By Ronron
October 8, 2007
Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Ronaldo Puno expressed confidence on Monday that the new impeachment complaint against President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo will not prosper.
As the political adviser of Arroyo, Puno said the opposition are only very few in the Lower House, thereby shunning an opportunity for them to push the impeachment complaint lodged last Friday by Atty. Ruel Pulido, a former lawyer of the Magdalo soldiers.
“I think that any kind of impeachment action will not prosper. It’s a numbers game, and there are only 30 members of the opposition in the House so it’s a wishful thinking that they can break up the administration,” Puno said in a news conference at Camp Crame yesterday.
Pulido filed the complaint against Arroyo based on the alleged irregularities hounding the proposed National Broadband Network (NBN) project.
Without citing the merits of the case, Puno said the fresh complaint against Arroyo “will die a natural death.”
“I think this attempt of the opposition to try to impeach is a non-starter. It will not get anywhere,” he said.
Puno, a former Congressman of Antipolo City in Rizal, suggested that the members of Congress should just instead focus on “legislating,” citing the need to review many laws.
Asked if the complaint may spark unrest in the streets, Puno said: “I think the people are already fed up with rallies already so I doubt if there will be any.”
Meanwhile, Puno denied reports that Laguna Representative Edgar San Luis has links with Arroyo’s Kabalikat ng Malayang Pilipino (KAMPI) political party, which Puno chairs.
It was San Luis who endorsed Pulido’s impeachment complaint.
“He has never been and is not a member of KAMPI,” Puno said of San Luis./DMS
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Police notes almost zero crime rate in RP during Pacquiao fight
By Ronron
October 8, 2007
The Philippine National Police (PNP) claimed on Monday that there was a zero crime rate during the actual time that Filipino boxing champ Manny Pacquiao was fighting against Marco Antonio Barrera last Sunday (Manila time) at a boxing ring in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Police officials said crimes only happened before and after the 12-round bout of Pacquiao and Barrera, which the former won by a unanimous decision of three judges.
“There was none. This is what usually happens because we are expecting our countrymen to be glued to their TV monitors for the Pacquiao fight,” PNP Deputy Chief for Operations Deputy Director General Reynaldo Varilla told Camp Crame reporters yesterday when asked if any crime was reported during Pacquiao’s boxing match with Barrera.
Varilla said the zero-crime rate was noted from 11 am to 1pm.
Specifically, in Metro Manila, no crime was reported from 8am to 3pm, said National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Director Geary Barias.
“This was expected just like in the previous fights of Pacquiao,” Barias said in a separate news conference, adding that even traffic was reduced by 75 percent.
Officials said only at least six crime incidents were reported before 11am and after 1pm all over the country, much fewer compared to during regular days.
The incidents include a reported abduction in Bataan, a raid by the New People’s Army (NPA) in Compostela Valley, two unspecified incidents in Region VII, and two stabbing incidents in Metro Manila.
“We can only hope that Pacquiao will have a fight every day so there will be no crime incidents,” Varilla said./DMS
October 8, 2007
The Philippine National Police (PNP) claimed on Monday that there was a zero crime rate during the actual time that Filipino boxing champ Manny Pacquiao was fighting against Marco Antonio Barrera last Sunday (Manila time) at a boxing ring in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Police officials said crimes only happened before and after the 12-round bout of Pacquiao and Barrera, which the former won by a unanimous decision of three judges.
“There was none. This is what usually happens because we are expecting our countrymen to be glued to their TV monitors for the Pacquiao fight,” PNP Deputy Chief for Operations Deputy Director General Reynaldo Varilla told Camp Crame reporters yesterday when asked if any crime was reported during Pacquiao’s boxing match with Barrera.
Varilla said the zero-crime rate was noted from 11 am to 1pm.
Specifically, in Metro Manila, no crime was reported from 8am to 3pm, said National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Director Geary Barias.
“This was expected just like in the previous fights of Pacquiao,” Barias said in a separate news conference, adding that even traffic was reduced by 75 percent.
Officials said only at least six crime incidents were reported before 11am and after 1pm all over the country, much fewer compared to during regular days.
The incidents include a reported abduction in Bataan, a raid by the New People’s Army (NPA) in Compostela Valley, two unspecified incidents in Region VII, and two stabbing incidents in Metro Manila.
“We can only hope that Pacquiao will have a fight every day so there will be no crime incidents,” Varilla said./DMS
RP cops assured of medical services from 38 DOH hospitals all over the country
By Ronron
October 8, 2007
Philippine cops may now avail of the services of 38 tertiary hospitals of the Department of Health (DOH) nationwide following the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Monday morning between the DOH, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Philippine National Police (PNP).
According to PNP chief Gen. Avelino Razon, Jr., the policemen need not worry also of their medical expenses at these hospitals because the MOA provides that funding for these from the PNP will be channeled directly to the hospitals, through the DOH.
“This signing of memorandum of agreement is our prerequisite to achieve a long-term and lasting accessibility of health services in the PNP being implemented in line with the PNP Integrated Transformation Program that aims to resolve organizational dysfunctions and improve quality of police services and strengthen law enforcement capabilities,” Razon said.
Asigned from Razon, signatories to the MOA were DILG Secretary Ronaldo Puno, and DOH Undersecretary Margarita Galon.
Razon disclosed that currently, the PNP only has one tertiary hospital where its personnel can avail of free services. It is the PNP General Hospital inside Camp Crame, Quezon City while the rest go to 16 dispensaries spread all over the country.
But following the MOA signing, the PNP chief said ill cops from the provinces, especially from the south, need not fly to Metro Manila to avail of free hospitalization at the PNP General Hospital.
This will also lessen the patients at the PNP General Hospital, which has only 300 beds. The PNP has an estimated strength of 120,000.
Razon said the PNP currently has a 200-million peso budget for medical services for its personnel, and they intend to increase it in the coming years so as to address not just the hospital expenses of ill personnel but also to upgrade its hospital and dispensary equipment and facilities.
Razon said the health service program, dubbed as Pulis Health Mo Okay, covers all types of illnesses of policemen, even those that are not immediately known as work-related.
Based on statistics, the most common illnesses of policemen are hypertension and other cardio-vascular disorders, and kidney problems, Razon said./DMS
October 8, 2007
Philippine cops may now avail of the services of 38 tertiary hospitals of the Department of Health (DOH) nationwide following the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Monday morning between the DOH, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Philippine National Police (PNP).
According to PNP chief Gen. Avelino Razon, Jr., the policemen need not worry also of their medical expenses at these hospitals because the MOA provides that funding for these from the PNP will be channeled directly to the hospitals, through the DOH.
“This signing of memorandum of agreement is our prerequisite to achieve a long-term and lasting accessibility of health services in the PNP being implemented in line with the PNP Integrated Transformation Program that aims to resolve organizational dysfunctions and improve quality of police services and strengthen law enforcement capabilities,” Razon said.
Asigned from Razon, signatories to the MOA were DILG Secretary Ronaldo Puno, and DOH Undersecretary Margarita Galon.
Razon disclosed that currently, the PNP only has one tertiary hospital where its personnel can avail of free services. It is the PNP General Hospital inside Camp Crame, Quezon City while the rest go to 16 dispensaries spread all over the country.
But following the MOA signing, the PNP chief said ill cops from the provinces, especially from the south, need not fly to Metro Manila to avail of free hospitalization at the PNP General Hospital.
This will also lessen the patients at the PNP General Hospital, which has only 300 beds. The PNP has an estimated strength of 120,000.
Razon said the PNP currently has a 200-million peso budget for medical services for its personnel, and they intend to increase it in the coming years so as to address not just the hospital expenses of ill personnel but also to upgrade its hospital and dispensary equipment and facilities.
Razon said the health service program, dubbed as Pulis Health Mo Okay, covers all types of illnesses of policemen, even those that are not immediately known as work-related.
Based on statistics, the most common illnesses of policemen are hypertension and other cardio-vascular disorders, and kidney problems, Razon said./DMS
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Police finds more weight on terrorism as against extortion as motive of Kidapawan City blasts
By Ronron
October 6, 2007
Local police investigators and the military consider terrorism to be a more probable motive behind the twin explosions on Friday night in Kidapawan City, North Cotabato that killed a child and wounded 32 others, compared to extortion.
According to Kidapawan City Police investigator PO1 Conrado Abalos, Jr., establishments near the blast sites have denied receiving any extortion demand from certain groups, such as the Al-Khobar Group, prior to the incident that happened at around 7pm the other day.
The establishments include the Sugni Superstore, the Share Marketing (an appliance shop), and the Imperial Plaza Appliance Center, all located along Quezon Boulevard at the city proper.
“We could not say it (motive of explosions) is extortion because there are no threats or demand letters prior to the incident. It was just set off at a crowded place so there was no clear target or motive. And that’s a character of terrorism,” Abalos said in Filipino a phone interview Saturday.
“It could be perpetrated by local contacts of the Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) and the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) based on the city’s history. Basically, it’s a job of terrorists who are the only perpetrators of bombings,” added Army 6th Infantry Division spokesman Lt. Col. Julieto Ando.
Abalos said bomb experts both from the police and the Army have recovered parts of a 60 mm mortar from the blast sites, located 50 meters apart from each other. He said it is suspected that the explosive devices were triggered by a mobile phone.
Each of the devices were placed inside a plastic bag, and blew off five minutes apart, he said.
Asked if it could be perpetrated by the JI, the Southeast Asian cell of Osama Bin Laden’s Al Qaeda network that has already penetrated the Philippines, Abalos said: “That is the subject of the investigation, although for the past three years since I was assigned here, there are no confirmed first-hand handiworks of the JI.”
Abalos disclosed that a man who was initially suspected to have been the one seen leaving the explosives was held by police, but turned out to be innocent.
He said that after questioning the man overnight, he was released at around 7am yesterday after finding out he was seen running away to avoid getting hurt.
Police identified the killed victim as Ana Mae Losada, 10, a resident of said city, who was reportedly accompanying her mother sell fruits near the Sugni Superstore.
The wounded victims, on the other hand, were brought to the Kidapawan Medical Specialist Center, the Kidapawan Doctor’s Hospital, Inc., the Kidapawan City Health Hospital, and the Madonna General Hospital, Inc. for medical treatment.
Among the injured are at least nine minors, the youngest of whom is a three-year-old girl. The oldest among the wounded, on the other hand, is a 54-year-old woman.
Aside from inflicting casualties, Abalos said the explosions also damaged six vehicles parked near the blast sites.
Abalos said the city police immediately raised its alert to full status after the incident./DMS
October 6, 2007
Local police investigators and the military consider terrorism to be a more probable motive behind the twin explosions on Friday night in Kidapawan City, North Cotabato that killed a child and wounded 32 others, compared to extortion.
According to Kidapawan City Police investigator PO1 Conrado Abalos, Jr., establishments near the blast sites have denied receiving any extortion demand from certain groups, such as the Al-Khobar Group, prior to the incident that happened at around 7pm the other day.
The establishments include the Sugni Superstore, the Share Marketing (an appliance shop), and the Imperial Plaza Appliance Center, all located along Quezon Boulevard at the city proper.
“We could not say it (motive of explosions) is extortion because there are no threats or demand letters prior to the incident. It was just set off at a crowded place so there was no clear target or motive. And that’s a character of terrorism,” Abalos said in Filipino a phone interview Saturday.
“It could be perpetrated by local contacts of the Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) and the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) based on the city’s history. Basically, it’s a job of terrorists who are the only perpetrators of bombings,” added Army 6th Infantry Division spokesman Lt. Col. Julieto Ando.
Abalos said bomb experts both from the police and the Army have recovered parts of a 60 mm mortar from the blast sites, located 50 meters apart from each other. He said it is suspected that the explosive devices were triggered by a mobile phone.
Each of the devices were placed inside a plastic bag, and blew off five minutes apart, he said.
Asked if it could be perpetrated by the JI, the Southeast Asian cell of Osama Bin Laden’s Al Qaeda network that has already penetrated the Philippines, Abalos said: “That is the subject of the investigation, although for the past three years since I was assigned here, there are no confirmed first-hand handiworks of the JI.”
Abalos disclosed that a man who was initially suspected to have been the one seen leaving the explosives was held by police, but turned out to be innocent.
He said that after questioning the man overnight, he was released at around 7am yesterday after finding out he was seen running away to avoid getting hurt.
Police identified the killed victim as Ana Mae Losada, 10, a resident of said city, who was reportedly accompanying her mother sell fruits near the Sugni Superstore.
The wounded victims, on the other hand, were brought to the Kidapawan Medical Specialist Center, the Kidapawan Doctor’s Hospital, Inc., the Kidapawan City Health Hospital, and the Madonna General Hospital, Inc. for medical treatment.
Among the injured are at least nine minors, the youngest of whom is a three-year-old girl. The oldest among the wounded, on the other hand, is a 54-year-old woman.
Aside from inflicting casualties, Abalos said the explosions also damaged six vehicles parked near the blast sites.
Abalos said the city police immediately raised its alert to full status after the incident./DMS
Japanese found dead in Cebu after scuba diving
By Ronron
October 6, 2007
A 47-year-old Japanese national was believed to have drowned to death while scuba diving in the central Philippine province of Cebu last Thursday, police said Saturday.
The victim was identified as Kimura Atsuo, 47, of 1-3-17 Tamagawa, Ota-ku, Tokyo, and temporarily residing in Guadalupe, Cebu City. Police said Atsuo is a tourist in the country.
Police said Atsuo went on scuba diving last Thursday afternoon in Barangay Datag, Maribago, Lapu-lapu City with a fellow Japanese, identified as Hideaki Yajima, and a Filipino assistant diving instructor, identified as Julian Lantafe.
They reportedly started their activity at 1:45 pm at the Kontiki Beach Resort.
But, according to Lantafe, Atsuo did not heed to his reminder while they were already some 60 to 80 meters deep not to go down further.
Lantafe told police that he and Yajima were forced to leave Atsuo underwater.
At around 2:30pm, Atsuo’s body surfaced and was spotted by personnel from another diving shop, who later turned it over to the Kontiki Beach Resort.
Police said responding personnel from the Emergency Rescue Unit Foundation (ERUF) found Atsuo to be dead already upon check-up at the Kontiki Beach Resort.
“The Japanese tourist exceeded his depth while scuba diving, per information from the dive instructor,” Lapu-lapu City Police Director Supt. Louie Oppus said in a text message.
Based on the diving machine, Atsuo reached 94 meters deep.
The management of the resort brought Atsuo to the Lapu-lapu City District Hospital where he was finally declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.
Although police initially noted no signs of foul play or struggle, they still subjected the body to an autopsy for final determination of the cause of death./DMS
October 6, 2007
A 47-year-old Japanese national was believed to have drowned to death while scuba diving in the central Philippine province of Cebu last Thursday, police said Saturday.
The victim was identified as Kimura Atsuo, 47, of 1-3-17 Tamagawa, Ota-ku, Tokyo, and temporarily residing in Guadalupe, Cebu City. Police said Atsuo is a tourist in the country.
Police said Atsuo went on scuba diving last Thursday afternoon in Barangay Datag, Maribago, Lapu-lapu City with a fellow Japanese, identified as Hideaki Yajima, and a Filipino assistant diving instructor, identified as Julian Lantafe.
They reportedly started their activity at 1:45 pm at the Kontiki Beach Resort.
But, according to Lantafe, Atsuo did not heed to his reminder while they were already some 60 to 80 meters deep not to go down further.
Lantafe told police that he and Yajima were forced to leave Atsuo underwater.
At around 2:30pm, Atsuo’s body surfaced and was spotted by personnel from another diving shop, who later turned it over to the Kontiki Beach Resort.
Police said responding personnel from the Emergency Rescue Unit Foundation (ERUF) found Atsuo to be dead already upon check-up at the Kontiki Beach Resort.
“The Japanese tourist exceeded his depth while scuba diving, per information from the dive instructor,” Lapu-lapu City Police Director Supt. Louie Oppus said in a text message.
Based on the diving machine, Atsuo reached 94 meters deep.
The management of the resort brought Atsuo to the Lapu-lapu City District Hospital where he was finally declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.
Although police initially noted no signs of foul play or struggle, they still subjected the body to an autopsy for final determination of the cause of death./DMS
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Police bares placement of 56 cameras all over MM to deter criminality and terrorism
By Ronron
October 5, 2007
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Avelino Razon, Jr. disclosed on Friday the strategic placement of 56 cameras all over Metro Manila as part of measures to deter criminality and terrorism.
In a news conference at Camp Crame, Razon said the closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras have been in place since the holding of the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in the country last August.
Razon was not immediately aware as to how much is the cost of the 56 CCTV units but he said there are plans to acquire more, they are even asking the private sector and local government units to contribute some units.
“Even a private citizen can put one camera at the gate of his house,” the police chief said.
Razon disclosed that some of the CCTV units have been placed in Baclaran in Paranaque City, in Quiapo in Manila City, and in Makati City. The rest are in “crime prone” areas.
All the information then go to Camp Crame, he said.
The end goal of the project is to place CCTV units in all key cities nationwide, Razon said.
But he assured that the cameras will not be used to violate human rights, and purposes other than detecting criminality and terrorism.
Razon noted that when he was in London last year, he was told that the July 2005 bombings there was solved partly because of video clips taken of the suspects from CCTV units.
And in the country, some bank robbery cases were solved also because of the same equipment, he said.
“So the next time you walk by, smile because there could be a camera following you,” Razon said in jest./DMS
October 5, 2007
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Avelino Razon, Jr. disclosed on Friday the strategic placement of 56 cameras all over Metro Manila as part of measures to deter criminality and terrorism.
In a news conference at Camp Crame, Razon said the closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras have been in place since the holding of the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in the country last August.
Razon was not immediately aware as to how much is the cost of the 56 CCTV units but he said there are plans to acquire more, they are even asking the private sector and local government units to contribute some units.
“Even a private citizen can put one camera at the gate of his house,” the police chief said.
Razon disclosed that some of the CCTV units have been placed in Baclaran in Paranaque City, in Quiapo in Manila City, and in Makati City. The rest are in “crime prone” areas.
All the information then go to Camp Crame, he said.
The end goal of the project is to place CCTV units in all key cities nationwide, Razon said.
But he assured that the cameras will not be used to violate human rights, and purposes other than detecting criminality and terrorism.
Razon noted that when he was in London last year, he was told that the July 2005 bombings there was solved partly because of video clips taken of the suspects from CCTV units.
And in the country, some bank robbery cases were solved also because of the same equipment, he said.
“So the next time you walk by, smile because there could be a camera following you,” Razon said in jest./DMS
Police arrests suspected kidnapper with 300,000-peso bounty
By Ronron
October 5, 2007
Joint operatives of the Police Anti-Crime and Emergency Response (PACER) and the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) arrested last Monday in Quezon City a suspected kidnapper with a P300,000-bounty on his head.
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Dir. Gen. Avelino Razon, Jr. presented the arrested suspect, identified as Rolando Pardito, 25, in a news conference Friday at Camp Crame, Quezon City.
Razon said Pardito was arrested by virtue of an arrest warrant issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 8 of Lucena City in Quezon for kidnapping and serious illegal detention.
Razon said Pardito was involved in the abduction of a wealthy Filipino-Chinese businesswoman and her driver in Laguna in August 2003. The suspect, aided by his father and brother, held their victims for two days and released them after the payment of an undisclosed amount.
Razon said Pardito is the 30th Most Wanted Person for Kidnapping-for-Ransom (KFR) arrested this year.
Razon disclosed that father and brother have since been accounted for but the former died while in jail, and the latter died in an operation to arrest him.
Sr. Supt. Edgar Iglesia, deputy chief of the PACER, said authorities continue to run after the remnants of 12 KFR groups that have since been neutralized, according to them, starting 2002./DMS
October 5, 2007
Joint operatives of the Police Anti-Crime and Emergency Response (PACER) and the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) arrested last Monday in Quezon City a suspected kidnapper with a P300,000-bounty on his head.
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Dir. Gen. Avelino Razon, Jr. presented the arrested suspect, identified as Rolando Pardito, 25, in a news conference Friday at Camp Crame, Quezon City.
Razon said Pardito was arrested by virtue of an arrest warrant issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 8 of Lucena City in Quezon for kidnapping and serious illegal detention.
Razon said Pardito was involved in the abduction of a wealthy Filipino-Chinese businesswoman and her driver in Laguna in August 2003. The suspect, aided by his father and brother, held their victims for two days and released them after the payment of an undisclosed amount.
Razon said Pardito is the 30th Most Wanted Person for Kidnapping-for-Ransom (KFR) arrested this year.
Razon disclosed that father and brother have since been accounted for but the former died while in jail, and the latter died in an operation to arrest him.
Sr. Supt. Edgar Iglesia, deputy chief of the PACER, said authorities continue to run after the remnants of 12 KFR groups that have since been neutralized, according to them, starting 2002./DMS
Esperon dared to tell “truth” about alleged May 2004 poll fraud
By Ronron
October 5, 2007
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. is being dared by officers accused of planning a coup d’ etat in February 2006 to speak “the truth” regarding the alleged fraud in the May 2004 elections.
In a statement given Friday to reporters, the 28 accused, led by Marine Maj. Gen. Renato Miranda and Army Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim, said Esperon could do this as a favor to the nation and his family before he retires from the service in February next year.
“We have not given up on you, Mr. Esperon. There might still be some good left in you. You will be leaving the service in a few months time. Please do the nation and your family a favor,” the group wrote in the one-page statement entitled, “Mr. Esperon.”
“Tell the truth. Just tell the truth. You might still earn our salute,” they added.
It can be recalled that Esperon’s name was mentioned in the so-called “Hello Garci” tape, which, some people has considered as a proof to the alleged rigging of votes in the 2004 polls to favor President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo against oppositionist rival Fernando Poe, Jr.
Esperon denied committing any irregularity when he served as deputy commander of the AFP Task Force HOPE in the May 2004 polls. Subsequently, he was cleared by a military fact-finding probe headed by then AFP Inspector General Vice Admiral Mateo Mayuga.
“Never in the history of the Armed Forces of the Philippines has one man and his criminal gang brought so much shame to our beloved organization. Allegations that this man and a few criminal elements among the ranks of the AFP have allowed themselves to be used to subvert the Constitution and destroy the very essence of democracy have become our collective shame,” the group said.
The group of accused officers lamented that Esperon has turned to calling them derogatory names even when the court has yet to convict them of any crimes.
“We have been repeatedly called by Mr. Esperon as political destabilizers in almost every forum that affords him opportunity. We pose these questioned on you, Mr. Esperon: … Who stands accused of cheating in the 2004 elections? … Who stands accused of stealing votes? Who was mentioned in the Garci tapes,” the group said.
“Who hides behind EO 464 when given the opportunity to let the truth out? Who vigorously opposed the Mayuga report from being published?” they added.
“Who invokes the words STATE SECRET like a criminal who invokes the Fifth Amendment when caught? And since when has a criminal act become a STATE SECRET?” the group continued, apparently referring to Esperon’s repeated response that former Intelligence chief Vice Admiral Tirso Danga cannot just disclose all his knowledge about the “Hello Garci” scandal in a Senate inquiry.
Highlighting Esperon’s perceived loyalty to Arroyo, the group said: “Who cried unabashedly in front of national viewers when his mentor announced that she will not covet the Presidency again?”
It was in December 2002 when Arroyo proclaimed she is not running in the May 2004 Presidential elections. Esperon was then the chief of the Presidential Security Group.
The accused 28 have been in jail since last year after they were accused of plotting the ouster of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in collusion allegedly with the communist movement and some from the civilian sector.
They are currently facing charges for violation of various Articles of War even if they maintained that they were just actually trying to stop a brewing uprising from some members of the military organization when they approached then AFP chief of Staff Gen. Generoso Senga in February last year about the matter.
Esperon has vowed to apply the full force of the law against the 28 even as he admitted that Miranda is a classmate and even a roommate at the Philippine Military Academy in their plebe days. Both belong to the PMA Class of 1974./DMS
October 5, 2007
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. is being dared by officers accused of planning a coup d’ etat in February 2006 to speak “the truth” regarding the alleged fraud in the May 2004 elections.
In a statement given Friday to reporters, the 28 accused, led by Marine Maj. Gen. Renato Miranda and Army Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim, said Esperon could do this as a favor to the nation and his family before he retires from the service in February next year.
“We have not given up on you, Mr. Esperon. There might still be some good left in you. You will be leaving the service in a few months time. Please do the nation and your family a favor,” the group wrote in the one-page statement entitled, “Mr. Esperon.”
“Tell the truth. Just tell the truth. You might still earn our salute,” they added.
It can be recalled that Esperon’s name was mentioned in the so-called “Hello Garci” tape, which, some people has considered as a proof to the alleged rigging of votes in the 2004 polls to favor President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo against oppositionist rival Fernando Poe, Jr.
Esperon denied committing any irregularity when he served as deputy commander of the AFP Task Force HOPE in the May 2004 polls. Subsequently, he was cleared by a military fact-finding probe headed by then AFP Inspector General Vice Admiral Mateo Mayuga.
“Never in the history of the Armed Forces of the Philippines has one man and his criminal gang brought so much shame to our beloved organization. Allegations that this man and a few criminal elements among the ranks of the AFP have allowed themselves to be used to subvert the Constitution and destroy the very essence of democracy have become our collective shame,” the group said.
The group of accused officers lamented that Esperon has turned to calling them derogatory names even when the court has yet to convict them of any crimes.
“We have been repeatedly called by Mr. Esperon as political destabilizers in almost every forum that affords him opportunity. We pose these questioned on you, Mr. Esperon: … Who stands accused of cheating in the 2004 elections? … Who stands accused of stealing votes? Who was mentioned in the Garci tapes,” the group said.
“Who hides behind EO 464 when given the opportunity to let the truth out? Who vigorously opposed the Mayuga report from being published?” they added.
“Who invokes the words STATE SECRET like a criminal who invokes the Fifth Amendment when caught? And since when has a criminal act become a STATE SECRET?” the group continued, apparently referring to Esperon’s repeated response that former Intelligence chief Vice Admiral Tirso Danga cannot just disclose all his knowledge about the “Hello Garci” scandal in a Senate inquiry.
Highlighting Esperon’s perceived loyalty to Arroyo, the group said: “Who cried unabashedly in front of national viewers when his mentor announced that she will not covet the Presidency again?”
It was in December 2002 when Arroyo proclaimed she is not running in the May 2004 Presidential elections. Esperon was then the chief of the Presidential Security Group.
The accused 28 have been in jail since last year after they were accused of plotting the ouster of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in collusion allegedly with the communist movement and some from the civilian sector.
They are currently facing charges for violation of various Articles of War even if they maintained that they were just actually trying to stop a brewing uprising from some members of the military organization when they approached then AFP chief of Staff Gen. Generoso Senga in February last year about the matter.
Esperon has vowed to apply the full force of the law against the 28 even as he admitted that Miranda is a classmate and even a roommate at the Philippine Military Academy in their plebe days. Both belong to the PMA Class of 1974./DMS
Friday, October 5, 2007
Esperon dared to tell “truth” about alleged May 2004 poll fraud
By Ronron
October 5, 2007
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. is being dared by officers accused of planning a coup d’ etat in February 2006 to speak “the truth” regarding the alleged fraud in the May 2004 elections.
In a statement given Friday to reporters, the 28 accused, led by Marine Maj. Gen. Renato Miranda and Army Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim, said Esperon could do this as a favor to the nation and his family before he retires from the service in February next year.
“We have not given up on you, Mr. Esperon. There might still be some good left in you. You will be leaving the service in a few months time. Please do the nation and your family a favor,” the group wrote in the one-page statement entitled, “Mr. Esperon.”
“Tell the truth. Just tell the truth. You might still earn our salute,” they added.
It can be recalled that Esperon’s name was mentioned in the so-called “Hello Garci” tape, which, some people has considered as a proof to the alleged rigging of votes in the 2004 polls to favor President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo against oppositionist rival Fernando Poe, Jr.
Esperon denied committing any irregularity when he served as deputy commander of the AFP Task Force HOPE in the May 2004 polls. Subsequently, he was cleared by a military fact-finding probe headed by then AFP Inspector General Vice Admiral Mateo Mayuga.
“Never in the history of the Armed Forces of the Philippines has one man and his criminal gang brought so much shame to our beloved organization. Allegations that this man and a few criminal elements among the ranks of the AFP have allowed themselves to be used to subvert the Constitution and destroy the very essence of democracy have become our collective shame,” the group said.
The group of accused officers lamented that Esperon has turned to calling them derogatory names even when the court has yet to convict them of any crimes.
“We have been repeatedly called by Mr. Esperon as political destabilizers in almost every forum that affords him opportunity. We pose these questioned on you, Mr. Esperon: … Who stands accused of cheating in the 2004 elections? … Who stands accused of stealing votes? Who was mentioned in the Garci tapes,” the group said.
“Who hides behind EO 464 when given the opportunity to let the truth out? Who vigorously opposed the Mayuga report from being published?” they added.
“Who invokes the words STATE SECRET like a criminal who invokes the Fifth Amendment when caught? And since when has a criminal act become a STATE SECRET?” the group continued, apparently referring to Esperon’s repeated response that former Intelligence chief Vice Admiral Tirso Danga cannot just disclose all his knowledge about the “Hello Garci” scandal in a Senate inquiry.
Highlighting Esperon’s perceived loyalty to Arroyo, the group said: “Who cried unabashedly in front of national viewers when his mentor announced that she will not covet the Presidency again?”
It was in December 2002 when Arroyo proclaimed she is not running in the May 2004 Presidential elections. Esperon was then the chief of the Presidential Security Group.
The accused 28 have been in jail since last year after they were accused of plotting the ouster of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in collusion allegedly with the communist movement and some from the civilian sector.
They are currently facing charges for violation of various Articles of War even if they maintained that they were just actually trying to stop a brewing uprising from some members of the military organization when they approached then AFP chief of Staff Gen. Generoso Senga in February last year about the matter.
Esperon has vowed to apply the full force of the law against the 28 even as he admitted that Miranda is a classmate and even a roommate at the Philippine Military Academy in their plebe days. Both belong to the PMA Class of 1974./DMS
October 5, 2007
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. is being dared by officers accused of planning a coup d’ etat in February 2006 to speak “the truth” regarding the alleged fraud in the May 2004 elections.
In a statement given Friday to reporters, the 28 accused, led by Marine Maj. Gen. Renato Miranda and Army Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim, said Esperon could do this as a favor to the nation and his family before he retires from the service in February next year.
“We have not given up on you, Mr. Esperon. There might still be some good left in you. You will be leaving the service in a few months time. Please do the nation and your family a favor,” the group wrote in the one-page statement entitled, “Mr. Esperon.”
“Tell the truth. Just tell the truth. You might still earn our salute,” they added.
It can be recalled that Esperon’s name was mentioned in the so-called “Hello Garci” tape, which, some people has considered as a proof to the alleged rigging of votes in the 2004 polls to favor President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo against oppositionist rival Fernando Poe, Jr.
Esperon denied committing any irregularity when he served as deputy commander of the AFP Task Force HOPE in the May 2004 polls. Subsequently, he was cleared by a military fact-finding probe headed by then AFP Inspector General Vice Admiral Mateo Mayuga.
“Never in the history of the Armed Forces of the Philippines has one man and his criminal gang brought so much shame to our beloved organization. Allegations that this man and a few criminal elements among the ranks of the AFP have allowed themselves to be used to subvert the Constitution and destroy the very essence of democracy have become our collective shame,” the group said.
The group of accused officers lamented that Esperon has turned to calling them derogatory names even when the court has yet to convict them of any crimes.
“We have been repeatedly called by Mr. Esperon as political destabilizers in almost every forum that affords him opportunity. We pose these questioned on you, Mr. Esperon: … Who stands accused of cheating in the 2004 elections? … Who stands accused of stealing votes? Who was mentioned in the Garci tapes,” the group said.
“Who hides behind EO 464 when given the opportunity to let the truth out? Who vigorously opposed the Mayuga report from being published?” they added.
“Who invokes the words STATE SECRET like a criminal who invokes the Fifth Amendment when caught? And since when has a criminal act become a STATE SECRET?” the group continued, apparently referring to Esperon’s repeated response that former Intelligence chief Vice Admiral Tirso Danga cannot just disclose all his knowledge about the “Hello Garci” scandal in a Senate inquiry.
Highlighting Esperon’s perceived loyalty to Arroyo, the group said: “Who cried unabashedly in front of national viewers when his mentor announced that she will not covet the Presidency again?”
It was in December 2002 when Arroyo proclaimed she is not running in the May 2004 Presidential elections. Esperon was then the chief of the Presidential Security Group.
The accused 28 have been in jail since last year after they were accused of plotting the ouster of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in collusion allegedly with the communist movement and some from the civilian sector.
They are currently facing charges for violation of various Articles of War even if they maintained that they were just actually trying to stop a brewing uprising from some members of the military organization when they approached then AFP chief of Staff Gen. Generoso Senga in February last year about the matter.
Esperon has vowed to apply the full force of the law against the 28 even as he admitted that Miranda is a classmate and even a roommate at the Philippine Military Academy in their plebe days. Both belong to the PMA Class of 1974./DMS
New Japanese envoy in Manila pays courtesy call to DILG Secretary
By Ronron
October 4, 2007
Japanese Ambassador to Manila Makoto Katsura on Thursday paid a courtesy call to Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Ronaldo Puno at the latter’s office in Camp Crame, Quezon City.
The visit is part of the envoy’s routine as being new to the country, having just arrived last September 20, replacing Ryuichiro Yamazaki.
“We discussed the joint efforts between Japan and the Philippines, particularly in Mindanao, what the new Ambassador hopes to pursue in the near future. He has informed me that he intends to visit Mindanao shortly,” Puno told Camp Crame reporters after his one-hour talk with Katsura.
Noting the ongoing Japanese-assisted projects in Mindanao, Puno expressed confidence that Katsura will pursue all these.
“The projects of Japan in Mindanao are quick-result projects, short-timeframe projects. Immediate impact is actually the objective of the Japanese-assisted projects in Mindanao right now, and they are trying to help the capacity of local governments to implement projects in that sense,” Puno said.
The DILG Secretary said that in turn, he “promised and assured him of our continued support.”
“We, in general, agreed on a common effort to try to improve local government capabilities within the troubled areas in Mindanao. They have already been doing this of course for some time,” he said.
Aside from the assistance, Puno said he also discussed with Katsura the ongoing peace efforts of the government for Mindanao.
“We discussed the status of the peace negotiations. I informed him about the latest agreement that are in place and the issues that need to be resolved,” Puno said.
Puno said that when Katsura pushes through with his visit in Mindanao, he has offered “assistance and whatever help we can extend to them in terms of their familiarizing themselves with the situation” there.
Katsura did not issue any statement to the media after his visit./DMS
October 4, 2007
Japanese Ambassador to Manila Makoto Katsura on Thursday paid a courtesy call to Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Ronaldo Puno at the latter’s office in Camp Crame, Quezon City.
The visit is part of the envoy’s routine as being new to the country, having just arrived last September 20, replacing Ryuichiro Yamazaki.
“We discussed the joint efforts between Japan and the Philippines, particularly in Mindanao, what the new Ambassador hopes to pursue in the near future. He has informed me that he intends to visit Mindanao shortly,” Puno told Camp Crame reporters after his one-hour talk with Katsura.
Noting the ongoing Japanese-assisted projects in Mindanao, Puno expressed confidence that Katsura will pursue all these.
“The projects of Japan in Mindanao are quick-result projects, short-timeframe projects. Immediate impact is actually the objective of the Japanese-assisted projects in Mindanao right now, and they are trying to help the capacity of local governments to implement projects in that sense,” Puno said.
The DILG Secretary said that in turn, he “promised and assured him of our continued support.”
“We, in general, agreed on a common effort to try to improve local government capabilities within the troubled areas in Mindanao. They have already been doing this of course for some time,” he said.
Aside from the assistance, Puno said he also discussed with Katsura the ongoing peace efforts of the government for Mindanao.
“We discussed the status of the peace negotiations. I informed him about the latest agreement that are in place and the issues that need to be resolved,” Puno said.
Puno said that when Katsura pushes through with his visit in Mindanao, he has offered “assistance and whatever help we can extend to them in terms of their familiarizing themselves with the situation” there.
Katsura did not issue any statement to the media after his visit./DMS
Police kill four suspected carnappers in Taguig City
By Ronron
October 4, 2007
Four suspected carnappers were killed in a shootout with police before dawn of Thursday in Taguig City.
Traffic Management Group (TMG) Director Chief Supt. Perfecto Palad said the incident happened past 2am near the Sampaguita Bridge on C-5 Road.
Palad said the four suspects were onboard a Mitsubishi Adventure, with plate number XRS-951, when they were first spotted by TMG personnel at the vicinity of Barangay Buting of said city.
When the TMG personnel found out that the vehicle had no sticker of the Land Transportation Office (LTO), they flagged it down.
But instead of stopping, the suspects sped off, prompting the TMG personnel to chase them.
Simultaneously, the TMG verified the plate XRS-951, which, they immediately found out to originally belong to a Toyota Revo, owned by Reyma Advincula of 50-A K 4th Kamuning, Quezon City. The Revo was reported as a stolen vehicle while parked in Antipolo City last April 9, 2006.
Upon reaching the underpass at the Commando Link Road, Palar area of same city, Palad said the suspects fired at the chasing TMG personnel.
Other TMG crew started to arrive and helped shooting at the suspects until their vehicle rammed at the concrete barricades at the Sampaguita Bridge.
Palad said the suspects continued to attempt to escape by scampering away from the Adventure as they also fire at the police personnel.
The brief exchange of gunfire resulted in the immediate death of the three suspects, while the remaining one was wounded. But while being transported to the Rizal Medical Center, the wounded suspect died.
Documents seized from the suspects revealed later the identities of the two as Isao Gona, 45, of Murphy, Quezon City, and Gerardo Moster, 32, of Barangay Pinagkauitan, Lipa City, Batangas. The two others have yet to be identified.
There was no casualty on the police side.
Palad said recovered from the suspects were three caliber 45 pistols, one fragmentary grenade, and three mobile phones.
“We will continue with our campaign to get rid of all criminals involved in vehicle thefts and robbery hold-up,” Palad said./DMS
October 4, 2007
Four suspected carnappers were killed in a shootout with police before dawn of Thursday in Taguig City.
Traffic Management Group (TMG) Director Chief Supt. Perfecto Palad said the incident happened past 2am near the Sampaguita Bridge on C-5 Road.
Palad said the four suspects were onboard a Mitsubishi Adventure, with plate number XRS-951, when they were first spotted by TMG personnel at the vicinity of Barangay Buting of said city.
When the TMG personnel found out that the vehicle had no sticker of the Land Transportation Office (LTO), they flagged it down.
But instead of stopping, the suspects sped off, prompting the TMG personnel to chase them.
Simultaneously, the TMG verified the plate XRS-951, which, they immediately found out to originally belong to a Toyota Revo, owned by Reyma Advincula of 50-A K 4th Kamuning, Quezon City. The Revo was reported as a stolen vehicle while parked in Antipolo City last April 9, 2006.
Upon reaching the underpass at the Commando Link Road, Palar area of same city, Palad said the suspects fired at the chasing TMG personnel.
Other TMG crew started to arrive and helped shooting at the suspects until their vehicle rammed at the concrete barricades at the Sampaguita Bridge.
Palad said the suspects continued to attempt to escape by scampering away from the Adventure as they also fire at the police personnel.
The brief exchange of gunfire resulted in the immediate death of the three suspects, while the remaining one was wounded. But while being transported to the Rizal Medical Center, the wounded suspect died.
Documents seized from the suspects revealed later the identities of the two as Isao Gona, 45, of Murphy, Quezon City, and Gerardo Moster, 32, of Barangay Pinagkauitan, Lipa City, Batangas. The two others have yet to be identified.
There was no casualty on the police side.
Palad said recovered from the suspects were three caliber 45 pistols, one fragmentary grenade, and three mobile phones.
“We will continue with our campaign to get rid of all criminals involved in vehicle thefts and robbery hold-up,” Palad said./DMS
Suspected Reds burn mining firm equipment in Camarines Norte
By Ronron
October 4, 2007
Suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) raided a mining firm in Camarines Norte province and burned several equipment last Wednesday, the police and military said yesterday.
According to a police report, more or less 100 armed rebels stormed the Eldore Mining Corporation at Barangay Domagmang in Labo town at around 3:30 pm and went on to burn four vehicles, drilling equipments, and a generator set.
They also took computer sets, cellular phones, company firearms, and other office equipment before fleeing towards the mountainous area of said barangay, the police and military said.
The incident lasted for no more than 30 minutes, said Armed Forces Southern Luzon command spokesman Maj. Randolph Cabangbang.
He said the rebels struck at a time when there were still employees inside the compound.
Cabangbang disclosed that Eldore is an Australian firm, although no foreign nationals were inside the compound at the time of the raid.
He said there was no firefight since the company guards were caught by surprise, and immediately overpowered.
Cabangbang said the damages left by the rebels could be worth “millions” of pesos.
There was no reported casualty in the incident, which, according to Cabangbang, is born out of the NPA’s plain extortion activities.
“We cannot even call it a revolutionary tax issue anymore because the NPA is not fighting for any cause anymore. It was a plain robbery and arson, because of extortion,” Cabangbang said.
“And whether or not the company will give in to the extortion demand, the NPA is bound to sabotage it because that is for development and they resent any developmental activities,” he added.
Last month, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has ordered the military and police to step up their operations and defenses against the NPA so as to ensure a conducive environment for business and investments.
The 7,100-strong NPA has threatened to intensify their attacks against private and government installations following the arrest of communist founding chairman Jose Maria Sison in the Netherlands last August 28.
The government has vowed to end the insurgency movement by 2010 when Arroyo ends her term.
Peace talks with the communist movement bogged down in August 2004 after its groups and officials were tagged as terrorists by foreign governments./DMS
October 4, 2007
Suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) raided a mining firm in Camarines Norte province and burned several equipment last Wednesday, the police and military said yesterday.
According to a police report, more or less 100 armed rebels stormed the Eldore Mining Corporation at Barangay Domagmang in Labo town at around 3:30 pm and went on to burn four vehicles, drilling equipments, and a generator set.
They also took computer sets, cellular phones, company firearms, and other office equipment before fleeing towards the mountainous area of said barangay, the police and military said.
The incident lasted for no more than 30 minutes, said Armed Forces Southern Luzon command spokesman Maj. Randolph Cabangbang.
He said the rebels struck at a time when there were still employees inside the compound.
Cabangbang disclosed that Eldore is an Australian firm, although no foreign nationals were inside the compound at the time of the raid.
He said there was no firefight since the company guards were caught by surprise, and immediately overpowered.
Cabangbang said the damages left by the rebels could be worth “millions” of pesos.
There was no reported casualty in the incident, which, according to Cabangbang, is born out of the NPA’s plain extortion activities.
“We cannot even call it a revolutionary tax issue anymore because the NPA is not fighting for any cause anymore. It was a plain robbery and arson, because of extortion,” Cabangbang said.
“And whether or not the company will give in to the extortion demand, the NPA is bound to sabotage it because that is for development and they resent any developmental activities,” he added.
Last month, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has ordered the military and police to step up their operations and defenses against the NPA so as to ensure a conducive environment for business and investments.
The 7,100-strong NPA has threatened to intensify their attacks against private and government installations following the arrest of communist founding chairman Jose Maria Sison in the Netherlands last August 28.
The government has vowed to end the insurgency movement by 2010 when Arroyo ends her term.
Peace talks with the communist movement bogged down in August 2004 after its groups and officials were tagged as terrorists by foreign governments./DMS
Razon gets four-star rank
By Ronron
October 4, 2007
As expected following his appointment last Monday as new chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Deputy Director General Avelino Razon, Jr. got his fourth star yesterday, effectively promoting him to a Director General rank.
The promotion rite was officiated by Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Ronaldo Puno at the PNP Headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City.
In his speech, Razon said he considers his promotion as an added responsibility to ensuring security, peace and order in the country.
“This additional star on my shoulder just indicates an added responsibility not only to the organization – the officers and men of the Philippine National Police, but also to the citizens of this country who expect their police to really serve and protect them,” the 14th PNP chief said.
Like his statement during his assumption last Monday, Razon thanked the President for her “trust and confidence” on him that she chose him to head the 120,000-strong PNP.
He also expressed gratitude to Puno “for his guidance,” and the other officers and members of the PNP “for their effort and contribution and support.”
Puno only had nice words for Razon, whom he described as now a “symbol” of the police organization.
“I think that is, of course, as everyone knows, a very well-deserved appointment because of the fine record that Sonny has given to the service… I think that as a symbol of the PNP, Sonny, you will bring luster, you will bring prestige and honor to the service,” Puno said, referring to Razon by his nickname.
But the DILG Secretary said that as a symbol of the PNP, Razon faces a greater challenge of being a good example to ordinary policemen.
“Not everybody becomes chief PNP. But everybody can become like the chief PNP and I think that is something everybody must aspire and strive for. And Sonny, you are now not just an example of what a police officer can do, you must be a symbol of what every police officer should be,” Puno said.
On his first day as chief PNP, Razon has vowed to brink back the image of policemen in the past when they were being admired and looked up to by ordinary people./DMS
October 4, 2007
As expected following his appointment last Monday as new chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Deputy Director General Avelino Razon, Jr. got his fourth star yesterday, effectively promoting him to a Director General rank.
The promotion rite was officiated by Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Ronaldo Puno at the PNP Headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City.
In his speech, Razon said he considers his promotion as an added responsibility to ensuring security, peace and order in the country.
“This additional star on my shoulder just indicates an added responsibility not only to the organization – the officers and men of the Philippine National Police, but also to the citizens of this country who expect their police to really serve and protect them,” the 14th PNP chief said.
Like his statement during his assumption last Monday, Razon thanked the President for her “trust and confidence” on him that she chose him to head the 120,000-strong PNP.
He also expressed gratitude to Puno “for his guidance,” and the other officers and members of the PNP “for their effort and contribution and support.”
Puno only had nice words for Razon, whom he described as now a “symbol” of the police organization.
“I think that is, of course, as everyone knows, a very well-deserved appointment because of the fine record that Sonny has given to the service… I think that as a symbol of the PNP, Sonny, you will bring luster, you will bring prestige and honor to the service,” Puno said, referring to Razon by his nickname.
But the DILG Secretary said that as a symbol of the PNP, Razon faces a greater challenge of being a good example to ordinary policemen.
“Not everybody becomes chief PNP. But everybody can become like the chief PNP and I think that is something everybody must aspire and strive for. And Sonny, you are now not just an example of what a police officer can do, you must be a symbol of what every police officer should be,” Puno said.
On his first day as chief PNP, Razon has vowed to brink back the image of policemen in the past when they were being admired and looked up to by ordinary people./DMS
Thursday, October 4, 2007
US envoy in Manila expresses confidence in RP health workers
By Ronron
October 3, 2007
US Ambassador in Manila Kristie Kenney on Wednesday expressed confidence to the Philippine health care system amid reports that an American television show depicted with skepticism the credibility of Philippine medical schools graduates.
In an interview at Camp Crame, Quezon City, Kenney said Americans actually trust Filipino health practitioners, contrary to what was shown in the popular TV series “Desperate Housewives” on ABC Network.
“I think we all have great respect for Philippine health care, and Philippine health care workers throughout the world are sought after,” Kenney said.
Reports said that in the TV series, a female patient character asked a health practitioner who was attending to her if he is not a product of a Philippine medical school, apparently making sure that she will be safe under his care.
Kenney said she has not seen such program, particularly that episode, saying she usually watches local programs instead of American programs.
Kenney went to the Philippine National Police (PNP) headquarters yesterday to serve as guest of honor and speaker in the awarding ceremony for the completion of the PNP Model Police Stations and the PNP Transformation Program.
“I think I know more about the Philippine National Police than I do about the US police, so I can say I rate them very highly. These are incredibly very dedicated, hardworking people,” Kenney said.
“As public servants, police officers will never be the highest paid in any country and absolutely, they put themselves out very single day to make the rest of us safe, whether the people that make us go through traffic, whether the people that makes our ports safe,” she added.
Kenney’s last visit in Camp Crame prior to yesterday was just last week before Gen. Oscar Calderon retired./DMS
October 3, 2007
US Ambassador in Manila Kristie Kenney on Wednesday expressed confidence to the Philippine health care system amid reports that an American television show depicted with skepticism the credibility of Philippine medical schools graduates.
In an interview at Camp Crame, Quezon City, Kenney said Americans actually trust Filipino health practitioners, contrary to what was shown in the popular TV series “Desperate Housewives” on ABC Network.
“I think we all have great respect for Philippine health care, and Philippine health care workers throughout the world are sought after,” Kenney said.
Reports said that in the TV series, a female patient character asked a health practitioner who was attending to her if he is not a product of a Philippine medical school, apparently making sure that she will be safe under his care.
Kenney said she has not seen such program, particularly that episode, saying she usually watches local programs instead of American programs.
Kenney went to the Philippine National Police (PNP) headquarters yesterday to serve as guest of honor and speaker in the awarding ceremony for the completion of the PNP Model Police Stations and the PNP Transformation Program.
“I think I know more about the Philippine National Police than I do about the US police, so I can say I rate them very highly. These are incredibly very dedicated, hardworking people,” Kenney said.
“As public servants, police officers will never be the highest paid in any country and absolutely, they put themselves out very single day to make the rest of us safe, whether the people that make us go through traffic, whether the people that makes our ports safe,” she added.
Kenney’s last visit in Camp Crame prior to yesterday was just last week before Gen. Oscar Calderon retired./DMS
Miranda, others need not be hospitalized, says Army doctor
By Ronron
October 3, 2007
Former Marines commandant Maj. Gen. Renato Miranda and a few of his fellow accused in the alleged February 2006 coup plot need not be hospitalized despite some complaints to their health, an Army doctor said Wednesday.
In a press conference yesterday afternoon at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, Lt. Col. Edwin Leo Torrelavega, the chief of the Army Station Hospital of the 2nd Infantry Division, based in Tanay, Rizal, said Miranda is just in normal condition, while the rest who are complaining may just be treated as “outpatients.”
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Information Officer Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro disclosed though in the same news conference that AFP chief of staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. last Monday approved for Miranda’s Annual Physical Examination (APE) at the AFP Medical Center on V. Luna Avenue, Quezon City.
Bacarro will not say, however, when will the actual examination be, although he said there are ongoing arrangements for his transfer to the AFP Medical Center.
Torrelavega said Miranda’s sugar and cholesterol level were fine the last time he was checked-up on September 19, contrary to the claim made by fellow accused, Army Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim, during the General Court Martial (GCM) proceedings last September 28 in Tanay.
The doctor-officer said Miranda may also have some ear infections but when he checked it last September 28, immediately after the GCM hearing, it “showed significant improvements.”
Torrelavega denied Lim’s claim that Miranda risks of going into comatose due to hypoglycemia.
“Unless he does not eat, we cannot do anything. Anyone of us here can go into comatose if we want to due to hypoglycemia by just taking medicines for diabetes even if you are not diabetic and by not eating,” Torrelavega said.
In general, Bacarro said Miranda’s condition is not actually life-threatening.
Meanwhile, as to the other reported ill accused, Torrelavega disclosed that Marine Col. Armando Bañez is actually suffering from colon cancer; Marine Col. Ariel Querubin has history of malaria; Marine Lt. Col. Januario Caringal has lymphoma; and Marine 1Lt. Belinda Ferrer has a particular illness he cannot disclose due to its sensitivity.
“Not all are life-threatening. They need not be hospitalized. They can be administered as outpatients,” Torrelavega said of the four.
But he assured that they are not neglecting them, even the rest of the 28 accused.
The 28 are facing charges for violation of various Articles of War in relation to the alleged February 2006 coup plot against the Arroyo administration./DMS
October 3, 2007
Former Marines commandant Maj. Gen. Renato Miranda and a few of his fellow accused in the alleged February 2006 coup plot need not be hospitalized despite some complaints to their health, an Army doctor said Wednesday.
In a press conference yesterday afternoon at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, Lt. Col. Edwin Leo Torrelavega, the chief of the Army Station Hospital of the 2nd Infantry Division, based in Tanay, Rizal, said Miranda is just in normal condition, while the rest who are complaining may just be treated as “outpatients.”
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Information Officer Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro disclosed though in the same news conference that AFP chief of staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. last Monday approved for Miranda’s Annual Physical Examination (APE) at the AFP Medical Center on V. Luna Avenue, Quezon City.
Bacarro will not say, however, when will the actual examination be, although he said there are ongoing arrangements for his transfer to the AFP Medical Center.
Torrelavega said Miranda’s sugar and cholesterol level were fine the last time he was checked-up on September 19, contrary to the claim made by fellow accused, Army Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim, during the General Court Martial (GCM) proceedings last September 28 in Tanay.
The doctor-officer said Miranda may also have some ear infections but when he checked it last September 28, immediately after the GCM hearing, it “showed significant improvements.”
Torrelavega denied Lim’s claim that Miranda risks of going into comatose due to hypoglycemia.
“Unless he does not eat, we cannot do anything. Anyone of us here can go into comatose if we want to due to hypoglycemia by just taking medicines for diabetes even if you are not diabetic and by not eating,” Torrelavega said.
In general, Bacarro said Miranda’s condition is not actually life-threatening.
Meanwhile, as to the other reported ill accused, Torrelavega disclosed that Marine Col. Armando Bañez is actually suffering from colon cancer; Marine Col. Ariel Querubin has history of malaria; Marine Lt. Col. Januario Caringal has lymphoma; and Marine 1Lt. Belinda Ferrer has a particular illness he cannot disclose due to its sensitivity.
“Not all are life-threatening. They need not be hospitalized. They can be administered as outpatients,” Torrelavega said of the four.
But he assured that they are not neglecting them, even the rest of the 28 accused.
The 28 are facing charges for violation of various Articles of War in relation to the alleged February 2006 coup plot against the Arroyo administration./DMS
Razon to effect firearms policy in his first 100 days as PNP chief
By Ronron
October 3, 2007
Newly-installed Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Deputy Director General Avelino Razon, Jr. will be effecting some changes in the current firearms disposition in the organization during his first 100 days in the position.
This, as he acknowledged that there is a shortage of about 21,000 short firearms in the 120,000-strong PNP.
In his Commander’s Manual, which sets his goals and plans as PNP chief until September 27 of next year, Razon said there will be an accounting in the organization as to who among its personnel have double or multiple issuances, or ownership of firearms so that any extra firearm will be given to those who have none.
“As a general rule, a Police personnel shall have only one issued firearm, either long or short. In the event that a PNP personnel has an issued firearm and he also has a licensed firearm, the issued firearm shall be recalled and issued to those without firearm,” Razon said.
Razon said the cross-checking will be done by the Firearms and Explosives Division (FED) of the PNP.
“In the meantime that there is a firearms shortage, firearms of personnel assigned at the national headquarters (in Camp Crame, Quezon City), and in administrative National Support Units and regional headquarters shall be recalled and issued to personnel assigned in operating units,” he said.
Earlier, Razon announced that any police personnel who fails to pass the regular gun-handling proficiency tests in the PNP will be disarmed in favor of those who are qualified but unarmed. The directive is also meant to address the firearms shortage problem, aside from ensuring the safety of the community from policemen who are non-proficient in gun handling.
Moreover, Razon said high-powered firearms will also be given only to the special units of the PNP, particularly the Regional Special Action Unit (RSAU), District Special Project Unit (DSPU), and the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit.
He said all M14 and M16 rifles will be recalled from other units and regions, especially those in Metro Manila stations, in favor of the RSAU, DSPU, and SWAT. They will then be issued with shotguns in place of the recalled rifles.
Meanwhile, all unserviceable M14 and M16 rifles on stock at the Logistics Support Service and other PNP units will have to refurbished so they can be commissioned for use, Razon said./DMS
October 3, 2007
Newly-installed Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Deputy Director General Avelino Razon, Jr. will be effecting some changes in the current firearms disposition in the organization during his first 100 days in the position.
This, as he acknowledged that there is a shortage of about 21,000 short firearms in the 120,000-strong PNP.
In his Commander’s Manual, which sets his goals and plans as PNP chief until September 27 of next year, Razon said there will be an accounting in the organization as to who among its personnel have double or multiple issuances, or ownership of firearms so that any extra firearm will be given to those who have none.
“As a general rule, a Police personnel shall have only one issued firearm, either long or short. In the event that a PNP personnel has an issued firearm and he also has a licensed firearm, the issued firearm shall be recalled and issued to those without firearm,” Razon said.
Razon said the cross-checking will be done by the Firearms and Explosives Division (FED) of the PNP.
“In the meantime that there is a firearms shortage, firearms of personnel assigned at the national headquarters (in Camp Crame, Quezon City), and in administrative National Support Units and regional headquarters shall be recalled and issued to personnel assigned in operating units,” he said.
Earlier, Razon announced that any police personnel who fails to pass the regular gun-handling proficiency tests in the PNP will be disarmed in favor of those who are qualified but unarmed. The directive is also meant to address the firearms shortage problem, aside from ensuring the safety of the community from policemen who are non-proficient in gun handling.
Moreover, Razon said high-powered firearms will also be given only to the special units of the PNP, particularly the Regional Special Action Unit (RSAU), District Special Project Unit (DSPU), and the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit.
He said all M14 and M16 rifles will be recalled from other units and regions, especially those in Metro Manila stations, in favor of the RSAU, DSPU, and SWAT. They will then be issued with shotguns in place of the recalled rifles.
Meanwhile, all unserviceable M14 and M16 rifles on stock at the Logistics Support Service and other PNP units will have to refurbished so they can be commissioned for use, Razon said./DMS
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Army mulls hiring of more than 8,000 additional paramilitary personnel
By Ronron
October 2, 2007
The Philippine Army is planning to hire about 8,400 additional paramilitary personnel to help in the government’s fight against insurgency, which President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo wants completed by 2010 when she ends her term.
Army chief Lt. Gen. Alexander Yano said in a television interview Tuesday that the military leadership has already asked Congress to allot budget for the hiring of the additional members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) this year and next year.
“We hope that would be granted not only this year, but next year too – the addition of 70 CAFGU companies or a total of about 8,400 personnel,” Yano said on ABS-CBN News Channel.
Yano said the requested budget allocation is for the subsistence allowance of CAFGU personnel, which, at present is P90 per day per personnel.
Yano admitted that the planned hiring of additional paramilitary personnel is related to the goal of the government to crush the insurgency movement by 2010 as ordered by Arroyo.
“We may have some difficulty as far as this (achieving said goal) is concerned if there will be some escalation of hostilities in Mindanao. Definitely, there will be realignment and redeployment of forces from Luzon and the Visayas and this would entail additional forces to maintain our presence especially against the communist insurgents in the Luzon and the Visayas area,” he said.
“But we are trying very hard with the resources available and we have requested in fact some CAFGU companies to augment the regular troops… We feel that with additional CAFGU personnel to augment our forces, this will very much supplement or augment the forces that we have,” he added.
At present, there are approximately 53,000 CAFGU personnel, according to Army spokesman Lt. Col. Ernesto Torres, Jr., that support the 75,000-strong Philippine Army.
Yano said hiring CAFGU personnel is actually “quite economical” rather than enlisting regular troops to the service since what is given is just the subsistence allowance, and not a salary.
The military says there are about 7,000 armed communist rebels in the country now, much fewer compared to the 1970’s and 1980’s where they number to over 20,000.
Communist insurgency has prevailed in the country in the last 38 years./DMS
October 2, 2007
The Philippine Army is planning to hire about 8,400 additional paramilitary personnel to help in the government’s fight against insurgency, which President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo wants completed by 2010 when she ends her term.
Army chief Lt. Gen. Alexander Yano said in a television interview Tuesday that the military leadership has already asked Congress to allot budget for the hiring of the additional members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) this year and next year.
“We hope that would be granted not only this year, but next year too – the addition of 70 CAFGU companies or a total of about 8,400 personnel,” Yano said on ABS-CBN News Channel.
Yano said the requested budget allocation is for the subsistence allowance of CAFGU personnel, which, at present is P90 per day per personnel.
Yano admitted that the planned hiring of additional paramilitary personnel is related to the goal of the government to crush the insurgency movement by 2010 as ordered by Arroyo.
“We may have some difficulty as far as this (achieving said goal) is concerned if there will be some escalation of hostilities in Mindanao. Definitely, there will be realignment and redeployment of forces from Luzon and the Visayas and this would entail additional forces to maintain our presence especially against the communist insurgents in the Luzon and the Visayas area,” he said.
“But we are trying very hard with the resources available and we have requested in fact some CAFGU companies to augment the regular troops… We feel that with additional CAFGU personnel to augment our forces, this will very much supplement or augment the forces that we have,” he added.
At present, there are approximately 53,000 CAFGU personnel, according to Army spokesman Lt. Col. Ernesto Torres, Jr., that support the 75,000-strong Philippine Army.
Yano said hiring CAFGU personnel is actually “quite economical” rather than enlisting regular troops to the service since what is given is just the subsistence allowance, and not a salary.
The military says there are about 7,000 armed communist rebels in the country now, much fewer compared to the 1970’s and 1980’s where they number to over 20,000.
Communist insurgency has prevailed in the country in the last 38 years./DMS
Four soldiers, 11 bandits killed in separate clashes in Basilan and Sulu
By Ronron
October 2, 2007
Four government soldiers and 11 bandits were killed in separate clashes Tuesday in Basilan and Sulu, officials said.
Philippine Navy spokesman Lt. Col. Ariel Caculitan (Marines) said the first incident happened at around 12:35 am yesterday in the small island of Lanhil just off the main island province of Basilan where an unidentified armed group was reported to be hiding.
“The tandem of the Philippine Navy Special Operations Group (SOG) and the Marines Battalion Landing Team (MBLT) 7 was dispatched by Rear Admiral Emilio Marayag, commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao, to conduct verification on an intelligence report about the presence of an armed group in the said island,” Caculitan said in a phone interview.
Caculitan said that as of Tuesday afternoon, there is still no confirmation whether or not the bandits are members of the dreaded Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG).
He said that when the government forces arrived on the island, gunfire coming from more or less 20 armed bandits met them, ensuing a 20-minute firefight.
Four Navy personnel and 10 bandits were killed in the incident, while two others Navy personnel were slightly wounded.
All government casualties were immediately airlifted to the headquarters of the Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command in Zamboanga City.
But as for the slain 10 bandits, Caculitan said the government forces were not able to retrieve their bodies due to their lack in number. But he said there is an information that one of those killed was the leader of the group, identified as Abdulrajak Sadikal.
In Sulu, Army troopers and suspected ASG members and allied local bandits clashed at around 7:45 am, leaving one soldier wounded and a bandit killed, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Public Information Officer Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro said.
Bacarro said the exchange of fire happened at Sitio Niug, Barangay Sangahan in Talipao town and lasted for about 20 minutes.
He said the elements of the Bravo Company of the Army’s 15th Infantry Battalion were conducting combat operations when they encountered the rebels, numbering to about 50.
Bacarro said recovered from the slain bandit was an M16 rifle, a backpack and a military uniform.
Thousands of government troops have been deployed in Basilan and Sulu over the last two months to run after the ASG, rogue Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) members, and other lawless elements following the July 10 incident in Al-Barka, Basilan where 14 soldiers were killed, 10 of whom were mutilated./DMS
October 2, 2007
Four government soldiers and 11 bandits were killed in separate clashes Tuesday in Basilan and Sulu, officials said.
Philippine Navy spokesman Lt. Col. Ariel Caculitan (Marines) said the first incident happened at around 12:35 am yesterday in the small island of Lanhil just off the main island province of Basilan where an unidentified armed group was reported to be hiding.
“The tandem of the Philippine Navy Special Operations Group (SOG) and the Marines Battalion Landing Team (MBLT) 7 was dispatched by Rear Admiral Emilio Marayag, commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao, to conduct verification on an intelligence report about the presence of an armed group in the said island,” Caculitan said in a phone interview.
Caculitan said that as of Tuesday afternoon, there is still no confirmation whether or not the bandits are members of the dreaded Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG).
He said that when the government forces arrived on the island, gunfire coming from more or less 20 armed bandits met them, ensuing a 20-minute firefight.
Four Navy personnel and 10 bandits were killed in the incident, while two others Navy personnel were slightly wounded.
All government casualties were immediately airlifted to the headquarters of the Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command in Zamboanga City.
But as for the slain 10 bandits, Caculitan said the government forces were not able to retrieve their bodies due to their lack in number. But he said there is an information that one of those killed was the leader of the group, identified as Abdulrajak Sadikal.
In Sulu, Army troopers and suspected ASG members and allied local bandits clashed at around 7:45 am, leaving one soldier wounded and a bandit killed, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Public Information Officer Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro said.
Bacarro said the exchange of fire happened at Sitio Niug, Barangay Sangahan in Talipao town and lasted for about 20 minutes.
He said the elements of the Bravo Company of the Army’s 15th Infantry Battalion were conducting combat operations when they encountered the rebels, numbering to about 50.
Bacarro said recovered from the slain bandit was an M16 rifle, a backpack and a military uniform.
Thousands of government troops have been deployed in Basilan and Sulu over the last two months to run after the ASG, rogue Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) members, and other lawless elements following the July 10 incident in Al-Barka, Basilan where 14 soldiers were killed, 10 of whom were mutilated./DMS
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
“Hanna” leaves at least 10 dead in RP
By Ronron
October 1, 2007
Tropical storm “Hanna” has left at least 10 persons killed, mostly in the northern province of Ifugao, when it was felt in the Philippines over the weekend.
According to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), eight of the fatalities are from a landslide incident in Ifugao, another one is from a drowning incident in Abra, and the last one is due to flood in Quezon City.
The OCD in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) said the missing person in the landslide incident in Hingyon, Ifugao on Saturday night could not yet be ascertained as of Monday evening whether or not he was already recovered dead.
A nine-year-old boy was also wounded in said incident.
The CAR OCD, meanwhile, said that the fatality from Abra was identified as Dalipog Dayag, 70, of Bucloc, Abra, who died from drowning while crossing a river on Sunday afternoon after tilling a farmland.
Dayag’s dead body was found only yesterday (Monday) morning in the adjacent town of Sallapadan.
The fatality from Quezon City, on the other hand, was identified as Richard Añonuevo, 25, who died after getting submerged in a flood in Bagong Silang in Payatas, the OCD said in its report yesterday.
There was no mention about the date of the incident.
The OCD said a total of 2,532 families or 12,515 families were affected by “Hanna,” of whom 225 families or 1,037 families have been evacuated.
The affected persons come from Regions VI, X, XII, CAR and the National Capital Region, where “Hanna” brought in rains induced by the southwest monsoon.
A total of two houses, both from Hingyon, Ifugao, were totally destroyed due to lansdlide, while 32 others - three from Kalinga province and 29 from Sarangani province - were partially damaged due to landslide and big waves, respectively.
The OCD said an estimated P10.68 million worth of infrastructure was damaged by “Hanna,” which include the following: two communal irrigation systems (Tab-taba and Wa-it) in Lubuagan, Kalinga; farm-to-market road in Barangay Ginaang, Pasil, Kalinga; a chapel and barangay hall in Malapatan, Sarangani; a protection dike in Barangay Lingagao, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental; and a drainage along the highway of Poblacion Catarman in Camiguin.
Just as “Hanna” has already left the country, the national weather station issued on Monday a tropical cyclone alert with the development of Tropical Depression “Ineng.”
Quoting the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAG-ASA), the OCD said “Ineng” was located east of northeastern Luzon yesterday afternoon./DMS
October 1, 2007
Tropical storm “Hanna” has left at least 10 persons killed, mostly in the northern province of Ifugao, when it was felt in the Philippines over the weekend.
According to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), eight of the fatalities are from a landslide incident in Ifugao, another one is from a drowning incident in Abra, and the last one is due to flood in Quezon City.
The OCD in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) said the missing person in the landslide incident in Hingyon, Ifugao on Saturday night could not yet be ascertained as of Monday evening whether or not he was already recovered dead.
A nine-year-old boy was also wounded in said incident.
The CAR OCD, meanwhile, said that the fatality from Abra was identified as Dalipog Dayag, 70, of Bucloc, Abra, who died from drowning while crossing a river on Sunday afternoon after tilling a farmland.
Dayag’s dead body was found only yesterday (Monday) morning in the adjacent town of Sallapadan.
The fatality from Quezon City, on the other hand, was identified as Richard Añonuevo, 25, who died after getting submerged in a flood in Bagong Silang in Payatas, the OCD said in its report yesterday.
There was no mention about the date of the incident.
The OCD said a total of 2,532 families or 12,515 families were affected by “Hanna,” of whom 225 families or 1,037 families have been evacuated.
The affected persons come from Regions VI, X, XII, CAR and the National Capital Region, where “Hanna” brought in rains induced by the southwest monsoon.
A total of two houses, both from Hingyon, Ifugao, were totally destroyed due to lansdlide, while 32 others - three from Kalinga province and 29 from Sarangani province - were partially damaged due to landslide and big waves, respectively.
The OCD said an estimated P10.68 million worth of infrastructure was damaged by “Hanna,” which include the following: two communal irrigation systems (Tab-taba and Wa-it) in Lubuagan, Kalinga; farm-to-market road in Barangay Ginaang, Pasil, Kalinga; a chapel and barangay hall in Malapatan, Sarangani; a protection dike in Barangay Lingagao, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental; and a drainage along the highway of Poblacion Catarman in Camiguin.
Just as “Hanna” has already left the country, the national weather station issued on Monday a tropical cyclone alert with the development of Tropical Depression “Ineng.”
Quoting the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAG-ASA), the OCD said “Ineng” was located east of northeastern Luzon yesterday afternoon./DMS
Esperon denies Miranda’s request for hospitalization
By Ronron
October 1, 2007
Even before he can be informed by the military prosecution of the General Court Martial’s recommendation to allow Marine Maj. Gen. Renato Miranda to visit a hospital for his ailment, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. already denied it.
In a chance interview at Camp Crame, Quezon City where he attended the turn over of command rites for the Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, Esperon said a local hospital had already recommended that Miranda can be considered as “an outpatient” despite having problems to his ears and suffering from vertigo.
“When I learned that he has problems to his hearing, and vertigo, I sent him to the local hospital to be checked there and he was given medication and they say that he doesn’t have to be confined. So, it’s the doctor talking,” Esperon recounted, without citing the date.
“We had him checked up again on September 28 and the doctor said he can be administered to as an outpatient. But of course, we are not neglecting his needs,” he added.
During the hearing last Friday in Tanay, Rizal, Army Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim, a co-accused of Miranda along with 26 others in relation to the alleged February 2006 coup plot, informed the court that Miranda could not attend that day’s proceedings because he could not rise.
Lim said Miranda has problems with his sugar level and cholesterol count, his ears and vertigo, he even collapsed a week earlier inside the bathroom. Lim warned that Miranda could collapse again anytime soon or go into coma due to hypoglycemia because he is not allowed to go to a bigger hospital.
Lim went on to accuse Esperon of playing god even at the risk of the health condition of his co-accused officers.
But Esperon said he could not grant Miranda an “executive medical check-up” because “it is a privilege only for non-trouble makers.”
“For example, you yourselves. Since you are not doing anything bad, you can have an executive check-up. But if you are a destabilizer, you are in jail, why would you ask now for an executive check-up? It is not our fault why you are now in jail,” Esperon sarcastically said in Filipino.
Aside from Miranda, five other officers are reportedly ill also and need medical attention.
Favoring the request of Lim and their lawyers for medical check-up for the sick accused officers, the panel ordered the military prosecution panel during last Friday’s hearing to immediately coordinate with Esperon over said matter./DMS
October 1, 2007
Even before he can be informed by the military prosecution of the General Court Martial’s recommendation to allow Marine Maj. Gen. Renato Miranda to visit a hospital for his ailment, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. already denied it.
In a chance interview at Camp Crame, Quezon City where he attended the turn over of command rites for the Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, Esperon said a local hospital had already recommended that Miranda can be considered as “an outpatient” despite having problems to his ears and suffering from vertigo.
“When I learned that he has problems to his hearing, and vertigo, I sent him to the local hospital to be checked there and he was given medication and they say that he doesn’t have to be confined. So, it’s the doctor talking,” Esperon recounted, without citing the date.
“We had him checked up again on September 28 and the doctor said he can be administered to as an outpatient. But of course, we are not neglecting his needs,” he added.
During the hearing last Friday in Tanay, Rizal, Army Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim, a co-accused of Miranda along with 26 others in relation to the alleged February 2006 coup plot, informed the court that Miranda could not attend that day’s proceedings because he could not rise.
Lim said Miranda has problems with his sugar level and cholesterol count, his ears and vertigo, he even collapsed a week earlier inside the bathroom. Lim warned that Miranda could collapse again anytime soon or go into coma due to hypoglycemia because he is not allowed to go to a bigger hospital.
Lim went on to accuse Esperon of playing god even at the risk of the health condition of his co-accused officers.
But Esperon said he could not grant Miranda an “executive medical check-up” because “it is a privilege only for non-trouble makers.”
“For example, you yourselves. Since you are not doing anything bad, you can have an executive check-up. But if you are a destabilizer, you are in jail, why would you ask now for an executive check-up? It is not our fault why you are now in jail,” Esperon sarcastically said in Filipino.
Aside from Miranda, five other officers are reportedly ill also and need medical attention.
Favoring the request of Lim and their lawyers for medical check-up for the sick accused officers, the panel ordered the military prosecution panel during last Friday’s hearing to immediately coordinate with Esperon over said matter./DMS
It’s final, Trillanes cannot convene a hearing at his detention cell – Esperon
By Ronron
October 1, 2007
Senator Antonio Trillanes IV cannot hold a hearing at his detention cell inside the Philippine Marine headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, the military chief said Monday.
In an ambush interview at Camp Crame during the turn over of command rites of the Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. said the order of the Makati City court trying Trillanes for coup d ‘etat in relation to the 2003 Oakwood Mutiny incident clearly states that the jailed legislator cannot use his detention cell as a political office.
“The ruling of Judge (Oscar) Pimentel is they cannot establish a political office inside camp. What more inside the Marine Brig? He has also ruled that they cannot conduct hearings inside the Marine Brig. That Marine Brig is a prison so why would you conduct a hearing there?” Esperon said.
Asked if there is therefore no chance for Trillanes to hold hearings inside his detention cell based on this, Esperon said: “He cannot hold a hearing there.”
Esperon said it is s not an act of harassment against Trillanes as claimed by the latter’s camp, rather it is just implementing the court order, and even the camp regulations.
“They are the ones that are trying to put in politics inside the camp,” Esperon lashed at Trillanes’ camp.
The camp of Trillanes complained last week of harassment after his visitors from the Senate and other agencies were not allowed to enter his detention cell to deliberate on proposed bills of the Senator.
Trillanes is in jail for allegedly leading the alleged coup plot in July 2003 at the then posh Oakwood Hotel and Apartments in Makati City in protest of alleged corruption in the government and the military establishment.
He is currently facing coup d’ etat charge before the Makati City court and violation of the Articles of War before the General Court Martial./DMS
October 1, 2007
Senator Antonio Trillanes IV cannot hold a hearing at his detention cell inside the Philippine Marine headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, the military chief said Monday.
In an ambush interview at Camp Crame during the turn over of command rites of the Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. said the order of the Makati City court trying Trillanes for coup d ‘etat in relation to the 2003 Oakwood Mutiny incident clearly states that the jailed legislator cannot use his detention cell as a political office.
“The ruling of Judge (Oscar) Pimentel is they cannot establish a political office inside camp. What more inside the Marine Brig? He has also ruled that they cannot conduct hearings inside the Marine Brig. That Marine Brig is a prison so why would you conduct a hearing there?” Esperon said.
Asked if there is therefore no chance for Trillanes to hold hearings inside his detention cell based on this, Esperon said: “He cannot hold a hearing there.”
Esperon said it is s not an act of harassment against Trillanes as claimed by the latter’s camp, rather it is just implementing the court order, and even the camp regulations.
“They are the ones that are trying to put in politics inside the camp,” Esperon lashed at Trillanes’ camp.
The camp of Trillanes complained last week of harassment after his visitors from the Senate and other agencies were not allowed to enter his detention cell to deliberate on proposed bills of the Senator.
Trillanes is in jail for allegedly leading the alleged coup plot in July 2003 at the then posh Oakwood Hotel and Apartments in Makati City in protest of alleged corruption in the government and the military establishment.
He is currently facing coup d’ etat charge before the Makati City court and violation of the Articles of War before the General Court Martial./DMS
DILG Secretary calls Abalos’ resignation an acct of patriotism
By Ronron
October 1, 2007
Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Ronaldo Puno said Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos’ resignation on Monday is an act of patriotism.
Saying that the development came as a surprise to him, Puno said Abalos must have thought only about the welfare of the poll body, his family, as well as the upcoming elections for barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials on October 29.
“I think he probably made his decision with the interest of the entire political situation in mind. We are having the barangay elections within the end of this month and I’m sure that because of his love for the institution, Chairman Abalos probably felt that it would be better if the elections were pursued without this cloud of controversy hanging over the Commission on Elections,” Puno told reporters at Camp Crame after the turn over of command rites for the Philippine National Police (PNP) chief.
“So, I actually congratulate him for his patriotism, with his sacrifice through his resignation and I wish him well in his future endeavors,” he added.
But Puno was quick to assure that the local polls will definitely push through despite the development, saying the Comelec has long prepared for it. He said that the poll body will definitely come up with an Officer-in-Charge.
The DILG Secretary disputed observations of some that Abalos was a “sacrificial lamb” to save Malacanang from being dragged into the alleged bribery scandal hounding the National Broadband Network (NBN) project controversy.
Former Economic Planning Secretary and incumbent Commission on Higher Education acting chair Romulo Neri had accused Abalos of offering him a bribe for him to endorse the Chinese firm ZTE Corporation to get the NBN deal. Abalos had admitted having close personal relations with ZTE executives but denied the bribery allegation.
Puno said Arroyo was not aware yesterday noon that Abalos had already announced his resignation. “This is coming as a complete surprise to myself. I have been talking with the President since this morning, we have not heard anything about it. So this is purely the decision of Chairman Abalos,” he said.
Both Puno and Arroyo were present in yesterday’s turn over of command rites at Camp Crame.
Puno said that now that Abalos has resigned, the latter could already face his legal battles without dragging along the Comelec as an institution.
“I think that he probably will welcome the fact that any further inquiries will be raised in a judicial environment where proof and evidence is going to be the order of the day rather than allegations and unsubstantiated charges. So, that will probably also be a better way to resolve that issue,” Puno said when asked of his piece of advice for Abalos./DMS
October 1, 2007
Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Ronaldo Puno said Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos’ resignation on Monday is an act of patriotism.
Saying that the development came as a surprise to him, Puno said Abalos must have thought only about the welfare of the poll body, his family, as well as the upcoming elections for barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials on October 29.
“I think he probably made his decision with the interest of the entire political situation in mind. We are having the barangay elections within the end of this month and I’m sure that because of his love for the institution, Chairman Abalos probably felt that it would be better if the elections were pursued without this cloud of controversy hanging over the Commission on Elections,” Puno told reporters at Camp Crame after the turn over of command rites for the Philippine National Police (PNP) chief.
“So, I actually congratulate him for his patriotism, with his sacrifice through his resignation and I wish him well in his future endeavors,” he added.
But Puno was quick to assure that the local polls will definitely push through despite the development, saying the Comelec has long prepared for it. He said that the poll body will definitely come up with an Officer-in-Charge.
The DILG Secretary disputed observations of some that Abalos was a “sacrificial lamb” to save Malacanang from being dragged into the alleged bribery scandal hounding the National Broadband Network (NBN) project controversy.
Former Economic Planning Secretary and incumbent Commission on Higher Education acting chair Romulo Neri had accused Abalos of offering him a bribe for him to endorse the Chinese firm ZTE Corporation to get the NBN deal. Abalos had admitted having close personal relations with ZTE executives but denied the bribery allegation.
Puno said Arroyo was not aware yesterday noon that Abalos had already announced his resignation. “This is coming as a complete surprise to myself. I have been talking with the President since this morning, we have not heard anything about it. So this is purely the decision of Chairman Abalos,” he said.
Both Puno and Arroyo were present in yesterday’s turn over of command rites at Camp Crame.
Puno said that now that Abalos has resigned, the latter could already face his legal battles without dragging along the Comelec as an institution.
“I think that he probably will welcome the fact that any further inquiries will be raised in a judicial environment where proof and evidence is going to be the order of the day rather than allegations and unsubstantiated charges. So, that will probably also be a better way to resolve that issue,” Puno said when asked of his piece of advice for Abalos./DMS
Razon takes over as PNP chief, told by Arroyo to leave human rights protection as legacy
By Ronron
October 1, 2007
Deputy Director General Avelino Razon, Jr. took over on Monday as the new Philippine National Police (PNP) chief with the retirement of Gen. Oscar Calderon.
In simple rites at the PNP headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo installed Razon as the 14th PNP chief with a standing order to put an end to killings of political activists and journalists.
“If Oca Calderon’s legacy is housing, I am hoping that the legacy of Sonny Razon is on human rights,” Arroyo said in Filipino in her speech as guest of honor.
“Especially because Sonny was the head (previously) of Task Force USIG, I also instruct Gen. Razon to continue to be on top of Task Force USIG, except that now he is chief PNP, his perspective must be wider now. It must not only be on police action but the entire criminal justice system,” she added.
Razon was the first commander of Task Force USIG when it was created in June last year by Arroyo to address the so-called extrajudicial killings. It is now being headed by Director Jefferson Soriano, chief of the PNP Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM).
Arryo said the first report she wants to see from Razon immediately after his assumption is “an update on the arrest, convictions, and imprisonment of those responsible for the killings of political activists and journalists.”
Based on the latest report of Task Force USIG, there have been 116 validated cases of slain militant members since 2001, of which 56 were filed in court and the remaining 60 are still under investigation.
For the 27 slain media practitioners, 21 cases were filed in court and the six others remain under investigation.
Razon told reporters after the ceremony that he will submit the report within two weeks.
Asked how he will comply with Arroyo’s directive for him to continue addressing the political and journalist killings in the country, Razon only said: “We have scheduled a command conference immediately after this so we can outline our actions to address the concern raised by the President.”
On whether or not Arroyo’s order is achievable, he said: “The Philippine National Police can accomplish that. We should accomplish that.”
Coming from the United States where she attended the 62nd United Nations General Assembly in New York City, Arroyo reiterated in her speech yesterday that her government “deplores any and all killings of political activists and journalists.”
She said her government has even complied with some recommendations of the Melo Commission, including the establishment of separate courts to try extrajudicial killing cases.
The President took a swipe at the communist movement for fostering the culture of human rights violation as part of its activities.
“The communist rebels have spent years as a low level threat. It’s time for their disruption and violation of human rights to be put to rest so that the nation can move ahead. They impede the progress and development of a number of rural areas… If we are to become a First World country, we have to put to a stop to their ideological non-sense and their criminal acts once and for all,” Arroyo said.
She reiterated that her government, aside from taking the hard way, is opening the doors for amnesty to the communists through Proclamation 1377.
But aside from the human rights violation problem, Arroyo directed Razon to also continue addressing the problem of terrorism and criminality.
“The world looks upon the Philippines to continue to reinforce our economic gains with a solid foundation of law and order. And so, Sonny Razon should see to it that the war against criminality and terrorism is sustained at the grassroots level and that evil is kept at bay in the streets and in the country,” Arroyo said.
In his assumption speech, Razon vowed to deploy more uniformed policemen to the streets compared to those stationed at the offices and desk to live the PNP motto of “serving and protecting the community.”
“Let us bring back the old glory of the police force, when the mere sight of the an in uniform evoked respect and a feeling of safety and security among the citizenry. I want every man, woman and child on the street to feel safe because “Mamang Pulis2 is just around the corner. And I want the criminal element in the street to think twice before striking because “Mamang Pulis” is also just around the corner,” Razon said.
Meanwhile, Arroyo congratulated Calderon “for a job well done” in the 15 months he led the 120,000-strong PNP.
Department Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Ronaldo Puno, who was among the guests in yesterday’s affair, said he has suggested to the President to consider Calderon for a position in her administration as Presidential Adviser or DILG Undersecretary.
“We are discussing this ways of continued service because I think he has started a lot of things which we really feel should be continued… I’m think that maybe because of the importance of the work that he has done and he continues to do, maybe it would be better if instead of an Undersecretary in the department, he could even be Presidential Adviser on several aspects that are important to the President,” Puno said in an interview after the turn over rites.
“I discussed it with the President before already and I already told her about my belief and my recommendation that Gen. Calderon be invited to continue assisting all of the things that we’re doing so that there will be continuity. And she is of course very open to the idea because she also believes that Gen. Calderon has done a good job and is still in a position to help us,” he added.
In an earlier interview, Calderon had said he is willing to continue working for the government to help Arroyo, with whom he said he is indebted for his appointment as 13th PNP chief.
With Razon’s assumption, a top-level reshuffle at the PNP also took effect Monday.
The position of Deputy Chief for Administration that Razon left behind will be taken over by DDG Jesus Verzosa, the former Deputy Chief for Operations.
The new Deputy Chief for Operations, meanwhile, will be DDG Reynaldo Varilla of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO).
Director Geary Barias will become the new NCRPO chief in lieu of Varilla, as he turns over the Director for Comptrollership to Chief Supt. Eliseo de la Paz.
Further, the new Directorate for Operations chief will be Chief Supt. Silverio Alarcio, Jr.; the Directorate for Research and Development chief will be Chief Supt. Ray Roderos; and the Directorate for Human Resources and Doctrine Development chief will be Chief Supt. German Doria.
“The first order for the day is for every policeman to implement our motto, which is, we serve and protect… We should not be the oppressor, we should not be human rights violators,” Razon said./DMS
October 1, 2007
Deputy Director General Avelino Razon, Jr. took over on Monday as the new Philippine National Police (PNP) chief with the retirement of Gen. Oscar Calderon.
In simple rites at the PNP headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo installed Razon as the 14th PNP chief with a standing order to put an end to killings of political activists and journalists.
“If Oca Calderon’s legacy is housing, I am hoping that the legacy of Sonny Razon is on human rights,” Arroyo said in Filipino in her speech as guest of honor.
“Especially because Sonny was the head (previously) of Task Force USIG, I also instruct Gen. Razon to continue to be on top of Task Force USIG, except that now he is chief PNP, his perspective must be wider now. It must not only be on police action but the entire criminal justice system,” she added.
Razon was the first commander of Task Force USIG when it was created in June last year by Arroyo to address the so-called extrajudicial killings. It is now being headed by Director Jefferson Soriano, chief of the PNP Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM).
Arryo said the first report she wants to see from Razon immediately after his assumption is “an update on the arrest, convictions, and imprisonment of those responsible for the killings of political activists and journalists.”
Based on the latest report of Task Force USIG, there have been 116 validated cases of slain militant members since 2001, of which 56 were filed in court and the remaining 60 are still under investigation.
For the 27 slain media practitioners, 21 cases were filed in court and the six others remain under investigation.
Razon told reporters after the ceremony that he will submit the report within two weeks.
Asked how he will comply with Arroyo’s directive for him to continue addressing the political and journalist killings in the country, Razon only said: “We have scheduled a command conference immediately after this so we can outline our actions to address the concern raised by the President.”
On whether or not Arroyo’s order is achievable, he said: “The Philippine National Police can accomplish that. We should accomplish that.”
Coming from the United States where she attended the 62nd United Nations General Assembly in New York City, Arroyo reiterated in her speech yesterday that her government “deplores any and all killings of political activists and journalists.”
She said her government has even complied with some recommendations of the Melo Commission, including the establishment of separate courts to try extrajudicial killing cases.
The President took a swipe at the communist movement for fostering the culture of human rights violation as part of its activities.
“The communist rebels have spent years as a low level threat. It’s time for their disruption and violation of human rights to be put to rest so that the nation can move ahead. They impede the progress and development of a number of rural areas… If we are to become a First World country, we have to put to a stop to their ideological non-sense and their criminal acts once and for all,” Arroyo said.
She reiterated that her government, aside from taking the hard way, is opening the doors for amnesty to the communists through Proclamation 1377.
But aside from the human rights violation problem, Arroyo directed Razon to also continue addressing the problem of terrorism and criminality.
“The world looks upon the Philippines to continue to reinforce our economic gains with a solid foundation of law and order. And so, Sonny Razon should see to it that the war against criminality and terrorism is sustained at the grassroots level and that evil is kept at bay in the streets and in the country,” Arroyo said.
In his assumption speech, Razon vowed to deploy more uniformed policemen to the streets compared to those stationed at the offices and desk to live the PNP motto of “serving and protecting the community.”
“Let us bring back the old glory of the police force, when the mere sight of the an in uniform evoked respect and a feeling of safety and security among the citizenry. I want every man, woman and child on the street to feel safe because “Mamang Pulis2 is just around the corner. And I want the criminal element in the street to think twice before striking because “Mamang Pulis” is also just around the corner,” Razon said.
Meanwhile, Arroyo congratulated Calderon “for a job well done” in the 15 months he led the 120,000-strong PNP.
Department Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Ronaldo Puno, who was among the guests in yesterday’s affair, said he has suggested to the President to consider Calderon for a position in her administration as Presidential Adviser or DILG Undersecretary.
“We are discussing this ways of continued service because I think he has started a lot of things which we really feel should be continued… I’m think that maybe because of the importance of the work that he has done and he continues to do, maybe it would be better if instead of an Undersecretary in the department, he could even be Presidential Adviser on several aspects that are important to the President,” Puno said in an interview after the turn over rites.
“I discussed it with the President before already and I already told her about my belief and my recommendation that Gen. Calderon be invited to continue assisting all of the things that we’re doing so that there will be continuity. And she is of course very open to the idea because she also believes that Gen. Calderon has done a good job and is still in a position to help us,” he added.
In an earlier interview, Calderon had said he is willing to continue working for the government to help Arroyo, with whom he said he is indebted for his appointment as 13th PNP chief.
With Razon’s assumption, a top-level reshuffle at the PNP also took effect Monday.
The position of Deputy Chief for Administration that Razon left behind will be taken over by DDG Jesus Verzosa, the former Deputy Chief for Operations.
The new Deputy Chief for Operations, meanwhile, will be DDG Reynaldo Varilla of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO).
Director Geary Barias will become the new NCRPO chief in lieu of Varilla, as he turns over the Director for Comptrollership to Chief Supt. Eliseo de la Paz.
Further, the new Directorate for Operations chief will be Chief Supt. Silverio Alarcio, Jr.; the Directorate for Research and Development chief will be Chief Supt. Ray Roderos; and the Directorate for Human Resources and Doctrine Development chief will be Chief Supt. German Doria.
“The first order for the day is for every policeman to implement our motto, which is, we serve and protect… We should not be the oppressor, we should not be human rights violators,” Razon said./DMS
Monday, October 1, 2007
Arroyo back in Manila
By Ronron
September 30, 2007
Philippine leader Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo arrived late Saturday night in Manila from New York City where she attended the 62nd United Nations General Assembly, the Clinton Global Initiative Forum and the Third Meeting of the Women Leaders Working Group.
Arroyo was welcomed upon her arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Pasay City by Immigration Commissioner Marcelino Libanan, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Jr., Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, and Armed Forces chief of staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr.
The President did not give an arrival speech.
She left the country last Tuesday evening./DMS
September 30, 2007
Philippine leader Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo arrived late Saturday night in Manila from New York City where she attended the 62nd United Nations General Assembly, the Clinton Global Initiative Forum and the Third Meeting of the Women Leaders Working Group.
Arroyo was welcomed upon her arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Pasay City by Immigration Commissioner Marcelino Libanan, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Jr., Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, and Armed Forces chief of staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr.
The President did not give an arrival speech.
She left the country last Tuesday evening./DMS
Quezon City policeman fatally shot outside his residence
By Ronron
September 30, 2007
An official of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) was found with a fatal gunshot wound near his chest at his residence late Saturday night, police said yesterday.
QCPD Criminal Investigation Unit head Supt. Franklin Mabanag said Station 8 commander Supt. Jose Garcia, 51, was declared dead on arrival at the Dr. Miguel Malvar Medical Foundation due to a lone gunshot wound he sustained at around 11pm outside his house in Barangay Pasong Tamo, Quezon City.
Mabanag said Garcia was found with a gunshot wound on his left chest near his shoulder after he went to the back of his house on No. 49 Nawasa Road, Area 5, Veterans Village supposedly to meet someone.
“We are not yet ruling out suicide or an involvement of another person. We are still investigating the case,” Mabanag said in a phone interview.
Mabanag said the basis for considering the possibility of self-infliction is the fact that Garcia’s caliber 45 service firearm was found with him at the crime scene, and the bullet that pierced through him is of a caliber 45’s.
But they are not ruling out the possible involvement of another person because the smudges (gunpowder burns) were located about a foot away from Garcia’s body and there was presence of suspected footprints of another person.
Mabanag noted that the rear of Garcia’s residence was also accessible to outsiders because it also has a gate.
If the suicide angle is unproven by scene of the crime operatives, Mabanag said it is highly likely that the incident “is in line with his (Garcia) work,” noting that prior to leaving he house, Garcia was scanning some case folders.
Mabanag said Garcia lives only at said house with his sister and his 15-year-old son.
He said Garcia was wearing a pair of short pants and polo shirt at the time./DMS
September 30, 2007
An official of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) was found with a fatal gunshot wound near his chest at his residence late Saturday night, police said yesterday.
QCPD Criminal Investigation Unit head Supt. Franklin Mabanag said Station 8 commander Supt. Jose Garcia, 51, was declared dead on arrival at the Dr. Miguel Malvar Medical Foundation due to a lone gunshot wound he sustained at around 11pm outside his house in Barangay Pasong Tamo, Quezon City.
Mabanag said Garcia was found with a gunshot wound on his left chest near his shoulder after he went to the back of his house on No. 49 Nawasa Road, Area 5, Veterans Village supposedly to meet someone.
“We are not yet ruling out suicide or an involvement of another person. We are still investigating the case,” Mabanag said in a phone interview.
Mabanag said the basis for considering the possibility of self-infliction is the fact that Garcia’s caliber 45 service firearm was found with him at the crime scene, and the bullet that pierced through him is of a caliber 45’s.
But they are not ruling out the possible involvement of another person because the smudges (gunpowder burns) were located about a foot away from Garcia’s body and there was presence of suspected footprints of another person.
Mabanag noted that the rear of Garcia’s residence was also accessible to outsiders because it also has a gate.
If the suicide angle is unproven by scene of the crime operatives, Mabanag said it is highly likely that the incident “is in line with his (Garcia) work,” noting that prior to leaving he house, Garcia was scanning some case folders.
Mabanag said Garcia lives only at said house with his sister and his 15-year-old son.
He said Garcia was wearing a pair of short pants and polo shirt at the time./DMS
Eight killed in Ifugao landslide
By Ronron
September 30, 2007
Eight people, including children, were buried dead while one went missing following a landslide that hit the northern Philippine province of Ifugao on Saturday evening due to rains brought by tropical depression “Hanna.”
According to the report of the Cordillera Region Office of Civil Defense (OCD), one person was also wounded in the same incident that happened at around 10 pm in Barangay Upper Pitawan, Hingyon town.
OCD Regional Director Elvira Calina identified the fatalities in its 2pm report yesterday as Erma Hiadan, 50; Ruby Manwong, 6; Megan Manwong, 4; Johani Manwong, 2; Julia Linglingon, 52; Hiadan Cupilyo, 80; Joel Linglingon, 27; and, Rommel Linglingon, 30; while the missing victim is Henry Linglingon, 55.
Calina said the wounded victim is Denver Bogbog, 9, who was immediately brought to the Ifugao Provincial Hospital for medical treatment.
Calina said the victims were inside two houses when the heavy rains caused the nearby hill to collapse, bringing mixed soil and rocks over it.
“The Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council of Ifugao is conducting the search and rescue or retrieval operation for the one missing person… Immediate financial assistance for the victims will be recommended to the Ifugao Provincial Council,” Calina said.
The landslide caused the closure of traffic along the Hingyon-Banaue Road, Calina said.
Calina disclosed that earlier on Saturday afternoon, a landslide was also reported in Barangay Ginaang in Pasil, Kalinga, affecting 350 families or 2,100 persons. Fortunately, there were no casualties or evacuees reported after the incident despite the partial wreckage of three houses.
What were severely damaged, however, were farm-to-market roads, pathways, and roads in different parts of Pasil, totaling to about P10 million.
Calina said two irrigation systems in the province, particularly in Lubuagan town, were also destroyed – the Wa-it Communal Irrigation, which was totally damaged worth about P100,000, and the Tab-taba Communal Irrigation, which was partially damaged with estimated cost of P80,000.
Authorities are also closely monitoring the water levels at the Binga, Ambuklao and San Roque dams to prevent an overspill that may cause further damage in low-lying areas. As of 1pm yesterday, one gate each was opened at the Binga and Ambuklao Dams since water level was already approaching critical levels.
“Hanna” entered the Philippine area of responsibility before the weekend and was already reported to have crossed over to Vietnam by Sunday. But it continues to cause rains in parts of Luzon and the Visayas because of the enhanced southwest monsoon./DMS
September 30, 2007
Eight people, including children, were buried dead while one went missing following a landslide that hit the northern Philippine province of Ifugao on Saturday evening due to rains brought by tropical depression “Hanna.”
According to the report of the Cordillera Region Office of Civil Defense (OCD), one person was also wounded in the same incident that happened at around 10 pm in Barangay Upper Pitawan, Hingyon town.
OCD Regional Director Elvira Calina identified the fatalities in its 2pm report yesterday as Erma Hiadan, 50; Ruby Manwong, 6; Megan Manwong, 4; Johani Manwong, 2; Julia Linglingon, 52; Hiadan Cupilyo, 80; Joel Linglingon, 27; and, Rommel Linglingon, 30; while the missing victim is Henry Linglingon, 55.
Calina said the wounded victim is Denver Bogbog, 9, who was immediately brought to the Ifugao Provincial Hospital for medical treatment.
Calina said the victims were inside two houses when the heavy rains caused the nearby hill to collapse, bringing mixed soil and rocks over it.
“The Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council of Ifugao is conducting the search and rescue or retrieval operation for the one missing person… Immediate financial assistance for the victims will be recommended to the Ifugao Provincial Council,” Calina said.
The landslide caused the closure of traffic along the Hingyon-Banaue Road, Calina said.
Calina disclosed that earlier on Saturday afternoon, a landslide was also reported in Barangay Ginaang in Pasil, Kalinga, affecting 350 families or 2,100 persons. Fortunately, there were no casualties or evacuees reported after the incident despite the partial wreckage of three houses.
What were severely damaged, however, were farm-to-market roads, pathways, and roads in different parts of Pasil, totaling to about P10 million.
Calina said two irrigation systems in the province, particularly in Lubuagan town, were also destroyed – the Wa-it Communal Irrigation, which was totally damaged worth about P100,000, and the Tab-taba Communal Irrigation, which was partially damaged with estimated cost of P80,000.
Authorities are also closely monitoring the water levels at the Binga, Ambuklao and San Roque dams to prevent an overspill that may cause further damage in low-lying areas. As of 1pm yesterday, one gate each was opened at the Binga and Ambuklao Dams since water level was already approaching critical levels.
“Hanna” entered the Philippine area of responsibility before the weekend and was already reported to have crossed over to Vietnam by Sunday. But it continues to cause rains in parts of Luzon and the Visayas because of the enhanced southwest monsoon./DMS
Filipino nursing students protest JPEPA ratification
By Ronron
September 30, 2007
Nursing students from a Quezon City-based college staged on Sunday a protest rally against the ratification of the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) for fear that Filipino nurses will only end up as nursing aide or attendants in Japan.
At least 21 students of the Colegio de San Lorenzo said during their 30-minute rally in front of the Philippine Heart Center along East Avenue in Quezon City that Filipino nurses must be treated under the JPEPA as “professionals and not as commodities for sale.”
“Junk JPEPA! Junk! Junk! Junk!” the third-year nursing students, who were in their uniform, repeatedly shouted.
Noemelyn Pe, one of the demonstrators, said she will not consider working for Japan after graduation unless there is an assurance in the JPEPA that Filipino nurses will be treated fairly with Japanese nurses.
She said that as far as she knows, Filipino nurses who wish to work in Japan must undergo and complete a six-month training of the Japanese language, and will receive a much lower salary compared with Japanese nurses. “Isn’t that unfair?” she uttered.
Her classmate, Tudor Miguel Enriquez, said he would rather work in European countries than waste time and effort in Japan.
“It’s really a waste of time because you already know what to do yet you have to re-think in Japanese to apply all your knowledge before you can get the regular benefits of a registered nurse there,” Enriquez said.
Under the proposed pact, Filipino nurses and caregivers who wish to work in Japan after the effectivity of the JPEPA are required to undergo a six-month training to master the Japanese language. They are also required to take and pass the nursing licensure exam there in Nippongo before they can practice as regular nurses.
In the initial years of implementing the JPEPA, 400 Filipino nurses and 600 caregivers can enter the Japanese health care system.
Elsie de Veyra, a retired nurse associated with the Philippine Nurses Association and the anti-JPEPA group EcoWaste Coalition, viewed the conditions above as “relegation of our professional nurses into nursing aides under the trainee system, depriving our nurses of their labor rights and making them predisposed to abuse and exploitation in a foreign land.”
Asked what will make the JPEPA acceptable to them, de Veyra, who was also in yesterday’s rally, said: “It should state that upon entry of a Filipino nurse there, he or she is no longer a trainee but a regular nurse.”
De Veyra said they have already made coordination with Senators Loren Legarda and Jamby Madrigal to help them address their concern in the ongoing scrutiny by the Senate of the proposed agreement.
She said that when the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations will meet on October 4 to discuss the provision on the movement of natural persons, including caregivers and nurses, the group will also hold a rally at the Senate grounds./DMS
September 30, 2007
Nursing students from a Quezon City-based college staged on Sunday a protest rally against the ratification of the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) for fear that Filipino nurses will only end up as nursing aide or attendants in Japan.
At least 21 students of the Colegio de San Lorenzo said during their 30-minute rally in front of the Philippine Heart Center along East Avenue in Quezon City that Filipino nurses must be treated under the JPEPA as “professionals and not as commodities for sale.”
“Junk JPEPA! Junk! Junk! Junk!” the third-year nursing students, who were in their uniform, repeatedly shouted.
Noemelyn Pe, one of the demonstrators, said she will not consider working for Japan after graduation unless there is an assurance in the JPEPA that Filipino nurses will be treated fairly with Japanese nurses.
She said that as far as she knows, Filipino nurses who wish to work in Japan must undergo and complete a six-month training of the Japanese language, and will receive a much lower salary compared with Japanese nurses. “Isn’t that unfair?” she uttered.
Her classmate, Tudor Miguel Enriquez, said he would rather work in European countries than waste time and effort in Japan.
“It’s really a waste of time because you already know what to do yet you have to re-think in Japanese to apply all your knowledge before you can get the regular benefits of a registered nurse there,” Enriquez said.
Under the proposed pact, Filipino nurses and caregivers who wish to work in Japan after the effectivity of the JPEPA are required to undergo a six-month training to master the Japanese language. They are also required to take and pass the nursing licensure exam there in Nippongo before they can practice as regular nurses.
In the initial years of implementing the JPEPA, 400 Filipino nurses and 600 caregivers can enter the Japanese health care system.
Elsie de Veyra, a retired nurse associated with the Philippine Nurses Association and the anti-JPEPA group EcoWaste Coalition, viewed the conditions above as “relegation of our professional nurses into nursing aides under the trainee system, depriving our nurses of their labor rights and making them predisposed to abuse and exploitation in a foreign land.”
Asked what will make the JPEPA acceptable to them, de Veyra, who was also in yesterday’s rally, said: “It should state that upon entry of a Filipino nurse there, he or she is no longer a trainee but a regular nurse.”
De Veyra said they have already made coordination with Senators Loren Legarda and Jamby Madrigal to help them address their concern in the ongoing scrutiny by the Senate of the proposed agreement.
She said that when the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations will meet on October 4 to discuss the provision on the movement of natural persons, including caregivers and nurses, the group will also hold a rally at the Senate grounds./DMS
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Two soldiers killed, 10 wounded in Basilan encounter with suspected ASG rebels
By Ronron
September 26, 2007
Two government soldiers were killed while 10 others were wounded in an encounter Tuesday in Basilan province between government forces and suspected members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), officials said.
According to Army Special Forces chief Brig. Gen. Arturo Ortiz, the clash started at around 7:45 am Barangay Silangkum in Tipo-tipo town and went on sporadically, ending at 6pm.
The involved troops were elements of the 9th Special Forces Company, Scout Rangers, Marines and the Air Force 710th Special Operations Wing, officials said, while the ASG numbered to no more than 80.
Armed Forces chief of Staff Gen. Oscar Calderon said they are investigating if Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) members were with the suspected ASG in Tuesday’s clash.
Ortiz said the initial 7:45 am clash was followed at 1pm, and then at 2:40 pm that dragged on until 6pm.
“It was a fierce encounter in the same area of Silangkum, about more than a kilometer from the encounter site of August 18, where our Scout Ranger Test Mission operated this time,” told Camp Aguinaldo reporters yesterday.
Esperon said the operation was intelligence driven where they really targeted an encapment of the ASG.
He said the group was believed to be headed by a certain Furuji Indama, who was earlier reported by AFP Public Information Officer Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro to have died during the August 18 encounter in Silangkum village.
Indama is one of those charged by the police for the beheading of 14 Marine soldiers in Al-Barka town last July 10.
Told about the inconsistency regarding Indama, Esperon said: “That has since then been put into validation since there were reports that he was sighted somewhere. This is a continuing validation.”
Esperon said that in Tuesday’s fighting, intelligence report indicated that at least 10 ASG rebels were killed. But the military has not recovered any bodies.
Ortiz said that of the government casualties, one of the two slain soldiers is from the Special Forces, while the other one, as well as the 10 wounded, were Scout Rangers.
Esperon said a student, whose age was not immediately known, was also hurt after being hit by a stray bullet.
The military chief disclosed that American forces helped in the air evacuation of the slain and wounded government soldiers from Basilan to Zamboanga City where they were given medical treatment.
The incident was the last to happen since August 26 where joint Marine and Army forces clashed with ASG rebels also in Barangay Silangkum. There were no casualties reported in that firefight.
Prior to that was the deadly August 18 incident where 15 Marines were killed and seven others were wounded.
The military has deployed thousands of government troops in the island province to hunt after those responsible for the July 10 incident and to carry out humanitarian projects alongside military operations./DMS
September 26, 2007
Two government soldiers were killed while 10 others were wounded in an encounter Tuesday in Basilan province between government forces and suspected members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), officials said.
According to Army Special Forces chief Brig. Gen. Arturo Ortiz, the clash started at around 7:45 am Barangay Silangkum in Tipo-tipo town and went on sporadically, ending at 6pm.
The involved troops were elements of the 9th Special Forces Company, Scout Rangers, Marines and the Air Force 710th Special Operations Wing, officials said, while the ASG numbered to no more than 80.
Armed Forces chief of Staff Gen. Oscar Calderon said they are investigating if Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) members were with the suspected ASG in Tuesday’s clash.
Ortiz said the initial 7:45 am clash was followed at 1pm, and then at 2:40 pm that dragged on until 6pm.
“It was a fierce encounter in the same area of Silangkum, about more than a kilometer from the encounter site of August 18, where our Scout Ranger Test Mission operated this time,” told Camp Aguinaldo reporters yesterday.
Esperon said the operation was intelligence driven where they really targeted an encapment of the ASG.
He said the group was believed to be headed by a certain Furuji Indama, who was earlier reported by AFP Public Information Officer Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro to have died during the August 18 encounter in Silangkum village.
Indama is one of those charged by the police for the beheading of 14 Marine soldiers in Al-Barka town last July 10.
Told about the inconsistency regarding Indama, Esperon said: “That has since then been put into validation since there were reports that he was sighted somewhere. This is a continuing validation.”
Esperon said that in Tuesday’s fighting, intelligence report indicated that at least 10 ASG rebels were killed. But the military has not recovered any bodies.
Ortiz said that of the government casualties, one of the two slain soldiers is from the Special Forces, while the other one, as well as the 10 wounded, were Scout Rangers.
Esperon said a student, whose age was not immediately known, was also hurt after being hit by a stray bullet.
The military chief disclosed that American forces helped in the air evacuation of the slain and wounded government soldiers from Basilan to Zamboanga City where they were given medical treatment.
The incident was the last to happen since August 26 where joint Marine and Army forces clashed with ASG rebels also in Barangay Silangkum. There were no casualties reported in that firefight.
Prior to that was the deadly August 18 incident where 15 Marines were killed and seven others were wounded.
The military has deployed thousands of government troops in the island province to hunt after those responsible for the July 10 incident and to carry out humanitarian projects alongside military operations./DMS
PNP implements top-level reshuffle on Monday when new chief takes over
By Ronron
September 26, 2007
A top-level reshuffle within the Philippine National Police (PNP) will take place on Monday when the organization welcomes its new chief in the person of Deputy Director General (DDG) Avelino Razon, Jr.
According to Razon, the position of Deputy Chief for Administration that he will leave behind will be taken over by DDG Jesus Verzosa, the incumbent Deputy Chief for Operations.
The new Deputy Chief for Operations, meanwhile, will be DDG Reynaldo Varilla who currently heads the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO).
Razon said Director Geary Barias will become the new NCRPO chief, as he turns over the Director for Comptrollership he presently heads to Chief Supt. Eliseo de la Paz.
Razon will take over the top PNP post from General Oscar Calderon who will reach the mandatory retirement age of 56 on October 1./DMS
September 26, 2007
A top-level reshuffle within the Philippine National Police (PNP) will take place on Monday when the organization welcomes its new chief in the person of Deputy Director General (DDG) Avelino Razon, Jr.
According to Razon, the position of Deputy Chief for Administration that he will leave behind will be taken over by DDG Jesus Verzosa, the incumbent Deputy Chief for Operations.
The new Deputy Chief for Operations, meanwhile, will be DDG Reynaldo Varilla who currently heads the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO).
Razon said Director Geary Barias will become the new NCRPO chief, as he turns over the Director for Comptrollership he presently heads to Chief Supt. Eliseo de la Paz.
Razon will take over the top PNP post from General Oscar Calderon who will reach the mandatory retirement age of 56 on October 1./DMS
US donates 11.2 million pesos to PNP for renovation of training facility in Mindanao
By Ronron
September 26, 2007
Saying that it remains committed to help the Philippines in its fight against criminality and terrorism, particularly the illegal drugs trade, the United States formalized on Wednesday the grant of P11.2 million to the Philippine National Police (PNP) for the renovation of a police training facility in General Santos City.
In simple rites at Camp Crame, Quezon City, US Ambassador to Manila Kristie Kenney personally gave the donation to outgoing PNP chief Gen. Oscar Calderon, who will retire on October 1.
“We’re signing an important agreement that continues our collaboration on training and cooperation in the fight against drug trafficking,” Kenney told reporters after the signing ceremony.
A statement from the US Embassy said that the project will include new sleeping quarters, a dining facility, classrooms and upgrades to small arms ranges and a tactical “shoot house” structure.
“It’s part of a series of training efforts that we’re undergoing so that the Philippine National Police, specifically on anti-trafficking of drugs, will have the right facilities to train, to share ideas, techniques, not just with Americans, but with each other and also with other nations,” Kenney said.
Aside from the facility in General Santos City, those in Zamboanga City, San Fernando in La Union, and Palawan will also under improvement works, Kenney said.
“The US assistance seeks to improve the capabilities and capacities of its partner nation’s forces. The US enjoys a strong partnership with Philippine law enforcement officials and this is just one example of US support in improving the infrastructure of police units in the Philippines,” Kenney said.
According to Kenney, aside from the illegal drugs problem, the country is also faced with other security issues like terrorism and human trafficking, both the PNP needs to continue addressing.
For this reason, she said the US will also contribute in the Armed Forces’ Coast Watch South project, which is expected to start before the year ends.
“We’re delighted to be supporting Coast Watch South and we’re collaborating to see what else we can do – radars, boats, how we can share information,” Kenney said.
Asked if Americans feel safer in the country during the 15-month stint of Calderon as PNP chief, the envoy said: “Americans feel increasingly safer here in the Philippines. The PNP has done a wonderful job of looking after the really many difficult issues that face every police force in the world today.”
She said even American business has remained bullish in the country, thanks to the quality of Filipino employees, whom she describe as “energetic and dedicated,” and the level of security.
“American business is very enthusiastic about what we do here. In fact, next week, I’m going to Cebu where we have an American showcase (where) … American companies are here looking for Philippine partners to do business in the country,” Kenney said.
Kenney said that even the killing of US Peace Corps volunteer Julia Campbell in April of this year in Ifugao did not discourage other volunteers from continuing public service in the country.
But she said that while the number of volunteers, which is about 200 at this time, was not affected, American authorities have taken “the safety and security of our volunteers very seriously.”
Nonetheless, Kenney thanked Calderon for the efforts of the PNP to solve the murder case of Campbell.
“I’m actually looking forward to getting up to Banaue myself at some point because I want to thank the police up there, the local citizens who helped us look for Julia Campbell, have a chance to see for myself the extraordinary beauty, and to have a chance to see some of our other projects,” Kenney said./DMS
September 26, 2007
Saying that it remains committed to help the Philippines in its fight against criminality and terrorism, particularly the illegal drugs trade, the United States formalized on Wednesday the grant of P11.2 million to the Philippine National Police (PNP) for the renovation of a police training facility in General Santos City.
In simple rites at Camp Crame, Quezon City, US Ambassador to Manila Kristie Kenney personally gave the donation to outgoing PNP chief Gen. Oscar Calderon, who will retire on October 1.
“We’re signing an important agreement that continues our collaboration on training and cooperation in the fight against drug trafficking,” Kenney told reporters after the signing ceremony.
A statement from the US Embassy said that the project will include new sleeping quarters, a dining facility, classrooms and upgrades to small arms ranges and a tactical “shoot house” structure.
“It’s part of a series of training efforts that we’re undergoing so that the Philippine National Police, specifically on anti-trafficking of drugs, will have the right facilities to train, to share ideas, techniques, not just with Americans, but with each other and also with other nations,” Kenney said.
Aside from the facility in General Santos City, those in Zamboanga City, San Fernando in La Union, and Palawan will also under improvement works, Kenney said.
“The US assistance seeks to improve the capabilities and capacities of its partner nation’s forces. The US enjoys a strong partnership with Philippine law enforcement officials and this is just one example of US support in improving the infrastructure of police units in the Philippines,” Kenney said.
According to Kenney, aside from the illegal drugs problem, the country is also faced with other security issues like terrorism and human trafficking, both the PNP needs to continue addressing.
For this reason, she said the US will also contribute in the Armed Forces’ Coast Watch South project, which is expected to start before the year ends.
“We’re delighted to be supporting Coast Watch South and we’re collaborating to see what else we can do – radars, boats, how we can share information,” Kenney said.
Asked if Americans feel safer in the country during the 15-month stint of Calderon as PNP chief, the envoy said: “Americans feel increasingly safer here in the Philippines. The PNP has done a wonderful job of looking after the really many difficult issues that face every police force in the world today.”
She said even American business has remained bullish in the country, thanks to the quality of Filipino employees, whom she describe as “energetic and dedicated,” and the level of security.
“American business is very enthusiastic about what we do here. In fact, next week, I’m going to Cebu where we have an American showcase (where) … American companies are here looking for Philippine partners to do business in the country,” Kenney said.
Kenney said that even the killing of US Peace Corps volunteer Julia Campbell in April of this year in Ifugao did not discourage other volunteers from continuing public service in the country.
But she said that while the number of volunteers, which is about 200 at this time, was not affected, American authorities have taken “the safety and security of our volunteers very seriously.”
Nonetheless, Kenney thanked Calderon for the efforts of the PNP to solve the murder case of Campbell.
“I’m actually looking forward to getting up to Banaue myself at some point because I want to thank the police up there, the local citizens who helped us look for Julia Campbell, have a chance to see for myself the extraordinary beauty, and to have a chance to see some of our other projects,” Kenney said./DMS
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Navy to start Coast Watch project before yearend to battle transnational criminals and terrorists
By Ronron
September 25, 2007
The Philippine Navy will start later this year its Coast Watch project that will be implemented from Palawan to Davao in the hope of preventing sea-borne crimes, both local and transnational, and terrorism, officials said Tuesday.
In a phone interview with Defense reporters, Lt. Commander Jorge Ibarra, chief of the International Affairs of the Office of the Deputy Navy Chief for Plans, said they are just awaiting the Executive Order from Malacanang that will define the respective roles of the Navy and other maritime agencies like the Coast Guard, Maritime Police, the Customs and Immigration in the implementation of the project.
But even before an EO is released, Ibarra said the involved agencies will already begin holding workshops next week at the Navy headquarters in Manila City as to how the project will be carried out.
"The Coast Watch South stations would enhance the Philippine Navy's capability to conduct surveillance and interdiction against various threats that are taking advantage of our porous borders," Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Jr. said in a recent speech.
“Our southern backdoor is especially prone to the incursion of terrorists, smugglers, pirates, and traffickers of firearms and explosives. It is also used as a transshipment point of illegal drugs,” he added.
According to Ibarra, 17 Coast Watch stations, all worth up to P17 billion, will bet set up under the project. He said N-Shore Patrol vessels, patrol gunboats and rigid-hull inflatable boats will be bought by the Navy for use in the 17 stations.
Navy spokesman Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said the 17 stations would stretch from Mangsi Island off Palawan province to the coasts of Davao provinces in the eastern part of Mindanao, forming a U-shaped "barrier."
Ibarra said the N-Shore Patrol vessel and gunboats will be utilized in patrolling the waters within a 12-nautical mile radius, while the rigid-hull inflatable boats will be used near the coastlines.
“Once we monitor unusual movement, we can intercept them immediately,” Ibarra said of the project. “We will be monitoring all illegal activities.”
Ibarra said helicopters will also provide support to the sea patrols, in coordination with land-based stations. "There will be a triad, with a sea, land, and air component.”
The Coast Watch South project was introduced last year by then Navy Chief Vice Admiral Mateo Mayuga, after getting a briefing about the same project that is being implemented in Australia./DMS
September 25, 2007
The Philippine Navy will start later this year its Coast Watch project that will be implemented from Palawan to Davao in the hope of preventing sea-borne crimes, both local and transnational, and terrorism, officials said Tuesday.
In a phone interview with Defense reporters, Lt. Commander Jorge Ibarra, chief of the International Affairs of the Office of the Deputy Navy Chief for Plans, said they are just awaiting the Executive Order from Malacanang that will define the respective roles of the Navy and other maritime agencies like the Coast Guard, Maritime Police, the Customs and Immigration in the implementation of the project.
But even before an EO is released, Ibarra said the involved agencies will already begin holding workshops next week at the Navy headquarters in Manila City as to how the project will be carried out.
"The Coast Watch South stations would enhance the Philippine Navy's capability to conduct surveillance and interdiction against various threats that are taking advantage of our porous borders," Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Jr. said in a recent speech.
“Our southern backdoor is especially prone to the incursion of terrorists, smugglers, pirates, and traffickers of firearms and explosives. It is also used as a transshipment point of illegal drugs,” he added.
According to Ibarra, 17 Coast Watch stations, all worth up to P17 billion, will bet set up under the project. He said N-Shore Patrol vessels, patrol gunboats and rigid-hull inflatable boats will be bought by the Navy for use in the 17 stations.
Navy spokesman Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said the 17 stations would stretch from Mangsi Island off Palawan province to the coasts of Davao provinces in the eastern part of Mindanao, forming a U-shaped "barrier."
Ibarra said the N-Shore Patrol vessel and gunboats will be utilized in patrolling the waters within a 12-nautical mile radius, while the rigid-hull inflatable boats will be used near the coastlines.
“Once we monitor unusual movement, we can intercept them immediately,” Ibarra said of the project. “We will be monitoring all illegal activities.”
Ibarra said helicopters will also provide support to the sea patrols, in coordination with land-based stations. "There will be a triad, with a sea, land, and air component.”
The Coast Watch South project was introduced last year by then Navy Chief Vice Admiral Mateo Mayuga, after getting a briefing about the same project that is being implemented in Australia./DMS
Estrada to appeal guilty verdict before Sandiganbayan on Wednesday
By Ronron
September 25, 2007
Convicted former Philippine President Joseph Estrada will file today (Wednesday) a motion for reconsideration (MR) before the Sandiganbayan for the guilty verdict it handed against him last September 12, a government official said Tuesday.
According to Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Ronald Puno, the move is was relayed to him personally by Estrada during their meeting yesterday noon at the former leader’s Tanay Resthouse in Rizal province.
“His welcome words for me were, Ronnie, we will file tomorrow an MR before the Sandiganbayan… I said, it’s okay because for us, we will just await until all the legal processes are completed and the legal remedies available for them are already looked into,” Puno told a news conference yesterday afternoon at Camp Crame after arriving from Tanay.
Puno said he met with Estrada to discuss possible granting of pardon on him by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo consistent with her policy for national reconciliation and policy.
Puno said that if he had his way, Estrada should not just have filed the MR so that the process for getting pardon will already start. “For me, that would have been quicker. But of course, they have their own issues and that is refusal to accept the verdict of guilty. He wants to specifically state the reasons why he believes that the decision was not correct and needs to be reconsidered,” Puno said.
Under the law, any convicted person can only avail of executive clemency if the decision against him is final and executory already. He or she must also apply for that to the President.
When asked if Estrada would personally submit a letter to Arroyo, Puno replied: “I doubt.”
But Puno said they will continue negotiating with Estrada even if the appeal reaches the Supreme Court because it is the intention of the President to foster national unity.
“I told him that the message of President Arroyo is we just want to find a solution to heal the wounds so that we can go past the difficult situation we are in now and we can unite the people,” Puno said.
Puno said he will discuss further the matter with the Department of Justice in the coming days, and then to Estrada’s lawyers before he submits a report to Arroyo.
Despite the uncertainties, Puno said he is confident that the issue will be ironed out, particularly in favor of the government’s wish, in the end./DMS
September 25, 2007
Convicted former Philippine President Joseph Estrada will file today (Wednesday) a motion for reconsideration (MR) before the Sandiganbayan for the guilty verdict it handed against him last September 12, a government official said Tuesday.
According to Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Ronald Puno, the move is was relayed to him personally by Estrada during their meeting yesterday noon at the former leader’s Tanay Resthouse in Rizal province.
“His welcome words for me were, Ronnie, we will file tomorrow an MR before the Sandiganbayan… I said, it’s okay because for us, we will just await until all the legal processes are completed and the legal remedies available for them are already looked into,” Puno told a news conference yesterday afternoon at Camp Crame after arriving from Tanay.
Puno said he met with Estrada to discuss possible granting of pardon on him by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo consistent with her policy for national reconciliation and policy.
Puno said that if he had his way, Estrada should not just have filed the MR so that the process for getting pardon will already start. “For me, that would have been quicker. But of course, they have their own issues and that is refusal to accept the verdict of guilty. He wants to specifically state the reasons why he believes that the decision was not correct and needs to be reconsidered,” Puno said.
Under the law, any convicted person can only avail of executive clemency if the decision against him is final and executory already. He or she must also apply for that to the President.
When asked if Estrada would personally submit a letter to Arroyo, Puno replied: “I doubt.”
But Puno said they will continue negotiating with Estrada even if the appeal reaches the Supreme Court because it is the intention of the President to foster national unity.
“I told him that the message of President Arroyo is we just want to find a solution to heal the wounds so that we can go past the difficult situation we are in now and we can unite the people,” Puno said.
Puno said he will discuss further the matter with the Department of Justice in the coming days, and then to Estrada’s lawyers before he submits a report to Arroyo.
Despite the uncertainties, Puno said he is confident that the issue will be ironed out, particularly in favor of the government’s wish, in the end./DMS
Incoming PNP chief warns cops who fail in gun-handling tests that they will lose their firearms
By Ronron
September 25, 2007
Deputy Director General Avelino Razon, Jr., the incoming chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), will make sure when he assumes the top police post on October 1 that all policemen will have the capability to handle guns.
In an ambush interview at Camp Crame yesterday, Razon said he will give emphasis on the conduct of proficiency training and tests of policemen on handling guns so those found non-proficient will not pose danger to the public.
“If they don’t pass the proficiency test over a period of time or a series of tests, we will disarm them because the non-proficient pose a danger to our community. They’re like people who can’t drive but are allowed to do it, so they might hit pedestrians. That’s bad for our community,” Razon said.
Razon said the proficiency training and tests on gun handling will be done all year round.
He said those who will be disarmed will be assigned instead to administrative tasks or other duties that will not require the use of firearms, while their firearms will be given to more qualified ones.
“This will be from the chief PNP down to the lowest PO1… We will not spare anyone here,” Razon said.
Razon will replace PNP chief Gen. Oscar Calderon, who reaches the mandatory retirement age of 56 on October 1./DMS
September 25, 2007
Deputy Director General Avelino Razon, Jr., the incoming chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), will make sure when he assumes the top police post on October 1 that all policemen will have the capability to handle guns.
In an ambush interview at Camp Crame yesterday, Razon said he will give emphasis on the conduct of proficiency training and tests of policemen on handling guns so those found non-proficient will not pose danger to the public.
“If they don’t pass the proficiency test over a period of time or a series of tests, we will disarm them because the non-proficient pose a danger to our community. They’re like people who can’t drive but are allowed to do it, so they might hit pedestrians. That’s bad for our community,” Razon said.
Razon said the proficiency training and tests on gun handling will be done all year round.
He said those who will be disarmed will be assigned instead to administrative tasks or other duties that will not require the use of firearms, while their firearms will be given to more qualified ones.
“This will be from the chief PNP down to the lowest PO1… We will not spare anyone here,” Razon said.
Razon will replace PNP chief Gen. Oscar Calderon, who reaches the mandatory retirement age of 56 on October 1./DMS
Calderon willing to accept government post after retirement
By Ronron
September 25, 2007
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Oscar Calderon is open to continue working for the government even after his retirement from the service on October 1.
During the media forum Tuesday at Camp Crame, Calderon said he “cannot just leave behind President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo” with whom he “owes a debt of gratitude” for appointing him as PNP chief in July last year.
“I will make myself available… I will not totally disappear from the picture. I could still be of service even after my retirement,” Calderon said.
Asked if there had been offers for him from Malacanang, Calderon said there is nothing formal at the moment.
But one time recently, he said Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronaldo Puno directed him in jest to apply for any of the two vacant Undersecretary positions in the department.
“Well, we are not refusing any offer because I really just want to help,” Calderon said.
If Calderon gets a government position under the Arroyo administration, he is not going to be the first PNP chief to get one. His predecessor, retired Gen. Arturo Lomibao, has been named recently as chief of the Land Transportation Office (LTO). Lomibao’s predecessor, retired Gen. Edgardo Aglipay, was also assigned to head the Philippine Retirement Authority.
Calderon will be replaced by the incumbent PNP Deputy Chief for Administration, Deputy Director General Avelino Razon, Jr./DMS
September 25, 2007
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Oscar Calderon is open to continue working for the government even after his retirement from the service on October 1.
During the media forum Tuesday at Camp Crame, Calderon said he “cannot just leave behind President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo” with whom he “owes a debt of gratitude” for appointing him as PNP chief in July last year.
“I will make myself available… I will not totally disappear from the picture. I could still be of service even after my retirement,” Calderon said.
Asked if there had been offers for him from Malacanang, Calderon said there is nothing formal at the moment.
But one time recently, he said Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronaldo Puno directed him in jest to apply for any of the two vacant Undersecretary positions in the department.
“Well, we are not refusing any offer because I really just want to help,” Calderon said.
If Calderon gets a government position under the Arroyo administration, he is not going to be the first PNP chief to get one. His predecessor, retired Gen. Arturo Lomibao, has been named recently as chief of the Land Transportation Office (LTO). Lomibao’s predecessor, retired Gen. Edgardo Aglipay, was also assigned to head the Philippine Retirement Authority.
Calderon will be replaced by the incumbent PNP Deputy Chief for Administration, Deputy Director General Avelino Razon, Jr./DMS
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Razon elated to be chosen as next PNP chief
By Ronron
September 24, 2007
Deputy Director General Avelino Razon, Jr. expressed elation with the announcement of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Monday that he is the next chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Razon, the incumbent PNP Deputy Chief for Administration, will take over the post on October 1st when Gen. Oscar Calderon reaches the mandatory retirement age of 56.
“I am happy and I thank so much President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo for trusting me,” Razon said.
“I will take this as a challenge for the PNP to be of better service to our countrymen,” he added.
Razon will have a little over a year to head the 120,000-police force since he will meet the mandatory retirement age of 56 in late September of 2008./DMS
September 24, 2007
Deputy Director General Avelino Razon, Jr. expressed elation with the announcement of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Monday that he is the next chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Razon, the incumbent PNP Deputy Chief for Administration, will take over the post on October 1st when Gen. Oscar Calderon reaches the mandatory retirement age of 56.
“I am happy and I thank so much President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo for trusting me,” Razon said.
“I will take this as a challenge for the PNP to be of better service to our countrymen,” he added.
Razon will have a little over a year to head the 120,000-police force since he will meet the mandatory retirement age of 56 in late September of 2008./DMS
Renegade MILF commander killed in shootout with Maguindanao cops
By Ronron
September 24, 2007
A suspected renegade commander of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) was killed in a shootout Sunday against Maguindanao policemen.
The incident, which happened at around 8am at Barangay Kitango, Datu Saudi Ampatuan town in Maguindanao, also left the chief of police of said town slightly wounded, said Supt. Danilo Bacas, Operations and Plans Division chief of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Police.
Bacas said the five-man party led by Datu Saudi Ampatuan Police chief SPO4 Adam Maliga was aboard a police car when they were ambushed by armed men led by a certain Commander Hadji Ali.
Bacas said Ali is a known commander of the MILF Lost Command who allegedly has a rift with the family of Maliga.
“It’s a personal motive. We heard there is a family feud between Maliga and Ali, so we can say that Maliga is really the target,” Bacas said in Filipino when reached by phone.
Bacas said the group of Ali first fired at the party of Maliga using an M79 grenade launcher. The group of Maliga fired back, resulting in the death of Ali and the withdrawal of his followers.
Family feud, locally called as “rido,” usually ends up in violent incidents in Moslem communities in the country./DMS
September 24, 2007
A suspected renegade commander of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) was killed in a shootout Sunday against Maguindanao policemen.
The incident, which happened at around 8am at Barangay Kitango, Datu Saudi Ampatuan town in Maguindanao, also left the chief of police of said town slightly wounded, said Supt. Danilo Bacas, Operations and Plans Division chief of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Police.
Bacas said the five-man party led by Datu Saudi Ampatuan Police chief SPO4 Adam Maliga was aboard a police car when they were ambushed by armed men led by a certain Commander Hadji Ali.
Bacas said Ali is a known commander of the MILF Lost Command who allegedly has a rift with the family of Maliga.
“It’s a personal motive. We heard there is a family feud between Maliga and Ali, so we can say that Maliga is really the target,” Bacas said in Filipino when reached by phone.
Bacas said the group of Ali first fired at the party of Maliga using an M79 grenade launcher. The group of Maliga fired back, resulting in the death of Ali and the withdrawal of his followers.
Family feud, locally called as “rido,” usually ends up in violent incidents in Moslem communities in the country./DMS
Robbers strike at Defense reporters’ office inside main military camp
By Ronron
September 24, 2007
Suspected robbers took three Central Processing Units (CPU’s) of computer sets inside the Defense Press Corps (DPC) office at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) General Headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, members of the DPC discovered on Monday morning.
Pilipino Star Ngayon (tabloid) reporter Joy Cantos was the first to discover the missing computer parts when she arrived at the DPC office at around 10am. She said the door was closed but not locked, indicating no sign of forcible entry.
The last person to leave the office was this reporter, who left shortly past 9pm on Sunday. Upon leaving, this reporter made sure the door was locked.
Outgoing DPC President Verlin Ruiz, reporter of Remate (tabloid), said the three computer CPU’s belong to the sets being used by him, Victor Reyes of Malaya broadsheet, and Anthony Vargas of Manila Times broadsheet.
The three CPU’s were recently acquired by the DPC as Christmas gifts by donors. Ruiz estimates each of the CPU to cost around P30,000.00.
The computer users said the missing CPU’s contain only their stories and transcripts of several previous interviews. Ruiz said his also had personal profiles of DPC members.
“We strongly condemn in the strongest terms this incident of burglary, which happened right inside a military camp. We can not discount the possibility that it could be an inside job or this is a form of harassment against the DPC,” Ruiz said.
AFP Public Information Officer Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro, whose office is located adjacent to the DPC office, said the incident is now being investigated both by the AFP Military Police battalion and the Philippine National Police./DMS
September 24, 2007
Suspected robbers took three Central Processing Units (CPU’s) of computer sets inside the Defense Press Corps (DPC) office at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) General Headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, members of the DPC discovered on Monday morning.
Pilipino Star Ngayon (tabloid) reporter Joy Cantos was the first to discover the missing computer parts when she arrived at the DPC office at around 10am. She said the door was closed but not locked, indicating no sign of forcible entry.
The last person to leave the office was this reporter, who left shortly past 9pm on Sunday. Upon leaving, this reporter made sure the door was locked.
Outgoing DPC President Verlin Ruiz, reporter of Remate (tabloid), said the three computer CPU’s belong to the sets being used by him, Victor Reyes of Malaya broadsheet, and Anthony Vargas of Manila Times broadsheet.
The three CPU’s were recently acquired by the DPC as Christmas gifts by donors. Ruiz estimates each of the CPU to cost around P30,000.00.
The computer users said the missing CPU’s contain only their stories and transcripts of several previous interviews. Ruiz said his also had personal profiles of DPC members.
“We strongly condemn in the strongest terms this incident of burglary, which happened right inside a military camp. We can not discount the possibility that it could be an inside job or this is a form of harassment against the DPC,” Ruiz said.
AFP Public Information Officer Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro, whose office is located adjacent to the DPC office, said the incident is now being investigated both by the AFP Military Police battalion and the Philippine National Police./DMS
Monday, September 24, 2007
NPA attacks police station in Surigao Sur, two cops hurt
By Ronron
September 23, 2007
Suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) attacked early Sunday afternoon the Cantilan Municipal Police Station in Surigao del Sur, the chief of the provincial police said.
According to Sr. Supt. Alex Ga, two policemen were hurt in the incident as they also lost several firearms to the perpetrators estimated to be around 200 in strength.
Ga said the incident happened around 1:30 pm when there were only four policemen present at the police station.
He said the rebels were on board three trucks, one pick up and two vans.
But only those aboard the pick-up and one of the vans attacked the police station since the rest posted as security forces all over the town’s poblacion.
Ga said the attack lasted for about 10 to 15 minutes, since the policemen at the station fired back.
Since outnumbered, two of the policemen were wounded, and the rebels were able to take away 14 M16 rifles, one 9mm, one 38 caliber revolver, three homemade shotguns, and a radio set, Ga said.
Asked why there were only four policemen at the station during the attack, Ga said the rest were still having lunch outside, while there were also others posted in security details in the different parts of the town.
Ga said they will investigate the incident to find out if there were lapses on the part of the municipal police.
He said it was a surprise that the NPA attacked the Cantilan Municipal Police Station because when the communist movement announced their plan for future offensives in Caraga Region following the arrest of Jose Maria Sison in the Netherlands, the authorities thought it would take place in the southern or central part of the province.
The 7,100-strong NPA has been waging guerilla warfare in the countryside in the last 38 years to topple the government for the revolutionary objectives.
The government has vowed to make the group significantly incapable by 2010./DMS
September 23, 2007
Suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) attacked early Sunday afternoon the Cantilan Municipal Police Station in Surigao del Sur, the chief of the provincial police said.
According to Sr. Supt. Alex Ga, two policemen were hurt in the incident as they also lost several firearms to the perpetrators estimated to be around 200 in strength.
Ga said the incident happened around 1:30 pm when there were only four policemen present at the police station.
He said the rebels were on board three trucks, one pick up and two vans.
But only those aboard the pick-up and one of the vans attacked the police station since the rest posted as security forces all over the town’s poblacion.
Ga said the attack lasted for about 10 to 15 minutes, since the policemen at the station fired back.
Since outnumbered, two of the policemen were wounded, and the rebels were able to take away 14 M16 rifles, one 9mm, one 38 caliber revolver, three homemade shotguns, and a radio set, Ga said.
Asked why there were only four policemen at the station during the attack, Ga said the rest were still having lunch outside, while there were also others posted in security details in the different parts of the town.
Ga said they will investigate the incident to find out if there were lapses on the part of the municipal police.
He said it was a surprise that the NPA attacked the Cantilan Municipal Police Station because when the communist movement announced their plan for future offensives in Caraga Region following the arrest of Jose Maria Sison in the Netherlands, the authorities thought it would take place in the southern or central part of the province.
The 7,100-strong NPA has been waging guerilla warfare in the countryside in the last 38 years to topple the government for the revolutionary objectives.
The government has vowed to make the group significantly incapable by 2010./DMS
Pardon talks for Erap is premature – Ramos
By Ronron
September 23, 2007
The Arroyo government is “prematurely” discussing proposals for pardon on former President Joseph Estrada who was convicted by the Sandiganbayan for plunder since the case is not yet even over as far as the judicial process is concerned.
Former Philippine President Fidel Ramos told reporters Sunday that an executive clemency can only be granted when there is already finality to the verdict against any accused like Estrada.
“Didn’t former President Erap appeal before the Supreme Court for a reconsideration of the Sandiganbayan decision against him, convicting him of plunder and sentencing him of life (imprisonment?)… I think even low level officials who are not lawyers know that pardon, which is a form of an executive clemency and other forms include commutation of a severe sentence into something less severe, cannot be carried out by the Chief Executive unless the judicial process is finished, and the person is finally adjudged as guilty and is sentenced,” Ramos said.
A self-confessed Law school dropout but Doctor of Laws Honorary Degree holder, Ramos said the person must even “spend at least one day in the penitentiary before pardon or any kind of executive clemency can be extended.”
“The judicial process (on Estrada) is still ongoing that is why I am surprised sometimes why even the spokesman of Malacanang is talking about the pardon… That is still premature because the executive clemency cannot be given by the Executive while the judicial process is still going on,” Ramos said.
The Arroyo government has offered possible pardon for Estrada, who was convicted last September 12, in the hope of easing political tension, especially that the latter still commands a huge support from the masses./DMS
September 23, 2007
The Arroyo government is “prematurely” discussing proposals for pardon on former President Joseph Estrada who was convicted by the Sandiganbayan for plunder since the case is not yet even over as far as the judicial process is concerned.
Former Philippine President Fidel Ramos told reporters Sunday that an executive clemency can only be granted when there is already finality to the verdict against any accused like Estrada.
“Didn’t former President Erap appeal before the Supreme Court for a reconsideration of the Sandiganbayan decision against him, convicting him of plunder and sentencing him of life (imprisonment?)… I think even low level officials who are not lawyers know that pardon, which is a form of an executive clemency and other forms include commutation of a severe sentence into something less severe, cannot be carried out by the Chief Executive unless the judicial process is finished, and the person is finally adjudged as guilty and is sentenced,” Ramos said.
A self-confessed Law school dropout but Doctor of Laws Honorary Degree holder, Ramos said the person must even “spend at least one day in the penitentiary before pardon or any kind of executive clemency can be extended.”
“The judicial process (on Estrada) is still ongoing that is why I am surprised sometimes why even the spokesman of Malacanang is talking about the pardon… That is still premature because the executive clemency cannot be given by the Executive while the judicial process is still going on,” Ramos said.
The Arroyo government has offered possible pardon for Estrada, who was convicted last September 12, in the hope of easing political tension, especially that the latter still commands a huge support from the masses./DMS
Ramos suggests review of NBN contract now that deal is suspended
By Ronron
September 23, 2007
Former Philippine President Fidel Ramos on Sunday suggested that the government should take advantage of the suspension of the deal with ZTE Corporation as regards the implementation of the National Broadband Network (NBN) project by reviewing the contract.
In a news conference at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Medical Center on V. Luna Avenue, Quezon City, Ramos said Philippines and even China can revisit the terms of the contract to polish any perceived loopholes or anomaly.
“The suspension implies many other future actions… (like) a revisiting of the terms so that if indeed there is any overprice in relation to the real cost of the infrastructure, and/or services to be delivered, then that must be recomputed,” Ramos said.
“Also, if there are any further legal issues or claims even to be settled, then this must also be reviewed because there are other parties down the line that are in interest. It is not just the two governments concerned. There are private sector companies that are involved,” he added.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Saturday has ordered the suspension of her government’s contract with ZTE Corporation, as well as the Cyber-Education Project in the hope that it would tone down the controversy the former has brought.
The NBN project is worth US$329 million, while the Cyber-Education project costs about US$455.47 million.
The indefinite suspension order came after the Senate investigated the alleged bribe offers by ZTE officials to Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos to get the deal, as claimed by Jose de Venecia III, son of House Speaker Jose de Venecia whose company lost to ZTE.
As former President, Ramos said he is delighted by the move of the Arroyo administration to speak about the issue during the Senate probe since there is really a need to clarify the matter before the public.
“To me, that was a very good move,” Ramos said.
With the suspension giving an opportunity now for both countries to review the contract, Ramos said he is hopeful that everything will come out well with regard to the matter.
“The earlier this is redone or renegotiated, the better for all sides,” he said./DMS
September 23, 2007
Former Philippine President Fidel Ramos on Sunday suggested that the government should take advantage of the suspension of the deal with ZTE Corporation as regards the implementation of the National Broadband Network (NBN) project by reviewing the contract.
In a news conference at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Medical Center on V. Luna Avenue, Quezon City, Ramos said Philippines and even China can revisit the terms of the contract to polish any perceived loopholes or anomaly.
“The suspension implies many other future actions… (like) a revisiting of the terms so that if indeed there is any overprice in relation to the real cost of the infrastructure, and/or services to be delivered, then that must be recomputed,” Ramos said.
“Also, if there are any further legal issues or claims even to be settled, then this must also be reviewed because there are other parties down the line that are in interest. It is not just the two governments concerned. There are private sector companies that are involved,” he added.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Saturday has ordered the suspension of her government’s contract with ZTE Corporation, as well as the Cyber-Education Project in the hope that it would tone down the controversy the former has brought.
The NBN project is worth US$329 million, while the Cyber-Education project costs about US$455.47 million.
The indefinite suspension order came after the Senate investigated the alleged bribe offers by ZTE officials to Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos to get the deal, as claimed by Jose de Venecia III, son of House Speaker Jose de Venecia whose company lost to ZTE.
As former President, Ramos said he is delighted by the move of the Arroyo administration to speak about the issue during the Senate probe since there is really a need to clarify the matter before the public.
“To me, that was a very good move,” Ramos said.
With the suspension giving an opportunity now for both countries to review the contract, Ramos said he is hopeful that everything will come out well with regard to the matter.
“The earlier this is redone or renegotiated, the better for all sides,” he said./DMS
Ramos says “destabilizers” now have no capability to succeed
By Ronron
September 23, 2007
Former Philippine leader Fidel Ramos on Sunday belittled talks about alleged destabilization plots against the Arroyo administration, saying they have no capability to succeed.
In a news conference at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Medical Center in Quezon City, the former President said the destabilization exposed recently by AFP chief of staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. merely indicates “intention and indications” and does not reflect any hint of success.
“As far as I’m concerned, there may be some intentions and some indications but there is no capability by anyone because you must be able to mount big forces behind you,” Ramos, a former military chief, said.
He said the indication is that the alleged military personnel have tried to go against the chain of command, which, according to him, “does not mean that there is already a destabilization plot or conspiracy.”
In an interview last Friday, Esperon disclosed that at least six military personnel from the junior officer and enlisted personnel levels were caught actively recruiting fellow soldiers to join destabilization efforts against the government. Thus, within the last week, they were either reassigned or put on hold from any assignment.
But Ramos has questions about the capability of the involved personnel: “Can they move big forces without being detected? Do they have the support of a civilian component that is sizeable? Do they have finances and logistics to carry on beyond one or two days?”
The former leader said that previous coup attempts during his time as military chief under President Corazon Aquino’s incumbency failed because “they equated capability, which is the ability to make it succeed, through indications and intentions.”
Asked if he knows of any civilian component to the current destabilization talks, Ramos replied in the negative. “Now, where others are concerned, I don’t know,” he said.
Three Luzon-based commanders on Sunday maintained that their officers and men remain loyal to the present government, and vow to distance themselves from and quell any destabilization efforts coming from the military.
Northern Luzon command chief Maj. Gen. Rodrigo Maclang said he has visited his troops from Regions 1, 2, 3 and the Cordilleras and got the assurance that they will “reject any recruitment, just like in the past, by destabilizers who are only interested in pursuing their selfish political agenda.”
“Our troops remain cohesive and focused on their mandated mission. They have already grown tired of any overtures or attempts that would drive a wedge within their ranks,” Maclang said.
“All of these have been clearly confirmed in my personal visits and dialogues with all the officers and men, both in the field and in the garrisons,” he added.
Maclang said he has directed his men “to be vigilant against any threat to our national security” as his “stand against any destabilization activity is firm and absolute.”
Brig. Gen. Reynaldo Mapagu, chief of the First Scout Rangers Regiment based in Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija, echoed Maclang’s statement, adding that they have not monitored any recruitment activities within his command.
“We continue to talk to our men and have dialogue with them. On our part, we remain focused on our mission and the enhancement of our operational capabilities. We are united under the chain of command and we won’t be distracted with the developments,” Mapagu said.
It can be recalled that members of the Scout Rangers have been usual targets of recruitment activities for any destabilization plots, like the February 2006 incident.
The Special Forces, for their part, through its commander, Brig. Gen. Arturo Ortiz, also pledges anew to stick to the chain of command.
“We have not monitored any recruitment here and I don’t think they will make an attempt here because they know that recruiting the Special Forces is a waste of time. It is a fact that the Special Forces as a unit was never involved in any destabilization. We have remain professional,” Ortiz said.
Asked if he thinks Esperon disclosed the alleged destabilization plot just to divert the public’s attention from the National Broadband Network (NBN) project controversy hounding the Arroyo administration, Ramos replied: “I think he is just saying it sincerely because he is there.”
As a former military commander, Ramos said he thinks it is futile to manufacture alleged destabilization reports to divert the public’s attention from a controversial government issue because the media and the Senate will always dig into the alleged anomalous deal.
The Senate has started investigating last week in aid of legislation the controversial NBN project of the government. The son of House Speaker Jose de Venecia has accused Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos of accepting bribe money from ZTE Corporation, a Chinese firm, in exchange for getting to implement the NBN project. Abalos and ZTE have both denied the allegation. De Venecia’s son founded a company that hoped to get the NBN project but allegedly lost to ZTE./DMS
September 23, 2007
Former Philippine leader Fidel Ramos on Sunday belittled talks about alleged destabilization plots against the Arroyo administration, saying they have no capability to succeed.
In a news conference at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Medical Center in Quezon City, the former President said the destabilization exposed recently by AFP chief of staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. merely indicates “intention and indications” and does not reflect any hint of success.
“As far as I’m concerned, there may be some intentions and some indications but there is no capability by anyone because you must be able to mount big forces behind you,” Ramos, a former military chief, said.
He said the indication is that the alleged military personnel have tried to go against the chain of command, which, according to him, “does not mean that there is already a destabilization plot or conspiracy.”
In an interview last Friday, Esperon disclosed that at least six military personnel from the junior officer and enlisted personnel levels were caught actively recruiting fellow soldiers to join destabilization efforts against the government. Thus, within the last week, they were either reassigned or put on hold from any assignment.
But Ramos has questions about the capability of the involved personnel: “Can they move big forces without being detected? Do they have the support of a civilian component that is sizeable? Do they have finances and logistics to carry on beyond one or two days?”
The former leader said that previous coup attempts during his time as military chief under President Corazon Aquino’s incumbency failed because “they equated capability, which is the ability to make it succeed, through indications and intentions.”
Asked if he knows of any civilian component to the current destabilization talks, Ramos replied in the negative. “Now, where others are concerned, I don’t know,” he said.
Three Luzon-based commanders on Sunday maintained that their officers and men remain loyal to the present government, and vow to distance themselves from and quell any destabilization efforts coming from the military.
Northern Luzon command chief Maj. Gen. Rodrigo Maclang said he has visited his troops from Regions 1, 2, 3 and the Cordilleras and got the assurance that they will “reject any recruitment, just like in the past, by destabilizers who are only interested in pursuing their selfish political agenda.”
“Our troops remain cohesive and focused on their mandated mission. They have already grown tired of any overtures or attempts that would drive a wedge within their ranks,” Maclang said.
“All of these have been clearly confirmed in my personal visits and dialogues with all the officers and men, both in the field and in the garrisons,” he added.
Maclang said he has directed his men “to be vigilant against any threat to our national security” as his “stand against any destabilization activity is firm and absolute.”
Brig. Gen. Reynaldo Mapagu, chief of the First Scout Rangers Regiment based in Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija, echoed Maclang’s statement, adding that they have not monitored any recruitment activities within his command.
“We continue to talk to our men and have dialogue with them. On our part, we remain focused on our mission and the enhancement of our operational capabilities. We are united under the chain of command and we won’t be distracted with the developments,” Mapagu said.
It can be recalled that members of the Scout Rangers have been usual targets of recruitment activities for any destabilization plots, like the February 2006 incident.
The Special Forces, for their part, through its commander, Brig. Gen. Arturo Ortiz, also pledges anew to stick to the chain of command.
“We have not monitored any recruitment here and I don’t think they will make an attempt here because they know that recruiting the Special Forces is a waste of time. It is a fact that the Special Forces as a unit was never involved in any destabilization. We have remain professional,” Ortiz said.
Asked if he thinks Esperon disclosed the alleged destabilization plot just to divert the public’s attention from the National Broadband Network (NBN) project controversy hounding the Arroyo administration, Ramos replied: “I think he is just saying it sincerely because he is there.”
As a former military commander, Ramos said he thinks it is futile to manufacture alleged destabilization reports to divert the public’s attention from a controversial government issue because the media and the Senate will always dig into the alleged anomalous deal.
The Senate has started investigating last week in aid of legislation the controversial NBN project of the government. The son of House Speaker Jose de Venecia has accused Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos of accepting bribe money from ZTE Corporation, a Chinese firm, in exchange for getting to implement the NBN project. Abalos and ZTE have both denied the allegation. De Venecia’s son founded a company that hoped to get the NBN project but allegedly lost to ZTE./DMS
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