on the charge of violating Article of War 97.
Col. Virgilio Espeneli, military court President, said Army Captains Peter Navarro, Philip Esmeralda, and Rembert Baylosis pleaded guilty to AW 97 (disorder and neglect to the prejudice of good order and military discipline) in exchange for the dropping of Article of War 96 (conduct unbecoming of an officer and a gentleman) which carries a harsher penalty of removal from service.
"This court … sentences you to forfeit two-thirds of your pay for six months (and) to be suspended for promotion for one year," Espeneli said during the promulgation of the order yesterday morning at the Army Officers Club in Fort Bonifacio, Makati City.
The three were among the six KAWAL PILIPINO members who called in January 2004 for the resignation of then Defense Secretary Eduardo Ermita and criticized the alleged politicking in the AFP. The rebel soldiers showed in their background an inverted Philippine flag.
"The trio admitted having committed acts prejudicial to the service. The group wittingly allowed themselves to be used by some misguided elements in furthering their ulterior motives," Army Information Officer Maj. Bartolome Bacarro told a press briefing after the promulgation.
Bacarro disclosed the three entered into a plea bargaining agreement with the prosecution last June 10. The previous month, more than 180 enlisted military personnel who took part in the failed Oakwood mutiny in July 2003 also entered into a plea bargaining agreement that resulted to their release from detention.
The two other Kawal members, Capts. Marcos Serafica and Muyusof Hasan, avoided prosecution after they turned themselves into state witness. The sixth member, Asadon Baltazar, was a civilian and could not be subjected to court martial.
Navarro, Baylosis and Esmeralda have been under solitary confinement in the last 16 months inside the Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio. Their release will follow after the necessary administrative processes are accomplished.
Bacarro clarified the penalty against the three will only be effective until Judge Advocate Col. Gilbert Jose Roa approves the recommendation of the court.
But while defense lawyer Franklin Sunga expressed gratitude to the General Court Martial for the speedy resolution of the case, he said might file a motion for clemency for the removal of the one-year suspension of the soldiers’ promotion.
Baylosis said he is satisfied with the verdict but he maintained that what they did was not military adventurism.
"This exercise once again affirms the firm stand and commitment of the Army leadership that it will not tolerate any infraction of laws, regulations and policies," Bacarro said./DMS
June 13, 2005
Three of the six rebel soldiers who exposed alleged politicking in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) early last year were sentenced Monday to reduction of their salary and holding of their promotion within a year after they pleaded guilty on the charge of violating Article of War 97.
Col. Virgilio Espeneli, military court President, said Army Captains Peter Navarro, Philip Esmeralda, and Rembert Baylosis pleaded guilty to AW 97 (disorder and neglect to the prejudice of good order and military discipline) in exchange for the dropping of Article of War 96 (conduct unbecoming of an officer and a gentleman) which carries a harsher penalty of removal from service.
"This court … sentences you to forfeit two-thirds of your pay for six months (and) to be suspended for promotion for one year," Espeneli said during the promulgation of the order yesterday morning at the Army Officers Club in Fort Bonifacio, Makati City.
The three were among the six KAWAL PILIPINO members who called in January 2004 for the resignation of then Defense Secretary Eduardo Ermita and criticized the alleged politicking in the AFP. The rebel soldiers showed in their background an inverted Philippine flag.
"The trio admitted having committed acts prejudicial to the service. The group wittingly allowed themselves to be used by some misguided elements in furthering their ulterior motives," Army Information Officer Maj. Bartolome Bacarro told a press briefing after the promulgation.
Bacarro disclosed the three entered into a plea bargaining agreement with the prosecution last June 10. The previous month, more than 180 enlisted military personnel who took part in the failed Oakwood mutiny in July 2003 also entered into a plea bargaining agreement that resulted to their release from detention.
The two other Kawal members, Capts. Marcos Serafica and Muyusof Hasan, avoided prosecution after they turned themselves into state witness. The sixth member, Asadon Baltazar, was a civilian and could not be subjected to court martial.
Navarro, Baylosis and Esmeralda have been under solitary confinement in the last 16 months inside the Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio. Their release will follow after the necessary administrative processes are accomplished.
Bacarro clarified the penalty against the three will only be effective until Judge Advocate Col. Gilbert Jose Roa approves the recommendation of the court.
But while defense lawyer Franklin Sunga expressed gratitude to the General Court Martial for the speedy resolution of the case, he said might file a motion for clemency for the removal of the one-year suspension of the soldiers’ promotion.
Baylosis said he is satisfied with the verdict but he maintained that what they did was not military adventurism.
"This exercise once again affirms the firm stand and commitment of the Army leadership that it will not tolerate any infraction of laws, regulations and policies," Bacarro said./DMS
Monday, June 13, 2005
Search is on for next military chief
By Ronron
June 12, 2005
The search is on for the next Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) as incumbent military chief Gen. Efren Abu begins to count his last few days in the service prior to his retirement on June 24.
According to Abu, there are 12 three-star generals who are qualified to take over his post but he refused to say which one has the bigger chance.
“If I mention two, the 10 might get angry with me,” Abu told reporters after a fellowship lunch he hosted with members of the Defense Press Corps at Camp Aguinaldo Friday.
The contenders include, among others, Philippine Army commander Lt. Gen. Generoso Senga, Philippine Air Force Commander Lt. Gen. Jose Reyes, Philippine Navy Flag Officer Vice Admiral Ernesto de Leon, Northern Luzon Commander Lt. Gen. Romeo Dominguez, Central Command chief Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Teodosio, Southern Luzon Commander Lt. Gen. Alberto Braganza, AFP Vice Chief of Staff Vice Admiral Ariston de los Reyes, AFP Deputy Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Edilberto Adan, and National Capital Region Commander Lt. Gen. Allan Cabalquinto.
An insider said the strong candidates are Senga and De Leon because of their record of achievements, their seniority as to the acquisition of their third star, and the longer time left for them to serve as AFP chief of staff before they reach their mandatory age of retirement.
Senga, a member of Philippine Military Class (PMA) class of 1972, is set to retire in July 2006 while De Leon, also of the same PMA class, is set to retire in September 2006.
Abu said he still has yet to submit a recommendation to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who serves concurrently as the AFP’s commander-in-chief, as to his choice for his replacement.
“The President has a wide latitude as far as who could be the (next) Chief of Staff…but we have not talked about this yet,” he said.
The outgoing military chief, who rose to the top-most position in October 2004, is expected to brief Arroyo and Defense Secretary Avelino Cruz about each of the candidates’ strengths and weaknesses which would be integral to the President’s decision.
Asked what if Arroyo extends his term, Abu hinted of refusing the offer by saying: “No. Anybody can take over my position. I’m very sure of that.”
AFP Information Officer Lt. Col. Buenaventura Pascual said Abu will be remembered for instituting reforms in the military, particularly on financial management and organizational structure, “to suit the call of the time.”
Pascual is confident a new chief of staff will be announced before Abu steps down on June 24. “Whoever will be the appointed chief of staff by the President, the Armed Forces will welcome him,” he said./DMS
June 12, 2005
The search is on for the next Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) as incumbent military chief Gen. Efren Abu begins to count his last few days in the service prior to his retirement on June 24.
According to Abu, there are 12 three-star generals who are qualified to take over his post but he refused to say which one has the bigger chance.
“If I mention two, the 10 might get angry with me,” Abu told reporters after a fellowship lunch he hosted with members of the Defense Press Corps at Camp Aguinaldo Friday.
The contenders include, among others, Philippine Army commander Lt. Gen. Generoso Senga, Philippine Air Force Commander Lt. Gen. Jose Reyes, Philippine Navy Flag Officer Vice Admiral Ernesto de Leon, Northern Luzon Commander Lt. Gen. Romeo Dominguez, Central Command chief Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Teodosio, Southern Luzon Commander Lt. Gen. Alberto Braganza, AFP Vice Chief of Staff Vice Admiral Ariston de los Reyes, AFP Deputy Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Edilberto Adan, and National Capital Region Commander Lt. Gen. Allan Cabalquinto.
An insider said the strong candidates are Senga and De Leon because of their record of achievements, their seniority as to the acquisition of their third star, and the longer time left for them to serve as AFP chief of staff before they reach their mandatory age of retirement.
Senga, a member of Philippine Military Class (PMA) class of 1972, is set to retire in July 2006 while De Leon, also of the same PMA class, is set to retire in September 2006.
Abu said he still has yet to submit a recommendation to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who serves concurrently as the AFP’s commander-in-chief, as to his choice for his replacement.
“The President has a wide latitude as far as who could be the (next) Chief of Staff…but we have not talked about this yet,” he said.
The outgoing military chief, who rose to the top-most position in October 2004, is expected to brief Arroyo and Defense Secretary Avelino Cruz about each of the candidates’ strengths and weaknesses which would be integral to the President’s decision.
Asked what if Arroyo extends his term, Abu hinted of refusing the offer by saying: “No. Anybody can take over my position. I’m very sure of that.”
AFP Information Officer Lt. Col. Buenaventura Pascual said Abu will be remembered for instituting reforms in the military, particularly on financial management and organizational structure, “to suit the call of the time.”
Pascual is confident a new chief of staff will be announced before Abu steps down on June 24. “Whoever will be the appointed chief of staff by the President, the Armed Forces will welcome him,” he said./DMS
Arroyo calls on public to shun dirty politics on 107th Independence Day
By Ronron
June 12, 2005
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo called on the public Sunday to do away with dirty politics so that the country would move forward and start benefiting economic gains as it starts another chapter after the 107th Independence Day, which was celebrated by the country yesterday.
In a speech during the Independence Day program at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila City yesterday, Arroyo said only by doing so will the country be truly “free” from poverty and injustice which is what her administration is trying to achieve.
“My hope is for a unified Philippines. That is why, on this day, as we commemorate the lessons and memories of our national heroes, I am calling on everybody to do away with dirty politics and focus instead on pushing the economy,” said Arroyo, who is presently plagued with intrigues of cheating her way to the Presidency in the 2004 polls and that her family benefited from the illegal numbers game called jueteng.
The President, who earlier led the flag raising ceremony at the Rizal Park and the laying of wreath to the monument of the national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, said she determined to bring the country forward, especially now that her administration is already in the second phase in the implementation of her economic reforms.
“Mark my word, I will use my power and determination so our democracy will remain firm and our countrymen is being led to the right direction. To honor the flag is my national duty. To serve the poor is my vow to the Lord. With this noble goal, I offer my dignity, my future, and even my own life,” she said in Filipino.
Arroyo disclosed that now that the government could raise additional fund in its coffer with the enactment of several revenue-generating laws, it could proceed with its projects, particularly on infrastructure, that will invite investors and eventually, provide jobs to the jobless.
“More importantly, during the second phase, we can extend the economic gains to the poor,” she said as she spoke before a crowd of about a thousand spectators, spread scantily all over the park.
The young, Arroyo said, will already be in schools at the end of her term in 2010, and most families by then shall have a child that is taking up a course that could provide them with their living, just as she promised in her campaign before the elections.
Corruption shall have been reduced by half in three years, and hopefully, totally gone when she steps down five years from now. Arroyo sought the cooperation of the private sector in this endeavor, citing and hoping to revive what the Bishop Businesses Conference did way back.
The President projects an eradication as well of various forms of illegal gambling within a year.
On energy, Arroyo vowed to work on the country’s self-reliance with regard to gasoline and crude oil.
“As we implement and achieve my 10-point agenda, just as we work on our Millenium Development Goal, we hope to cut by half the percentage of the poor in our society and ensure food on every table,” Arroyo said.
Paying respect to the Philippine flag, which she raised and described as symbol of the blood, sweat and labor of the national heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country’s liberty, Arroyo expressed hope that just like the law of the land, it will serve as the “national sun that will bind all Filipinos together.”
“On this great national day my countrymen, my request from you is for you to help me become a good President,” Arroyo said.
The simultaneous celebration of the Independence Day all over the country turned out peacefully, according to the military and the police./DMS
June 12, 2005
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo called on the public Sunday to do away with dirty politics so that the country would move forward and start benefiting economic gains as it starts another chapter after the 107th Independence Day, which was celebrated by the country yesterday.
In a speech during the Independence Day program at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila City yesterday, Arroyo said only by doing so will the country be truly “free” from poverty and injustice which is what her administration is trying to achieve.
“My hope is for a unified Philippines. That is why, on this day, as we commemorate the lessons and memories of our national heroes, I am calling on everybody to do away with dirty politics and focus instead on pushing the economy,” said Arroyo, who is presently plagued with intrigues of cheating her way to the Presidency in the 2004 polls and that her family benefited from the illegal numbers game called jueteng.
The President, who earlier led the flag raising ceremony at the Rizal Park and the laying of wreath to the monument of the national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, said she determined to bring the country forward, especially now that her administration is already in the second phase in the implementation of her economic reforms.
“Mark my word, I will use my power and determination so our democracy will remain firm and our countrymen is being led to the right direction. To honor the flag is my national duty. To serve the poor is my vow to the Lord. With this noble goal, I offer my dignity, my future, and even my own life,” she said in Filipino.
Arroyo disclosed that now that the government could raise additional fund in its coffer with the enactment of several revenue-generating laws, it could proceed with its projects, particularly on infrastructure, that will invite investors and eventually, provide jobs to the jobless.
“More importantly, during the second phase, we can extend the economic gains to the poor,” she said as she spoke before a crowd of about a thousand spectators, spread scantily all over the park.
The young, Arroyo said, will already be in schools at the end of her term in 2010, and most families by then shall have a child that is taking up a course that could provide them with their living, just as she promised in her campaign before the elections.
Corruption shall have been reduced by half in three years, and hopefully, totally gone when she steps down five years from now. Arroyo sought the cooperation of the private sector in this endeavor, citing and hoping to revive what the Bishop Businesses Conference did way back.
The President projects an eradication as well of various forms of illegal gambling within a year.
On energy, Arroyo vowed to work on the country’s self-reliance with regard to gasoline and crude oil.
“As we implement and achieve my 10-point agenda, just as we work on our Millenium Development Goal, we hope to cut by half the percentage of the poor in our society and ensure food on every table,” Arroyo said.
Paying respect to the Philippine flag, which she raised and described as symbol of the blood, sweat and labor of the national heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country’s liberty, Arroyo expressed hope that just like the law of the land, it will serve as the “national sun that will bind all Filipinos together.”
“On this great national day my countrymen, my request from you is for you to help me become a good President,” Arroyo said.
The simultaneous celebration of the Independence Day all over the country turned out peacefully, according to the military and the police./DMS
Ong may be arrested on Tuesday, says official
By Ronron
June 12, 2005
The government is securing a warrant of arrest for former National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) official Atty. Samuel Ong when office opens on Tuesday on the ground that he is in possession of a material that contains an alleged wire-tapped conversation.
Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita told reporters after the 107th Philippine Independence Day celebration at the Qurino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila City Sunday that the Department of Justice (DOJ) will serve as the complainant against Ong, who made headlines last Friday when he claimed to be holding the “mother of all tapes” that allegedly contains a taped conversation of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Comelec Commissioner Virgilio Garcillano, plotting to manipulate the results of the 2004 Presidential elections to favor Arroyo.
“Our legal counsels said that Ong’s admission of having in his possession that tape which is allegedly based on wire-tapped conversation is, according to law, violative of the provision of Republic Act 4200 (Anti-Wire Tapping Law),” Ermita said in Filipino. The offense is punishable by imprisonment of up to six years.
Justice Secretary Raul Gonzales made a separate pronouncement that Ong could also be charged for inciting to sedition, a non-bailable offense.
Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Dir. Gen. Arturo Lomibao, in a radio interview yesterday, said the police will be prepared to serve peacefully the arrest warrant to Ong when it comes out, even if it is within the premises of the church.
Government offices will only be open on Tuesday since Malacañang declared today as special non-working holiday to allow Filipinos to spend more time with their families in post-celebrations of the Independence Day.
“I told (Manila Arcbhishop Gaudencio Rosales during our meeting Saturday) that as long as there is no warrant of arrest, we will not arrest (Ong). And if ever it comes out, we will talk to the (church authorities of San Carlos Seminary),” Lomibao said in Filipino.
Ong, a former Deputy Director for Intelligence of the NBI, has been seeking sanctuary at the San Carlos Seminary along EDSA in Guadalupe, Makati City since Friday after making his expose in a press conference.
During their meeting, Rosales accordingly explained to Lomibao that allowing Ong to stay within the premises of the religious establishment does not mean that the church is tolerating Ong’s acts. “What I understand is that just like any lay man who goes to facilities or establishment of the church, Ong could not just be driven away by the church,” Lomibao said, quoting Rosales.
The top PNP official had called on Ong late Friday evening to surrender himself to authorities as this would imply a “lesser guilt of the violation” he committed. The effort of the PNP team, headed by PNP spokesman Chief Supt. Leopoldo Bataoil, to negotiate for Ong to turn himself in that night went unsuccessful.
Ermita refused to admit that the Office of the President is “courting” the church for the release of Ong to authorities, but instead claimed that they are just talking to church officials to strengthen the relationship of the State and the Church, banking on the fact that “we are a very highly religious people” and that “we are all Catholics.”
As a sign of respect to the constitutionally mandated separation of the Church and the State, Ermita said the government is willing to await the arrest warrant for Ong and respect, for the meantime, the latter’s right to seek sanctuary in the church.
“We are both waiting for the legal procedures (to set in),” Ermita said of the church and the government, referring to the release of the search and arrest warrants.
As of yesterday, Lomibao said there is still no case or formal complaint against Ong.
Both Ermita and Lomibao believe Ong is still inside San Carlos Seminary as of yesterday as they have not yet received a report otherwise.
Yesterday, police took custody of a white Mitsubishi Lancer found inside the San Carlos Seminary compound, containing an M16 rifle. It was discovered Saturday, believed to be abandoned by around five men who were driven away on Friday night after refusing to identify themselves.
Lomibao said there are about 50 to 100 policemen stationed yesterday outside San Carlos Seminary to secure the place and watch out for the traffic./DMS
June 12, 2005
The government is securing a warrant of arrest for former National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) official Atty. Samuel Ong when office opens on Tuesday on the ground that he is in possession of a material that contains an alleged wire-tapped conversation.
Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita told reporters after the 107th Philippine Independence Day celebration at the Qurino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila City Sunday that the Department of Justice (DOJ) will serve as the complainant against Ong, who made headlines last Friday when he claimed to be holding the “mother of all tapes” that allegedly contains a taped conversation of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Comelec Commissioner Virgilio Garcillano, plotting to manipulate the results of the 2004 Presidential elections to favor Arroyo.
“Our legal counsels said that Ong’s admission of having in his possession that tape which is allegedly based on wire-tapped conversation is, according to law, violative of the provision of Republic Act 4200 (Anti-Wire Tapping Law),” Ermita said in Filipino. The offense is punishable by imprisonment of up to six years.
Justice Secretary Raul Gonzales made a separate pronouncement that Ong could also be charged for inciting to sedition, a non-bailable offense.
Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Dir. Gen. Arturo Lomibao, in a radio interview yesterday, said the police will be prepared to serve peacefully the arrest warrant to Ong when it comes out, even if it is within the premises of the church.
Government offices will only be open on Tuesday since Malacañang declared today as special non-working holiday to allow Filipinos to spend more time with their families in post-celebrations of the Independence Day.
“I told (Manila Arcbhishop Gaudencio Rosales during our meeting Saturday) that as long as there is no warrant of arrest, we will not arrest (Ong). And if ever it comes out, we will talk to the (church authorities of San Carlos Seminary),” Lomibao said in Filipino.
Ong, a former Deputy Director for Intelligence of the NBI, has been seeking sanctuary at the San Carlos Seminary along EDSA in Guadalupe, Makati City since Friday after making his expose in a press conference.
During their meeting, Rosales accordingly explained to Lomibao that allowing Ong to stay within the premises of the religious establishment does not mean that the church is tolerating Ong’s acts. “What I understand is that just like any lay man who goes to facilities or establishment of the church, Ong could not just be driven away by the church,” Lomibao said, quoting Rosales.
The top PNP official had called on Ong late Friday evening to surrender himself to authorities as this would imply a “lesser guilt of the violation” he committed. The effort of the PNP team, headed by PNP spokesman Chief Supt. Leopoldo Bataoil, to negotiate for Ong to turn himself in that night went unsuccessful.
Ermita refused to admit that the Office of the President is “courting” the church for the release of Ong to authorities, but instead claimed that they are just talking to church officials to strengthen the relationship of the State and the Church, banking on the fact that “we are a very highly religious people” and that “we are all Catholics.”
As a sign of respect to the constitutionally mandated separation of the Church and the State, Ermita said the government is willing to await the arrest warrant for Ong and respect, for the meantime, the latter’s right to seek sanctuary in the church.
“We are both waiting for the legal procedures (to set in),” Ermita said of the church and the government, referring to the release of the search and arrest warrants.
As of yesterday, Lomibao said there is still no case or formal complaint against Ong.
Both Ermita and Lomibao believe Ong is still inside San Carlos Seminary as of yesterday as they have not yet received a report otherwise.
Yesterday, police took custody of a white Mitsubishi Lancer found inside the San Carlos Seminary compound, containing an M16 rifle. It was discovered Saturday, believed to be abandoned by around five men who were driven away on Friday night after refusing to identify themselves.
Lomibao said there are about 50 to 100 policemen stationed yesterday outside San Carlos Seminary to secure the place and watch out for the traffic./DMS
Saturday, June 11, 2005
ISAFP probes leak of taped conversation of Arroyo
By Ronron
June 10, 2005
An investigation is on-going in the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP) following the leak of a taped conversation of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo regarding the 2004 Presidential elections.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Efren Abu said Friday the probe is being conducted internally because the ISAFP is always a suspect when it comes to wiretapping activities, even if there are other agencies capable of doing it as well.
“There is an investigation being done because these things are not only affecting the Armed Forces of the Philippines. It is affecting even the Office of the President… This is a serious matter,” Abu told reporters after a fellowship lunch he hosted with members of the press at Camp Aguinaldo as he is about to retire on June 24 when he reaches the mandatory age of retirement of 56.
The taped conversation was released early this week by Malacañang to preempt a similar move allegedly by a segment of the political opposition. The conversation shows Arroyo trying to manipulate the results of the 2004 polls to her favor. Arroyo won the polls over rival candidate Fernando Poe, Jr. by a margin of over one million votes.
Later in the afternoon yesterday, a former Intelligence official of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) claimed that he has in his possession the “mother of all tapes.” Atty. Samuel Ong said he got it from agents of the ISAFP whom he made friends with long before while he was still in the government.
Ong challenged officials to immediately go to the ISAFP quarters inside Camp Aguinaldo to check the missing tapes.
But the AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence was quick to deny Ong’s claims. Rear Admiral Tirso Danga, in a hastily called and conducted press briefing, said: “There is no missing tape. And we are not keeping any tape because it is not our job to wire-tap.”
ISAFP chief Brig. Gen. Marlu Quevedo, in a separate interview over the phone, assured that all of their tapes are safely in their hands. He said they do not need to conduct an inventory of the tapes because every thing is in tact.
“Every time tapes like that come out, the suspect is ISAFP. But we believe that it is not only ISAFP that has the capability to produce that kind of tape because anybody can have a recording,” Abu said.
“That is why we are investigating these reports … so that ISAFP can also be cleared if we found out that the report is not true,” he added.
The military chief said he has not personally asked Quevedo whether the tape was really from the ISAFP as he leaves everything to the investigation which is being headed by Danga.
Abu also denied relieving Quevedo or restricting men of the ISAFP within their compound pending the completion of said investigation.
“We have not given any orders to that effect,” Abu said.
He refused to say whether or not he has already identified a replacement for Quevedo, citing confidentiality, following a statement from Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita that Commodore Leonardo Calderon will take over Quevedo’s post sometime this month.
“I still have not made an official communication with Malacañang,” Abu said when asked if he has submitted his recommendations already for Quevedo’s possible replacement.
Reports of Quevedo’s relief surfaced after ISAFP was cited as initial suspect in the leakage of Arroyo’s taped conversation. /DMS
June 10, 2005
An investigation is on-going in the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP) following the leak of a taped conversation of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo regarding the 2004 Presidential elections.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Efren Abu said Friday the probe is being conducted internally because the ISAFP is always a suspect when it comes to wiretapping activities, even if there are other agencies capable of doing it as well.
“There is an investigation being done because these things are not only affecting the Armed Forces of the Philippines. It is affecting even the Office of the President… This is a serious matter,” Abu told reporters after a fellowship lunch he hosted with members of the press at Camp Aguinaldo as he is about to retire on June 24 when he reaches the mandatory age of retirement of 56.
The taped conversation was released early this week by Malacañang to preempt a similar move allegedly by a segment of the political opposition. The conversation shows Arroyo trying to manipulate the results of the 2004 polls to her favor. Arroyo won the polls over rival candidate Fernando Poe, Jr. by a margin of over one million votes.
Later in the afternoon yesterday, a former Intelligence official of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) claimed that he has in his possession the “mother of all tapes.” Atty. Samuel Ong said he got it from agents of the ISAFP whom he made friends with long before while he was still in the government.
Ong challenged officials to immediately go to the ISAFP quarters inside Camp Aguinaldo to check the missing tapes.
But the AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence was quick to deny Ong’s claims. Rear Admiral Tirso Danga, in a hastily called and conducted press briefing, said: “There is no missing tape. And we are not keeping any tape because it is not our job to wire-tap.”
ISAFP chief Brig. Gen. Marlu Quevedo, in a separate interview over the phone, assured that all of their tapes are safely in their hands. He said they do not need to conduct an inventory of the tapes because every thing is in tact.
“Every time tapes like that come out, the suspect is ISAFP. But we believe that it is not only ISAFP that has the capability to produce that kind of tape because anybody can have a recording,” Abu said.
“That is why we are investigating these reports … so that ISAFP can also be cleared if we found out that the report is not true,” he added.
The military chief said he has not personally asked Quevedo whether the tape was really from the ISAFP as he leaves everything to the investigation which is being headed by Danga.
Abu also denied relieving Quevedo or restricting men of the ISAFP within their compound pending the completion of said investigation.
“We have not given any orders to that effect,” Abu said.
He refused to say whether or not he has already identified a replacement for Quevedo, citing confidentiality, following a statement from Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita that Commodore Leonardo Calderon will take over Quevedo’s post sometime this month.
“I still have not made an official communication with Malacañang,” Abu said when asked if he has submitted his recommendations already for Quevedo’s possible replacement.
Reports of Quevedo’s relief surfaced after ISAFP was cited as initial suspect in the leakage of Arroyo’s taped conversation. /DMS
Army officer sacked over “irresponsible statements” on the web
By Ronron
June 10, 2005
Army officer Col. Ricardo Morales was sacked from his post as commander of the 404th Infantry Brigade, based in Mindanao, for issuing “irresponsible statements” against a recreation project intended for the military and subsequently calling for a “coup” in protest of it.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Deputy Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Edilberto Adan said AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Efren Abu approved the relief of Morales after it was recommended by the Commanding General of the Philippine Army, Lt. Gen. Generoso Senga.
“Col. Morales published very critical article in the internet criticizing the policies and project of the (AFP)… As a responsible officer, he should have been aware that such message could reach the public, be misconstrued and subjected to a lot of misinterpretation,” Adan said.
In an e-mail message sent a few days ago to his fellow graduates from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA), Morales lambasted the construction of a resort house for the military in Boracay Island as he questioned the priorities of the higher-ups in the military in terms of addressing the needs of the ordinary soldiers.
“How can the 60-room resort in Boracay improve the AFP’s capability to fight? Who determined this priority? We have hospitals without medicine,” Morales, a member of the PMA class 1977, wrote.
“That the top leaders in the AFP, especially the Marine officer who commands two Army Divisions allowed this to happen shows their insensitivity to the needs and sufferings of the men in the field,” he added.
The project in Boracay was a brainchild of AFP Central Command chief Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Teodosio. In earlier interviews, Teodosio and other AFP officials emphasized the project is not an initiative of the military, but of a non-governmental organization.
“Enough of the leaders who talk about reforms but do not understand what they are saying. Enough of this organization stupidity… The time for talking is over. The time for action is now… The next coup will be peaceful and open,” Morales had said.
Adan said it was wrong for Morales to air his opinion, even if it is personal, in the internet because a website is a public domain.
Although it can not be interpreted as instigating rising up of arms against the AFP leadership, Abu, for his part, said it is still improper for Morales to talk about “coup,” whether he wanted it to be “peaceful and open” or not, because he is an officer.
Abu noted though that no sympathetic comments followed that statement of Morales in the e-group, which can be accessed by more than 600 PMA alumni and friends.
“As far as the Armed Forces is concerned, I don’t see it has any effect on our soldiers. If any, it could only be on people close to him, maybe his driver or security staff. I doubt if people like you will be encouraged by his statements,” Abu told reporters.
Adan said Morales was given the chance to explain his motives for doing so. Morales sent his explanation letter dated June 7 to Senga. However, his superiors did not find it satisfactory.
“Col. Morales was admonished by (Senga)… The AFP has established mechanisms for grievances, for getting feedback for policies by the leadership. Col. Morales did not avail of them,” said Adan.
“He is being relieved for his lack of good judgement and indiscretion as a senior officer who should set a good example to his officers and men,” added Adan.
The relief of Morales, Adan said, is without prejudice to the filing of appropriate charges against him in the military court. At the moment, the military is still checking what charges could be filed against Morales.
Adan said Morales will be given an assignment appropriate to his rank by the Philippine Army.
Following what happened to Morales, Abu, however, said it is not necessary to check or monitor other e-mail groups of active military members since any similar report can readily be received by him.
Besides, he expressed confidence that the Armed Forces is intact even amidst fresh talks of destabilization against the government.
“We are not monitoring any active member of the AFP now. It is not necessary because there is no threat from those in the active service… We are confident that in any destabilization plots, we are prepared to protect our countrymen and our government offices and our country. So we have nothing to worry about,” Abu said./DMS
June 10, 2005
Army officer Col. Ricardo Morales was sacked from his post as commander of the 404th Infantry Brigade, based in Mindanao, for issuing “irresponsible statements” against a recreation project intended for the military and subsequently calling for a “coup” in protest of it.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Deputy Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Edilberto Adan said AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Efren Abu approved the relief of Morales after it was recommended by the Commanding General of the Philippine Army, Lt. Gen. Generoso Senga.
“Col. Morales published very critical article in the internet criticizing the policies and project of the (AFP)… As a responsible officer, he should have been aware that such message could reach the public, be misconstrued and subjected to a lot of misinterpretation,” Adan said.
In an e-mail message sent a few days ago to his fellow graduates from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA), Morales lambasted the construction of a resort house for the military in Boracay Island as he questioned the priorities of the higher-ups in the military in terms of addressing the needs of the ordinary soldiers.
“How can the 60-room resort in Boracay improve the AFP’s capability to fight? Who determined this priority? We have hospitals without medicine,” Morales, a member of the PMA class 1977, wrote.
“That the top leaders in the AFP, especially the Marine officer who commands two Army Divisions allowed this to happen shows their insensitivity to the needs and sufferings of the men in the field,” he added.
The project in Boracay was a brainchild of AFP Central Command chief Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Teodosio. In earlier interviews, Teodosio and other AFP officials emphasized the project is not an initiative of the military, but of a non-governmental organization.
“Enough of the leaders who talk about reforms but do not understand what they are saying. Enough of this organization stupidity… The time for talking is over. The time for action is now… The next coup will be peaceful and open,” Morales had said.
Adan said it was wrong for Morales to air his opinion, even if it is personal, in the internet because a website is a public domain.
Although it can not be interpreted as instigating rising up of arms against the AFP leadership, Abu, for his part, said it is still improper for Morales to talk about “coup,” whether he wanted it to be “peaceful and open” or not, because he is an officer.
Abu noted though that no sympathetic comments followed that statement of Morales in the e-group, which can be accessed by more than 600 PMA alumni and friends.
“As far as the Armed Forces is concerned, I don’t see it has any effect on our soldiers. If any, it could only be on people close to him, maybe his driver or security staff. I doubt if people like you will be encouraged by his statements,” Abu told reporters.
Adan said Morales was given the chance to explain his motives for doing so. Morales sent his explanation letter dated June 7 to Senga. However, his superiors did not find it satisfactory.
“Col. Morales was admonished by (Senga)… The AFP has established mechanisms for grievances, for getting feedback for policies by the leadership. Col. Morales did not avail of them,” said Adan.
“He is being relieved for his lack of good judgement and indiscretion as a senior officer who should set a good example to his officers and men,” added Adan.
The relief of Morales, Adan said, is without prejudice to the filing of appropriate charges against him in the military court. At the moment, the military is still checking what charges could be filed against Morales.
Adan said Morales will be given an assignment appropriate to his rank by the Philippine Army.
Following what happened to Morales, Abu, however, said it is not necessary to check or monitor other e-mail groups of active military members since any similar report can readily be received by him.
Besides, he expressed confidence that the Armed Forces is intact even amidst fresh talks of destabilization against the government.
“We are not monitoring any active member of the AFP now. It is not necessary because there is no threat from those in the active service… We are confident that in any destabilization plots, we are prepared to protect our countrymen and our government offices and our country. So we have nothing to worry about,” Abu said./DMS
Thursday, June 9, 2005
Military intelligence chief stays
By Ronron
June 8, 2005
The top military intelligence officer stays in his post.
This is what Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Public Information Officer Lt. Col. Buenaventura Pascual said on Wednesday amidst reports that Intelligence Service of the AFP (ISAFP) Chief Brig. Gen. Marlowe Quevedo is already relieved.
“I would like to make it clear that Brig. Gen. Marlowe Quevedo is still the chief (of the) ISAFP. It came out in the print this morning that he is already relieved. There is no truth to it,” Pascual told reporters yesterday at Camp Aguinaldo.
The military spokesman said the reports on Quevedo’s relief, which is suspected to have something to do with the release of a taped conversation between President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and a Comelec official, may just be part of a series of disinformation being circulated to ride with the uncertainties of the times brought about by rumors of destabilization plots against the government.
“He is performing very well,” Pascual said of Quevedo.
When sought for comment, Quevedo only said he has not received any order yet for his relief./DMS
June 8, 2005
The top military intelligence officer stays in his post.
This is what Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Public Information Officer Lt. Col. Buenaventura Pascual said on Wednesday amidst reports that Intelligence Service of the AFP (ISAFP) Chief Brig. Gen. Marlowe Quevedo is already relieved.
“I would like to make it clear that Brig. Gen. Marlowe Quevedo is still the chief (of the) ISAFP. It came out in the print this morning that he is already relieved. There is no truth to it,” Pascual told reporters yesterday at Camp Aguinaldo.
The military spokesman said the reports on Quevedo’s relief, which is suspected to have something to do with the release of a taped conversation between President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and a Comelec official, may just be part of a series of disinformation being circulated to ride with the uncertainties of the times brought about by rumors of destabilization plots against the government.
“He is performing very well,” Pascual said of Quevedo.
When sought for comment, Quevedo only said he has not received any order yet for his relief./DMS
Military and police reaffirm support and loyalty to Arroyo
By Ronron
June 8, 2005
Different Philippine military units and the national police reaffirmed on Wednesday their support and loyalty to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo amidst fresh destabilization plots hounding her administration which was fueled lately with the release of an alleged taped conversation that implies Arroyo’s manipulation of the 2004 Presidential elections to her favor.
The Philippine Army, Air Force, Navy and National Police issued separate statements yesterday to express their commitment to the duly constituted government under Arroyo and their firm belief that any destabilization plot will not prosper. (See separate story on the Philippine Army’s statement.)
“Your airmen and women stand squarely behind this legitimate government and prepared to defend it against those who would usurp the rule of law,” the PAF public information office said.
Navy chief Vice Admiral Ernesto de Leon, for his part, said: “The navy assures the citizens that all its officers, sailors, marines and special operations personnel are prepared to thwart any attempt to bring down the government or any bid that will undermine the country’s democratic institutions.”
De Leon, an aspirant for the top post in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) once incumbent Chief of Staff Gen. Efren Abu steps down later this month when he reaches the mandatory age for retirement, assured that the Philippine Navy “remains solidly behind the national leadership of the Commander-in-Chief and President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.”
“In these trying times, the Navy is more persistent to prove to the people that it remains true to its oath and that its men and women are more emboldened to take on their task of averting vicious attempts that only do more harm and damage to the State we have sworn to defend,” said De Leon.
The AFP leadership has earlier acknowledged reports that retired generals are sowing disinformation at the lower level so as to discourage them from supporting the government.
But officials are quick to say that these plots will not prosper since they are countering it with information and education campaigns.
“At these times of uncertainty and heightened emotions, we call on our people to be discerning and not be deceived by plots to destabilize our government. We call on everyone to unite for the good and progress of our nation rather than for its disintegration,” the PAF said.
Trusting on the goodness and loyalty of his men, PNP Chief Gen. Arturo Lomibao wooed all policemen that they continue to join hands in assuming their responsibilities for peace and development.
“Let us all continue to serve our Almighty Father, our country, and our countrymen under leadership of our President, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo… My request from you is that we continue to work faithfully, serve truthfully,” Lomibao said in Filipino.
The statements of support came a day after Arroyo hosted in Malacañang a dinner meeting with police and military officials who belong to the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) classes of 1973 up to 1978./DMS
June 8, 2005
Different Philippine military units and the national police reaffirmed on Wednesday their support and loyalty to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo amidst fresh destabilization plots hounding her administration which was fueled lately with the release of an alleged taped conversation that implies Arroyo’s manipulation of the 2004 Presidential elections to her favor.
The Philippine Army, Air Force, Navy and National Police issued separate statements yesterday to express their commitment to the duly constituted government under Arroyo and their firm belief that any destabilization plot will not prosper. (See separate story on the Philippine Army’s statement.)
“Your airmen and women stand squarely behind this legitimate government and prepared to defend it against those who would usurp the rule of law,” the PAF public information office said.
Navy chief Vice Admiral Ernesto de Leon, for his part, said: “The navy assures the citizens that all its officers, sailors, marines and special operations personnel are prepared to thwart any attempt to bring down the government or any bid that will undermine the country’s democratic institutions.”
De Leon, an aspirant for the top post in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) once incumbent Chief of Staff Gen. Efren Abu steps down later this month when he reaches the mandatory age for retirement, assured that the Philippine Navy “remains solidly behind the national leadership of the Commander-in-Chief and President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.”
“In these trying times, the Navy is more persistent to prove to the people that it remains true to its oath and that its men and women are more emboldened to take on their task of averting vicious attempts that only do more harm and damage to the State we have sworn to defend,” said De Leon.
The AFP leadership has earlier acknowledged reports that retired generals are sowing disinformation at the lower level so as to discourage them from supporting the government.
But officials are quick to say that these plots will not prosper since they are countering it with information and education campaigns.
“At these times of uncertainty and heightened emotions, we call on our people to be discerning and not be deceived by plots to destabilize our government. We call on everyone to unite for the good and progress of our nation rather than for its disintegration,” the PAF said.
Trusting on the goodness and loyalty of his men, PNP Chief Gen. Arturo Lomibao wooed all policemen that they continue to join hands in assuming their responsibilities for peace and development.
“Let us all continue to serve our Almighty Father, our country, and our countrymen under leadership of our President, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo… My request from you is that we continue to work faithfully, serve truthfully,” Lomibao said in Filipino.
The statements of support came a day after Arroyo hosted in Malacañang a dinner meeting with police and military officials who belong to the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) classes of 1973 up to 1978./DMS
Wednesday, June 8, 2005
AFP monitoring three retired military officials on alleged destabilization plots; recruitment within PNP also confirmed
By Ronron
June 7, 2005
The Philippine military identified three retired officers who allegedly have a role in the recent destabilization plots against the government based on their pronouncements to the public.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Public Information Officer (PIO) Lt. Col. Buenaventura Pascual said military agents are already monitoring the activities of former Defense Secretary and Army chief Maj. Gen. Fortunato Abat, retired Commodore Ismael Aparri, and Brig. Gen. Angel Sadang.
"We’re cautious of their statements… Their activities are being monitoring," Pascual told reporters in Camp Aguinaldo on Tuesday.
Abat is one of the leaders of the Federation of Retired Commissioned and Enlisted Soldiers (FORCES) and one of the convenors of the Coalition for National Salvation, a group launched in April that seeks for the ouster of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
Aparri is the spokesman of the Young Enlisted Soldiers with Active and Retired Military for Solidarity (YES-ARMS), while Sadang heads the Generals for Constitution.
Aparri and Sadang’s organizations are also critical of the Arroyo government.
"Their statement is a cause for concern for the Armed Forces because they are telling our soldiers to break the chain of command," Pascual said of the three, who are allegedly exploiting current issues within the military, such as the reported extravagant repair of the sidewalks inside Camp Aguinaldo and the construction of a resort house for the military in Boracay.
The AFP leadership had already explained that the cost of the sidewalks repair is only P5 million, and not P19 million as initially reported, and that the military resort house in the famous Boracay Island is an initiative of a non-governmental organization, and not of the AFP.
In a brief phone interview, Abat denied the allegation against him, and pointed instead to the government as the one responsible for its destabilized state now.
When asked if his and his group’s call for Arroyo to step down could be read as a form of destabilizing the government, Abat replied: "We are calling for her ouster because she is destabilizing the government through malgovernance."
Aparri, in a separate interview, also belied the destabilizer tag imposed upon him by Pascual.
"I am the one being recruited by the agitated soldiers to speak for them. They (soldiers) are the ones asking me to speak for them because they are voiceless. I’ve never recruited anyone," Aparri told reporters at his office at the Association of Generals and Flag Officers inside Camp Aguinaldo.
Aparri expressed disappointment over the fact that "in this country, when you speak against the government, you are a destabilizer."
"Is it wrong to speak for the unattended?… They can call me anything but we are not destabilizing the government," Aparri said.
He disclosed that soldiers are particularly concerned on the failure of the government to settle the P36 billion unpaid pension differentials to war veterans, and the issues of the military resort house in Boracay, the repair of the pavement in Camp Aguinaldo, the lack of equipment and facilities for soldiers in the field, and many others.
"What is his (Pascual) basis for calling me a destabilizer? Just because we are speaking for the soldiers who are voiceless? If that makes me a destabilizer, then I accept it. We are reformist, nationalist who take care of the veterans and the soldiers. We have not much to advertise for ourselves," Aparri said.
Pascual issued a warning to the three that the military has a very active internal counter-intelligence capability that could monitor very well their activities.
The recruitment activities conducted by some sectors outside the military service was already admitted by the AFP in earlier pronouncements.
But, according to Pascual, the plot is still in its initial stage since it is only limited to mind-setting or mental planning activities.
He said the AFP is countering these moves by informing and educating well their troops about the real score on certain issues, thereby discouraging the soldiers from joining possible military adventurism.
"We have a very stable command structure. The chain of command is intact," Pascual described the AFP at the moment in light of the alleged destabilization plots.
Meanwhile, the spokesman of the Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed yesterday that recruitment within the police ranks is also on going in support for the alleged destabilization plot against the government.
However, Chief Supt. Leopoldo Bataoil refused to identify the recruiting party.
"The seat of government power is besieged anew by a malicious effort to throw it off balance by way of a seemingly elaborate and grand design at destabilization," PNP chief Director General Arturo Lomibao said in a separate statement issued yesterday.
Quoting "highly reliable intelligence reports," Lomibao said the "latest uncovered attempt at destabilization could be part of a larger scenario that was preceded by an earlier series of deliberate disinformation efforts, and possibly including some sensationalized scandals, unfounded rumors and other manipulative means of spreading false information."
The PNP chief said key police officials met over the weekend to assess the recent developments.
But amidst the destabilization rumors, Lomibao assured that the PNP will stand "squarely behind the rule of law and will stay focused" on its "mission to protect and serve the people."
"The (PNP) under my leadership will insure that any further step at destabilization that borders on the illegal and with willful criminal intent shall be addressed accordingly by uncompromising police action consistent with existing laws," Lomibao said.
He stressed that the PNP will not be swayed by any motive and will remain faithful to the Constitution and to its sworn duty./DMS
June 7, 2005
The Philippine military identified three retired officers who allegedly have a role in the recent destabilization plots against the government based on their pronouncements to the public.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Public Information Officer (PIO) Lt. Col. Buenaventura Pascual said military agents are already monitoring the activities of former Defense Secretary and Army chief Maj. Gen. Fortunato Abat, retired Commodore Ismael Aparri, and Brig. Gen. Angel Sadang.
"We’re cautious of their statements… Their activities are being monitoring," Pascual told reporters in Camp Aguinaldo on Tuesday.
Abat is one of the leaders of the Federation of Retired Commissioned and Enlisted Soldiers (FORCES) and one of the convenors of the Coalition for National Salvation, a group launched in April that seeks for the ouster of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
Aparri is the spokesman of the Young Enlisted Soldiers with Active and Retired Military for Solidarity (YES-ARMS), while Sadang heads the Generals for Constitution.
Aparri and Sadang’s organizations are also critical of the Arroyo government.
"Their statement is a cause for concern for the Armed Forces because they are telling our soldiers to break the chain of command," Pascual said of the three, who are allegedly exploiting current issues within the military, such as the reported extravagant repair of the sidewalks inside Camp Aguinaldo and the construction of a resort house for the military in Boracay.
The AFP leadership had already explained that the cost of the sidewalks repair is only P5 million, and not P19 million as initially reported, and that the military resort house in the famous Boracay Island is an initiative of a non-governmental organization, and not of the AFP.
In a brief phone interview, Abat denied the allegation against him, and pointed instead to the government as the one responsible for its destabilized state now.
When asked if his and his group’s call for Arroyo to step down could be read as a form of destabilizing the government, Abat replied: "We are calling for her ouster because she is destabilizing the government through malgovernance."
Aparri, in a separate interview, also belied the destabilizer tag imposed upon him by Pascual.
"I am the one being recruited by the agitated soldiers to speak for them. They (soldiers) are the ones asking me to speak for them because they are voiceless. I’ve never recruited anyone," Aparri told reporters at his office at the Association of Generals and Flag Officers inside Camp Aguinaldo.
Aparri expressed disappointment over the fact that "in this country, when you speak against the government, you are a destabilizer."
"Is it wrong to speak for the unattended?… They can call me anything but we are not destabilizing the government," Aparri said.
He disclosed that soldiers are particularly concerned on the failure of the government to settle the P36 billion unpaid pension differentials to war veterans, and the issues of the military resort house in Boracay, the repair of the pavement in Camp Aguinaldo, the lack of equipment and facilities for soldiers in the field, and many others.
"What is his (Pascual) basis for calling me a destabilizer? Just because we are speaking for the soldiers who are voiceless? If that makes me a destabilizer, then I accept it. We are reformist, nationalist who take care of the veterans and the soldiers. We have not much to advertise for ourselves," Aparri said.
Pascual issued a warning to the three that the military has a very active internal counter-intelligence capability that could monitor very well their activities.
The recruitment activities conducted by some sectors outside the military service was already admitted by the AFP in earlier pronouncements.
But, according to Pascual, the plot is still in its initial stage since it is only limited to mind-setting or mental planning activities.
He said the AFP is countering these moves by informing and educating well their troops about the real score on certain issues, thereby discouraging the soldiers from joining possible military adventurism.
"We have a very stable command structure. The chain of command is intact," Pascual described the AFP at the moment in light of the alleged destabilization plots.
Meanwhile, the spokesman of the Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed yesterday that recruitment within the police ranks is also on going in support for the alleged destabilization plot against the government.
However, Chief Supt. Leopoldo Bataoil refused to identify the recruiting party.
"The seat of government power is besieged anew by a malicious effort to throw it off balance by way of a seemingly elaborate and grand design at destabilization," PNP chief Director General Arturo Lomibao said in a separate statement issued yesterday.
Quoting "highly reliable intelligence reports," Lomibao said the "latest uncovered attempt at destabilization could be part of a larger scenario that was preceded by an earlier series of deliberate disinformation efforts, and possibly including some sensationalized scandals, unfounded rumors and other manipulative means of spreading false information."
The PNP chief said key police officials met over the weekend to assess the recent developments.
But amidst the destabilization rumors, Lomibao assured that the PNP will stand "squarely behind the rule of law and will stay focused" on its "mission to protect and serve the people."
"The (PNP) under my leadership will insure that any further step at destabilization that borders on the illegal and with willful criminal intent shall be addressed accordingly by uncompromising police action consistent with existing laws," Lomibao said.
He stressed that the PNP will not be swayed by any motive and will remain faithful to the Constitution and to its sworn duty./DMS
Saturday, June 4, 2005
Gov’t forces top in human rights violations, says NDFP
By Ronron
June 3, 2005
Almost all complaints for violation of human rights and international humanitarian law that a joint committee of the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) received from June 4 last year until today were allegedly done by government forces, the NDFP thus claimed.
NDFP Negotiating Panel chair Luis Jalandoni said in a statement that the Joint Secretariat (JS) of the Joint Monitoring Committee (JMC) between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the NDFP has received a total of 365 complaints for violation of human rights and international humanitarian law since the JS was opened exactly a year ago today.
The JS served as a physical base for the full operation of the (JMC), which completed the technical and administrative mechanism for the monitoring of the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).
“There was hope that CARHRIHL would help stem the tide of increasing human rights violations by the Arroyo government, if not, improve the overall human rights situation in the country which remains in an even worse state almost 20 years after the downfall of the Marcos dictatorship,” Jalandoni said.
But he expressed doubts on the government’s sincerity to abide with the CARHRIHL as he noted that 358 of the 365 complaints were filed against the Philippine government, while the remaining seven were with the NDFP.
Jalandoni enumerated the nature of the complaints to be ranging from disappearances to killings, to torture, illegal arrests and detention, to criminalization of political offenses. These also include abuses against women and children.
“The big number of complaints filed with the JS in a short period of one year not only underscores the worsened state of human rights in the country and the urgent need to address these, but also indicates the broad support for the peace negotiations and the strong desire of the people for the ultimate resolution of the root causes of the armed conflict,” said Jalandoni.
Jalandoni lambasted the Philippine government for not abiding with the mandated meeting of the JMC every after three months since it initially convened in April last year as it would have served to be a proper venue to discuss and act on the complaints.
The government, according to him, is reportedly insisting that the formal peace negotiations should first resume before the JMC holds its regular meeting. It can be recalled that the peace process between the NDFP-Communist Party of the Philippines(CPP)-New People’s Army(NPA) and the government bogged down in August last year after the United States listed again the CPP and the NPA in its list of foreign terrorist organizations.
“The GRP and the NDFP signified their will to implement and abide by the Agreement and to carry out, separately through their respective Monitoring Committees or jointly in the JMC, fact-finding investigations of complaints of violations of human rights and international humanitarian law,” Jalandoni reminded the government. The CARHRIHL was signed in March 1998 by both parties.
Jalandoni stressed the NDFP’s commitment to the resolution of the roots of the armed conflict in the Philippines, saying that it even translated the CARHRIHL into various dialects, and engaged in various activities to educate their members all over the country.
“But it (NDFP) will never be pressured or inveigled into capitulation by the GRP through such means as the murder of legal progressive activists, the terrorizing and wholesale killing of civilians and non-combatants, and the unjustified terrorist labeling of the CPP, the NPA and the NDFP chief political consultant Prof. Jose Ma. Sison,” said Jalandoni.
“The government of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is hardly in any position to impose preconditions on the NDFP in the peace negotiations,” he added.
Jalandoni, meanwhile, warned that Arroyo that her government “is vulnerable to being toppled by a popular uprising similar to those that brought down former Presidents Ferdinand Marcos and Joseph Estrada since it has failed to alleviate the people’s socio-economic condition while callously increasing their tax burden.”
“Arroyo is no different from her corrupt predecessors in wanting to enrich her own family. The NDFP calls on the GRP to heed the people’s demands for social, economic, and political reforms in order to establish a just and lasting peace in the country,” Jalandoni said./DMS
June 3, 2005
Almost all complaints for violation of human rights and international humanitarian law that a joint committee of the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) received from June 4 last year until today were allegedly done by government forces, the NDFP thus claimed.
NDFP Negotiating Panel chair Luis Jalandoni said in a statement that the Joint Secretariat (JS) of the Joint Monitoring Committee (JMC) between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the NDFP has received a total of 365 complaints for violation of human rights and international humanitarian law since the JS was opened exactly a year ago today.
The JS served as a physical base for the full operation of the (JMC), which completed the technical and administrative mechanism for the monitoring of the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).
“There was hope that CARHRIHL would help stem the tide of increasing human rights violations by the Arroyo government, if not, improve the overall human rights situation in the country which remains in an even worse state almost 20 years after the downfall of the Marcos dictatorship,” Jalandoni said.
But he expressed doubts on the government’s sincerity to abide with the CARHRIHL as he noted that 358 of the 365 complaints were filed against the Philippine government, while the remaining seven were with the NDFP.
Jalandoni enumerated the nature of the complaints to be ranging from disappearances to killings, to torture, illegal arrests and detention, to criminalization of political offenses. These also include abuses against women and children.
“The big number of complaints filed with the JS in a short period of one year not only underscores the worsened state of human rights in the country and the urgent need to address these, but also indicates the broad support for the peace negotiations and the strong desire of the people for the ultimate resolution of the root causes of the armed conflict,” said Jalandoni.
Jalandoni lambasted the Philippine government for not abiding with the mandated meeting of the JMC every after three months since it initially convened in April last year as it would have served to be a proper venue to discuss and act on the complaints.
The government, according to him, is reportedly insisting that the formal peace negotiations should first resume before the JMC holds its regular meeting. It can be recalled that the peace process between the NDFP-Communist Party of the Philippines(CPP)-New People’s Army(NPA) and the government bogged down in August last year after the United States listed again the CPP and the NPA in its list of foreign terrorist organizations.
“The GRP and the NDFP signified their will to implement and abide by the Agreement and to carry out, separately through their respective Monitoring Committees or jointly in the JMC, fact-finding investigations of complaints of violations of human rights and international humanitarian law,” Jalandoni reminded the government. The CARHRIHL was signed in March 1998 by both parties.
Jalandoni stressed the NDFP’s commitment to the resolution of the roots of the armed conflict in the Philippines, saying that it even translated the CARHRIHL into various dialects, and engaged in various activities to educate their members all over the country.
“But it (NDFP) will never be pressured or inveigled into capitulation by the GRP through such means as the murder of legal progressive activists, the terrorizing and wholesale killing of civilians and non-combatants, and the unjustified terrorist labeling of the CPP, the NPA and the NDFP chief political consultant Prof. Jose Ma. Sison,” said Jalandoni.
“The government of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is hardly in any position to impose preconditions on the NDFP in the peace negotiations,” he added.
Jalandoni, meanwhile, warned that Arroyo that her government “is vulnerable to being toppled by a popular uprising similar to those that brought down former Presidents Ferdinand Marcos and Joseph Estrada since it has failed to alleviate the people’s socio-economic condition while callously increasing their tax burden.”
“Arroyo is no different from her corrupt predecessors in wanting to enrich her own family. The NDFP calls on the GRP to heed the people’s demands for social, economic, and political reforms in order to establish a just and lasting peace in the country,” Jalandoni said./DMS
Military court tells Garcia lawyers to speed up
By Ronron
June 3, 2005
The military court trying retired Maj. Gen. Carlos Garcia over his unexplained wealth and alleged possession of a “US green card” told the latter’s lawyers Friday to speed up the presentation of their defense as it postponed yesterday’s scheduled hearing to allow Garcia’s counsel to attend to his other cases at the Sandiganbayan.
“We advise the defense to be more direct in presenting their case so that next hearing, we will make headway in the proceedings,” General Court Martial presiding officer Gen. Emmanuel Teodosio said before adjourning the hearing held at Camp Aguinaldo.
The order came after Teodosio granted the motion of the defense to postpone the hearing yesterday afternoon on the grounds that Garcia’s lawyers have to attend to similar proceedings at the anti-graft court, also for Garcia.
But even as the court ordered the postponement, it reminded the defense that it should be able to reconcile their schedule at the military court with the Sandiganbayan hearings ahead of time, considering that there are more than one lawyer in Garcia’s defense.
“We view with concern the seemingly much delay in the proceedings. We’ve been here for so long, but we’re not substantially progressing,” Teodosio said.
But Col. Antonio Doronila, one of Garcia’s lawyers, insisted the defense is not intentionally creating any delaying tactics, saying they have been presenting witnesses and pieces of evidence every hearing period.
The defense has so far presented six witnesses, but, as Doronila admitted, they have not made any significant revelation or claims that support their defense.
“They’re not controverting what was said in the charge sheet. Like, did he (Garcia) file his (statements of assets and liabilities) honestly? That is what the court is waiting for. So far, they’re harping on technicalities and always far from the main issue,” Prosecutor Col. Al Perreras said of the defense.
Both sides, however, were of the same view that yesterday’s postponement was not a delaying tactic by the defense.
Doronila said his co-counsels attended yesterday’s hearing at the Sandiganbayan for Garcia’s cases of plunder and forfeiture of properties.
The military court set the next hearing for the cases of violation of Articles of War against Garcia on June 10, 15, and 24 of this year./DMS
June 3, 2005
The military court trying retired Maj. Gen. Carlos Garcia over his unexplained wealth and alleged possession of a “US green card” told the latter’s lawyers Friday to speed up the presentation of their defense as it postponed yesterday’s scheduled hearing to allow Garcia’s counsel to attend to his other cases at the Sandiganbayan.
“We advise the defense to be more direct in presenting their case so that next hearing, we will make headway in the proceedings,” General Court Martial presiding officer Gen. Emmanuel Teodosio said before adjourning the hearing held at Camp Aguinaldo.
The order came after Teodosio granted the motion of the defense to postpone the hearing yesterday afternoon on the grounds that Garcia’s lawyers have to attend to similar proceedings at the anti-graft court, also for Garcia.
But even as the court ordered the postponement, it reminded the defense that it should be able to reconcile their schedule at the military court with the Sandiganbayan hearings ahead of time, considering that there are more than one lawyer in Garcia’s defense.
“We view with concern the seemingly much delay in the proceedings. We’ve been here for so long, but we’re not substantially progressing,” Teodosio said.
But Col. Antonio Doronila, one of Garcia’s lawyers, insisted the defense is not intentionally creating any delaying tactics, saying they have been presenting witnesses and pieces of evidence every hearing period.
The defense has so far presented six witnesses, but, as Doronila admitted, they have not made any significant revelation or claims that support their defense.
“They’re not controverting what was said in the charge sheet. Like, did he (Garcia) file his (statements of assets and liabilities) honestly? That is what the court is waiting for. So far, they’re harping on technicalities and always far from the main issue,” Prosecutor Col. Al Perreras said of the defense.
Both sides, however, were of the same view that yesterday’s postponement was not a delaying tactic by the defense.
Doronila said his co-counsels attended yesterday’s hearing at the Sandiganbayan for Garcia’s cases of plunder and forfeiture of properties.
The military court set the next hearing for the cases of violation of Articles of War against Garcia on June 10, 15, and 24 of this year./DMS
2 NPA’s killed in encounter in Isabela
By Ronron
June 3, 2005
Two communist rebels were killed in an encounter Friday morning between the New People’s Army (NPA) and government troops in the northern Philippine province of Isabela.
Initial reports reaching Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City said the two slain rebels were among the undetermined number of communist guerillas whom elements of the 52nd Reconnaissance Company under the Philippine Army’s 45th Infantry Battalion exchanged fires with at 7:05 am yesterday in Barangay Ara, Benito Soliven, Isabela.
No one was hurt from the government side.
The government troops, led by 2Lt. Albert Batinga, were conducting combat patrol then in response to intelligence reports about the presence of NPA rebels at said area.
The rebel group reportedly belongs to Platoon 1, Central Front of the NPA’s Cagayan Valley Regional Party Committee, headed by a certain Melecio Casisola, alias Ka Milis or Ka Jose.
The military recovered from the clash site two M16 rifles of the rebels.
A platoon from the same company immediately proceeded at the encounter site to reinforce the engaged government troops, while troops of the Alpha company, also of the 45th IB, established blocking positions at the possible withdrawal routes of the rebels./DMS
June 3, 2005
Two communist rebels were killed in an encounter Friday morning between the New People’s Army (NPA) and government troops in the northern Philippine province of Isabela.
Initial reports reaching Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City said the two slain rebels were among the undetermined number of communist guerillas whom elements of the 52nd Reconnaissance Company under the Philippine Army’s 45th Infantry Battalion exchanged fires with at 7:05 am yesterday in Barangay Ara, Benito Soliven, Isabela.
No one was hurt from the government side.
The government troops, led by 2Lt. Albert Batinga, were conducting combat patrol then in response to intelligence reports about the presence of NPA rebels at said area.
The rebel group reportedly belongs to Platoon 1, Central Front of the NPA’s Cagayan Valley Regional Party Committee, headed by a certain Melecio Casisola, alias Ka Milis or Ka Jose.
The military recovered from the clash site two M16 rifles of the rebels.
A platoon from the same company immediately proceeded at the encounter site to reinforce the engaged government troops, while troops of the Alpha company, also of the 45th IB, established blocking positions at the possible withdrawal routes of the rebels./DMS
P5.6 million worth of shabu recovered from Chinese
By Ronron
June 3, 2005
Police operatives recovered on Thursday afternoon four kilos of shabu, worth P5.6 million, from an undocumented Chinese national during an entrapment operation at the parking lot of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.
Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Director Chief Supt. Ricardo Dapat identified the suspect as Chi Hong Wong, 23, who was being tracked down initially for alleged gunrunning.
Dapat said CIDG operatives were about to approach Wong at the parking area of said mall past 5 pm the other day when the latter ran towards his Honda car, grabbed his Desert Eagle pistol caliber 99 mm, and tried to shoot it out with the law enforcers.
But the policemen responded quickly and subdued him, leading to his capture.
The CIDG operatives later found a bag inside Wong’s car that contained white crystalline substance, examined later to be methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu.
Wong was not able to present any document or passport when asked for any.
He was charged for violation of Presidential Decree 1866 (Illegal Possession of Firearms) and of the Dangerous Drugs Act at the Mandaluyong City Prosecutor’s Office, and was not granted bail by Prosecutor Elenita Dumaguile for his temporary freedom./DMS
June 3, 2005
Police operatives recovered on Thursday afternoon four kilos of shabu, worth P5.6 million, from an undocumented Chinese national during an entrapment operation at the parking lot of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.
Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Director Chief Supt. Ricardo Dapat identified the suspect as Chi Hong Wong, 23, who was being tracked down initially for alleged gunrunning.
Dapat said CIDG operatives were about to approach Wong at the parking area of said mall past 5 pm the other day when the latter ran towards his Honda car, grabbed his Desert Eagle pistol caliber 99 mm, and tried to shoot it out with the law enforcers.
But the policemen responded quickly and subdued him, leading to his capture.
The CIDG operatives later found a bag inside Wong’s car that contained white crystalline substance, examined later to be methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu.
Wong was not able to present any document or passport when asked for any.
He was charged for violation of Presidential Decree 1866 (Illegal Possession of Firearms) and of the Dangerous Drugs Act at the Mandaluyong City Prosecutor’s Office, and was not granted bail by Prosecutor Elenita Dumaguile for his temporary freedom./DMS
Friday, June 3, 2005
Garcia rushed to hospital for chest pains, turns out he’s OK
By Ronron
June 2, 2005
Retired Maj. Gen. Carlos Garcia, the embattled former comptroller of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), was rushed Thursday morning to the Philippine National Police General Hospital (PNPGH) in Camp Crame, Quezon City after complaining of chest pains but turned out he is just fine, police officials said.
According to PNP Headquarters Support Services Director Chief Supt. Geary Barias, Garcia was taken to the PNPGH at around 9 am, 15 hours since he arrived at the PNP Custodial Center in preparation for the trial of the plunder charge leveled against him and his family at the Second Division of the Sandiganbayan anti-graft court for allegedly amassing more than P300 million from military funds.
Garcia, 56, underwent some medical check-up and tests at the hospital, and was back to his two-meter-by-three-meter detention cell about an hour later.
His hypertension was declared to be under control, based on his blood pressure, the results of his blood tests, and physical examination.
Barias assured that Garcia, just like the other 67 detainees at the PNP Custodial Center, can always avail of medical services of the PNPGH when necessary. “We had to take care also of the health of the detainees,” he said.
Barias stressed Garcia is not given special treatment at the detention facility which is housing suspects in high-profile cases, like former congressman Dennis Roldan and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) agent Martin Soriano.
He said Garcia will be covered of the same rules and regulations imposed in the facility, specifically on visitation, food ration, and detention cell amenities.
Barias said Garcia’s lawyers could visit their client anytime they want to, but his relatives and friends will have to abide with the allowed visitation time.
The beleaguered retired official will not also be given access to the use of cellular phones, television, and air-conditioned units, and instead bear with his wooden bed and an electric fan.
And just like his co-detainees, Garcia will be eating the food served by the facility three times a day, which is all worth P30.00. “But it is not prohibited that (his relatives and friends) would bring food there, provided those are all inspected,” said Barias.
Garcia is staying alone in the detention cell that is good for four persons.
“He seems alright. In fact, he was surprised when he was brought here. He did not bring anything. He was wearing his barong, and I asked him about his other things. He told me, he left everything at the (Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines). So, I advised him to get his things because we could not give him anything,” Barias said of Garcia.
Garcia had already been detained since late last year at the ISAFP inside Camp Aguinaldo upon the commencement of his trial at the military’s General Court Martial for the charges of violation of Articles of War leveled against him./DMS
June 2, 2005
Retired Maj. Gen. Carlos Garcia, the embattled former comptroller of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), was rushed Thursday morning to the Philippine National Police General Hospital (PNPGH) in Camp Crame, Quezon City after complaining of chest pains but turned out he is just fine, police officials said.
According to PNP Headquarters Support Services Director Chief Supt. Geary Barias, Garcia was taken to the PNPGH at around 9 am, 15 hours since he arrived at the PNP Custodial Center in preparation for the trial of the plunder charge leveled against him and his family at the Second Division of the Sandiganbayan anti-graft court for allegedly amassing more than P300 million from military funds.
Garcia, 56, underwent some medical check-up and tests at the hospital, and was back to his two-meter-by-three-meter detention cell about an hour later.
His hypertension was declared to be under control, based on his blood pressure, the results of his blood tests, and physical examination.
Barias assured that Garcia, just like the other 67 detainees at the PNP Custodial Center, can always avail of medical services of the PNPGH when necessary. “We had to take care also of the health of the detainees,” he said.
Barias stressed Garcia is not given special treatment at the detention facility which is housing suspects in high-profile cases, like former congressman Dennis Roldan and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) agent Martin Soriano.
He said Garcia will be covered of the same rules and regulations imposed in the facility, specifically on visitation, food ration, and detention cell amenities.
Barias said Garcia’s lawyers could visit their client anytime they want to, but his relatives and friends will have to abide with the allowed visitation time.
The beleaguered retired official will not also be given access to the use of cellular phones, television, and air-conditioned units, and instead bear with his wooden bed and an electric fan.
And just like his co-detainees, Garcia will be eating the food served by the facility three times a day, which is all worth P30.00. “But it is not prohibited that (his relatives and friends) would bring food there, provided those are all inspected,” said Barias.
Garcia is staying alone in the detention cell that is good for four persons.
“He seems alright. In fact, he was surprised when he was brought here. He did not bring anything. He was wearing his barong, and I asked him about his other things. He told me, he left everything at the (Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines). So, I advised him to get his things because we could not give him anything,” Barias said of Garcia.
Garcia had already been detained since late last year at the ISAFP inside Camp Aguinaldo upon the commencement of his trial at the military’s General Court Martial for the charges of violation of Articles of War leveled against him./DMS
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Japanese gov't orders recall of embassy staff from General Santos City amid security threats and unsuccessful mission to confirm presence of straggler
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Monday, May 30, 2005
Mediator willing to meet Tokyo-based official regarding alleged Japanese stragglers in Mindanao
By Ronron
May 29, 2005
General Santos City - The contact of the Japanese Embassy in Manila for the turn over of the two alleged Japanese war soldiers holed up in the mountains of this city expressed willingess to meet the Japanese official from Tokyo who is supposed to have arrived here already on Sunday.
In an interview with Manila Shimbun early last night, the go-between said he was waiting for a word from embassy personnel yesterday afternoon regarding the supposed meeting but to no avail.
Suminori Arima, from Japan's Ministry of Welfare, was expected to have arrived in this southern Philippine city yesterday morning but journalists who went to the airport here to meet the official returned to their bases empty-handed.
Arima, according to Japanese Embassy spokesman Shuhei Ogawa, was sent here "to help in their operation" to confirm the report about the two Japanese stragglers who, allegedly after failing to go home to Japan after the second World War in 1945, has since lived in the mountains here.
The report drew so much interest from the Japanese community, especially from Japanese newsmen who flew in here from Japan, because of its precedent that happened in 1974 involving Japanese soldier, Hiroo Onoda, who was found in Lubang Island, Mindoro Occidental.
"I am willing to meet him (Arima) anytime but up to late this afternoon, there was no contact made to me from the Japanese government side," the self-proclaimed mediator told Manila Shimbun yesterday in Japanese.
At the time he was being interviewed, the mediator claimed he just came from the mountain to meet supposedly the two alleged Japanese soldiers. However, he failed to do so because, according to him, when he had already reached some 800 meters high, he was stopped by some guerillas, and that rain was pouring very hard.
Ogawa, in an interview earlier in the day, refused to divulge when the last contact was made by the embassy with the go-between, who is described to be a Japanese businessmen in Mindanao, as well as the content of their recent conversations.
He also did not respond to queries as to whether or not Arima had already arrived here and where would he be staying.
Even as the third day in waiting ended yesterday, the Japanese Embassy still has yet to make proper coordination with the local authorities here for the verification about the existence of the stragglers.
Ogawa said seeking the participation of the authorities would only "complicate" their mission.
"If they come to us and seek for our help (in verifying the existence of the Japanese stragglers), we will do so. I am hopeful they will come to us," said Police Superintendent Alfredo Toroctocon, chief of the General Santos City Police Office (GSCPO).
Both the police and army units here have maintained that they have no knowledge as to the sightings of the alleged two Japanese war soldiers.
So far, the coordination was only limited to the security of the embassy people and the hordes of Japanese mediamen. The Japanese Embassy, quoting an advisory from the regional police here, warned last Saturday the newsmen not to go to the mountains due to security risks brought about by the presence of elements of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the New People's Army (NPA).
Asked what if media defy their advisory, Ogawa replied: "Well, we can't control that situation anymore."
Army Maj. Gen. Raul Relano, 6th Infantry Division Commander, expressed worries that newsmen, especially Japanese nationals, might risk their selves to communist guerrillas if they go up to areas where the stragglers are reported to have been sighted, such as Columbio in Sultan Kudarat, located just north of this city.
"I am worried about their (reporters) security if they go there because that is an NPA-infested area. They could be kidnapped," Relano told Manila Shimbun in Filipino.
Toroctocon, for his part, disclosed that their intelligence men continue to receive "tidbits of information" regarding terroristic threats on the city coming from the Jeemah Islamiyah and the Abu Sayyaf Group, which, even if based in Western Mindanao, have their own sympathizers from here.
The most recent terroristic attack in this city happened last February 14 of this year, simultaneous with the bombings in Makati City in Luzon, and in neighboring Davao City. At least three people were killed and 16 others were injured when a bomb blast hit the Gaisano Mall here last Valentine's day.
Toroctocon said personnel of the police precinct nearest to Phela Grande Hotel, located on Magsaysay Avenue here where embassy officials and most of the media are billeted, have been alerted to secure the vicinity.
They are supported by members of the military's Joint Task Force General Santos.
The stay here of the embassy people remains open until they could confirm the report regarding the stragglers, which, until yesterday, remains unaccomplished, said Ogawa.
He said what has so far transpired until the third day in waiting was only their continuing arrangement for the planned meeting.
The spokesman said no cash demand, either for ransom or other purposes, have been received by the Japanese government from anyone or the mediator in particular in exchange for the turn over of the alleged stragglers./DMS
May 29, 2005
General Santos City - The contact of the Japanese Embassy in Manila for the turn over of the two alleged Japanese war soldiers holed up in the mountains of this city expressed willingess to meet the Japanese official from Tokyo who is supposed to have arrived here already on Sunday.
In an interview with Manila Shimbun early last night, the go-between said he was waiting for a word from embassy personnel yesterday afternoon regarding the supposed meeting but to no avail.
Suminori Arima, from Japan's Ministry of Welfare, was expected to have arrived in this southern Philippine city yesterday morning but journalists who went to the airport here to meet the official returned to their bases empty-handed.
Arima, according to Japanese Embassy spokesman Shuhei Ogawa, was sent here "to help in their operation" to confirm the report about the two Japanese stragglers who, allegedly after failing to go home to Japan after the second World War in 1945, has since lived in the mountains here.
The report drew so much interest from the Japanese community, especially from Japanese newsmen who flew in here from Japan, because of its precedent that happened in 1974 involving Japanese soldier, Hiroo Onoda, who was found in Lubang Island, Mindoro Occidental.
"I am willing to meet him (Arima) anytime but up to late this afternoon, there was no contact made to me from the Japanese government side," the self-proclaimed mediator told Manila Shimbun yesterday in Japanese.
At the time he was being interviewed, the mediator claimed he just came from the mountain to meet supposedly the two alleged Japanese soldiers. However, he failed to do so because, according to him, when he had already reached some 800 meters high, he was stopped by some guerillas, and that rain was pouring very hard.
Ogawa, in an interview earlier in the day, refused to divulge when the last contact was made by the embassy with the go-between, who is described to be a Japanese businessmen in Mindanao, as well as the content of their recent conversations.
He also did not respond to queries as to whether or not Arima had already arrived here and where would he be staying.
Even as the third day in waiting ended yesterday, the Japanese Embassy still has yet to make proper coordination with the local authorities here for the verification about the existence of the stragglers.
Ogawa said seeking the participation of the authorities would only "complicate" their mission.
"If they come to us and seek for our help (in verifying the existence of the Japanese stragglers), we will do so. I am hopeful they will come to us," said Police Superintendent Alfredo Toroctocon, chief of the General Santos City Police Office (GSCPO).
Both the police and army units here have maintained that they have no knowledge as to the sightings of the alleged two Japanese war soldiers.
So far, the coordination was only limited to the security of the embassy people and the hordes of Japanese mediamen. The Japanese Embassy, quoting an advisory from the regional police here, warned last Saturday the newsmen not to go to the mountains due to security risks brought about by the presence of elements of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the New People's Army (NPA).
Asked what if media defy their advisory, Ogawa replied: "Well, we can't control that situation anymore."
Army Maj. Gen. Raul Relano, 6th Infantry Division Commander, expressed worries that newsmen, especially Japanese nationals, might risk their selves to communist guerrillas if they go up to areas where the stragglers are reported to have been sighted, such as Columbio in Sultan Kudarat, located just north of this city.
"I am worried about their (reporters) security if they go there because that is an NPA-infested area. They could be kidnapped," Relano told Manila Shimbun in Filipino.
Toroctocon, for his part, disclosed that their intelligence men continue to receive "tidbits of information" regarding terroristic threats on the city coming from the Jeemah Islamiyah and the Abu Sayyaf Group, which, even if based in Western Mindanao, have their own sympathizers from here.
The most recent terroristic attack in this city happened last February 14 of this year, simultaneous with the bombings in Makati City in Luzon, and in neighboring Davao City. At least three people were killed and 16 others were injured when a bomb blast hit the Gaisano Mall here last Valentine's day.
Toroctocon said personnel of the police precinct nearest to Phela Grande Hotel, located on Magsaysay Avenue here where embassy officials and most of the media are billeted, have been alerted to secure the vicinity.
They are supported by members of the military's Joint Task Force General Santos.
The stay here of the embassy people remains open until they could confirm the report regarding the stragglers, which, until yesterday, remains unaccomplished, said Ogawa.
He said what has so far transpired until the third day in waiting was only their continuing arrangement for the planned meeting.
The spokesman said no cash demand, either for ransom or other purposes, have been received by the Japanese government from anyone or the mediator in particular in exchange for the turn over of the alleged stragglers./DMS
Sunday, May 29, 2005
Scores of Japanese mediamen await development of stagglers report
By Ronron
May 28, 2005
General Santos City - Almost a hundred newsmen and crew, some of whom coming from Japan, are still awaiting here on Saturday the supposed turn over of two Japanese soldiers who have been in hiding and living in the mountains of this city for 60 years since the end of the second World War in 1945.
Despite several contacts made with a Japanese mediator since Thursday until yesterday, officials of the Japanese Embassy in Manila who were deployed here remains clueless as to when the turn-over of the two will take place.
Embassy spokesperson, Shuhei Ogawa, cited, among many things, the overwhelming presence of media practitioners here as a concern of the Mindanao-based mediator who is supposed to facilitate the turn over of the two war soldiers.
"We don't know the reason why they have not come out yet. But we hope to resolve this as soon as possible," Ogawa told reporters in an interview yesterday morning here at the East Asia Royale Hotel where the turn-over was supposed to take place.
Asked if they doubt the report, Ogawa replied: "It's too soon to judge. But we (embassy officials) were told to stay put here."
Four embassy officials arrived here last Friday morning to meet supposedly the mediator and the Japanese war soldiers, who are described to be in their 80's. But while some returned to the Japanese Consular office in Japan yesterday, officials from Japan's Ministry of Welfare are expected to arrive today.
"They will be coming here to help us in our operation here," Ogawa said of the Tokyo-based officials.
Ogawa said the purpose of their coming here is to verify the claim of the mediator who first called the Japanese Embassy in Manila last Thursday . According to the mediator, the two Japanese war veterans are seeking help to be able to go back to Japan.
"We are not asking for evidence from the mediator to support his claim. It's enough that he brings the two to us," said Ogawa. The mediator reportedly has not yet seen for himself the two stragglers.
The spokesman said he learned that the Ministry of Welfare of Japan has received letters from someone regarding the Japanese stragglers.
Until yesterday, Ogawa said they were still working out ways to bring out the alleged stragglers, even without the help of Philippine authorities.
"We will ask help (from the Philippine government) only when it is necessary," he said.
In separate interviews, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) District office here, the Army division in control of the area, and the city government admitted they still have to receive an official communication from the Japanese Embassy about its current undertaking. These agencies claimed of having no knowledge about the presence of Japanese stragglers here.
"The Philippine Army's sixth infantry division has been operating in the area of Mt. Matutum once in a while. We did not hear those names there, nor do we know the existence of Japanese war veterans," Army 6th ID Commander Maj. Gen. Raul Relano told Manila Shimbun in a phone interview.
The police, on the other hand, took the initiative of verifying the report through intelligence gathering.
It also warned the mediamen, especially those who came from Japan, not to proceed to the mountains because of the prevailig security threat brought about by the presence there of the Islamic secessionist group Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the communist New People's Army (NPA), said Ogawa.
The arrival of several mediamen here has stirred excitement among local people, especially those who happen to pass by the hotels where reporters are on stand by. It also sent all hotels and lodging establishments here to full occupancy level./DMS
May 28, 2005
General Santos City - Almost a hundred newsmen and crew, some of whom coming from Japan, are still awaiting here on Saturday the supposed turn over of two Japanese soldiers who have been in hiding and living in the mountains of this city for 60 years since the end of the second World War in 1945.
Despite several contacts made with a Japanese mediator since Thursday until yesterday, officials of the Japanese Embassy in Manila who were deployed here remains clueless as to when the turn-over of the two will take place.
Embassy spokesperson, Shuhei Ogawa, cited, among many things, the overwhelming presence of media practitioners here as a concern of the Mindanao-based mediator who is supposed to facilitate the turn over of the two war soldiers.
"We don't know the reason why they have not come out yet. But we hope to resolve this as soon as possible," Ogawa told reporters in an interview yesterday morning here at the East Asia Royale Hotel where the turn-over was supposed to take place.
Asked if they doubt the report, Ogawa replied: "It's too soon to judge. But we (embassy officials) were told to stay put here."
Four embassy officials arrived here last Friday morning to meet supposedly the mediator and the Japanese war soldiers, who are described to be in their 80's. But while some returned to the Japanese Consular office in Japan yesterday, officials from Japan's Ministry of Welfare are expected to arrive today.
"They will be coming here to help us in our operation here," Ogawa said of the Tokyo-based officials.
Ogawa said the purpose of their coming here is to verify the claim of the mediator who first called the Japanese Embassy in Manila last Thursday . According to the mediator, the two Japanese war veterans are seeking help to be able to go back to Japan.
"We are not asking for evidence from the mediator to support his claim. It's enough that he brings the two to us," said Ogawa. The mediator reportedly has not yet seen for himself the two stragglers.
The spokesman said he learned that the Ministry of Welfare of Japan has received letters from someone regarding the Japanese stragglers.
Until yesterday, Ogawa said they were still working out ways to bring out the alleged stragglers, even without the help of Philippine authorities.
"We will ask help (from the Philippine government) only when it is necessary," he said.
In separate interviews, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) District office here, the Army division in control of the area, and the city government admitted they still have to receive an official communication from the Japanese Embassy about its current undertaking. These agencies claimed of having no knowledge about the presence of Japanese stragglers here.
"The Philippine Army's sixth infantry division has been operating in the area of Mt. Matutum once in a while. We did not hear those names there, nor do we know the existence of Japanese war veterans," Army 6th ID Commander Maj. Gen. Raul Relano told Manila Shimbun in a phone interview.
The police, on the other hand, took the initiative of verifying the report through intelligence gathering.
It also warned the mediamen, especially those who came from Japan, not to proceed to the mountains because of the prevailig security threat brought about by the presence there of the Islamic secessionist group Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the communist New People's Army (NPA), said Ogawa.
The arrival of several mediamen here has stirred excitement among local people, especially those who happen to pass by the hotels where reporters are on stand by. It also sent all hotels and lodging establishments here to full occupancy level./DMS
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