By Ronron
March 2, 2007
Ten suspected communist rebels and two government soldiers were killed in a daylong encounter Thursday between the New People’s Army (NPA) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Bukidnon province.
Maj. Samuel Sagun, spokesman of the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division based in Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental province, said yesterday that the encounter, which started at 8am and ended 4pm, happened some 17 kilometers away from the center of Malaybalay City.
He said elements of the 26th Infantry Battalion (IB) of the Philippine Army clashed with some 30 guerillas under the Front Committee 89 of the NPA.
Of the slain rebels, two are women, Sagun said. At least one of their comrade was also wounded but was brought along by those who fled.
The military, on the other hand, incurred three wounded casualties, aside from the two who died. The slain soldiers were identified as Corporal Antonio Jamanda and Private First Class Franklin Tan.
The government troopers recovered from the clash site an M14 rifle, an M16 rifle, and a landmine left behind by the escaping rebels, said Sagun.
The said encounter happened on the same day when elements of the Philippine Army’s 8th IB encountered also an undetermined number of insurgents belonging to Front Committee 4B-North Central Mindanao Regional Committee in Binuangan, Misamis Oriental.
The 45-minute encounter, which started at 5:30 am, resulted in the death of two rebels and the capture of two others.
The 7,100-strong NPA has been waging guerilla war in the countryside in the last 39 years. Peace talks with the government bogged down in August 2004 after the group and their leaders were tagged by the US and European Union governments as terrorists.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has directed the AFP to crush the insurgents by 2010 when she ends her term./DMS
Saturday, March 3, 2007
AFP hits communist leader’s lifestyle in Europe
By Ronron
March 2, 2007
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Friday hit the leader of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) who is on exile in The Netherlands for living a very comfortable life while his supporters remain “rotten” in the mountains of the Philippines.
In a press conference at Camp Aguinaldo yesterday, AFP Public Information Officer Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro bared pictures of Jose Maria Sison, founding chairman of the CPP and consultant for the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), partying together famous Filipino entertainers Ara Mina and Janno Gibbs.
The photographs were displayed on Sison’s website (www.josemariasison.com), which posts primarily his literary works. The photos, according to the website (http://www.josemariasison.org/inps/Xmas06wNethFilcommunity.htm), were taken during their 2006 Christmas celebration on December 9 at The Sands Hotel in Amsterdam.
Another picture taken supposedly from the same event also include Luis Jalandoni, chief of the NDF negotiating panel.
“The pictures send the message the Joma Sison is enjoying life while the people up there are rotting like hell,” Bacarro said, referring to ordinary New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.
Bacarro said he was shocked to see the photos and immediately felt pity for the ordinary insurgents in the Philippines “who are in the mountains, always on the run, get soaked in the rain, and with no food to eat” as they continue to fight the government upon the orders of Sison and other communist leaders.
“How could he say he is on equal footing with their people at the lower level? You could just look at the disparity,” Bacarro said as he hit the principle of socialism being advocated by the CPP-NPA-NDF.
What is worse, Bacarro said, is Sison was not sensitive enough to think about the ordinary rebels when he “boasted” of his pictures with the famous Filipino entertainers by posting it on the internet.
“All of us have social lives… But if I were him, I’d be sensitive to what my people would feel if I put my pictures in this medium,” Bacarro said.
Asked if Mina and Gibbs have liabilities under the law for partying with a person tagged as an “international terrorist” by the US and European Union governments, Bacarro said, “No, I don’t think so.”
The military spokesman said the same issue should not be compared with the AFP, whose top brass also holds social activities, for two reasons.
While they are not in the field, the top military officers are one with the foot soldiers in their fight against enemies of the State and have their own role in said fight. Secondly, the top officers of the AFP went through the stage already of being in the frontlines, Bacarro explained.
The AFP consistently attacks the communist movement, especially recently, because it is getting the blame for the series of extrajudicial killings. The military has denied the allegation, and blamed the incidents instead to the alleged purging activities of the movement./DMS
Friday, March 2, 2007
AFP briefs Asian envoys on extrajudicial killings, insurgency problem in the country
By Ronron
March 1, 2007
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Thursday briefed envoys of 14 Asian countries about the extrajudicial killings and insurgency problems in the country.
Ambassadors or their representatives of Cambodia, Malaysia, Brunei, Thailand, Pakistan, Laos, Indonesia, Bangladesh, India, Singapore, Vietnam, Myanmar, South Korea and Sri Lanka were briefed by the AFP leadership starting 4:45 pm at the General Headquarters building in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
“We briefed them about our anti-insurgency campaign, and the unexplained killings situation in the country. We presented to them the 1,227 liquidations perpetrated allegedly by the NPA (New People’s Army), and gave our defense to the alleged 783 cases raised by Karapatan,” AFP Public Information Officer Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro said after the briefing ended at 6:10 pm.
Bacarro said it was the same briefing given by Maj. Gen. Joji Fojas, the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations (J3), the past few weeks to envoys of European countries and to United Nations Special Rapporteur for Extrajudicial Killings Professor Philip Alston.
Asked if the AFP categorically denied before the Asian envoys the allegations it was behind the series of killings, Bacarro said: “We did recognize that there were a few soldiers who got involved. But we clarified these cases were investigated.”
He was referring to the six cases where soldiers were implicated as among the suspects, one of whom got dismissed from the service.
The AFP had said that these cases were not sanctioned by the hierarchy, but had personal motivations.
Present during yesterday’s briefing were AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr., Defense Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane, Jr., Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Rafael Seguis, and Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita.
The diplomatic mission, on the other hand, include: Ambassadors In May of Cambodia; Ahmad Rasidi Hazizi of Malaysia (with the 2nd Secretary); Emaleen Abd Rahma Teo of Brunei; Asha Dvitiyananda of Thailand (with her Political Officer); Muhammad Naeem Khan of Pakistan; Phiane Philakone of Laos; Irzan Tandjung of Indonesia (with Counselor for Politics Heri Indra Jaya); Muhammad Abul Quashem of Bangladesh; Rajeet Mitter of India; Lim Kheng Hua of Singapre, represented by Counselor Wendy Ang, with Col. Tay Tim Chiew, the Defense Attache; Vu Xuan Troung of Vietnam; U Thaung Tun of Myanmar; Hong Jong-ki of South Korea, represented by Seong-Mee; and, Wijekoon Mudiyanselage of Sri Lanka, represented by Dharma Pala, the 2nd Secretary.
The Asian envoys, said Ermita, asked for the briefing for their better appreciation of the problem that is highly publicized in the country in the last few weeks following the completion of Alston’s investigation and that of the Melo Commission.
“They’re asking because they want to understand it. We have to let them understand that there is an emergency problem for the past 39 years. We have the secessionist problem for the past 38 years. So everybody should understand that the reason for these numerous killings is because there is a conflict going on,” Ermita said in a chance interview.
He was quick, however, to clear the AFP from any liability, saying that the issue is in fact being used as a propaganda fodder against the military by Left-leaning organizations.
After the briefing, Bacarro said the ambassadors expressed appreciation to the AFP.
“One of the ambassadors said the briefing gave them a better understanding of what is happening in the country, which they only read from the papers,” Bacarro said./DMS
March 1, 2007
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Thursday briefed envoys of 14 Asian countries about the extrajudicial killings and insurgency problems in the country.
Ambassadors or their representatives of Cambodia, Malaysia, Brunei, Thailand, Pakistan, Laos, Indonesia, Bangladesh, India, Singapore, Vietnam, Myanmar, South Korea and Sri Lanka were briefed by the AFP leadership starting 4:45 pm at the General Headquarters building in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
“We briefed them about our anti-insurgency campaign, and the unexplained killings situation in the country. We presented to them the 1,227 liquidations perpetrated allegedly by the NPA (New People’s Army), and gave our defense to the alleged 783 cases raised by Karapatan,” AFP Public Information Officer Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro said after the briefing ended at 6:10 pm.
Bacarro said it was the same briefing given by Maj. Gen. Joji Fojas, the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations (J3), the past few weeks to envoys of European countries and to United Nations Special Rapporteur for Extrajudicial Killings Professor Philip Alston.
Asked if the AFP categorically denied before the Asian envoys the allegations it was behind the series of killings, Bacarro said: “We did recognize that there were a few soldiers who got involved. But we clarified these cases were investigated.”
He was referring to the six cases where soldiers were implicated as among the suspects, one of whom got dismissed from the service.
The AFP had said that these cases were not sanctioned by the hierarchy, but had personal motivations.
Present during yesterday’s briefing were AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr., Defense Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane, Jr., Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Rafael Seguis, and Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita.
The diplomatic mission, on the other hand, include: Ambassadors In May of Cambodia; Ahmad Rasidi Hazizi of Malaysia (with the 2nd Secretary); Emaleen Abd Rahma Teo of Brunei; Asha Dvitiyananda of Thailand (with her Political Officer); Muhammad Naeem Khan of Pakistan; Phiane Philakone of Laos; Irzan Tandjung of Indonesia (with Counselor for Politics Heri Indra Jaya); Muhammad Abul Quashem of Bangladesh; Rajeet Mitter of India; Lim Kheng Hua of Singapre, represented by Counselor Wendy Ang, with Col. Tay Tim Chiew, the Defense Attache; Vu Xuan Troung of Vietnam; U Thaung Tun of Myanmar; Hong Jong-ki of South Korea, represented by Seong-Mee; and, Wijekoon Mudiyanselage of Sri Lanka, represented by Dharma Pala, the 2nd Secretary.
The Asian envoys, said Ermita, asked for the briefing for their better appreciation of the problem that is highly publicized in the country in the last few weeks following the completion of Alston’s investigation and that of the Melo Commission.
“They’re asking because they want to understand it. We have to let them understand that there is an emergency problem for the past 39 years. We have the secessionist problem for the past 38 years. So everybody should understand that the reason for these numerous killings is because there is a conflict going on,” Ermita said in a chance interview.
He was quick, however, to clear the AFP from any liability, saying that the issue is in fact being used as a propaganda fodder against the military by Left-leaning organizations.
After the briefing, Bacarro said the ambassadors expressed appreciation to the AFP.
“One of the ambassadors said the briefing gave them a better understanding of what is happening in the country, which they only read from the papers,” Bacarro said./DMS
Two communist rebels killed, two others captured in Misamis Oriental clash with military
By Ronron
March 1, 2007
Two suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed, while two others were captured after an encounter with government troops early Thursday morning the northern Mindanao province of Misamis Oriental, the military said.
Maj. Samuel Sagun, public information officer of the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division based in Cagayan de Oro City, said the clash took place at around 5:30 am yesterday at Sitio Nabugo, Barangay Mosangot, Binuangan town.
Sagun said operatives of the 8th Infantry Battalion responded to reports about the rebels’ presence in the area for the past three days, thus the encounter.
The firefight lasted for 45 minutes, resulting in the death of Loloy Saraos, alias Queen/King, the Vice Commander of the Section Committee 1, Front Committee 4B of the NPA’s North Central Mindanao Regional Committee, and an unidentified one.
The two others apprehended were identified as Lenlen Cabusog, alias Jinky, and Anabel Mansequaio, alias Aira/Tiray, both females.
Cabusog sustained a gunshot wound in the encounter and was brought to Northern Mindanao Medical Center, while Mansequiao, who is identified as the medical officer of the group, was subjected to debriefing.
“The (government) troops recovered from the scene of the encounter two hand grenades, explosive materials, subversive documents, medical paraphernalia, mats, back packs, and personal belongings,” said Sagun.
Local residents at the encounter site told military operatives that the suspected rebels came from the nearby town of Salay to evade government troops scouring the area, Sagun said.
The 7,100-strong NPA has been waging guerilla war in the countryside in the last 38 years. Peace talks between the NPA and the government bogged down in August 2004 after the former was tagged as a terrorist organization by foreign governments, including the United States and the European Union.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has ordered the Armed Forces of the Philippines to end the insurgency problem by 2010 when her term ends./DMS
March 1, 2007
Two suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed, while two others were captured after an encounter with government troops early Thursday morning the northern Mindanao province of Misamis Oriental, the military said.
Maj. Samuel Sagun, public information officer of the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division based in Cagayan de Oro City, said the clash took place at around 5:30 am yesterday at Sitio Nabugo, Barangay Mosangot, Binuangan town.
Sagun said operatives of the 8th Infantry Battalion responded to reports about the rebels’ presence in the area for the past three days, thus the encounter.
The firefight lasted for 45 minutes, resulting in the death of Loloy Saraos, alias Queen/King, the Vice Commander of the Section Committee 1, Front Committee 4B of the NPA’s North Central Mindanao Regional Committee, and an unidentified one.
The two others apprehended were identified as Lenlen Cabusog, alias Jinky, and Anabel Mansequaio, alias Aira/Tiray, both females.
Cabusog sustained a gunshot wound in the encounter and was brought to Northern Mindanao Medical Center, while Mansequiao, who is identified as the medical officer of the group, was subjected to debriefing.
“The (government) troops recovered from the scene of the encounter two hand grenades, explosive materials, subversive documents, medical paraphernalia, mats, back packs, and personal belongings,” said Sagun.
Local residents at the encounter site told military operatives that the suspected rebels came from the nearby town of Salay to evade government troops scouring the area, Sagun said.
The 7,100-strong NPA has been waging guerilla war in the countryside in the last 38 years. Peace talks between the NPA and the government bogged down in August 2004 after the former was tagged as a terrorist organization by foreign governments, including the United States and the European Union.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has ordered the Armed Forces of the Philippines to end the insurgency problem by 2010 when her term ends./DMS
Esperon accepts Langkit’s apology, says he could be a good public servant
By Ronron
March 1, 2007
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. has accepted the apology of Army Capt. Dante Langkit, one of the accused in the alleged February 2006 coup plot, but did not guarantee his request to leave detention will be granted.
In a chance interview at Camp Aguinaldo yesterday, Esperon said he has yet to read Langkit’s latter, which was received at his office last Wednesday, so he cannot immediately say whether or not to grant the alleged mutineer’s request for a temporary pass so he could he file his candidacy for Congressman in Kalinga province.
“Oh yeah. Who am I not to forgive? But this is no longer a personal matter. The rule of law, the military justice system has to take its due course,” Esperon said when asked if he accepts the apology of Langkit.
A former staff of Esperon, Langkit allegedly participated in the planning of the 2003 Oawkood Mutiny and in the alleged plan to takeover the Philippine Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City early last year as part of destabilization efforts against the Arroyo administration.
His February 21, 2007 letter indicated his intention to join “the democratic process,” which is the elections, so he could pursue his desire for reforms in government, which, he claims he could no longer do as a member of the military organization, considering his condition.
Esperon said Langkit’s asking of apology is even “very humbling” on his part and took it as “a complement,” being someone regarded as a father. He knows Langkit is “very sincere” when he made it, having known the junior officer when he was still with the Special Operations Command (SOCOM).
“Dante is a very kind, and he is a good officer, very good combat officer when he was the Operations Officer in my (term as chief of) SOCOM. He was really somebody to reckon with in terms of the operations of the Special Operations Command… I can’t help but talk of how good he was. Although, he just went to the wrong direction,” Esperon said.
He said that should Langkit wish to testify for the military against his fellow accused, then the AFP leadership will welcome that. But he clarified he has yet to ascertain if Langkit will make such move.
“Oh yes, he has a big heart for public service. He is a soldier,” Esperon said when asked if he thinks Langkit will be a good public servant.
But he said he has to assess what is “legally feasible” for Langkit’s request to leave detention from the Army’s Custodial Management Unit (CMU) facility at Fort Bonifacio.
“We must remember that the matter of running for public office is anybody’s call. If he is indeed qualified, then why not. I can even wish him luck in all his undertakings,” Esperon said.
“I’m looking at the legal implications of that. Once the General Court Martial (GCM) has taken cognizance of his case, he may not be allowed to campaign. He is restricted. I can restrict him,” he added.
Langkit is among the 28 officers due for arraignment before the GCM presided over by Lt. Gen. Alexander Yano in relation to Articles of War 67 (mutiny) and 96 (conduct unbecoming of an officer and a gentleman) violations for allegedly planning the supposed February 2006 coup plot./DMS
March 1, 2007
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. has accepted the apology of Army Capt. Dante Langkit, one of the accused in the alleged February 2006 coup plot, but did not guarantee his request to leave detention will be granted.
In a chance interview at Camp Aguinaldo yesterday, Esperon said he has yet to read Langkit’s latter, which was received at his office last Wednesday, so he cannot immediately say whether or not to grant the alleged mutineer’s request for a temporary pass so he could he file his candidacy for Congressman in Kalinga province.
“Oh yeah. Who am I not to forgive? But this is no longer a personal matter. The rule of law, the military justice system has to take its due course,” Esperon said when asked if he accepts the apology of Langkit.
A former staff of Esperon, Langkit allegedly participated in the planning of the 2003 Oawkood Mutiny and in the alleged plan to takeover the Philippine Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City early last year as part of destabilization efforts against the Arroyo administration.
His February 21, 2007 letter indicated his intention to join “the democratic process,” which is the elections, so he could pursue his desire for reforms in government, which, he claims he could no longer do as a member of the military organization, considering his condition.
Esperon said Langkit’s asking of apology is even “very humbling” on his part and took it as “a complement,” being someone regarded as a father. He knows Langkit is “very sincere” when he made it, having known the junior officer when he was still with the Special Operations Command (SOCOM).
“Dante is a very kind, and he is a good officer, very good combat officer when he was the Operations Officer in my (term as chief of) SOCOM. He was really somebody to reckon with in terms of the operations of the Special Operations Command… I can’t help but talk of how good he was. Although, he just went to the wrong direction,” Esperon said.
He said that should Langkit wish to testify for the military against his fellow accused, then the AFP leadership will welcome that. But he clarified he has yet to ascertain if Langkit will make such move.
“Oh yes, he has a big heart for public service. He is a soldier,” Esperon said when asked if he thinks Langkit will be a good public servant.
But he said he has to assess what is “legally feasible” for Langkit’s request to leave detention from the Army’s Custodial Management Unit (CMU) facility at Fort Bonifacio.
“We must remember that the matter of running for public office is anybody’s call. If he is indeed qualified, then why not. I can even wish him luck in all his undertakings,” Esperon said.
“I’m looking at the legal implications of that. Once the General Court Martial (GCM) has taken cognizance of his case, he may not be allowed to campaign. He is restricted. I can restrict him,” he added.
Langkit is among the 28 officers due for arraignment before the GCM presided over by Lt. Gen. Alexander Yano in relation to Articles of War 67 (mutiny) and 96 (conduct unbecoming of an officer and a gentleman) violations for allegedly planning the supposed February 2006 coup plot./DMS
Esperon admits reversing pre-trial investigation recommendation of dismissing mutiny charge against alleged February 2006 coup plotters
By Ronron
March 1, 2007
For the first time, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. admitted on Thursday that the filing of mutiny charge against the 28 officers now on trial for the alleged February 2006 coup plot was his personal decision, and not of the pre-trial investigation body.
In a chance interview yesterday at Camp Aguinaldo, Esperon told reporters that the PTI body from the AFP Office of the Judge Advocate General (OTJAG) only recommended the filing of alleged violation of Articles of War 96 (conduct unbecoming of an officer and a gentleman) and 97 (conduct prejudicial to good order and military discipline), and recommended the dismissal of AW 67 (mutiny) charge due to lack of evidence.
However, the piece of advice he got from his staff Judge Advocate was to pursue the mutiny charge, thus the reversal of the PTI recommendation.
“The pre-trial advice had another set of recommendations, which included mutiny. Based on that, I made my decision,” Esperon said.
He said it also fell under his “sole authority” on “who will be charged or not,” justifying the initial filing of charges before the General Court Martial (GCM) against 30 officers even if the PTI body only recommended the same against 18 officers. The 30 would later be reduced to 28 after he dropped the charges against two officers during the first court martial proceedings last December 14, 2006.
A copy of the 217-page PTI Report, dated October 25, 2006, showed that the following were recommended charged for alleged violation of AW 96: 1) Maj. Gen. Renato Miranda, 2) Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim, 3) Col. Ariel Querubin, 4) Col. Orlando de Leon, 5) Lt. Col. Custodio Parcon, 6) Lt. Col. Achilles Segumalian, 7) Lt. Col. Nestor Flordeliza, 8) Lt. Col. Edmundo Malabanjot, 9) Maj. Jason Laureano Aquino, 10) Maj. Oriel Pangcog, 11) Maj. Francisco Domingo Fernandez, 12) Capt. James Sababan, 13) Capt. Montano Almodovar, 14) Capt. Joey Fontiveros, 15) Capt. Isagani Cristi, 16) Capt. William Upano, 17) Capt. Dante Langkit, and, 18) 1Lt. Belinda Ferrer.
Additionally, Querubin and Segumalian were recommended charged for alleged violation of AW 97.
But when Esperon announced his recommendation for the case to proceed to court martial proceedings, Pangcog was no longer recommended charged, while the charges against the remaining 17 changed.
Miranda was recommended charged for AW 67 and 96; Lim for AW 63 (Disrespect towards President, Vice President, Congress of the Philippines or Secretary of National Defense), 65 (Assaulting or Willfully Disobeying Superior Officer), 67, 96 and 97; Querubin for AW 65, 67, 96 and 97; De Leon for AW 67 and 96; Parcon for AW 67 and 96; Segumalian for AW 67 and 96; Flordeliza for AW 67 and 96; Malabanjot for AW 67 and 96; Aquino for AW 67 and 96; Fernandez for AW 67 and 96; Sababan for AW 67 and 96; Almodovar for AW 67 and 96; Fontiveros for AW 67 and 96; Cristi for AW 67 and 96; Upano for AW 67 and 96; Langkit for AW 67 and 96; and, Ferrer for AW 67 and 96.
Esperon also added the following officers in the charge sheet with their corresponding charges: Col. Januario Caringal (AW 67 and 96); Col. Armando Bañez (AW 67 and 96); Lt. Col. Romulo Gualdrapa (AW 67 and 96); Lt. Col. Valentine Hizon (AW 67 and 96); Maj. Jose Leomar Doctolero (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Ruben Guinolbay (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Allan Aurino (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Frederick Sales (AW 67 and 96); 1Lt Ervin Divinagracia (AW 67 and 96); 1Lt. Jacon Cordero (AW 67 and 96); 1Lt. Homer Estolas (AW 67 and 96); 1Lt. Sandro Sereno (AW 67 and 96); and 1Lt. Richiemel Caballes (AW 67 and 96).
But Gualdrapa and Hizon were subsequently exonerated by Esperon last month, saying there is no prima facie case against them.
During last Tuesday’s court martial proceedings, the lawyers of the accused succeeded in demanding from the trying panel a copy of the PTI report, saying it is the right of their clients to obtain such for proper action on it before they are arraigned, consistent with due process.
Atty. Trixie Angeles, lawyer of Guinolbay, said yesterday the PTI Report only proves that Esperon unilaterally recommended the charging of mutiny against the accused, without getting their side.
“My clients have the right to be informed of the complete charges against them and of the findings of the PTI panel. And now, what we need to find out is why there is still a standing order to hold them for trial despite the findings of the PTI,” Angeles said.
Sought for comment, Esperon denied abusing his authority.
“I would want to argue with them and cite to them the provisions of the rules of the military justice system… Let us argue that in court,” he challenged the defense lawyers.
Esperon admitted he authorized GCM President Lt. Gen. Alexander Yano to release the PTI Report during last Tuesday’s proceedings in Tanay, Rizal.
Atty. Homobono Adaza, one of the lawyers of Querubin, said he will confer with his colleagues and suggest to elevate their complaint against Esperon to the Supreme Court so the latter will be compelled to explain why he reversed the PTI Report recommendations without any explanation or written order.
But Angeles said she will have to give Esperon a chance by asking for a copy of the pre-trial advice (PTA) from his Staff Judge Advocate.
“We are entitled also to the PTA and to an explanation by the Chief of Staff as to how he made a reliance on this one, his own evaluation of the evidence that has been presented,” she said.
In the report, the pre-trial investigators said “there is no adequate basis for appreciating the existence of a prima facie case to indict or prosecute any and all of the respondent officers charged for violation of the 67th Article of War.”/DMS
March 1, 2007
For the first time, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. admitted on Thursday that the filing of mutiny charge against the 28 officers now on trial for the alleged February 2006 coup plot was his personal decision, and not of the pre-trial investigation body.
In a chance interview yesterday at Camp Aguinaldo, Esperon told reporters that the PTI body from the AFP Office of the Judge Advocate General (OTJAG) only recommended the filing of alleged violation of Articles of War 96 (conduct unbecoming of an officer and a gentleman) and 97 (conduct prejudicial to good order and military discipline), and recommended the dismissal of AW 67 (mutiny) charge due to lack of evidence.
However, the piece of advice he got from his staff Judge Advocate was to pursue the mutiny charge, thus the reversal of the PTI recommendation.
“The pre-trial advice had another set of recommendations, which included mutiny. Based on that, I made my decision,” Esperon said.
He said it also fell under his “sole authority” on “who will be charged or not,” justifying the initial filing of charges before the General Court Martial (GCM) against 30 officers even if the PTI body only recommended the same against 18 officers. The 30 would later be reduced to 28 after he dropped the charges against two officers during the first court martial proceedings last December 14, 2006.
A copy of the 217-page PTI Report, dated October 25, 2006, showed that the following were recommended charged for alleged violation of AW 96: 1) Maj. Gen. Renato Miranda, 2) Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim, 3) Col. Ariel Querubin, 4) Col. Orlando de Leon, 5) Lt. Col. Custodio Parcon, 6) Lt. Col. Achilles Segumalian, 7) Lt. Col. Nestor Flordeliza, 8) Lt. Col. Edmundo Malabanjot, 9) Maj. Jason Laureano Aquino, 10) Maj. Oriel Pangcog, 11) Maj. Francisco Domingo Fernandez, 12) Capt. James Sababan, 13) Capt. Montano Almodovar, 14) Capt. Joey Fontiveros, 15) Capt. Isagani Cristi, 16) Capt. William Upano, 17) Capt. Dante Langkit, and, 18) 1Lt. Belinda Ferrer.
Additionally, Querubin and Segumalian were recommended charged for alleged violation of AW 97.
But when Esperon announced his recommendation for the case to proceed to court martial proceedings, Pangcog was no longer recommended charged, while the charges against the remaining 17 changed.
Miranda was recommended charged for AW 67 and 96; Lim for AW 63 (Disrespect towards President, Vice President, Congress of the Philippines or Secretary of National Defense), 65 (Assaulting or Willfully Disobeying Superior Officer), 67, 96 and 97; Querubin for AW 65, 67, 96 and 97; De Leon for AW 67 and 96; Parcon for AW 67 and 96; Segumalian for AW 67 and 96; Flordeliza for AW 67 and 96; Malabanjot for AW 67 and 96; Aquino for AW 67 and 96; Fernandez for AW 67 and 96; Sababan for AW 67 and 96; Almodovar for AW 67 and 96; Fontiveros for AW 67 and 96; Cristi for AW 67 and 96; Upano for AW 67 and 96; Langkit for AW 67 and 96; and, Ferrer for AW 67 and 96.
Esperon also added the following officers in the charge sheet with their corresponding charges: Col. Januario Caringal (AW 67 and 96); Col. Armando Bañez (AW 67 and 96); Lt. Col. Romulo Gualdrapa (AW 67 and 96); Lt. Col. Valentine Hizon (AW 67 and 96); Maj. Jose Leomar Doctolero (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Ruben Guinolbay (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Allan Aurino (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Frederick Sales (AW 67 and 96); 1Lt Ervin Divinagracia (AW 67 and 96); 1Lt. Jacon Cordero (AW 67 and 96); 1Lt. Homer Estolas (AW 67 and 96); 1Lt. Sandro Sereno (AW 67 and 96); and 1Lt. Richiemel Caballes (AW 67 and 96).
But Gualdrapa and Hizon were subsequently exonerated by Esperon last month, saying there is no prima facie case against them.
During last Tuesday’s court martial proceedings, the lawyers of the accused succeeded in demanding from the trying panel a copy of the PTI report, saying it is the right of their clients to obtain such for proper action on it before they are arraigned, consistent with due process.
Atty. Trixie Angeles, lawyer of Guinolbay, said yesterday the PTI Report only proves that Esperon unilaterally recommended the charging of mutiny against the accused, without getting their side.
“My clients have the right to be informed of the complete charges against them and of the findings of the PTI panel. And now, what we need to find out is why there is still a standing order to hold them for trial despite the findings of the PTI,” Angeles said.
Sought for comment, Esperon denied abusing his authority.
“I would want to argue with them and cite to them the provisions of the rules of the military justice system… Let us argue that in court,” he challenged the defense lawyers.
Esperon admitted he authorized GCM President Lt. Gen. Alexander Yano to release the PTI Report during last Tuesday’s proceedings in Tanay, Rizal.
Atty. Homobono Adaza, one of the lawyers of Querubin, said he will confer with his colleagues and suggest to elevate their complaint against Esperon to the Supreme Court so the latter will be compelled to explain why he reversed the PTI Report recommendations without any explanation or written order.
But Angeles said she will have to give Esperon a chance by asking for a copy of the pre-trial advice (PTA) from his Staff Judge Advocate.
“We are entitled also to the PTA and to an explanation by the Chief of Staff as to how he made a reliance on this one, his own evaluation of the evidence that has been presented,” she said.
In the report, the pre-trial investigators said “there is no adequate basis for appreciating the existence of a prima facie case to indict or prosecute any and all of the respondent officers charged for violation of the 67th Article of War.”/DMS
Thursday, March 1, 2007
GO accepts Salceda’s challenge for debate
By Ronron
February 28, 2007
The Genuine Opposition (GO) accepted on Wednesday the challenge of Presidential Chief of Staff Joey Salceda for a debate over the performance of the Arroyo government over the last six years.
“We respond to Secretary Salceda’s challenge to debate on the real state of the Philippine economy by accepting the challenge, and daring team GMA (Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo) to debate with GO candidates at Plaza Miranda (in Quiapo, Manila),” GO spokesman Atty. Adel Tamano said yesterday.
Salceda on Tuesday said the Arroyo government is prepared to confront GO after the latter came up with a paid advertisement on a daily broadsheet, lambasting the Arroyo government for failing to address the various problems in the country.
Tamano said the debate should be done at Plaza Miranda so the administration candidates “can see first hand if their so-called economic gains under the Arroyo administration are truly reaching the Filipino people.”
“We want to see if Team GMA’s candidates can look the average Filipino in the eye, and say in all honesty that Juan dela Cruz’ life has improved under the Arroyo administration,” Tamano said.
In its advertisement, GO accused Arroyo of cheating the public with its alleged economic gains when in fact it failed to equal the performance of the Estrada administration.
But Salceda said the advertisement used inappropriate figures from the Arroyo government./DMS
February 28, 2007
The Genuine Opposition (GO) accepted on Wednesday the challenge of Presidential Chief of Staff Joey Salceda for a debate over the performance of the Arroyo government over the last six years.
“We respond to Secretary Salceda’s challenge to debate on the real state of the Philippine economy by accepting the challenge, and daring team GMA (Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo) to debate with GO candidates at Plaza Miranda (in Quiapo, Manila),” GO spokesman Atty. Adel Tamano said yesterday.
Salceda on Tuesday said the Arroyo government is prepared to confront GO after the latter came up with a paid advertisement on a daily broadsheet, lambasting the Arroyo government for failing to address the various problems in the country.
Tamano said the debate should be done at Plaza Miranda so the administration candidates “can see first hand if their so-called economic gains under the Arroyo administration are truly reaching the Filipino people.”
“We want to see if Team GMA’s candidates can look the average Filipino in the eye, and say in all honesty that Juan dela Cruz’ life has improved under the Arroyo administration,” Tamano said.
In its advertisement, GO accused Arroyo of cheating the public with its alleged economic gains when in fact it failed to equal the performance of the Estrada administration.
But Salceda said the advertisement used inappropriate figures from the Arroyo government./DMS
US making true its promise of assisting RP in solving extrajudicial killing cases
By Ronron
February 28, 2007
The US government on Wednesday made true its promise of offering assistance to the Philippines as far as solving the extrajudicial killing cases in the country is concerned.
Chief Supt. Geary Barias of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Task Force USIG said he was scheduled to meet this afternoon with Mr. Scot Marciel and Mr. Scott Pelart from the US Embassy in Manila to discuss details about the proposed technical assistance of the US to the country.
“Initially, we are looking at further training to enhance the capability of our investigators, and acquisition of equipment to upgrade our existing forensic and investigative capability,” Barias said in a statement.
On Tuesday, US Ambassador to Manila Kristie Kenney said the challenge for Philippine law enforcers and security forces is more on investigating the killings deeper as systems and offices to avoid said incidents from happening are already in place.
“The key now is to follow up, to investigate, to fortify the institutions that investigate, to hold people responsible, and therefore, the innocent, declare them innocent. It’s the only way that you can really get at this problem,” Kenney said.
Barias said a committee will be formed by the PNP upon the directive of Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronaldo Puno and PNP Chief Director General Oscar Calderon to study the possible areas of cooperation and assistance where the US offer will fit in.
“Certainly, this offer of the US Embassy for assistance will serve as a capacity-building measure and boost the efforts of Task Force USIG to investigate and prosecute cases,” Barias said.
He thanked Kenney for the offer and the appreciation on the Philippine government’s efforts and serious action plan to address the slay cases of journalists and Leftist activists.
Task Force USIG was created in May last year following the prevalence of extrajudicial killings in the country./END
February 28, 2007
The US government on Wednesday made true its promise of offering assistance to the Philippines as far as solving the extrajudicial killing cases in the country is concerned.
Chief Supt. Geary Barias of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Task Force USIG said he was scheduled to meet this afternoon with Mr. Scot Marciel and Mr. Scott Pelart from the US Embassy in Manila to discuss details about the proposed technical assistance of the US to the country.
“Initially, we are looking at further training to enhance the capability of our investigators, and acquisition of equipment to upgrade our existing forensic and investigative capability,” Barias said in a statement.
On Tuesday, US Ambassador to Manila Kristie Kenney said the challenge for Philippine law enforcers and security forces is more on investigating the killings deeper as systems and offices to avoid said incidents from happening are already in place.
“The key now is to follow up, to investigate, to fortify the institutions that investigate, to hold people responsible, and therefore, the innocent, declare them innocent. It’s the only way that you can really get at this problem,” Kenney said.
Barias said a committee will be formed by the PNP upon the directive of Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronaldo Puno and PNP Chief Director General Oscar Calderon to study the possible areas of cooperation and assistance where the US offer will fit in.
“Certainly, this offer of the US Embassy for assistance will serve as a capacity-building measure and boost the efforts of Task Force USIG to investigate and prosecute cases,” Barias said.
He thanked Kenney for the offer and the appreciation on the Philippine government’s efforts and serious action plan to address the slay cases of journalists and Leftist activists.
Task Force USIG was created in May last year following the prevalence of extrajudicial killings in the country./END
Rebel officer says sorry to Esperon, wants temporary liberty to join Congressional race
By Ronron
February 28, 2007
An Army officer undergoing court martial proceedings for his alleged participation in the supposed February 2006 coup plot has asked for Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr.’s apology.
In his letter dated February 21, 2006 but received by Esperon’s office only yesterday (Wednesday), Capt. Dante Langkit also asked for Esperon’s permission to leave detention so he could pursue his intention to join the Congressional race this May 14 in his home province of Kalinga.
“I am truly sorry if I have caused you disappointments and I sincerely thank you for your personal concern of which I have been aware,” Langkit told Esperon whom he once served as an aide de camp.
Langkit is facing charges for violation of Articles of War 67 (mutiny or sedition) and 96 (conduct unbecoming of an officer and a gentleman) for allegedly working underground for the overthrow of the Arroyo government in February last year.
After going absent without official leave (AWOL) on January 17, 2006, Langkit was arrested on April 2, 2006 in Quezon City.
Esperon accused him of allegedly meeting with ranking personalities of Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in September 2003, and forming an alliance with the underground group of former Senator Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan in 2005.
And even while on AWOL, Langkit, according to Esperon, continued to incite junior officers since late January last year to join what he organized as “Oplan GEMSTONE” for the attack of the Philippine Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
While he was allegedly an active planner of the 2003 Oakwood Mutiny, Langkit was not around when the posh apartment hotel in Makati City was seized by some 300 officers and soldiers.
From the time of his arrest, Langkit was placed on solitary confinement at the Intelligence Service Group (ISG) compound of the Philippine Army headquarters.
But for two weeks now, he was transferred to the Custodial Management Unit (CMU) facility in the same camp where he has access to sunlight, and can even play outside, his twin brother, Danzel, said.
Asked if by his saying sorry to the AFP leadership, Langkit will not turn against his fellow accused and testify against them, Danzel said: “I cannot have a comment on that. I don’t know.”
“By now, you must have been informed that I have opted to participate in our democratic processes. I intend to run for Congressman in the lone district of my province, Kalinga. In this regard, may I respectfully ask your permission that I be allowed to campaign in my province during the election period,” Langkit continued in his letter.
A product of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1995, to which fellow rebel officer Navy Lt. Senior Grade Antonio Trillanes IV also belongs, Langkit will be the standard bearer of the United Opposition in Kalinga, and will push for his advocacy on peace and order, and good governance when he wins the election, Danzel said.
“I give you my word and honor that I will not grant any interview or make statements save on issues locally affecting my province, which I feel to be relevant in the election process. Above all, I will report to you after the election period,” Langkit wrote further.
Danzel said his brother decided to join the electoral process since he has realized that he has a slim chance of effecting reforms while in the military service, especially his present condition.
A member of the AFP is deemed resigned once he or she files his candidacy for any elective post in government. Trillanes has earlier taken such action by joining the senatorial race.
“Anticipating your favorable action hereon and reiterating my gratitude as ever, I remain steadfast to the chain of command,” Langkit promised Esperon.
Danzel said Langkit’s schedule to file his candidacy will depend on whether or not Esperon will grant his request.
Local officials have until March 29, 2007 to file their candidacies before the Commission on Elections./DMS
February 28, 2007
An Army officer undergoing court martial proceedings for his alleged participation in the supposed February 2006 coup plot has asked for Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr.’s apology.
In his letter dated February 21, 2006 but received by Esperon’s office only yesterday (Wednesday), Capt. Dante Langkit also asked for Esperon’s permission to leave detention so he could pursue his intention to join the Congressional race this May 14 in his home province of Kalinga.
“I am truly sorry if I have caused you disappointments and I sincerely thank you for your personal concern of which I have been aware,” Langkit told Esperon whom he once served as an aide de camp.
Langkit is facing charges for violation of Articles of War 67 (mutiny or sedition) and 96 (conduct unbecoming of an officer and a gentleman) for allegedly working underground for the overthrow of the Arroyo government in February last year.
After going absent without official leave (AWOL) on January 17, 2006, Langkit was arrested on April 2, 2006 in Quezon City.
Esperon accused him of allegedly meeting with ranking personalities of Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in September 2003, and forming an alliance with the underground group of former Senator Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan in 2005.
And even while on AWOL, Langkit, according to Esperon, continued to incite junior officers since late January last year to join what he organized as “Oplan GEMSTONE” for the attack of the Philippine Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
While he was allegedly an active planner of the 2003 Oakwood Mutiny, Langkit was not around when the posh apartment hotel in Makati City was seized by some 300 officers and soldiers.
From the time of his arrest, Langkit was placed on solitary confinement at the Intelligence Service Group (ISG) compound of the Philippine Army headquarters.
But for two weeks now, he was transferred to the Custodial Management Unit (CMU) facility in the same camp where he has access to sunlight, and can even play outside, his twin brother, Danzel, said.
Asked if by his saying sorry to the AFP leadership, Langkit will not turn against his fellow accused and testify against them, Danzel said: “I cannot have a comment on that. I don’t know.”
“By now, you must have been informed that I have opted to participate in our democratic processes. I intend to run for Congressman in the lone district of my province, Kalinga. In this regard, may I respectfully ask your permission that I be allowed to campaign in my province during the election period,” Langkit continued in his letter.
A product of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1995, to which fellow rebel officer Navy Lt. Senior Grade Antonio Trillanes IV also belongs, Langkit will be the standard bearer of the United Opposition in Kalinga, and will push for his advocacy on peace and order, and good governance when he wins the election, Danzel said.
“I give you my word and honor that I will not grant any interview or make statements save on issues locally affecting my province, which I feel to be relevant in the election process. Above all, I will report to you after the election period,” Langkit wrote further.
Danzel said his brother decided to join the electoral process since he has realized that he has a slim chance of effecting reforms while in the military service, especially his present condition.
A member of the AFP is deemed resigned once he or she files his candidacy for any elective post in government. Trillanes has earlier taken such action by joining the senatorial race.
“Anticipating your favorable action hereon and reiterating my gratitude as ever, I remain steadfast to the chain of command,” Langkit promised Esperon.
Danzel said Langkit’s schedule to file his candidacy will depend on whether or not Esperon will grant his request.
Local officials have until March 29, 2007 to file their candidacies before the Commission on Elections./DMS
GO drops Pangilinan out of senatorial ticket
By Ronron
February 28, 2007
The Genuine Opposition (GO) on Wednesday formally dropped independent senatorial candidate Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan from its ticket after the latter continues to snub the party, even its proclamation rally last Saturday in Quiapo, Manila City.
“It has been decided that henceforth, GO will no longer campaign for Senator Kiko Pangilinan… This decision is made to finally resolve this matter and to enable GO and the media to focus on the real and legitimate issues of this election that matter to the public,” said Atty. Adel Tamano, GO spokesman.
Tamano said GO still has to assess whether or not a replacement for Pangilinan at the 12th spot will be made. “GO retains the option to fill up its final slot at a future date,” he said.
Sought for comment, Pangilinan expressed no ill feeling towards GO, saying the move, in fact, will only clarify his alliance with GO.
“We recognize, respect and accept that (decision). We understand the position of the Genuine Opposition because from the start, I have made it clear that I will be an independent candidate,” Pangilinan said in Filipino.
He echoed Tamano’s statement that removing him from the opposition slate will give him and GO the opportunity to focus on the issues that must be discussed with the public during the campaigns, instead of his confusing alliance with GO.
Asked how he will obtain a copy of the election return (ER) during the counting of votes to monitor the number of votes cast for him, Pangilinan said he will just have to rely on the local officials and the Liberal Party, who could provide him with photocopies of the ER.
Pangilinan maintained that he will still join the opposition in the future on matters or issues that they both agree.
“We can still work together on an issue-to-issue basis and come together and unite if that is what’s good for the country,” he said.
As a result of his removal from GO, Pangilinan’s name will automatically be erased from their posters and other campaign materials, including radio and television advertisements, Tamano said.
“We just wish him good luck in his campaign,” said former Senator Ernesto Maceda, a member of GO’s executive committee.
With Pangilinan’s removal, the remaining candidates of GO now are the following: 1) Loren Legarda; 2) Anna Dominique Coseteng; 3) Sonia Roco; 4) Manuel Villar; 5) Panfilo Lacson; 6) John Osmena; 7) Allan Peter Cayetano; 8) Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III; 9) Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III; 10) Lt. Sr. Grade Antonio Trillanes IV; and, 11) Francis Escudero./DMS
February 28, 2007
The Genuine Opposition (GO) on Wednesday formally dropped independent senatorial candidate Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan from its ticket after the latter continues to snub the party, even its proclamation rally last Saturday in Quiapo, Manila City.
“It has been decided that henceforth, GO will no longer campaign for Senator Kiko Pangilinan… This decision is made to finally resolve this matter and to enable GO and the media to focus on the real and legitimate issues of this election that matter to the public,” said Atty. Adel Tamano, GO spokesman.
Tamano said GO still has to assess whether or not a replacement for Pangilinan at the 12th spot will be made. “GO retains the option to fill up its final slot at a future date,” he said.
Sought for comment, Pangilinan expressed no ill feeling towards GO, saying the move, in fact, will only clarify his alliance with GO.
“We recognize, respect and accept that (decision). We understand the position of the Genuine Opposition because from the start, I have made it clear that I will be an independent candidate,” Pangilinan said in Filipino.
He echoed Tamano’s statement that removing him from the opposition slate will give him and GO the opportunity to focus on the issues that must be discussed with the public during the campaigns, instead of his confusing alliance with GO.
Asked how he will obtain a copy of the election return (ER) during the counting of votes to monitor the number of votes cast for him, Pangilinan said he will just have to rely on the local officials and the Liberal Party, who could provide him with photocopies of the ER.
Pangilinan maintained that he will still join the opposition in the future on matters or issues that they both agree.
“We can still work together on an issue-to-issue basis and come together and unite if that is what’s good for the country,” he said.
As a result of his removal from GO, Pangilinan’s name will automatically be erased from their posters and other campaign materials, including radio and television advertisements, Tamano said.
“We just wish him good luck in his campaign,” said former Senator Ernesto Maceda, a member of GO’s executive committee.
With Pangilinan’s removal, the remaining candidates of GO now are the following: 1) Loren Legarda; 2) Anna Dominique Coseteng; 3) Sonia Roco; 4) Manuel Villar; 5) Panfilo Lacson; 6) John Osmena; 7) Allan Peter Cayetano; 8) Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III; 9) Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III; 10) Lt. Sr. Grade Antonio Trillanes IV; and, 11) Francis Escudero./DMS
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Four bank robbers killed in Cavite
By Ronron
February 27, 2007
Four suspected bank robbers were killed in a shootout with police Tuesday morning in Imus town, Cavite.
Cavite Provincial Police Director Sr. Supt. Fidel Posadas said the four unidentified suspects were on a “casing” mission for their next bank target when police caught up with them on Molino Road, Barangay Anabu II at around 9:30 am yesterday.
“I received an intelligence report that there is going to be a bank robbery today (yesterday). So, I sent my intelligence operatives and Special Operations Group (SOG) to trace the group,” Posadas said in a phone interview in Filipino.
He said the suspects were spotted aboard a red Nissan Urvan that was then traveling without a plate number.
“When they were trapped, one of the suspects who was driving attempted to alight. This ensued the shootout,” Posadas said.
He said the four died due to multiple gunshot wounds all over their bodies. Their vehicle was also peppered with bullets.
No one from the police, on the other hand, was hurt.
Recovered from the suspects were two caliber 38, two 12-guage shotgun, and a caliber 45 pistol.
Police is now conducting follow up operations to determine the mastermind of the group./DMS
February 27, 2007
Four suspected bank robbers were killed in a shootout with police Tuesday morning in Imus town, Cavite.
Cavite Provincial Police Director Sr. Supt. Fidel Posadas said the four unidentified suspects were on a “casing” mission for their next bank target when police caught up with them on Molino Road, Barangay Anabu II at around 9:30 am yesterday.
“I received an intelligence report that there is going to be a bank robbery today (yesterday). So, I sent my intelligence operatives and Special Operations Group (SOG) to trace the group,” Posadas said in a phone interview in Filipino.
He said the suspects were spotted aboard a red Nissan Urvan that was then traveling without a plate number.
“When they were trapped, one of the suspects who was driving attempted to alight. This ensued the shootout,” Posadas said.
He said the four died due to multiple gunshot wounds all over their bodies. Their vehicle was also peppered with bullets.
No one from the police, on the other hand, was hurt.
Recovered from the suspects were two caliber 38, two 12-guage shotgun, and a caliber 45 pistol.
Police is now conducting follow up operations to determine the mastermind of the group./DMS
US envoy challenges RP to investigate deeper on extrajudicial killing cases
By Ronron
February 27, 2007
US Ambassador to Manila Kristie Kenney challenged the Philippine government on Tuesday to investigate deeper the cases of extrajudicial killings following the negative impressions it got from different local and international bodies.
In an interview with reporters at Camp Aguinaldo, Kenney said this should be the next focus of Philippine law enforcers and security forces since there are already systems and offices put in place to address the problem.
“The key now is to follow up, to investigate, to fortify the institutions that investigate, to hold people responsible, and therefore, the innocent, declare them innocent. It’s the only way that you can really get at this problem,” Kenney said.
According to her, the Philippine government has already taken moves to address the problem such as the putting up of a Human Rights Office in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the agency hit hard by no less than the Melo Commission and the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Extrajudicial killings for allegedly doing nothing to solve the problem.
But the “key” to end the killings is “to investigate,” even if she said it is the hard part.
The lady envoy described the extrajudicial killings as a “serious problem” not only in the Philippines, but also in other countries.
The human rights advocate group Karapatan has reported over 700 cases of extrajudicial killings since 2001 when President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo rose to power, while the Philippine National Police (PNP) only took cognizance of over a hundred./DMS
February 27, 2007
US Ambassador to Manila Kristie Kenney challenged the Philippine government on Tuesday to investigate deeper the cases of extrajudicial killings following the negative impressions it got from different local and international bodies.
In an interview with reporters at Camp Aguinaldo, Kenney said this should be the next focus of Philippine law enforcers and security forces since there are already systems and offices put in place to address the problem.
“The key now is to follow up, to investigate, to fortify the institutions that investigate, to hold people responsible, and therefore, the innocent, declare them innocent. It’s the only way that you can really get at this problem,” Kenney said.
According to her, the Philippine government has already taken moves to address the problem such as the putting up of a Human Rights Office in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the agency hit hard by no less than the Melo Commission and the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Extrajudicial killings for allegedly doing nothing to solve the problem.
But the “key” to end the killings is “to investigate,” even if she said it is the hard part.
The lady envoy described the extrajudicial killings as a “serious problem” not only in the Philippines, but also in other countries.
The human rights advocate group Karapatan has reported over 700 cases of extrajudicial killings since 2001 when President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo rose to power, while the Philippine National Police (PNP) only took cognizance of over a hundred./DMS
All alleged Feb 06 coup plotters consolidated at Tanay Army camp
By Ronron
February 27, 2007
Tanay, Rizal - Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. ordered the consolidation of all 28 accused Army and Marine officers at the 2nd Infantry Division headquarters here at Camp Capinpin effective Tuesday.
As a result, all nine accused Marine officers (except one who is undergoing treatment at a hospital) who are detained separately at Fort San Felipe in Cavite City (six) and at Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City (three) were no longer transported back to their original detention places after yesterday’s court martial proceedings here.
“The rationale is to consolidate them to make it easier for them to attend these proceedings… It’s more on convenience. But of course, another underlying reason is security. You have to ferry them from Cavite to Tanay every now and then, and every time there is a hearing, of course there is an element of risk,” AFP Public Information Officer Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro told reporters here.
The AFP has earlier placed the 19 accused Army officers in detention here, which Bacarro calls as the AFP Task Force Joint Custodial Center.
Before taken to their bus after the court proceedings, Marine Col. Ariel Querubin expressed objection to their transfer. “We don’t want it,” he shouted at reporters in Filipino.
Querubin’s wife complained that the decision of Esperon is “absurd, a sham, and farcical.”
She also challenged the Navy Flag Officer in Command (FOIC), Vice Admiral Rogelio Calunsag, to defend the accused Marine officers from what she calls as “Esperon’s maltreatment of them.”
But Bacarro said there should be no reason for complaining because there is no difference in the detention facilities.
“They will be provided with basis necessities that would be comfortable for them to live in,” Bacarro said./DMS
February 27, 2007
Tanay, Rizal - Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. ordered the consolidation of all 28 accused Army and Marine officers at the 2nd Infantry Division headquarters here at Camp Capinpin effective Tuesday.
As a result, all nine accused Marine officers (except one who is undergoing treatment at a hospital) who are detained separately at Fort San Felipe in Cavite City (six) and at Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City (three) were no longer transported back to their original detention places after yesterday’s court martial proceedings here.
“The rationale is to consolidate them to make it easier for them to attend these proceedings… It’s more on convenience. But of course, another underlying reason is security. You have to ferry them from Cavite to Tanay every now and then, and every time there is a hearing, of course there is an element of risk,” AFP Public Information Officer Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro told reporters here.
The AFP has earlier placed the 19 accused Army officers in detention here, which Bacarro calls as the AFP Task Force Joint Custodial Center.
Before taken to their bus after the court proceedings, Marine Col. Ariel Querubin expressed objection to their transfer. “We don’t want it,” he shouted at reporters in Filipino.
Querubin’s wife complained that the decision of Esperon is “absurd, a sham, and farcical.”
She also challenged the Navy Flag Officer in Command (FOIC), Vice Admiral Rogelio Calunsag, to defend the accused Marine officers from what she calls as “Esperon’s maltreatment of them.”
But Bacarro said there should be no reason for complaining because there is no difference in the detention facilities.
“They will be provided with basis necessities that would be comfortable for them to live in,” Bacarro said./DMS
AFP to furnish copy of pre-trial investigation report to alleged Feb. 06 coup plotters
By Ronron
February 27, 2007
Tanay, Rizal - A military tribunal on Tuesday finally gave in to the pressing demand of lawyers of the alleged February 2006 coup plotters to have their own copies of the military’s pre-trial investigation report (PTIR) on the incident.
The “petty development” for the 28 accused officers, however, came on the same day when all nine accused Marine officers were ordered transferred to the Philippine Army’s 2nd Infantry Division headquarters here to their surprise, and despite their opposition.
During the third court proceeding since the creation of the special General Court Martial (GCM) in late November of last year, the defense lawyers yesterday succeeded in getting the nod of the seven-man tribunal to have access to the PTIR, which, they said, has recommended for the dropping of charges against some of the accused.
All 28 – nine from the Marines and 19 from the Army – are accused of violating any of the following Articles of War: 63 (Disrespect Towards the President, Vice President, Congress of the Philippines, or Secretary of National Defense); 65 (Assaulting or Willfully Disobeying Superior Officer); 67 (Mutiny or Sedition); 96 (Conduct Unbecoming of an Officer and a Gentleman); and, 97 (Conduct Prejudicial to Good Order and Military Discipline).
The charges stemmed from the accused participation in the alleged coup plot on February 24, 2006, and on the two-day stand-off two days later at the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City in protest to the sudden relief of then PMC commandant Maj. Gen. Renato Miranda.
Aside from Miranda (AW 67 and 96), the following from the PMC are also facing charges: Col. Ariel Querubin (AW 65, 67, 96, and 97); Lt. Col. Achilles Segumalian (AW 67, 96 and 97); Col. Orlando de Leon (AW 67 and 96); Col. Januario Caringal (AW 67 and 96); Col. Armando Bañez (AW 67 and 96); Lt. Col. Custodio Parcon (AW 67 and 96); Maj. Francisco Domingo Fernandez (AW 67 and 96); and 1Lt. Belinda Ferrer (AW 67 and 96).
Of them, only Caringal was not around yesterday as he is still under treatment at the Manila Naval Hospital for hepatitis.
The 19 Army accused, on the other hand, are the following: Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim (AW 63, 65, 67, 96 and 97); Lt. Col. Nestor Flordeliza (AW 67 and 96); Lt. Col. Edmundo Malabanjot (AW 67 and 96); Maj. Jason Laureano Aquino (AW 67 and 96); Maj. Jose Leomar Doctolero (AW 67 and 96); Capt. James Sababan (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Montano Almodovar; (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Joey Fontiveros (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Ruben Guinolbay (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Isagani Cristi (AW 67 and 96); Capt. William Upano (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Dante Langkit (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Allan Aurino (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Frederick Sales (AW 67 and 96); 1Lt Ervin Divinagracia (AW 67 and 96); 1Lt. Jacon Cordero (AW 67 and 96); 1Lt. Homer Estolas (AW 67 and 96); 1Lt. Sandro Sereno (AW 67 and 96); and 1Lt. Richiemel Caballes (AW 67 and 96). All were present.
The defense lawyers said it is important to get a copy of the PTIR, not only because it is part of due process, but also because it will give them the opportunity to dispute the findings and charges against them.
“It’s not like we’re so happy, we’re like chimpanzees jumping up and above just because they gave us a copy of the report. It should have been given to the respondents as early as October of 2006. But, nonetheless, we are thankful that we have been finally furnished with a copy of that report,” said Atty. Francisco Chavez, counsel of Miranda and Aquino, in an interview with reporters after the court proceedings.
But as to the defense’ question on the legality and regularity of the GCM, the latter said it will proceed with its mandate unless an order of prohibition is issued by the Court of Appeals of the Supreme Court.
The defense had asked for the seven-man panel to dissolve, saying there is no provision in law about a “special GCM,” as Esperon called it, and it reeks with bias since it was created by Esperon, who had earlier issued accusatory statements against the respondents.
Atty. Homobono Adaza, counsel for Querubin, said Esperon cannot be the accuser, complainant, prosecutor, judge, and reviewing authority, all at the same time.
He argued that for the court to be truly independent and reliable, then the person higher in authority than Esperon, in this case, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the AFP Commander-in-Chief under the law, should have created the GCM.
The main agenda for yesterday’s proceedings was supposedly the arraignment of the accused, as ordered last week by Esperon. But the continuous objection of the defense and their request for a copy of the PTIR prevented it from happening.
After receipt of the PTIR, the defense lawyers will have 15 days to file a motion for reconsideration, if they wish to.
GCM President Lt. Gen. Alexander Yano, commander of the AFP Southern Luzon Command, set the next hearing date on March 16 at the same place./DMS
February 27, 2007
Tanay, Rizal - A military tribunal on Tuesday finally gave in to the pressing demand of lawyers of the alleged February 2006 coup plotters to have their own copies of the military’s pre-trial investigation report (PTIR) on the incident.
The “petty development” for the 28 accused officers, however, came on the same day when all nine accused Marine officers were ordered transferred to the Philippine Army’s 2nd Infantry Division headquarters here to their surprise, and despite their opposition.
During the third court proceeding since the creation of the special General Court Martial (GCM) in late November of last year, the defense lawyers yesterday succeeded in getting the nod of the seven-man tribunal to have access to the PTIR, which, they said, has recommended for the dropping of charges against some of the accused.
All 28 – nine from the Marines and 19 from the Army – are accused of violating any of the following Articles of War: 63 (Disrespect Towards the President, Vice President, Congress of the Philippines, or Secretary of National Defense); 65 (Assaulting or Willfully Disobeying Superior Officer); 67 (Mutiny or Sedition); 96 (Conduct Unbecoming of an Officer and a Gentleman); and, 97 (Conduct Prejudicial to Good Order and Military Discipline).
The charges stemmed from the accused participation in the alleged coup plot on February 24, 2006, and on the two-day stand-off two days later at the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City in protest to the sudden relief of then PMC commandant Maj. Gen. Renato Miranda.
Aside from Miranda (AW 67 and 96), the following from the PMC are also facing charges: Col. Ariel Querubin (AW 65, 67, 96, and 97); Lt. Col. Achilles Segumalian (AW 67, 96 and 97); Col. Orlando de Leon (AW 67 and 96); Col. Januario Caringal (AW 67 and 96); Col. Armando Bañez (AW 67 and 96); Lt. Col. Custodio Parcon (AW 67 and 96); Maj. Francisco Domingo Fernandez (AW 67 and 96); and 1Lt. Belinda Ferrer (AW 67 and 96).
Of them, only Caringal was not around yesterday as he is still under treatment at the Manila Naval Hospital for hepatitis.
The 19 Army accused, on the other hand, are the following: Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim (AW 63, 65, 67, 96 and 97); Lt. Col. Nestor Flordeliza (AW 67 and 96); Lt. Col. Edmundo Malabanjot (AW 67 and 96); Maj. Jason Laureano Aquino (AW 67 and 96); Maj. Jose Leomar Doctolero (AW 67 and 96); Capt. James Sababan (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Montano Almodovar; (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Joey Fontiveros (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Ruben Guinolbay (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Isagani Cristi (AW 67 and 96); Capt. William Upano (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Dante Langkit (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Allan Aurino (AW 67 and 96); Capt. Frederick Sales (AW 67 and 96); 1Lt Ervin Divinagracia (AW 67 and 96); 1Lt. Jacon Cordero (AW 67 and 96); 1Lt. Homer Estolas (AW 67 and 96); 1Lt. Sandro Sereno (AW 67 and 96); and 1Lt. Richiemel Caballes (AW 67 and 96). All were present.
The defense lawyers said it is important to get a copy of the PTIR, not only because it is part of due process, but also because it will give them the opportunity to dispute the findings and charges against them.
“It’s not like we’re so happy, we’re like chimpanzees jumping up and above just because they gave us a copy of the report. It should have been given to the respondents as early as October of 2006. But, nonetheless, we are thankful that we have been finally furnished with a copy of that report,” said Atty. Francisco Chavez, counsel of Miranda and Aquino, in an interview with reporters after the court proceedings.
But as to the defense’ question on the legality and regularity of the GCM, the latter said it will proceed with its mandate unless an order of prohibition is issued by the Court of Appeals of the Supreme Court.
The defense had asked for the seven-man panel to dissolve, saying there is no provision in law about a “special GCM,” as Esperon called it, and it reeks with bias since it was created by Esperon, who had earlier issued accusatory statements against the respondents.
Atty. Homobono Adaza, counsel for Querubin, said Esperon cannot be the accuser, complainant, prosecutor, judge, and reviewing authority, all at the same time.
He argued that for the court to be truly independent and reliable, then the person higher in authority than Esperon, in this case, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the AFP Commander-in-Chief under the law, should have created the GCM.
The main agenda for yesterday’s proceedings was supposedly the arraignment of the accused, as ordered last week by Esperon. But the continuous objection of the defense and their request for a copy of the PTIR prevented it from happening.
After receipt of the PTIR, the defense lawyers will have 15 days to file a motion for reconsideration, if they wish to.
GCM President Lt. Gen. Alexander Yano, commander of the AFP Southern Luzon Command, set the next hearing date on March 16 at the same place./DMS
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
No more destab threat from AFP, says official
By Ronron
February 26, 2007
A year after some of its officers allegedly attempted to initiate moves to overthrow the Arroyo government, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) was confident on Monday that similar plans are no longer being entertained by the soldiers.
“The Armed Forces of the Philippines is getting stronger. We continue to be united,” AFP Public Information Officer Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro told reporters yesterday at Camp Aguinaldo.
He said the AFP leadership has been consolidating its forces after last year’s alleged coup plot of the group of Maj. Gen. Renato Miranda and Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim to dissuade them from believing alleged destabilizers of the government.
“One of the ways to make the organization stronger is by informing our soldiers down to the lowest level of what is really happening because otherwise, they can be easily lured by some groups to undertake actions, which, we can say as beyond the job of the soldiers,” Bacarro explained.
In an earlier interview, AFP chief of staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. had categorically denied any emerging rumor of a coup d’ etat similar to what happened last year.
“A coup d’ etat? Let me think? I think I haven’t received any report (about it). Let me think again. There’s really none,” he animatedly told reporters in a press conference last week.
But, seriously, he added: “It appears we are in very different situation now compared to that of February 2006… The changes have really been great.”
Aside from implementing the military justice system against those who allegedly participated in the supposed coup plot, Esperon credited the absence of another military uprising to the preoccupation of officers and soldiers in their jobs, among them, in the upcoming elections.
Bacarro said that if the military remains united and committed to its mandate, then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, their commander-in-chief, will be able to finish her term until 2010.
He said even Esperon has committed to Arroyo that he will see to it there will be no coup plot against the government while he is the AFP chief of staff. Esperon will retire in February 2008.
And the commanders of the AFP will contribute to this commitment, Bacarro said, out of “respect” to Esperon, even if the latter was mentioned in the “Hello Garci” tape that accused Arroyo of rigging the 2004 election results to her favor.
Bacarro acknowledged that the earlier the “Hello Garci” scandal will be resolved, the better it would be for Esperon so his name will be cleared of any irregularities even if he had consistently denied any involvement to such.
In an earlier interview with Manila Shimbun, political analysts Benito Lim and Jose Almonte, former National Security Adviser, said the gripes within the military will remain until the “Hello Garci” scandal is addressed, since it pertains to the legitimacy of Arroyo.
The AFP is expected to arraign today (Tuesday) the 28 officers, led by Miranda and Lim, for their alleged coup plot last year during court martial proceedings at Tanay, Rizal./DMS
February 26, 2007
A year after some of its officers allegedly attempted to initiate moves to overthrow the Arroyo government, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) was confident on Monday that similar plans are no longer being entertained by the soldiers.
“The Armed Forces of the Philippines is getting stronger. We continue to be united,” AFP Public Information Officer Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro told reporters yesterday at Camp Aguinaldo.
He said the AFP leadership has been consolidating its forces after last year’s alleged coup plot of the group of Maj. Gen. Renato Miranda and Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim to dissuade them from believing alleged destabilizers of the government.
“One of the ways to make the organization stronger is by informing our soldiers down to the lowest level of what is really happening because otherwise, they can be easily lured by some groups to undertake actions, which, we can say as beyond the job of the soldiers,” Bacarro explained.
In an earlier interview, AFP chief of staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. had categorically denied any emerging rumor of a coup d’ etat similar to what happened last year.
“A coup d’ etat? Let me think? I think I haven’t received any report (about it). Let me think again. There’s really none,” he animatedly told reporters in a press conference last week.
But, seriously, he added: “It appears we are in very different situation now compared to that of February 2006… The changes have really been great.”
Aside from implementing the military justice system against those who allegedly participated in the supposed coup plot, Esperon credited the absence of another military uprising to the preoccupation of officers and soldiers in their jobs, among them, in the upcoming elections.
Bacarro said that if the military remains united and committed to its mandate, then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, their commander-in-chief, will be able to finish her term until 2010.
He said even Esperon has committed to Arroyo that he will see to it there will be no coup plot against the government while he is the AFP chief of staff. Esperon will retire in February 2008.
And the commanders of the AFP will contribute to this commitment, Bacarro said, out of “respect” to Esperon, even if the latter was mentioned in the “Hello Garci” tape that accused Arroyo of rigging the 2004 election results to her favor.
Bacarro acknowledged that the earlier the “Hello Garci” scandal will be resolved, the better it would be for Esperon so his name will be cleared of any irregularities even if he had consistently denied any involvement to such.
In an earlier interview with Manila Shimbun, political analysts Benito Lim and Jose Almonte, former National Security Adviser, said the gripes within the military will remain until the “Hello Garci” scandal is addressed, since it pertains to the legitimacy of Arroyo.
The AFP is expected to arraign today (Tuesday) the 28 officers, led by Miranda and Lim, for their alleged coup plot last year during court martial proceedings at Tanay, Rizal./DMS
AFP presents former insurgents who claim to have personal knowledge about NPA purging
By Ronron
February 26, 2007
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) presented to the media on Monday six former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) from Quezon province who claim to have personal knowledge about internal killings committed by the movement.
The presentation was made in defense to findings by the Melo Commission and the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Extrajudicial Killings, blaming the military for the spate of extrajudicial killings in the country since President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo rose to power in 2001.
Three of the former rebels claim to be members of the Kangaroo Court at the barangay level; one was a former vice squad leader of the NPA who participated in one liquidation activity; another one is a former political officer; and the last one is a former amazon whose father was a liquidation target.
“Grace,” the ex-amazon, said his father, Romulo de Villa, 56, was abducted and killed in March 2005 in Mulanay, Quezon by suspected NPA rebels on suspicion that he was providing the military with information about the movement after she surrendered in 2002.
The incident was confirmed by Medwin Hiwatig, alias Bernie, the former NPA vice squad leader, who claimed to be a part of the group that liquidated de Villa. The latter’s cadaver would later be discovered and exhumed at a site in Sitio Marasigan, Barangay Bagupaye, Mulanay on November 24, 2006.
The three former Kangaroo Court members, for their part, said that their role was to provide information to the Central Committee of the movement as to who should be liquidated.
The execution would then be carried out by the armed group from the Front Committee level in the districts and province controlled by the NPA, said “Dennis,” the self-proclaimed ex-political officer of the movement in San Narciso, Quezon.
While he admitted that one of the strategies of liquidation is to kill the targets while the gunmen are aboard a motorcycle, “Dennis,” who is now a private first class of the Philippine Army after surrendering in 2002, denied having knowledge about members of the Bayan Muna, Gabriela, Anakpawis and other Left-leaning party-list organizations as targets.
“The existence of NPA Kangaroo Courts in the Bondoc Peninsula (in Quezon) is one of the obvious reasons that substantiate the AFP claims that the CPP-NPA themselves are mainly responsible in the extrajudicial killings not only of Leftist and militant personalities, but also of persons who are perceived to be counter-revolutionaries needed to be eliminated,” said Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro, AFP Public Information Officer.
“Grace” said she came out to appeal to the NPA to stop its purging, like what it did to his father, and for its members to go back to the folds of the government.
“Give up now. You have nothing to gain from the NPA. They will never succeed. Being a part of the revolutionary movement is not the solution to your problems,” said “Grace.”/DMS
Six ASG killed, 13 soldiers wounded in Sulu clash
By Ronron
February 26, 2007
Six alleged members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) were reportedly killed while 13 government soldiers were wounded following an encounter Sunday in the island province of Sulu in southern Philippines.
Military officials said the fresh encounter happened at around 4:30 pm at Barangay Buanza in Indanan town as members of the 4th and 6th Scout Rangers Company conducted follow up operations to the encounter on Saturday in the same place that resulted in the killing of one ASG member and the wounding of one soldier.
Brig. Gen. Ruperto Pabustan, chief of the Joint Special Operations Task Force (JSOTF) based in Sulu, said the more or less 40 rebels in Sunday’s clash include a few renegade members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).
“They ran to the MNLF area. It appears that the MNLF joined in the firefight,” said Brig. Gen. Reynaldo Mapagu, commander of the First Scout Rangers Regiment (FSRR), in a separate interview.
“It could be part of the strategy of the ASG if indeed they went to the MNLF area so that the troops of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) can not follow them,” explained Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro, AFP Public Information Officer.
Bacarro said the rebels were believed to be under the command of ASG sub-leader Dr. Abu and Radullan Sahiron.
He said the firefight lasted for one and a half hours.
Aside from killing some rebels, the military believes a number of other ASG members were wounded in the encounter but were brought along by their fleeing comrades.
The AFP has launched Operation Plan (OPLAN) Ultimatum on August 1, 2006 to put an end to the ASG and Jeemah Islamiyah in Sulu.
So far, it has resulted in the killing of ASG leaders Khadaffy Janjalani and Jainal Antel Sali, Jr., alias Abu Solaiman./DMS
February 26, 2007
Six alleged members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) were reportedly killed while 13 government soldiers were wounded following an encounter Sunday in the island province of Sulu in southern Philippines.
Military officials said the fresh encounter happened at around 4:30 pm at Barangay Buanza in Indanan town as members of the 4th and 6th Scout Rangers Company conducted follow up operations to the encounter on Saturday in the same place that resulted in the killing of one ASG member and the wounding of one soldier.
Brig. Gen. Ruperto Pabustan, chief of the Joint Special Operations Task Force (JSOTF) based in Sulu, said the more or less 40 rebels in Sunday’s clash include a few renegade members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).
“They ran to the MNLF area. It appears that the MNLF joined in the firefight,” said Brig. Gen. Reynaldo Mapagu, commander of the First Scout Rangers Regiment (FSRR), in a separate interview.
“It could be part of the strategy of the ASG if indeed they went to the MNLF area so that the troops of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) can not follow them,” explained Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro, AFP Public Information Officer.
Bacarro said the rebels were believed to be under the command of ASG sub-leader Dr. Abu and Radullan Sahiron.
He said the firefight lasted for one and a half hours.
Aside from killing some rebels, the military believes a number of other ASG members were wounded in the encounter but were brought along by their fleeing comrades.
The AFP has launched Operation Plan (OPLAN) Ultimatum on August 1, 2006 to put an end to the ASG and Jeemah Islamiyah in Sulu.
So far, it has resulted in the killing of ASG leaders Khadaffy Janjalani and Jainal Antel Sali, Jr., alias Abu Solaiman./DMS
Monday, February 26, 2007
Arroyo no intention of addressing Melo Commission, Alston’s recommendations – RP communist movement
By Ronron
February 25, 2007
The communist movement in the Philippines is convinced that the Arroyo government is not inclined to addressing the issues raised against it by the Melo Commission and the United Nations Special Rapproteur on Extrajudicial Killings.
In a statement issued Sunday, National Democratic Front of the Philippine (NDFP) Chairperson on the Committee on Human Rights Fidel Agcaoili said with the way President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and her officials reacted to the findings of the Melo Commission and Professor Philip Alston, it appears that the government will continue “to evade command responsibility for the extrajudicial killings.”
“The concerted negative reactions of the de fact president Gloria M. Arroyo, Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez, and Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. to the Alston statement and Melo Commission Report show that the Arroyo regime has no intention of ending the extrajudicial killings by special teams or death squads of the military,” Agcaoili said.
He said Arroyo has not even ordered for the arrest and prosecution of Maj. Gen. Jovito Palparan, Jr. who is being accused by human rights groups of violating human rights in his previous areas of command.
“She (Arroyo) deliberately refuses to hold responsible the military officers for the extrajudicial killings in their areas of command. Police investigators and the Inter-Agency Legal Assistance Group continue to cover up the murders, abductions and other crimes being committed by the death squads,” Agcaoili said.
Agcaoili particularly hit Esperon’s explanation that the extrajudicial killings are results of purging by the communist movement, and worse, attempted to support it with a “doctored” video clip of Professor Jose Maria Sison, chief political consultant of the NDFP Negotiating Panel, enumerating alleged legal front organizations of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).
He hinted that the government should acknowledge responsibility for the spate of extrajudicial killings as “they seek to counter the rise of popular opposition to their oppressive and exploitative rule.”
“They are driver by their own lust for power and lucre and they are all emboldened by the Anti-Terror Act, which Arroyo is about to sign. But they are blind to the lessons provided by the rise and fall of the Marcos fascist dictatorship,” Agcaoili said.
With this, he warned the government is “inciting the people to fight back and undertake all forms of resistance” against it.
Alston had said after his 10-day investigation in the Philippines that the military continues to deny that some of its rogue members committed the extrajudicial killings, while the Malacañang-created Melo Commission categorically blamed most of the killings to the AFP./DMS
February 25, 2007
The communist movement in the Philippines is convinced that the Arroyo government is not inclined to addressing the issues raised against it by the Melo Commission and the United Nations Special Rapproteur on Extrajudicial Killings.
In a statement issued Sunday, National Democratic Front of the Philippine (NDFP) Chairperson on the Committee on Human Rights Fidel Agcaoili said with the way President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and her officials reacted to the findings of the Melo Commission and Professor Philip Alston, it appears that the government will continue “to evade command responsibility for the extrajudicial killings.”
“The concerted negative reactions of the de fact president Gloria M. Arroyo, Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez, and Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. to the Alston statement and Melo Commission Report show that the Arroyo regime has no intention of ending the extrajudicial killings by special teams or death squads of the military,” Agcaoili said.
He said Arroyo has not even ordered for the arrest and prosecution of Maj. Gen. Jovito Palparan, Jr. who is being accused by human rights groups of violating human rights in his previous areas of command.
“She (Arroyo) deliberately refuses to hold responsible the military officers for the extrajudicial killings in their areas of command. Police investigators and the Inter-Agency Legal Assistance Group continue to cover up the murders, abductions and other crimes being committed by the death squads,” Agcaoili said.
Agcaoili particularly hit Esperon’s explanation that the extrajudicial killings are results of purging by the communist movement, and worse, attempted to support it with a “doctored” video clip of Professor Jose Maria Sison, chief political consultant of the NDFP Negotiating Panel, enumerating alleged legal front organizations of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).
He hinted that the government should acknowledge responsibility for the spate of extrajudicial killings as “they seek to counter the rise of popular opposition to their oppressive and exploitative rule.”
“They are driver by their own lust for power and lucre and they are all emboldened by the Anti-Terror Act, which Arroyo is about to sign. But they are blind to the lessons provided by the rise and fall of the Marcos fascist dictatorship,” Agcaoili said.
With this, he warned the government is “inciting the people to fight back and undertake all forms of resistance” against it.
Alston had said after his 10-day investigation in the Philippines that the military continues to deny that some of its rogue members committed the extrajudicial killings, while the Malacañang-created Melo Commission categorically blamed most of the killings to the AFP./DMS
RP celebration of 21st anniversary of 1986 People Power Revolution lack key players
By Ronron
February 25, 2007
The Philippines commemorated on Sunday the 1986 People Power Revolution sans the key actors of the historic moment that ended the dictatorial rule for over two decades of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos and restored democracy in the country.
In culmination of the four-day commemoration of the 21st anniversary of the People Power Revolution, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo led yesterday the flag raising ceremony at the People Power monument in Quezon City, attended by Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo, and Quezon City Mayor Feliciano Belmonte, among others.
The lone presence, however, of former President Fidel Ramos from among those who led the 1986 bloodless revolt was very noteworthy as it just proves Ramos’ complaint last Thursday that indeed, there is lesser interest in that defining moment in Philippine history.
Former President Corazon Aquino, who was placed at the helm by the uprising, replacing Marcos, only attended the holy mass that followed at 11 am at the EDSA Shrine in Ortigas, Mandaluyong City, while Senator Juan Ponce Enrile, the Defense Secretary of Marcos who defected together with Ramos, was not around in both events.
“Of course, they have their own reasons. Sen. Enrile said he has his own schedule. Of course, we cannot just compel them, especially Mrs. Aquino because his son is busy the senatorial campaign… Let us not give a bad meaning to their absence here,” Ermita said in an interview with reporters.
Aquino’s eldest child, Benigno Simeon III, popularly known as “Noynoy,” who is Tarlac Representative, is running for the Senate under the Genuine Opposition ticket.
“What is important with EDSA (People Power Revolution) is not any of the faces or the politicians or the factions. It’s not even the politics of it. It’s the idea that if we work together, we can do great things,” said People Power Commission member Alex Magno.
In her speech, Arroyo discouraged another People Power in the country, even as she benefited from it in 2001 when then President Joseph Estrada was ousted by what is called now as the EDSA II People Power Revolution due to corruption charges, saying this does no look good anymore to the international community.
“In 2001, the world tolerated EDSA. The world will not, however, forgive another EDSA, but would instead condemn the Philippines as a country whose political system is hopelessly unstable, and the Filipinos as among the finest people in the world but who always shoot themselves in the foot,” Arroyo said.
“Who would invest in the Philippines? How would we finally bring the gains of the economy to the average Filipino?” she added.
The President said that while the celebration of People Power requires a rethinking of the past, it is equally important to honor also “those from the present (who are) working for the future.”
“People Power is about the heroism of the many, who, in their daily labors and trust in the Almighty, which was a very important characteristic of the 1986 People Power, is about all of them who bear faith in a new Philippines,” said Arroyo.
She asked the Filipinos to use the “People Power” magic in realizing the national goal of pushing the Philippines towards having a stable politics, economy, and order, instead of creating noise in the streets and fostering political feud.
During the simple program, Arroyo awarded Certificates of Recognition to several groups that exemplified the spirit of People Power in their various undertakings.
These are: Gawad Kalinga, which has established more than 600 villages towards fulfilling its vision of building 700,000 low-cost homes nationwide; Pondo ng Pinoy (Funds of Filipinos), a religious group calling on the public to share 25 centavos daily to generate funds for their livelihood and micro-financing projects; and the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW’s) for their sacrifices, excellence, and increasing dollar remittances that have propelled the economy forward.
The “Mahal Kong Pilipinas” Posthumous Award was also presented by Arroyo for the late Manila Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin in recognition of his important role in calling for moral recovery and return to democracy that led to the success of the February 1987 People Power Revolution.
At the holy mass, Arroyo only sent Ermita to represent her, who sat immediately next to Aquino at the front row of the EDSA Shrine chapel. Fr. Romeo Intengan officiated the mass.
Aquino took back her support for the Arroyo administration after the latter figured in alleged electoral fraud in 2004 as shown by the “Hello Garci” tape that surfaced in June 2005. The former President even went as far as asking for the resignation of Arroyo./DMS
February 25, 2007
The Philippines commemorated on Sunday the 1986 People Power Revolution sans the key actors of the historic moment that ended the dictatorial rule for over two decades of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos and restored democracy in the country.
In culmination of the four-day commemoration of the 21st anniversary of the People Power Revolution, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo led yesterday the flag raising ceremony at the People Power monument in Quezon City, attended by Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo, and Quezon City Mayor Feliciano Belmonte, among others.
The lone presence, however, of former President Fidel Ramos from among those who led the 1986 bloodless revolt was very noteworthy as it just proves Ramos’ complaint last Thursday that indeed, there is lesser interest in that defining moment in Philippine history.
Former President Corazon Aquino, who was placed at the helm by the uprising, replacing Marcos, only attended the holy mass that followed at 11 am at the EDSA Shrine in Ortigas, Mandaluyong City, while Senator Juan Ponce Enrile, the Defense Secretary of Marcos who defected together with Ramos, was not around in both events.
“Of course, they have their own reasons. Sen. Enrile said he has his own schedule. Of course, we cannot just compel them, especially Mrs. Aquino because his son is busy the senatorial campaign… Let us not give a bad meaning to their absence here,” Ermita said in an interview with reporters.
Aquino’s eldest child, Benigno Simeon III, popularly known as “Noynoy,” who is Tarlac Representative, is running for the Senate under the Genuine Opposition ticket.
“What is important with EDSA (People Power Revolution) is not any of the faces or the politicians or the factions. It’s not even the politics of it. It’s the idea that if we work together, we can do great things,” said People Power Commission member Alex Magno.
In her speech, Arroyo discouraged another People Power in the country, even as she benefited from it in 2001 when then President Joseph Estrada was ousted by what is called now as the EDSA II People Power Revolution due to corruption charges, saying this does no look good anymore to the international community.
“In 2001, the world tolerated EDSA. The world will not, however, forgive another EDSA, but would instead condemn the Philippines as a country whose political system is hopelessly unstable, and the Filipinos as among the finest people in the world but who always shoot themselves in the foot,” Arroyo said.
“Who would invest in the Philippines? How would we finally bring the gains of the economy to the average Filipino?” she added.
The President said that while the celebration of People Power requires a rethinking of the past, it is equally important to honor also “those from the present (who are) working for the future.”
“People Power is about the heroism of the many, who, in their daily labors and trust in the Almighty, which was a very important characteristic of the 1986 People Power, is about all of them who bear faith in a new Philippines,” said Arroyo.
She asked the Filipinos to use the “People Power” magic in realizing the national goal of pushing the Philippines towards having a stable politics, economy, and order, instead of creating noise in the streets and fostering political feud.
During the simple program, Arroyo awarded Certificates of Recognition to several groups that exemplified the spirit of People Power in their various undertakings.
These are: Gawad Kalinga, which has established more than 600 villages towards fulfilling its vision of building 700,000 low-cost homes nationwide; Pondo ng Pinoy (Funds of Filipinos), a religious group calling on the public to share 25 centavos daily to generate funds for their livelihood and micro-financing projects; and the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW’s) for their sacrifices, excellence, and increasing dollar remittances that have propelled the economy forward.
The “Mahal Kong Pilipinas” Posthumous Award was also presented by Arroyo for the late Manila Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin in recognition of his important role in calling for moral recovery and return to democracy that led to the success of the February 1987 People Power Revolution.
At the holy mass, Arroyo only sent Ermita to represent her, who sat immediately next to Aquino at the front row of the EDSA Shrine chapel. Fr. Romeo Intengan officiated the mass.
Aquino took back her support for the Arroyo administration after the latter figured in alleged electoral fraud in 2004 as shown by the “Hello Garci” tape that surfaced in June 2005. The former President even went as far as asking for the resignation of Arroyo./DMS
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Arroyo gov’t saved by flawed PP 1017, improved economic performance – analysts
By Ronron
February 24, 2007
Flawed it may be, the controversial Presidential Proclamation 1017 that placed the Philippines in a state of national emergency for one week a year ago was the saving grace of the Arroyo government.
For Ateneo de Manila University Professor Benito Lim, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo took the risk in issuing the declaration on February 24, 2006 allegedly to prevent a supposed major destabilization plot against her administration just so she stays in power.
PP 1017 was issued by Arroyo after the Philippine military leadership learned of the plan of some high-ranking officers and members of the Army Scout Rangers, the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC), and the Philippine National Police’ (PNP) Special Action Force to join the street demonstrations on February 24 last year in commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the EDSA People Power I Revolution.
The military had said that Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim of the Army’s First Scout Rangers Regiment (FSRR) would then announce during the rally his withdrawal of support from Arroyo, hoping allegedly to spark similar moves by fellow officers until Arroyo no longer has control of the armed service.
While on EDSA, the group would try to gather a critical mass that is enough to replicate the People Power uprisings in 1986 and 2001, and difficult for the PNP and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to control.
The AFP went on to reveal the alleged collusion of Lim’s group, the Magdalo group that staged the failed mutiny at Oakwood Hotel in Makati City in July 2003, and the New People’s Army (NPA) to carry out such grand plan.
All of these, boiling down to the questionable legitimacy of the Arroyo presidency as a result of the public expose of the so-called “Hello Garci” tape that contains recorded conversations allegedly of Arroyo and former Comelec Commissioner Virgilio Garcillano about rigging the 2004 election results to her favor.
However, since the AFP leadership prevailed upon Lim, and fellow officers, Marine Maj. Gen. Renato Miranda and Col. Ariel Querubin, their planned march to EDSA never materialized. Instead, they went back to their respective camps.
The national situation would go tense again on February 26 when Querubin initiated an almost successful mass gathering at the PMC headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City as he emotionally protested the sudden relief of Miranda as PMC Commandant, in favor of then Brig. Gen. Nelson Allaga. The relief was still related to the planned February 24 march.
The incident resulted in a five-hour standoff until Querubin and the other complaining Marine officers and men decided to just recognize Allaga as their new chief.
As far as Prof. Lim is concerned, the unresolved “Hello Garci” scandal was a valid reason why the supposed actors of the alleged February 2006 coup plot reached that point. But he did not buy the alleged collusion of those in the mainstream and the communist movement, saying it may have just been invented by the military to add weight to the government’s justification for PP 1017.
“Primarily, that military action was premised on the cheating in the 2004 election. That was their primary complaint. And so, they claim that they cannot serve a commander-in-chief who is elevated there against the people’s will. That has never been addressed,” said former National Security Adviser (NSA) Jose Almonte in a separate interview.
Almonte, who was the NSA during President Fidel Ramos’ term from 1992 until 1998, said even the chance to address it in Congress through the impeachment process was shot down by Arroyo.
“In short, the actions of government were a series of cover-ups,” he said, recounting Malacañang’s Calibrated Preemptive Response (CPR) policy and Executive Order 464 issued in 2005, prior to PP 1017.
The CPR was meant to prevent people from holding rallies without permits, while EO 464 barred members of the Executive Branch, including the AFP, from testifying during legislative inquiries without Presidential approval. The issuance of these policies came at a time when the “Hello Garci” scandal was at its hottest.
Prof. Lim, who teaches political science, describes the CPR, EO 464 and PP 1017 as Martial Law in disguise.
“For me, PP 1017 was an overreaction. But it served her purpose,” he said, referring to Arroyo, who, indeed, remains in power up to now.
“If you are asking for my two-cents worth, having been a formerly National Security Adviser (NSA) for six years, my sense is it was an overreaction… because given the powers of the President, they can take care of it without those emergency powers,” Almonte, for his part, described PP 1017.
The two even cited the Supreme Court ruling in May last year on said proclamation, which in general says that PP 1017 was not totally constitutional.
“Although the Supreme Court ruled that those declarations or policies are not legitimate, it protected her, nevertheless. They were effective for her. She just wanted to stay in power using the AFP and the PNP,” Prof. Lim said.
Additionally, Almonte found fault on the part of the mutineers why last year’s planned coup failed, saying they misread the collective inclination of the people regarding their move.
“Having been a participant in the coups and counter-coups in the Philippines one way or another, I have concluded that in the Philippines, it is the Filipino people who determines whether a coup is successful or not. So, the elements in the military or the police who intend to take a political action will succeed only if they read correctly the collective sense of the Filipino people,” explained Almonte.
The 75-year-old retired Army Brigadier General is among the original members of the Reform the Armed Forces Movement (RAM) that initiated the 1986 People Power Revolution, ending the more than two decades of dictatorial rule of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos.
A few months after the PP 1017 declaration, Almonte said the country slowly regained normalcy after the benefits of the economic reforms introduced by the Arroyo government, particularly the Revised Expanded Value Added Tax (VAT) Law, was slowly felt.
The government claimed that the new tax law, which was implemented starting November 2005, was able to raise a net revenue of P81.3 billion until end of 2006. This boosted total VAT collections of P268.7 billion for the year 2006, up by 71 percent from P156.7 billion in 2005.
The collections, according to the government, were allotted to infrastructure projects and foreign debt payments.
“This political stalemate, if I may call it, is weakened because of the surging economy. If the economy is weak or weaker than it used to, that political problem will continue to be used as a kind of club against the administration,” Almonte said.
This, he said, because the issues raised by some elements of the AFP and PNP remain unresolved.
“So, overall, as of 24 February, or one year later, this government will be in place. But, also for sure, the restiveness of elements in the military and the police will continue. But they are, for the moment, capped. It is in the bottle as of now and the lid is closed. But if something happens, like another scandal (comes out), (or) the economy suddenly deteriorates, it will be a new situation,” Almonte said.
Confronted with Almonte’s analysis relating the economic improvement to the political stability now, Prof. Lim said: “The economic growth is only in some sectors. And it has only benefited a small group, some businessmen. It is not felt by majority of the people.”
He said what frees the Arroyo government now from any threat of destabilization is that fact that the opposition has decided to “fight the battle through the electoral system.” On May 14, the electorate will choose a new set of 12 Senators, and local officials starting from members of the House of Representatives.
“If none from the opposition wins, that would mean for them that the Comelec (Commission on Elections) cheated. So that would spark another political turmoil,” warned Lim as he noted that the official poll body has yet to redeem itself from allegations of having been used by the Arroyo administration during the 2004 Presidential elections.
While Almonte acknowledged that the indictment of 28 Army and Marine officers, led by Lim, Miranda, and Querubin, before the General Court Martial (GCM) is part of the judicial process, he said he would also understand it if it becomes another gripe among other members of the AFP, especially that the accused officers have denied the allegation against them.
“In a larger context, the political system, the bigger judge here will not only be the court, but the bigger judge will be the people. That’s why (Navy Lt. Senior Grade Antonio) Trillanes (IV), who, I understand is running for Senator, is an indication that, Well, I bring my case to the people,” Almonte said.
The 28 are still awaiting arraignment at the GCM for the charges of Articles of War violation ranging from 67 (mutiny or sedition), 96 (conduct unbecoming of an officer and a gentleman), 63 (Disrespect Towards the President, Vice President, Congress of the Philippines, or Secretary of National Defense), 65 (Assaulting or Willfully Disobeying Superior Officer), and 97 (Conduct Prejudicial to Good Order and Military Discipline).
A separate rebellion case in relation to the same incident is pending at the Department of Justice (DOJ) against 50 personalities with the communist movement and their perceived allies in the legal front, including Jose Maria Sison, chairman of the Communist Party of the Philippines/NPA/National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP); Luis Jalandoni; Left-leaning solons Rafael Mariano, Satur Ocampo, Teodoro Casino, Liza Maza, Joel Virador; and many more.
The same charge is also under preliminary investigation at the DOJ against at least 21 AFP personalities, at least two PNP officials, three political personalities, at least two two businessmen, at least six former AFP and PNP officials, at least four CPP/NPA/NDFP personalities, and at least 11 other civilians.
Another rebellion case is pending at the Makati City Regional Trial Court against Anakpawis Congressman Crispin Beltran and Army 1Lt. Lawrence San Juan also in relation to said coup plot.
Prof. Lim said Arroyo may have prevailed during that crucial time, but the subsequent events proved that the people will not easily bow down to her desires.
“What made democracy possible these days is the integrity of the Court. They have shown allegiance to the Constitution… And so, (the Arroyo government) has to be very careful with what they do because it is being watched internationally,” Prof. Lim said.
Almonte, for his part, said the Filipino people will never be scared anymore by the government, even with the declaration of emergency powers. “You can no longer scare the Filipino people. They have already demonstrated their collective courage before the world. And their example is now a political beacon to the world,” he said, referring to the past two bloodless revolts.
He challenged the government instead to level the playing field in the country so every Filipino can compete responsibly, and not resort to actions that could fuel instability, such as rebellion and insurgency.
“The soldiers rebel only against bad governance, not against good governance. If you want the soldiers to stay in the barracks, be sure that you have good politics. It’s not the strength of the military that makes them take action. It is the weakness of the political leaders that gives the soldiers reason to take action,” Almonte said.
At the moment, the military chief, Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr., assures there is no destabilization threat against the Arroyo government coming from the organization, acknowledging that it is partly because the soldiers are preoccupied with the upcoming elections.
“Our situation now is very far from that in February 2006,” Esperon said./DMS
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