By Ronron
March 6, 2007
Former Senator Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan’s request for temporary liberty was denied last Monday by a Makati City court trying his coup d’ etat case.
In a four page decision, Judge Oscar Pimentel of Makati City RTC Branch 148 said it cannot grant Honasan’s “motion to fix sufficient sureties for temporary liberty” because it has already decided to suspend hearing his case last January 24 to allow a re-investigation by the Department of Justice (DOJ).
Honasan has earlier sought for the re-investigation by the DOJ of his case since he claims he was not given the chance to respond to the allegations against him in relation to the 2003 Oakwood mutiny.
Honasan said the coup d’ etat case against him was raffled to the courts even without his counter-affidavit.
The government is accusing Honasan of having conspired with the Magdalo group of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in taking over the Oakwood hotel in Makati City last July 27, 2003 to force President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo out of office.
Based on this, he argued before the court that he should be allowed temporary liberty because conspiracy to commit coup d’ etat is only punishable by prison mayor, or six years to 12 years imprisonment.
But Pimentel said that the motion is in itself tantamount to a petition for bail, which can only be granted if the prosecution presents evidence that will determine if the case against the accused is strong or not.
“If due course to the motion will be given, this will put the State Prosecutors in a position wherein their impartiality and fairness will be affected and questioned in conducting its reinvestigation,” the judge wrote.
He said, however, that Honasan may file the same motion or petition after the reinvestigation of the State Prosecutors and a manifestation or report thereof has been submitted to the court.
Honasan is running for Senator as an independent candidate.
After his capture late last year, he has been detained at the Philippine National Police (PNP) camp in Fort Sto. Domingo in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.
Aside from his coup d’ etat case arising from the Oakwood mutiny incident, Honasan is also facing rebellion charges before the DOJ for his alleged role in the February 2006 destabilization plot against the Arroyo administration./DMS
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
17 MILF rebels, one soldier killed in fresh fighting in North Cotabato
By Ronron
March 6, 2007
Seventeen armed fighters of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and a government soldier were killed, while two other soldiers were wounded in the latest encounter between the secessionist group and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in North Cotabato province starting Monday night until yesterday (Tuesday) morning, a military spokesman said.
Lt. Col. Julieto Ando, spokesman of the Philippine Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said in a phone interview Tuesday that the heavy fighting started at 10 pm the other day (Monday) after some 300 elements of the MILF 105th Base Command “harassed” the two detachments of the Philippine Army’s 40th Infantry Battalion in Midsayap town.
Ando identified the attacked detachments as that of the 40th IB’s Bravo Company in Barangay Lumupog, and the Charlie Company in Barangay Lower Kadigasan. Each was being manned at the time of the attack by at least 20 soldiers.
The Moslem rebels were reportedly under the command of Amelil Umbra Kato, who allegedly continues to defy the top leadership of the MILF as regards peace negotiations with the government.
“We can’t understand what they want. Maybe they want to prove that they are still a force to reckon with. Or they want to control the area so that they can continue with their revolutionary taxation collection,” Ando said in Filipino when asked of the motive of the attack.
Ando revealed the Moslem rebels used mortars, M203 grenades, rocket-propelled grenades, M16 rifles and Caliber 60 machine guns during the attack.
“Our AFP troops fought back despite being outnumbered. They managed to retaliate using M203 also and M16 rifles,” Ando said.
He said the fighting lasted until past 7am yesterday (Tuesday) after the rebels started withdrawing towards Datu Piang town.
But at 10 am, the military deployed two SF260 Machete planes that peppered rockets on the rebels’ position.
A scouring of the encounter site later in the day resulted in the recovery of 17 dead bodies of suspected MILF rebels and 18 high-powered firearms, said Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarrro, AFP Public Information Officer.
“Definitely, this is a violation (of the ceasefire agreement between the government and the MILF). Massing of large number of forces is even already a violation,” Ando said.
“We will file a complaint before the CCCH (Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities of the GRP-MILF),” he added. “We still continue to support the ceasefire and respect the primacy of the peace process.”
“We hope this problem will be settled by the CCCH,” Ando said.
The Manila Shimbun tried to get the MILF’s version of the incident but the mobile phones of MILF spokesman Eid Kabalu and MILF chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal could not be reached.
The MILF and government troops last fought in the last week of January over some farm products in another village in Midsayap./DMS
March 6, 2007
Seventeen armed fighters of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and a government soldier were killed, while two other soldiers were wounded in the latest encounter between the secessionist group and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in North Cotabato province starting Monday night until yesterday (Tuesday) morning, a military spokesman said.
Lt. Col. Julieto Ando, spokesman of the Philippine Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said in a phone interview Tuesday that the heavy fighting started at 10 pm the other day (Monday) after some 300 elements of the MILF 105th Base Command “harassed” the two detachments of the Philippine Army’s 40th Infantry Battalion in Midsayap town.
Ando identified the attacked detachments as that of the 40th IB’s Bravo Company in Barangay Lumupog, and the Charlie Company in Barangay Lower Kadigasan. Each was being manned at the time of the attack by at least 20 soldiers.
The Moslem rebels were reportedly under the command of Amelil Umbra Kato, who allegedly continues to defy the top leadership of the MILF as regards peace negotiations with the government.
“We can’t understand what they want. Maybe they want to prove that they are still a force to reckon with. Or they want to control the area so that they can continue with their revolutionary taxation collection,” Ando said in Filipino when asked of the motive of the attack.
Ando revealed the Moslem rebels used mortars, M203 grenades, rocket-propelled grenades, M16 rifles and Caliber 60 machine guns during the attack.
“Our AFP troops fought back despite being outnumbered. They managed to retaliate using M203 also and M16 rifles,” Ando said.
He said the fighting lasted until past 7am yesterday (Tuesday) after the rebels started withdrawing towards Datu Piang town.
But at 10 am, the military deployed two SF260 Machete planes that peppered rockets on the rebels’ position.
A scouring of the encounter site later in the day resulted in the recovery of 17 dead bodies of suspected MILF rebels and 18 high-powered firearms, said Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarrro, AFP Public Information Officer.
“Definitely, this is a violation (of the ceasefire agreement between the government and the MILF). Massing of large number of forces is even already a violation,” Ando said.
“We will file a complaint before the CCCH (Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities of the GRP-MILF),” he added. “We still continue to support the ceasefire and respect the primacy of the peace process.”
“We hope this problem will be settled by the CCCH,” Ando said.
The Manila Shimbun tried to get the MILF’s version of the incident but the mobile phones of MILF spokesman Eid Kabalu and MILF chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal could not be reached.
The MILF and government troops last fought in the last week of January over some farm products in another village in Midsayap./DMS
Trillanes attends hearing in civilian clothes, handcuffs
By Ronron
March 6, 2007
Opposition senatorial candidate resigned Navy Lt. Sr. Grade Antonio Trillanes IV attended his coup d’ etat case hearing at the Makati City Regional Trial Court Tuesday morning already in civilian clothes, and still in handcuffs.
Trillanes, one of the core leaders of the 2003 Oakwood Mutiny, was deemed resigned from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) when he filed his candidacy for Senator before the Commission on Elections (Comelec) exactly a month ago yesterday.
“It’s okay with me because while my colleagues are still handcuffed, I should also be in handcuffs,” Trillanes wrote in Filipino when asked how he feels that his hands remain tied.
Trillanes joins the two Navy enlisted personnel also charged with coup d’ etat at the same court in wearing civilian clothes when attending the hearing. Only 27 of the 31 accused were in attendance in yesterday’s hearing.
While he was not allowed to talk in front of media gadgets, Trillanes was not stopped by his military guards from responding to reporters in writing during the course of yesterday’s hearing.
This even as the court still has to rule on his motion seeking media access to be able to reach out to the Filipino electorate for his platform.
During the proceedings, Judge Oscar Pimentel of Makati RTC Branch 148 said he will come out with a resolution on said motion at the latest this morning (Wednesday).
Asked how his campaign is going while he remains in detention at the Marine headquarters in Taguig City, Trillanes said: “Our campaign is doing well. Many people are expressing their support.”
He admitted though that they are not abundant with regard to funds and resources.
The Genuine Opposition (GO) adopted Trillanes as among its 11 senatorial candidates.
Asked if his continued detention is a form of pressure against his candidacy, Trillanes wrote: “Yes, apparently. Some misguided leaders in the AFP actually believe that the results of this coming elections are in their hands. At some point, they should accept the fact that the voters would decide my fate.”
His spokesman, Ronaldo Averilla, revealed that since last week, his visitors were subjected to stricter inspection procedures.
Visitation hours were also restricted from 9am to 11am, and 2pm to 5pm, as against the previous arrangement where visitors are allowed anytime, said Averilla. At each time also, only three visitors are allowed.
Further, visitors are not allowed to wear Trillanes’ campaign shirts and use vehicles with Magdalo markings inside the Marine headquarters.
But Marines spokesman Lt. Col. Ariel Caculitan said the ban is just in compliance with AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon’s directive to prohibit any campaign activities inside military camps.
“We are not targeting him. It’s just that political campaigns are banned inside our camp,” Caculitan said.
He also said that there is nothing new with the visitation restrictions against Trillanes.
“The restrictions were there even before. He cannot have special privileges now just because he is running for the Senate,” Caculitan said./DMS
March 6, 2007
Opposition senatorial candidate resigned Navy Lt. Sr. Grade Antonio Trillanes IV attended his coup d’ etat case hearing at the Makati City Regional Trial Court Tuesday morning already in civilian clothes, and still in handcuffs.
Trillanes, one of the core leaders of the 2003 Oakwood Mutiny, was deemed resigned from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) when he filed his candidacy for Senator before the Commission on Elections (Comelec) exactly a month ago yesterday.
“It’s okay with me because while my colleagues are still handcuffed, I should also be in handcuffs,” Trillanes wrote in Filipino when asked how he feels that his hands remain tied.
Trillanes joins the two Navy enlisted personnel also charged with coup d’ etat at the same court in wearing civilian clothes when attending the hearing. Only 27 of the 31 accused were in attendance in yesterday’s hearing.
While he was not allowed to talk in front of media gadgets, Trillanes was not stopped by his military guards from responding to reporters in writing during the course of yesterday’s hearing.
This even as the court still has to rule on his motion seeking media access to be able to reach out to the Filipino electorate for his platform.
During the proceedings, Judge Oscar Pimentel of Makati RTC Branch 148 said he will come out with a resolution on said motion at the latest this morning (Wednesday).
Asked how his campaign is going while he remains in detention at the Marine headquarters in Taguig City, Trillanes said: “Our campaign is doing well. Many people are expressing their support.”
He admitted though that they are not abundant with regard to funds and resources.
The Genuine Opposition (GO) adopted Trillanes as among its 11 senatorial candidates.
Asked if his continued detention is a form of pressure against his candidacy, Trillanes wrote: “Yes, apparently. Some misguided leaders in the AFP actually believe that the results of this coming elections are in their hands. At some point, they should accept the fact that the voters would decide my fate.”
His spokesman, Ronaldo Averilla, revealed that since last week, his visitors were subjected to stricter inspection procedures.
Visitation hours were also restricted from 9am to 11am, and 2pm to 5pm, as against the previous arrangement where visitors are allowed anytime, said Averilla. At each time also, only three visitors are allowed.
Further, visitors are not allowed to wear Trillanes’ campaign shirts and use vehicles with Magdalo markings inside the Marine headquarters.
But Marines spokesman Lt. Col. Ariel Caculitan said the ban is just in compliance with AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon’s directive to prohibit any campaign activities inside military camps.
“We are not targeting him. It’s just that political campaigns are banned inside our camp,” Caculitan said.
He also said that there is nothing new with the visitation restrictions against Trillanes.
“The restrictions were there even before. He cannot have special privileges now just because he is running for the Senate,” Caculitan said./DMS
San Juan to plead guilty to conspiracy to commit coup in 2003
By Ronron
March 6, 2007
Army 1Lt. Lawrence San Juan, one of the military officers charged of coup d’ etat before the Makati City Regional Trial Court (RTC), intends to change his not-guilty pleading to guilty for the lesser offense of conspiracy to commit the said crime.
During Tuesday’s hearing at the sala of Judge Oscar Pimentel at Makati RTC Branch 148, San Juan’s lawyer, Paulo Primavera, said in open court that the “accused strongly communicated his desire” to avail of a plea-bargaining agreement with the court.
The disclosure came several months after San Juan apologized to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) leadership and renewed his allegiance to the organization following his recapture on February 21, 2006. San Juan bolted from jail at the Philippine Army headquarters in Taguig City earlier on January 17 of the same year.
But the lawyers of the 30 other accused said they will object to San Juan’s request to enter into a plea-bargaining agreement, saying it is “out of time,” therefore, “highly irregular.”
“The request to file a motion for plea-bargaining agreement is supposed to happen before the formal offer of evidence by the prosecution,” said Reynaldo Robles, lawyer for accused resigned Navy Lt. Sr. Grade Antonio Trillanes IV (now a senatorial candidate under the Genuine Opposition ticket).
Conspiracy to commit coup carries a penalty of six-to-12-years imprisonment, while coup d’ etat is penalized with reclusion perpetua.
Saying he has “no problem” with San Juan’s intention, Pimentel told Primavera to put their manifestation in writing. The other defense lawyers shall then have 15 days to comment on that motion.
Asked if San Juan’s intention will eventually make him a “state witness,” Robles said: “It’s not feasible for him to become a state witness because the prosecution already rested its case.”
“The rule is that the testimony of the accused should not affect the other co-accused,” he added.
The prosecution rested its case late last year, presenting a total of 23 witnesses, including retired AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Efren Abu, the commander of the Philippine Army then and of the AFP’s Joint Task Force Libra at that time when some 300 junior officers and soldiers seized Oakwood Hotel on Ayala Avenue, Makati City. The said Task Force was tasked then to secure the seat of government in times of contingency, particularly for the forthcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA) then of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
Yesterday’s hearing was supposed to be the start of the defense’ presentation of evidence. This, however, did not happen.
Robles and the other defense lawyers, instead, told Pimentel that they are joining the motion filed by defense lawyer Theodore Te to demurrer to evidence.
“This is equivalent to motion to dismiss in criminal cases. It means the evidence presented was not enough to get a conviction,” Robles explained.
Robles maintained that no one among the prosecution witnesses testified about the presence of violence during the Oakwood takeover, an element of coup d’ etat as defined by the books.
Pimentel set the next hearing date on May 8th, six days before the midterm elections.
Aside from San Juan and Trillanes, 25 other accused were present during yesterday’s hearing. Four others were absent.
Earlier during the start of the hearing, Army Capt. John Andres was formally arraigned by the court and pleaded not guilty to the crime of coup d’ etat.
It was the first time Andres attended the trial since it began more than three years ago due to his medical condition.
After receipt of the AFP’s surgeon general’s medical report that Andres is already “mentally fit to start trial,” Pimentel ordered his court interpreter to read the charges against Andres and get his pleading.
The trial began 9:20 am and adjourned 10:15 am.
Before leaving the court, the accused were given 10 minutes to confer with their lawyer. It was after this conference when Trillanes confronted San Juan about the latter’s intention to recant his not-guilty plea.
Court insiders said they overheard Trillanes reminding San Juan not to implicate any of the accused when he pushes through with his plan.
“You should do it on your own,” Trillanes allegedly told San Juan in Filipino.
“Yes, I’m going solo with it,” responded San Juan. He then hit Trillanes by saying, “Is that how a Senator behaves?” apparently referring to the latter’s temperamental character./DMS
March 6, 2007
Army 1Lt. Lawrence San Juan, one of the military officers charged of coup d’ etat before the Makati City Regional Trial Court (RTC), intends to change his not-guilty pleading to guilty for the lesser offense of conspiracy to commit the said crime.
During Tuesday’s hearing at the sala of Judge Oscar Pimentel at Makati RTC Branch 148, San Juan’s lawyer, Paulo Primavera, said in open court that the “accused strongly communicated his desire” to avail of a plea-bargaining agreement with the court.
The disclosure came several months after San Juan apologized to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) leadership and renewed his allegiance to the organization following his recapture on February 21, 2006. San Juan bolted from jail at the Philippine Army headquarters in Taguig City earlier on January 17 of the same year.
But the lawyers of the 30 other accused said they will object to San Juan’s request to enter into a plea-bargaining agreement, saying it is “out of time,” therefore, “highly irregular.”
“The request to file a motion for plea-bargaining agreement is supposed to happen before the formal offer of evidence by the prosecution,” said Reynaldo Robles, lawyer for accused resigned Navy Lt. Sr. Grade Antonio Trillanes IV (now a senatorial candidate under the Genuine Opposition ticket).
Conspiracy to commit coup carries a penalty of six-to-12-years imprisonment, while coup d’ etat is penalized with reclusion perpetua.
Saying he has “no problem” with San Juan’s intention, Pimentel told Primavera to put their manifestation in writing. The other defense lawyers shall then have 15 days to comment on that motion.
Asked if San Juan’s intention will eventually make him a “state witness,” Robles said: “It’s not feasible for him to become a state witness because the prosecution already rested its case.”
“The rule is that the testimony of the accused should not affect the other co-accused,” he added.
The prosecution rested its case late last year, presenting a total of 23 witnesses, including retired AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Efren Abu, the commander of the Philippine Army then and of the AFP’s Joint Task Force Libra at that time when some 300 junior officers and soldiers seized Oakwood Hotel on Ayala Avenue, Makati City. The said Task Force was tasked then to secure the seat of government in times of contingency, particularly for the forthcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA) then of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
Yesterday’s hearing was supposed to be the start of the defense’ presentation of evidence. This, however, did not happen.
Robles and the other defense lawyers, instead, told Pimentel that they are joining the motion filed by defense lawyer Theodore Te to demurrer to evidence.
“This is equivalent to motion to dismiss in criminal cases. It means the evidence presented was not enough to get a conviction,” Robles explained.
Robles maintained that no one among the prosecution witnesses testified about the presence of violence during the Oakwood takeover, an element of coup d’ etat as defined by the books.
Pimentel set the next hearing date on May 8th, six days before the midterm elections.
Aside from San Juan and Trillanes, 25 other accused were present during yesterday’s hearing. Four others were absent.
Earlier during the start of the hearing, Army Capt. John Andres was formally arraigned by the court and pleaded not guilty to the crime of coup d’ etat.
It was the first time Andres attended the trial since it began more than three years ago due to his medical condition.
After receipt of the AFP’s surgeon general’s medical report that Andres is already “mentally fit to start trial,” Pimentel ordered his court interpreter to read the charges against Andres and get his pleading.
The trial began 9:20 am and adjourned 10:15 am.
Before leaving the court, the accused were given 10 minutes to confer with their lawyer. It was after this conference when Trillanes confronted San Juan about the latter’s intention to recant his not-guilty plea.
Court insiders said they overheard Trillanes reminding San Juan not to implicate any of the accused when he pushes through with his plan.
“You should do it on your own,” Trillanes allegedly told San Juan in Filipino.
“Yes, I’m going solo with it,” responded San Juan. He then hit Trillanes by saying, “Is that how a Senator behaves?” apparently referring to the latter’s temperamental character./DMS
Tuesday, March 6, 2007
17-year-old Fil-Jap held by alleged cop over wheelchair
By Ronron
March 5, 2007
A 17-year-old Filipino-Japanese man on Monday was held for almost two hours by a person who claimed to be a policeman over a wheel chair the latter was trying to buy from the former at a medical supplies shop in Manila City.
Police identified the victim as Shinje Kawakami, 17, a helper at Life Scan Medical Supply store located on Rizal Avenue, Sta. Cruz.
Police said a certain SPO4 Ogie Villanueva, allegedly of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), wanted to buy a P2,800-worth wheel chair from Kawakami but was short of P1,300.00.
When Kawakami refused to sell the wheel chair to Villanueva for P1,500.00, the latter allegedly got mad and brought out his gun, apparently to threaten the shop employees.
Villanueva then held Kawakami and the wheel chair, and told the other employees that he will bring Kawakami back to the shop once he secures the payment balance. They left aboard a Toyota Lite Ace before shortly before 10am.
Kawakami later told police that Villanueva took him to a subdivision in Parañaque City where the payment was made. He claimed that Villanueva also gave him snacks before he was sent off back to the shop.
Kawakami told police he was back to the shop “unharmed” at around 12:30 noon.
“In view of the foregoing, (may I) request the lifting of the alarm RE-ALLEGED ABDUCTION, while the complaint against the suspect will depend on the owner of the Life Scan Medical Supply who is now in NCRPO to ascertain the identity of the suspect,” said Supt. Rommel Cabagnot of the Manila Police District (MPD) Station 3 in his report./DMS
March 5, 2007
A 17-year-old Filipino-Japanese man on Monday was held for almost two hours by a person who claimed to be a policeman over a wheel chair the latter was trying to buy from the former at a medical supplies shop in Manila City.
Police identified the victim as Shinje Kawakami, 17, a helper at Life Scan Medical Supply store located on Rizal Avenue, Sta. Cruz.
Police said a certain SPO4 Ogie Villanueva, allegedly of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), wanted to buy a P2,800-worth wheel chair from Kawakami but was short of P1,300.00.
When Kawakami refused to sell the wheel chair to Villanueva for P1,500.00, the latter allegedly got mad and brought out his gun, apparently to threaten the shop employees.
Villanueva then held Kawakami and the wheel chair, and told the other employees that he will bring Kawakami back to the shop once he secures the payment balance. They left aboard a Toyota Lite Ace before shortly before 10am.
Kawakami later told police that Villanueva took him to a subdivision in Parañaque City where the payment was made. He claimed that Villanueva also gave him snacks before he was sent off back to the shop.
Kawakami told police he was back to the shop “unharmed” at around 12:30 noon.
“In view of the foregoing, (may I) request the lifting of the alarm RE-ALLEGED ABDUCTION, while the complaint against the suspect will depend on the owner of the Life Scan Medical Supply who is now in NCRPO to ascertain the identity of the suspect,” said Supt. Rommel Cabagnot of the Manila Police District (MPD) Station 3 in his report./DMS
Soldiers in MM to remain despite criticisms
By Ronron
March 5, 2007
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Monday that it will retain its soldiers in Metro Manila who were earlier deployed since November of last year to conduct civil-military operations.
“The deployment will stay. As of now, there is no order for a pull-out,” AFP spokesman Maj. Gen. Jose Angel Honrado said yesterday in a phone interview.
Honrado reiterated the explanation of Maj. Gen. Mohammad Ben Dolorfino, commander of the AFP National Capital Region Command (NCRCom), last Saturday that the deployment is not related to the upcoming elections, particularly to launch campaigns against Left-leaning party-list groups like Gabriela.
“We maintain that it’s not election-related. Stop connecting it to the elections,” Honrado said.
Dolorfino had said that the deployment of 26 teams (of 10 members each) of civil-military operatives to urban poor and Moslem areas in Caloocan City, Quezon City, Manila City and Taguig City is meant at helping the local communities solve peace and order problems.
He admitted it is part of the AFP’s anti-insurgency campaign as it seeks to address the problems of the communities at their level to avoid them from being exploited by Left-leaning groups that are used to bringing the issues to the streets.
Dolorfino said that upon receipt of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) letter last Saturday, he immediately ordered the conduct of an investigation to find out if the soldiers deployed in MM are engaged in partisan politics by campaigning against the Left-leaning groups.
Gabriela had complained against the AFP at the Comelec for allegedly telling people not to vote for the group this coming May 14./DMS
March 5, 2007
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Monday that it will retain its soldiers in Metro Manila who were earlier deployed since November of last year to conduct civil-military operations.
“The deployment will stay. As of now, there is no order for a pull-out,” AFP spokesman Maj. Gen. Jose Angel Honrado said yesterday in a phone interview.
Honrado reiterated the explanation of Maj. Gen. Mohammad Ben Dolorfino, commander of the AFP National Capital Region Command (NCRCom), last Saturday that the deployment is not related to the upcoming elections, particularly to launch campaigns against Left-leaning party-list groups like Gabriela.
“We maintain that it’s not election-related. Stop connecting it to the elections,” Honrado said.
Dolorfino had said that the deployment of 26 teams (of 10 members each) of civil-military operatives to urban poor and Moslem areas in Caloocan City, Quezon City, Manila City and Taguig City is meant at helping the local communities solve peace and order problems.
He admitted it is part of the AFP’s anti-insurgency campaign as it seeks to address the problems of the communities at their level to avoid them from being exploited by Left-leaning groups that are used to bringing the issues to the streets.
Dolorfino said that upon receipt of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) letter last Saturday, he immediately ordered the conduct of an investigation to find out if the soldiers deployed in MM are engaged in partisan politics by campaigning against the Left-leaning groups.
Gabriela had complained against the AFP at the Comelec for allegedly telling people not to vote for the group this coming May 14./DMS
AFP challenges NPA anew to deny links with Bayan Muna
By Ronron
March 5, 2007
A Philippine military spokesman challenged the New People’s Army (NPA) anew on Monday to deny its links with the party-list group Bayan Muna following the recovery of the latter’s campaign materials from suspected rebels whom government troops clashed with last February 28 in a mountainous village in Davao City.
Maj. Ernesto Torres, Jr., public information officer of the Philippine Army, said several campaign materials of different sorts were retrieved by elements of the Philippine Army’s 73rd Infantry Battalion Wednesday last week after it engaged an undetermined number of guerillas in a firefight in Barangay Eden, Toril District.
The clash resulted in the death of three suspected NPA members and the wounding of two government soldiers, Torres said.
“Following the report, we challenge the NPA leadership to prove that they are in no way associated with any political group that is running for election in the upcoming May election,” Torres said.
Recovered from the clash site were posters, calendars, leaflets, and stickers of Bayan Muna, some of which bore the pictures of Bayan Muna Representatives Satur Ocampo, Joel Virador, and Teodoro Casino. Torres said each type had about 50 pieces.
Aside from the said “campaign materials,” the Army fighters, under the command of 2Lt. Ulysses Mendoza, also recovered 52 rounds of ammunition for M60 (General Purpose Machine Gun), two improvised landmines, medical paraphernalia, and other personal belongings and documents.
The wounded soldiers were identified by Torres as Staff Sergeant Conrado Nequiaz and militiaman Gary Lopez, a rebel returnee.
The 7,100-strong NPA has been waging guerilla warfare in the countryside for almost two decades now. It bowed out of the peace negotiations with government in August 2004 after it was tagged as a terrorist group by the US and European Union governments.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has long alleged that Bayan Muna and other Left-leaning party-list groups like Gabriela and Anakpawis are the legal front organizations of the communist movement and have been channeling funds to the NPA.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has ordered the AFP to crush the insurgency movement by 2010 when she ends her term./DMS
March 5, 2007
A Philippine military spokesman challenged the New People’s Army (NPA) anew on Monday to deny its links with the party-list group Bayan Muna following the recovery of the latter’s campaign materials from suspected rebels whom government troops clashed with last February 28 in a mountainous village in Davao City.
Maj. Ernesto Torres, Jr., public information officer of the Philippine Army, said several campaign materials of different sorts were retrieved by elements of the Philippine Army’s 73rd Infantry Battalion Wednesday last week after it engaged an undetermined number of guerillas in a firefight in Barangay Eden, Toril District.
The clash resulted in the death of three suspected NPA members and the wounding of two government soldiers, Torres said.
“Following the report, we challenge the NPA leadership to prove that they are in no way associated with any political group that is running for election in the upcoming May election,” Torres said.
Recovered from the clash site were posters, calendars, leaflets, and stickers of Bayan Muna, some of which bore the pictures of Bayan Muna Representatives Satur Ocampo, Joel Virador, and Teodoro Casino. Torres said each type had about 50 pieces.
Aside from the said “campaign materials,” the Army fighters, under the command of 2Lt. Ulysses Mendoza, also recovered 52 rounds of ammunition for M60 (General Purpose Machine Gun), two improvised landmines, medical paraphernalia, and other personal belongings and documents.
The wounded soldiers were identified by Torres as Staff Sergeant Conrado Nequiaz and militiaman Gary Lopez, a rebel returnee.
The 7,100-strong NPA has been waging guerilla warfare in the countryside for almost two decades now. It bowed out of the peace negotiations with government in August 2004 after it was tagged as a terrorist group by the US and European Union governments.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has long alleged that Bayan Muna and other Left-leaning party-list groups like Gabriela and Anakpawis are the legal front organizations of the communist movement and have been channeling funds to the NPA.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has ordered the AFP to crush the insurgency movement by 2010 when she ends her term./DMS
Sunday, March 4, 2007
Arroyo assures of a “clean and peaceful elections” as she woes businessmen to continue betting in the country
By Ronron
March 3, 2007
Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo assured the business community on Saturday of a “clean and peaceful elections” this May as she pleaded them to continue betting in the country.
In a statement, Arroyo said the Filipino will make this happen, “as sure as the sun rises.”
“We are a nation that cherishes democracy and freedom as deeply as we cherish enterprise and competition. Investors should go for the gold in the midst of the Philippine bull run,” Arroyo said.
She boasted that “the strength of the Philippine economy goes beyond transient political events like the forthcoming May elections.”
According to her, the fundamentals of growth, namely, “a sturdy fiscal house, a solid program of good governance, a robust social payback to the people, mounting gains in the security front, and a democratic system in full bloom,” have already been laid.
“The business community is on the right track by placing their bets on this nation and government, the excellence of the Filipino and the spirit of enterprise that lives in our society,” she said.
At the same time, her spokesman, Secretary Ignacio Bunye, expressed appreciation to the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) for sponsoring the debate on March 14 of the senatorial candidates of the Genuine Opposition and Team UNITY of the administration.
“We appreciate the civic-minded move of the country’s leading business groups to sponsor and host the debate between Team Unity and the opposition. We support all efforts to gather the nation around an enlightened, sober and informative discussion of the issues in the campaign,” Bunye said in a separate statement.
He said that through the debate, the electorate will have the opportunity to “scrutinize the political, social and economic creed of each candidate” and find out how prepared each one is to put it forward.
“Let both camps prepare their argument in a way that will clearly reflect their respective platforms and programs of implementation… The people demand an accounting of statesmanship, service and nation-building,” Bunye said.
“We are in the era of performance politics, no longer in the song-and-dance stage… Let the political noise abate and reasoned debate commence,” he added.
Both tickets of the administration and opposition have earlier expressed willingness to participate in a debate./DMS
March 3, 2007
Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo assured the business community on Saturday of a “clean and peaceful elections” this May as she pleaded them to continue betting in the country.
In a statement, Arroyo said the Filipino will make this happen, “as sure as the sun rises.”
“We are a nation that cherishes democracy and freedom as deeply as we cherish enterprise and competition. Investors should go for the gold in the midst of the Philippine bull run,” Arroyo said.
She boasted that “the strength of the Philippine economy goes beyond transient political events like the forthcoming May elections.”
According to her, the fundamentals of growth, namely, “a sturdy fiscal house, a solid program of good governance, a robust social payback to the people, mounting gains in the security front, and a democratic system in full bloom,” have already been laid.
“The business community is on the right track by placing their bets on this nation and government, the excellence of the Filipino and the spirit of enterprise that lives in our society,” she said.
At the same time, her spokesman, Secretary Ignacio Bunye, expressed appreciation to the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) for sponsoring the debate on March 14 of the senatorial candidates of the Genuine Opposition and Team UNITY of the administration.
“We appreciate the civic-minded move of the country’s leading business groups to sponsor and host the debate between Team Unity and the opposition. We support all efforts to gather the nation around an enlightened, sober and informative discussion of the issues in the campaign,” Bunye said in a separate statement.
He said that through the debate, the electorate will have the opportunity to “scrutinize the political, social and economic creed of each candidate” and find out how prepared each one is to put it forward.
“Let both camps prepare their argument in a way that will clearly reflect their respective platforms and programs of implementation… The people demand an accounting of statesmanship, service and nation-building,” Bunye said.
“We are in the era of performance politics, no longer in the song-and-dance stage… Let the political noise abate and reasoned debate commence,” he added.
Both tickets of the administration and opposition have earlier expressed willingness to participate in a debate./DMS
AFP admits deploying troops in MM, but not for electioneering purposes, rather to help in peace and order problem
By Ronron
March 3, 2007
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Saturday that it has deployed troops in Metro Manila since November of last year, not for electioneering purposes, but to help the local communities solve their peace and order problems.
The admission of AFP National Capital Region Command (NCRCom) chief Maj. Gen. Mohammad Ben Dolorfino came a day after the Commission on Elections (Comelec) asked him to investigate the allegations raised by Gabriela that soldiers are campaigning for people not to vote Left-leaning party-list groups come election day on May 14th.
“We admit that, even before the election period, we have military personnel in some problematic communities as early as November last year. And this is part of the novel approach that we are trying to introduce in the National Capital Region out of the belief that we want lasting peace and development, it should be community-based, rather than trying to impose peace through military force,” Dolorfino told reporters in a press briefing at the NCRCom headquarters at Camp Aguinaldo yesterday afternoon.
“We have a clear standing order from our higher headquarters that we should not involve ourselves in partisan politics. That is very clear to our men, they know that,” added Col. Ricardo Visaya, commander of the NCRCom Civil Military Operations (CMO) Battalion from where the deployed soldiers come.
In the same briefing, Visaya disclosed that 26 teams, each with about 10 members, were “immersed” in the urban poor and Moslem-dominated communities in the cities of Caloocan, Quezon, Taguig, and Manila (particularly in Sta. Mesa, Tondo, and Binondo) for said purpose.
He said the troops are being hosted by local officials, wear their uniform when they go about their daily duties, and bring as well their firearms – either long or short.
If they are not engaged in dialogues, the government troops are doing community services like participating in demolition of squatters’ shanties, said Visaya.
“It is a non-combatant unit. It is trained in non-military approaches. So our fellow countrymen should not worry or be afraid of them… We believe that there are so many problems in the communities and if we neglect these problems, later on, these will become peace and order problems,” explained Dolorfino.
Calling the approach as “peaceful, total, and proactive,” Dolorfino disclosed it was the military organization that volunteered their services to the local government units, in coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP), which is primarily in charge of the anti-criminality and peace and order campaign in the communities, especially in urban areas.
Pressed if the move is part of the AFP’s anti-insurgency campaign, Dolorfino answered in the affirmative, saying that the simple, local problems, when not addressed, may be exploited by militant groups and use it to fuel mass actions against the government.
“In the process of doing this, we are trying to eliminate the culture of rebelling against the government, fighting the government, resorting to parliament of the street to air our grievances… The intent of our community engagement is to turn the communities into peace-loving communities, law-abiding communities, productive communities, and eventually, supportive of the government. We should not destroy our own house, which is our country,” Dolorfino said.
While he has yet to receive confirmed reports of the deployed soldiers campaigning against Left-leaning organizations or candidates in the upcoming elections, Dolorfino said he immediately ordered upon receipt yesterday of Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos’ letter for an investigation on the matter.
“We will not hide anything. With clearance from our higher headquarters, we can make the result of this investigation public once we have completed (it),” he said.
But Dolorfino assured they are not after any personalities in their CMO activities in the Philippine capital, rather they are after the problems in small societies.
The official has yet to determine until when will the troops live with the communities. But one this is for sure. “Until such time that we see we have addressed the problems, the soldiers will continue to be immersed,” Visaya said.
The Defense department signed last October 12, 2006 a Memorandum of Agreement with Comelec, limiting the role of the AFP in the upcoming elections to avoid being dragged into electoral fraud allegations similar to what was reported in the May 2004 polls.
Consistent with this, the AFP leadership repeatedly reminded its men not to engage in partisan politics, other than voting on the election day./DMS
Sison defends socializing with Filipino entertainers, says rebels are happy
By Ronron
March 3, 2007
Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Founding Chairman Jose Maria Sison promptly defended on Saturday his partying last December with Filipino entertainers and migrant workers in The Netherlands where he is on exile.
In a statement posted on his website www.josemariasison.org, Sison said the Christmas party that he attended where the photographs were taken was “the biggest festivity of the Filipino community in The Netherlands,” in which he was invited as a special guest.
“It was perfectly alright for me to have kodakan (picture-taking), yugyugan (dancing), and kantahan (singing) with the Filipina movie and and singing star Ara Mina, Janno Gibbs and migrant workers during a Christmas Party… Members of the negotiating panel of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) headed by chairperson Luis Jalandoni and the Philippine embassy officials headed by Ambassador Romeo Arguelles were there to mix with the Filipino community,” Sison said.
He said his presence at the event does not mean he is already living a very comfortable life in Europe. “I am prohibited from working for a wage and yet my social benefits have been terminated due to the “terrorist” listing started and pushed by the US government upon the special request of the Arroyo regime,” said Sison.
He said the event was not even extravagant, “nothing compared to the wild parties thrown by the sybaritic officials of the Arroyo regime and its Armed Forces.”
The communist leader also belied Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Public Information Officer Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro’s allegation that ordinary New People’s Army (NPA) rebels are “rotting” in Philippine mountains as they continue their revolutionary struggle, while he is enjoying life in exile.
“I think that the people should also visit everyday the website www.philippinerevolution.net to know the happy and creative political, economicc, social and cultural life and the heroic and successful revolutionary struggles of the people and the revolutionary forces like the (CPP), the NPA, the NDFP, the mass organizations and organs of democratic power,” Sison said.
Sison said instead of bringing the public’s attention to him, the AFP should just do its job if indeed it is concerned about the plight of the Filipino people.
“The reactionary Armed Forces should stop the extrajudicial killing, abduction and torture of so many people and the massive military operations, attacking the rural and urban communities in the Philippines and displacing hundreds of thousands of people from their homes and farms,” he said.
“The Arroyo regime should stop its puppetry to US imperialism, its corruption, its plundering and its brutality in using the reactionary Armed Forces, police and death squads against the broad masses of the people, and the progressive legal activists and critics,” he added.
On Friday, Bacarro said he chanced upon the website of Sison bearing the latter’s photos with Filipino actress Ara Mina, and singer Janno Gibbs. Another photo of him dancing was also taken during a Valentine’s Day party this year.
Bacarro said the photos shows how insensitive Sison is as a leader to ordinary NPA rebels who are suffering the Philippine mountains as they evade government troops./DMS
March 3, 2007
Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Founding Chairman Jose Maria Sison promptly defended on Saturday his partying last December with Filipino entertainers and migrant workers in The Netherlands where he is on exile.
In a statement posted on his website www.josemariasison.org, Sison said the Christmas party that he attended where the photographs were taken was “the biggest festivity of the Filipino community in The Netherlands,” in which he was invited as a special guest.
“It was perfectly alright for me to have kodakan (picture-taking), yugyugan (dancing), and kantahan (singing) with the Filipina movie and and singing star Ara Mina, Janno Gibbs and migrant workers during a Christmas Party… Members of the negotiating panel of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) headed by chairperson Luis Jalandoni and the Philippine embassy officials headed by Ambassador Romeo Arguelles were there to mix with the Filipino community,” Sison said.
He said his presence at the event does not mean he is already living a very comfortable life in Europe. “I am prohibited from working for a wage and yet my social benefits have been terminated due to the “terrorist” listing started and pushed by the US government upon the special request of the Arroyo regime,” said Sison.
He said the event was not even extravagant, “nothing compared to the wild parties thrown by the sybaritic officials of the Arroyo regime and its Armed Forces.”
The communist leader also belied Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Public Information Officer Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro’s allegation that ordinary New People’s Army (NPA) rebels are “rotting” in Philippine mountains as they continue their revolutionary struggle, while he is enjoying life in exile.
“I think that the people should also visit everyday the website www.philippinerevolution.net to know the happy and creative political, economicc, social and cultural life and the heroic and successful revolutionary struggles of the people and the revolutionary forces like the (CPP), the NPA, the NDFP, the mass organizations and organs of democratic power,” Sison said.
Sison said instead of bringing the public’s attention to him, the AFP should just do its job if indeed it is concerned about the plight of the Filipino people.
“The reactionary Armed Forces should stop the extrajudicial killing, abduction and torture of so many people and the massive military operations, attacking the rural and urban communities in the Philippines and displacing hundreds of thousands of people from their homes and farms,” he said.
“The Arroyo regime should stop its puppetry to US imperialism, its corruption, its plundering and its brutality in using the reactionary Armed Forces, police and death squads against the broad masses of the people, and the progressive legal activists and critics,” he added.
On Friday, Bacarro said he chanced upon the website of Sison bearing the latter’s photos with Filipino actress Ara Mina, and singer Janno Gibbs. Another photo of him dancing was also taken during a Valentine’s Day party this year.
Bacarro said the photos shows how insensitive Sison is as a leader to ordinary NPA rebels who are suffering the Philippine mountains as they evade government troops./DMS
Saturday, March 3, 2007
12 killed, four injured in fighting between AFP and NPA in Bukidnon
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
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
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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