JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2014 Jan-Feb 2014.pdf · PHILIPPINE DEFENSE NEWSLETTER 3 JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2014...

1PHILIPPINE DEFENSE NEWSLETTER

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2014

2 PHILIPPINE DEFENSE NEWSLETTER


The Philippines and United States panels negotiating for a framework agreement on defense cooperation reaffirmed their commitment to the enhancement of the two countries cooperation in security and related fields, particularly in humanitarian assistance and disaster response, while acknowledging that the proposed agreement must be guided by the Mutual Defense Treaty, the Visiting Forces Agreement and other international legal instruments and consistent with their respective Constitutions and laws.

This, as the negotiating panels successfully concluded the Fifth Round of Negotiations in Washington, D.C. on January 31, 2014. The round wrapped up with both sides arriving at common understanding on key issues such as security and related topics. The panels also clarified their respective views on other matters.

Speaking after the conclusion of the Fifth Round of Negotiations, Undersecretary of the Department of National Defense and Chair of the Philippine Negotiating Panel Pio Lorenzo Batino described the negotiations as candid yet friendly, and stressed that key fundamental principles underscoring Philippine sovereignty and interests were fully

articulated and amplified. The Philippine Negotiating Panel will continue to

articulate and promote our national values and interests and will remain guided by the principles of full respect for Philippine sovereignty, non-permanence of US troops and no US basing in the Philippines, mutuality of benefits and respect for the Philippine Constitution, including the prohibition against nuclear weapons, Undersecretary Batino added.

The other members of the Philippine Negotiating Panel are Ambassador Lourdes Yparraguirre, DOJ Undersecretary Francisco Baraan III, Ambassador J. Eduardo Malaya, and, DND Assistant Secretary Raymund Jose Quilop.

The framework agreement, which is the anticipated outcome of these negotiations, will enable the policy of enhanced defense cooperation and increased rotational presence of US troops in the Philippines. The policy has been previously adopted by the two countries during the 2+2 Ministerial Consultations between the Philippines and the US in 2012.

The negotiations started in August 2013 and the Sixth Round is scheduled to be held in early March 2014.

PH-US Panels Reaffirm Commitment on Enhanced Defense Cooperation

6TH AND 7TH ROUND UPDATEIn a press conference held on March 14, 2014, in Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, DND Undersecretary Pio F. Batino,

who chairs the Philippine Negotiating Panel, gave the following update on the 6th Round of Negotiations on the PH-US Agreement on Enhanced Defense Cooperation:

Discussions in the 6th Round were substantive and productive, and significant progress was made. It has shown the shared commitment of both parties to enhance cooperation in defense, security and related fields, including humanitarian assistance and disaster response. Before the start of the Fifth Round in January, the Philippine Panel presented to the US side a draft full text which, in our view, more comprehensively articulated the Philippines positions, notably its consistency with the Philippine Constitution and relevant laws, as well as mindfulness of the countrys historical experiences.

Usec Batino added that during the Sixth Round, the Philippine draft was accepted by the US Panel and was made as both panels working draft.

On March 24, 2014, the Philippines and the United States Negotiating Panels kicked off the seventh round of negotiations.

In his opening statement, Undersecretary Batino emphasized that the negotiated draft agreement was a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to the enduring alliance, stating that as we seek to build a minimum credible defense posture, we are leveraging our long history of partnership to meet both traditional and emerging challenges, and extend our areas of cooperation to new grounds, like humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.



Public Affairs Service (PAS ) Department of National DefenseOPA Building, Natividad Avenue

Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City 1110Tel: (+632) 982-5679 Fax: (+632) 911-7113

Email: [email protected]

USEC EDUARDO G. BATACDIR. PAUL PETER R.G. GALVEZ, MD,MNSA,CESE

MR. ARSENIO ANDOLONG, MNSAADVISERS

MIRIAM G. ALBAOEDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Marina M. Agustin Anthon A. Cayaco Managing Editor Associate Editor Nelson L. Gallarde Tiffany Pery Buena Finance Layout Artist Prime S. Berunia Noriza Atienza Media Relations News Editor

Ruferick Somera Carmelita L. Briones Renato C. Alba ResearchFred A. Abuda, Jr. Photographers Sgt Isidro R Areja Administrative Services

ContributorsLTC Ramon P Zagala (AFP)Eva B. De los Santos (DND)Dianne M. Gammad (DND)

Hiyasmin O. Karunungan (GA)Chester Cabalza (NDCP)

Romina R. M arasigan (OCD)Ma. Juanita S. Fajardo-Rivera (PVAO)

Support Services Assistance & Support by Gloria A. Bantaotao AFP-PAO SSgt Anthony B Cadiz OJ7Cpl Celso P Castromayor CRS-AFP

Public Affairs Offices ofPhilippine Army

Philippine Navy/Philippine Marine CorpsPhilippine Air Force

The year 2014 is a milestone for the Department of National Defense. The DND will be celebrating the 75th anniversary of its foundation on November 1, 2014.

This diamond year of the DND reflects an era that is full of trials. The regional security environment is one example, as we endeavor under the rule of law, to uphold the countrys peaceful coexistence with neighboring countries and the rest of the world, with all the inherent challenges that require fast-paced upgrading of the countrys defense capability.

The good news is, the beginning of this year augurs well for the Department, both in terms of strengthening the countrys defense capabilities and in the enhancement of the Philippines friendship and alliances with other nations such as the United States, Japan, Malaysia and Israel.

President Aquino, returning from his State Visit to Malaysia on the first week of March, brought home the good news that both he and Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak reaffirmed their commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes in the West Philippine Sea a resolution borne out of mutual respect and adherence to the rule of law. They have also agreed to explore avenues in deepening cooperation in defense.

The fifth round of negotiations for the enhanced defense cooperation of the country with the United States was successfully concluded in Washington, D.C. in January. The Sixth and Seventh rounds followed suit in March.

On the local front, alliances and collaboration with the civil sector and external stakeholders are at the forefront of new developments in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). The launch of the AFP Multi-Sector Governance Council highlights not only the AFPs efforts towards instituting genuine reforms and good governance but also the civil sectors concern and support for the nations military matters and their keen interest in collaborative and participatory governance.

After all, the essence of security encompasses all sectors of society. What the defense establishment and the military strive to achieve is the overall well-being of the nation. This includes not only peace and security because the bottom line, really, is national development. The most important entities here are the people from all walks of life, who have never been better represented in the AFP than now.

Additionally, the Department also inked a Memorandum of Understanding with the non-government organization (NGO) Samahang Magdalo, Inc., a very timely manifestation of joint commitment to uphold and advance the principles of good governance as the DND endeavors to fast track acquisitions for the AFPs

(continued on page 6)

EDITORIAL

Present Challenges and Reforms



The New Road

Ahead

MGen Hernando DCA Iriberri takes on the mantle of Commanding General of the Philippine Army at a time when the Army shifts its own priorities towards territorial defense. How will the new Chief handle these new challenges?

President Aquino said in his speech during the change of command ceremony, I heard he is called in the AFP by his codename Superman. He always leads in physical activities. As a new leader [of the Army], I hope he will showcase exceptional strength, discipline and dedication to transform the Philippine Army. The Philippine Defense Newsletter presents MGen Iriberris plans for the future of the Philippine Army, to get to know the Armys Superman.

You take on the command of the largest branch of service at a very crucial time, when the Armed Forces shift its main focus from internal defense to protecting its shores from a potentially bigger threat. How do you think the Philippine Army can positively contribute to this change?

One of my major thrusts is to make the Philippine Army a decisive force - one that will not only rise equal to the traditional challenges and non-traditional concerns, but also dominate and prevail over such challenges.

We are going to do this by pursuing the capability upgrade program. Programming and acquisition of additional equipment remains one of our priorities. For this year, we are expecting the acquisition and the delivery of the combat equipment, force protection, as well as DRO equipment. Some of these are assault rifles, mortars, rocket and grenade launchers, 155mm howitzers, prime movers with flat bed, armored personnel carriers, and engineering equipment.

The Army will also focus on providing soldiers who possess the capability to address the spoilers of peace. So, we have to set the standards of excellence in preparing our Army for the multi-roles they will perform to support the aims of the AFP and the government at large. Training, proper equipment and support, and credible leaders are required of the forces to be employed, and this is what the Armys mission is all about as force provider.

We are all aware that our sovereignty as a nation is continuously being threatened, especially now that tension in the West Philippine Sea is escalating. Some may ask: what is an 85,574-strong Philippine Army

compared to the 2.5 million-strong Army of China? Let me just say that at this point, we do not entertain the possibility of a war, not because we are not ready to fight, but because we still believe in diplomacy. We prefer the peaceful resolution of the current situation through international arbitration, with the hope that the other party shall likewise submit and recognize the authority of the United Nations. No, this is not cowardice; not when you choose peace over hostility, and not when you want to spare your country and your people from the vestiges of war.

You spent quite some time in insurgency-ridden Mindanao as a young combat commander. How will your past experiences influence your administrative style as the Chief in Fort Bonifacio?

I know the plight of our frontline soldiers, because I had been one of them. I worked with them, strategized with them, led them, and fought with them. With this, I will ensure that they are well-equipped to fight and face the threats posed by insurgents and lawless elements. We will carry this out by channeling funds directly to the divisions, brigades and battalions so that we can sustain the operations of the troops, and therefore guarantee our success.

Apart from this, it is also important that they know their roles as advocates of peace, as well as ensure strict compliance and adherence to human rights, international humanitarian law, and the rule of law.

Above all these, I will make sure that our soldiers are well taken care of by enhancing the morale and welfare program of the Army.

My command philosophy as CGPA is anchored on these two strategic imperatives: IPSP Bayanihan and the Army Transformation Roadmap. We will continue to build up from the ATR and the IPSP Bayanihan, by institutionalizing the processes and objectives of the ATR on the one hand, and by effectively contributing to the attainment of the goals of the IPSP, on the other. We need to translate our strategy to operational terms, to align all our units to our strategy and to make strategy execution the job of every officer and soldier.

Many challenges face our Armed Forces today, even out of the battlefield: corruption charges, rumors of a growing dissent in the ranks, and other issues that color the peoples perception of what it means to be a soldier in these trying times. What do you bring to the table in terms of meeting these challenges?

In view of all the challenges confronting the Armed Forces today, the Philippine Army in particular, I made it clear to each and every soldier that we have a duty to defend and the responsibility to deliver.

I believe that we need to build the image of our soldiers - as protectors, as first responders to disasters and calamities, and as instruments of peace. But more than building it up is giving our people concrete examples of what a protector is, of how dependable we are in times of need, and how we advocate for peace. The people will be our judge, whether we are able to measure up to their expectations and whether we have indeed delivered.

Also, the Philippine Army is professional enough not to engage in any activities that may put into jeopardy the name of the organization. Let me take this opportunity to belie rumors of demoralization within the ranks. The Philippine Army has proven time and again that it is a professional organization and its personnel are fully aware that professionalism entails following the chain of command. Of course, the Philippine Army is not a perfect organization. As we acknowledge our imperfections, we also strive to improve and to tread the road to transformation.

On a much lighter note: At the end of the day, the stress of the job will eventually take a toll on even the hardiest soldier. What does someone like the CGPA do to maintain his well-being to tackle the tasks of the days ahead?

My family has always been my stress-reliever. After a hard days work, I find solace in their presence. I always look forward going home to them.

I also engage in recreational activities like sports as my way of steaming off.



The Philippine Army raised the flag of its new commander MGen Hernando DCA Iriberri on February 7, 2014, during the Change of Command ceremony held at the Philippine Army Headquarters in Fort Bonifacio. President Benigno Aquino III presided over the ceremony, with Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen Emmanuel T Bautista in attendance.

The ceremonies celebrated the career of outgoing CGPA Lt Gen. Noel A. Coballes, who lowered his flag after more than three decades of dedicated service; and the naming of MGen Iriberri as the 56th Commanding General of the Philippine Army.

In his speech, President Aquino lauded MGen Iriberri for securing the elections in Abra last year, when he was still chief of the 503rd Infantry Brigade in the Cordillera Region. He said the voter turnout in Abra, widely regarded as an election hotspot, reached 83 percent during MGen Iriberris watch.

His unit was instrumental in the attainment of the most peaceful election in the province of Abra, President Aquino said.

MGen Iriberri started his assumption speech by praying for the Army, and thanking those who became a part of his military career.

There is no greater honor than being selected and placed at the head of over 85, 574 professional soldiers of the Philippine Army. There is no greater burden which I gladly accept on my shoulders, he added.

He vowed to push for the upgrade of the Army troops capabilities to enable them to address security threats and to respond to disasters. He also cited a need to elevate the competency levels of soldiers by modernizing all training systems, facilities and institutions. MGen Iriberri also promised to broaden engagements with civilian stakeholders, improve TTPs (techniques, tactics and procedures), and support the career development of soldiers.

With myself at the helm, we will continue to make the Army trooper the pleasant face of the professional soldier our country deserves and the saving hand for anyone trapped or taken away by disaster, he said.

The New Road

Ahead



ADDENDUM: As this went to print, in a simple donning of rank ceremony, Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin awarded CGPA MGen Iriberris third star, promoting him to the rank of Lieutenant General.



The ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting (ADMM)-Plus table top exercise on peacekeeping operations was held in Manila from February 11-13, 2014.

An activity of the experts working group under the co-chairmanship of the Philippines and New Zealand, the table top exercise was attended by participants from 17 members of the ADMM-Plus, including the ASEAN Secretariat.

In his message during a dinner hosted for the participants, Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin said that the Philippines remains committed to global peace and security, and would continue to support efforts of the ADMM-Plus experts working group on peacekeeping operations.

The table top exercise aims to enable participating countries to have a better understanding of the United Nations Infantry Battalion Manual (UNIBAM), identify common logistical and operational challenges faced by troop-

contributing countries (TCCs) to United Nations peacekeeping operations, assess the suitability of the UNIBAM for ADMM-Plus TCCs, and provide feedback to the UN regarding the UNIBAM.

During the course of the two-day exercise, the participants focused on the issues of force generation, pre-deployment training, sustainment and operations.

The previous activities of the experts working group include the 2011 Seminar of Legal Aspects of PKO held in New Zealand, Regional PKO Capability Assessment Workshop held in Manila and Regional Workshop on Operational Challenges Facing United Nations PKO held in Indonesia, both in 2012, and the 2013 Force Generation Workshop in New Zealand.

After the ADMM-Plus was first convened in 2010, the experts working group were established to ensure that the thrust to promote practical cooperation would be sustained.

ADMM-Plus Table Top Exercise on Peacekeeping held in Manila

capability upgrade. Under the MoU, Samahang Magdalo, Inc. will serve as observers in the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) activities of the DND, thereby enhancing transparency, competitiveness and accountability in the procurement of infrastructure projects, goods, and consulting services by the DND.

Members of the Defense Press Corps (DPC) are also regularly invited to DNDs bidding and awarding activities to further ensure transparency and reportage to the Filipino people as the Department ups its procurement activities for the AFP modernization.

The revised AFP modernization program for 2013-2017 has a budget of PhP 85.3 billion which will be spread out over a five-year period. Some critics and detractors are encountered along the way but the government is bent on keeping with the program as planned. In

fact, accomplishments are building up. As of December 31, 2013, the

Philippine Army (PA) completed twelve (12) projects amounting to PhP 2.8 billion. Another Php 5.5 billion worth of projects have been awarded and awaiting delivery within 2014 and 2015, including armored vehicles, assault rifles and prime movers.

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) completed four (4) projects worth PhP 3.7 billion. In the pipeline are PhP 5.6 billion worth in projects that include the acquisition of light-lift aircraft and attack helicopters for delivery within 2014-2016, and another 21 units of UH-1 to boost the countys air assets for delivery within the first semester of this year.

For its part, the Philippine Navy (PN) is expecting the delivery of PhP 6.4 billion worth in projects, including the acquisition of strategic sea-lift vessels, additional naval helicopters, and

amphibious vehicles in 2016. These are in addition to the 16 projects completed as of 2013 which amount to a total of PhP 5.3 billion.

Also this year, the AFP General Headquarters (GHQ) is awaiting delivery of projects amounting to PhP 325 million. It has acquired in 2013, the GHQ fixed communication system and upgraded the AFP Medical Center Operating Rooms.

The Government Arsenal (GA)s project in the pipeline for this year includes equipment for the manufacture of ammunition amounting to PhP 335 million. Last year, it acquired raw and input materials for the GA bullet assembly machine which amounted to PhP130.9 million.

All these and more will highlight this years celebration of DNDs 75th Anniversary.

PRESENT CHALLENGES AND REFORMS (from page 3)



Secretary Panfilo Lacson, Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery, reminded his fellow alumni of the Philippine Military Academy to live by the institutions honor code.

In his keynote speech during this years PMA Alumni Homecoming in Fort Del Pilar, Baguio City, on February 15, 2014, Lacson hailed the tenets instilled in the Corps of Cadets. I have yet to hear of any learning institution, past or present, that instills honor among its students on its truest form and substance other than the PMA, he said.

As the occasions guest of honor and speaker, Lacson led fellow Cavaliers

in the traditional trouping of the lines and parade at the Borromeo Field, reminiscent of the alumnis time in the Academy as cadets.

For four years, our beloved alma mater instilled in each cadet the virtues of courage, integrity and loyalty; we find them extremely difficult to learn at first but since cadet are called together at it and in an environment made most conducive to being honorable, it has become a source of pride to us all, the former senator added.

Lacson, a member of the PMA Matatag Class of 1971, called on his fellow Cavaliers fortitude in dealing with the challenges both inside and

outside the confines of Fort Del Pilar. When bribe is offered or when an opportunity to steal presents itself when nobody is looking and the possibility of getting caught is nil, we must remember a unique honor system that tells us this: Self-respect is far more precious than all the material things that money can buy, he added.

The 2014 PMA Alumni Homecoming was hosted by PMA Maharlika Class of 1984. This years Diamond Jubilarians is PMA Class 1954, the Golden Jubilarians is Class 1964, and the Silver Jubilarians is Class 1989.

PMA Cavaliers reminded of the Honor Code

To deepen the defense cooperation between the Philippines and Japan, Philippine Defense Undersecretary Honorio S. Azcueta and Japanese Defense Vice-Minister Masanori Nishi held bilateral discussions at the Department of National Defense on January 27, 2014.

During the meeting, the two defense officials explored ways on how to further affirm the Statement of Intent on Defense Cooperation signed in 2012 by Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin and then Defense Minister Satoshi Morimoto.

Undersecretary Azcueta and Vice-

Minister Nishi also discussed specific projects that could help build the capacity of Philippine defense forces, particularly the Philippine Air Force in the areas of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) and aviation safety.

While the Philippines conveyed the countrys support for Japans proposal to hold an ASEAN-Japan Defense Minister Roundtable Discussion but in accordance with the consensus of the ASEAN Defense Ministerial Meeting (ADMM), the Japanese side took the opportunity to discuss Japans National Security Strategy

and National Defense Program Guidelines, both issued in December 2013.

The vice-ministerial talks complement the defense ministerial meetings that have been taking place since 2012, when Secretary Gazmin visited Japan, and Minister Onodera twice visited the Philippines in 2013. It also complements the annual defense and military talks at the level of the assistant secretary/director general between the two countries.

PH, Japan set up vice-ministerial talks



As the cool, early morning breeze crept in, Corporal Juan Cruz (not his real name) held his M4 rifle close to his body; his eyes alert and wide awake with anticipation. With senses honed through training and experience, he surveyed his surroundings.

There was an eerie silence that seemed almost unnatural. Looking over the horizon, he could see the sun already rising. It was the 23rd of September.

Monday-- the start of another work week.

In the capital of Metro Manila, traffic was already building up. The hustle and bustle of commuters rushing off to work was rising in crescendo. The light rail systems that traversed the different cities were overflowing with people. EDSA was a beehive of activity.

Nothing was more in contrast with the scenery that Corporal Cruz beheld with his own eyes. The houses near him were all but empty, devoid of life and movement. The walls were littered with bullet holes, concrete darkened by fire, and the smell of gunpowder lingered.

What seemed stranger was that this wasnt a remote town in a conflict-affected area somewhere in the country. This wasnt

some military fort or camp besieged by marauders. This wasnt in a middle of a jungle in the hinterlands. No, this was in the middle of a bustling population center, home to around 800,000 people. This was a part of Asias Latin city.

Zamboanga.On September 9, 2013, elements of

the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) entered Zamboanga City. Six boatloads of MNLF forces landed in Brgy. Rio Hondo, where they first clashed with the Philippine Navys Special Operations Group.

Since the start of the crisis at around 4:30 am today, the Zamboanga City Police reported that six people were killedone policeman, one navy personnel and four civilians, and 24 wounded in the course of the encounter between government troops and the rebels. More casualties are reported on the enemy side, Zamboanga City Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco said in a statement released that day.

We are in close coordination with our police and military authorities and everything is being done to solve the crisis the soonest possible time with minimal damage to lives and properties, she said.

Violence would soon spread to other barangays in Zamboanga, including Santa

Catalina, Santa Barbara, Mampang, Talon Talon, Rio Hondo, and Canelar.

We are now on our fourth day since MNLF forces belonging to the Misuari faction infiltrated six of the 98 barangays of the city inflicting damage not only to lives and properties but to the economy of our beloved Zamboanga City, Mayor Climaco would say on September 12, 2013.

To answer this, government was airflifting a lot of troops, including our most elite forces, as President Benigno S. Aquino III mentioned in his statement during a press briefing.

This most elite unit was the Armed Forces of the Philippines Joint Special Operations Group (JSOG), composed of special operations unit from the three major service commands. This joint service unit is the AFPs anti-terrorism strike force.

In the days and weeks that followed the onset of the hostage taking, gunfires, explosives and more violent attacks by the rogue forces reduced parts of the city into a smoky, smoldering ground zero. Thousands of homes and structures were razed to the ground, displacing over a hundred thousand people who had to flee from what used to be their peaceful communities.

The rebel fighters used their civilian

AFPs most elite: the Joint Special Operations Group

SPECIAL FEATURE



hostages as human shields, hiding behind the innocent victims while spraying bullets on the troops, making it difficult for the soldiers to stage a swift attack. The AFPs response had to be calibrated to ensure the safety of the hostages. The strikes had to be surgical and the pace of the operations deliberate.

There is movement in the ranks. Cpl Cruz knows that its time. His unit is getting ready to move out at a moments notice. He carefully moved his shoulders, hoping that the bandages would hold. He had been wounded earlier when a bullet grazed him. It was hard to convince the doctors to release him from the hospital, but he had to be here. He did not want to let his comrades down.

Bullets whizzed by as Cpl Cruz and the JSOG operatives were stealthily reclaiming the barangays and closing in on the enemy lair. Every maneuver bolstered their claim to success.

Their mission was straightforward: clear out the remnants of rogue MNLF fighters still in hiding.

Let it be clear to those defying us, a statement from Malacanang warned, that they should not entertain the illusion that the state will hesitate to use its forces to protect our people.

Cpl Cruzs unit, the 1st Light Reaction Battalion, is part of JSOG, the nations most elite counter-terrorism unit.

The Joint Special Operations Group is always ready, explained Col Danilo Pamonag, the JSOG Commander. In Zamboanga, our training played a very big part of our success. We achieved victory because of our preparations, he said.

As Col Pamonag emphasized, all units within JSOG are composed of mature and well-trained soldiers.

The soldiers under the Light Reaction Battalions (LRBs), which form the bulk of JSOG, are mostly taken from the Armys elite Scout Rangers and Special Forces. Even then, the soldiers still need to undertake another four months of training for them to be part of the LRBs. Once they are part of JSOG, they undergo further training in interoperability.

When not in combat, our business is just to train and train, Col Pamonag explained, himself a former LRB Commander.

Another factor that played a very big part in JSOGs 99 percent mission success was the high level of morale of the JSOG members. The pursuit of their mission was foremost in their hearts and minds and only death could stop them. Time and time again, soldiers wounded or injured during the fighting would find a way to go back and rejoin their units.

By the end of September 23, the death toll was at 123 including 98 MNLF, 11 soldiers, three policemen and 11 civilians. The fighting would continue for another five days. Clearing operations would last until October 3, 2013.

The enemy was always waiting for us to make a mistake, Col Pamonag said. We always had to bear in mind that every time we pull the trigger, the safety of the civilians comes first.

Towards the end, with firefights still sporadically erupting, the government troops hunted down the remnants of the rebel group, systematically flushing them

out of their hideouts. The successes of Cpl Cruz and his

comrades in Zamboanga, came with heavy personal sacrifices. During the 20-day crisis, 167 MNLF rebels were killed, while 247 others were arrested. Government forces lost 23 soldiers and policemen, with 181 others wounded.

But in the end, a total of 195 civilian hostages had been rescued.

During their stay in Zamboanga, the JSOG earned the respect and gratitude of Zamboanguenos. Mayor Climaco expressed her heartfelt thanks to the unit during a send-off ceremony.

We in Zamboanga City desire peace, and as you prepare to go back to where you came from, we want to show you our deepest gratitude, especially to those who risked their lives in defending the rights of the people, especially the children, she said.

The effectiveness of Cpl Cruzs unit in the 20-day crisis wasnt lost in the upper echelons of the Armed Forces. JSOGs Light Reaction Battalion (LRB) will be increased in size, from battalion to a regiment.

We have seen how effective they are, so we are strengthening the unit in terms of anti-terrorism. From a battalion well increase it to a regiment, then Commanding General of the Philippine Army Lt Gen Noel Coballes announced.

Now is the time for them to retrain, regroup and emerge stronger.

The people of the Philippines can sleep easier knowing that whenever the need arises, the Joint Special Operations Group can be called upon, Col Pamonag concluded.

Secretary of National Defense Voltaire T. Gazmin presided over the joint ceremonies of the 23rd Founding Anniversary of the Special Operations Command (SOCOM), Philippine Army and the activation of the Light Reaction Regiment at the SOCOM Headquarters in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija on January 16, 2014.

The Light Reaction Regiment used to be a battalion-sized formation with three companies. Its expansion into a Light Reaction Regiment with two battalions or six companies was announced in time for SOCOMs anniversary celebration. SOCOMs elite units include the First Scout Ranger Regiment, the Special Forces Regiment, and the newly activated Light Reaction Regiment.

The former Light Reaction Battalion exhibited its counter-terrorism capabilities during its deployment in Zamboanga City as part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines calibrated response against the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) staged attempt to seize several barangays of the city.

As a Light Reaction Regiment, it is intended to organize, train, equip, provide and sustain a counter-terrorist unit and

conduct counter-terrorist operations in support of the Philippine Armys mission.

Moreover, the unit will also be more highly capable in hostage rescue and personnel recovery operations, special reconnaissance mission, special operations target interdiction, direct action operations, and counter-terrorist operations.

The regiment which is going to be composed of six companies has three companies currently, the 4th Light Reaction Company is expected to be activated this year while the remaining two companies will be formed by 2015.

Col Teodoro A. Llamas, commander of the former Light Regiment Battalion and a recipient of a Distinguished Conduct Star award for his role in neutralizing the MNLF during the Zamboanga incident, was designated as Acting Commander of the Regiment.

The 23rd Founding Anniversary celebration of SOCOM, the Armys unit of elite forces was also highlighted by the awarding of its personnel who distinguished themselves not only in combat but also in administrative duties.

PH Army activates Light Reaction Regiment



The establishment of a Melt-Loading Facility inside the Government Arsenal (GA) Defense Industrial complex, at Camp General Antonio Luna, Lamao, Limay, Bataan is in the works. This is in consonance with the overall efforts towards the diversification of the GA manufacturing capability, which is aimed at locally producing various defense and security items. This Research and Development (R&D) project of the GA is in collaboration with the Air Force Research and Development Center (AFRDC) of the Philippine Air Force. The estimated cost of the project is Php22.0M, covering the acquisition of various equipment as well as the contruction of needed facilities and roadnet.

The collaborative activity is an offshoot of the AFRDCs successful conduct of Research and Development activities resulting to the production of prototypes for 110 lbs aerial bombs years back. Following their successful R & D activities, the AFRDC decided to team-up with the GA considering the

latters mandate, existing well-secured facilities and the strategic location of the GA Defense Industrial Estate. To operationalize the plan, the GA and AFRDC teams are now in the final phase in the refinement of the Memorandum of Agreement. As conceptualized, the GA will provide the space for the melt-loading facility, the PAF will take charge for the construction the facility and the funds needed will be sourced from the AFP Modernization Act Trust Fund, upon approval by the Secretary of National Defense.

In a related development, members of the AFRDC team visited the GA to conduct occular inspection of the site earmarked for the establishment of the facility. Once established, the facility would be initially capable to manufacture 110 pounds aerial bombs as a precursor for the in-country production of various types of airbombs to support the PAFs operational and training requirements.

GA and PAF To Produce AirbombsGOVERNMENT ARSENAL

Shortly before Army Chief Lt Gen Noel A Coballes relinquished his post as Commanding General of the Philippine Army, he was inducted into the International Fellows Hall of Fame of the United States Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania on January 22, 2014.

Lt Gen Coballes, the 55th Army Chief of the country, graduated at the US Army War College in 2007, with a Masters of Strategic Studies Degree. He was the 45th Inductee to the International Fellows Hall of Fame.

The Hall of Fame which was stablished on October 1, 1987, provides a prestigious and visible means of honoring the International Fellow graduates who have attained, through military merit, the highest positions in their nations armed forces, or those who held an equivalent position by rank or responsibility in a multi-national organization.

Lt Gen Coballes, in his acceptance speech stated that his stint at the US Army War College happened at an opportune time in his military career. He added that he became part of the Armys program to prepare senior leaders to assume higher

levels of command. He also said that the knowledge, skills, and values imparted by the institution sharpened his wits and equipped him to make effective decisions as he climbed in the military hierarchy.

I was designated to command various major units of our Army. One of these units is the Unified Command in Western Mindanao I commanded while confronting foreign unfunded extremists in the Southern Philippines, added Lt Gen Coballes.

He gave credit to the institution for his education that provided a multilevel of understanding of complex and multi-faceted security issues, explaining further that the professional leadership and competency he gained made him qualified to be entrusted with the highest command of the Philippine Army.

Lt Gen Coballes whose retirement from the service was effective February 7, the date when he reached the mandatory retirement age of 56, turned over the command of the Philippine Army to Major General Hernando Iriberri in formal change of command rites on February 8, 2014.

US Army War College inducts former Army Chief Lt. Gen. Noel Coballes to Hall of Fame



The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) recently launched the AFP Multi-Sector Governance Council (MSGC), a governance monitoring mechanism in line with the implementation of AFPs 15-year strategy towards capability development and professionalization otherwise known as the AFPs Transformation Roadmap. The launching of the MSGC highlights the AFPs pursuit of genuine reforms in the military, particularly in promoting good governance, while actively engaging other government agencies and the civil sector.

As part of the AFP Transformation Roadmap, the MSGC promotes the involvement and participation of external stakeholders in strategy formulation and execution in the military organization.

The MSGC is composed of representatives from various sectors of society including the academe, media, commerce, other government agencies, and non-government organizations.

The military establishments enhanced linkage with external stakeholders through the newly established AFP MSGC is expected to further enhance transparency and bolster the Armed Forces of the Philippines transformation efforts while the AFP modernization continues to level up its pace and accomplishments.

Secretary of National Defense Voltaire T. Gazmin inducted the members of the MSGC in a launching ceremony and inaugural meeting on February 20, 2014, at the AFP Commissioned Officers Club in Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo. The launching ceremony was also graced by AFP Chief of Staff General Emmanuel T. Bautista.

The MSGC is chaired by Institute for Solidarity in Asia Chairman and former Finance Secretary Jesus Estanislao. Joining him in the council are:

Former ambassador Lauro Baja; Bai Rohaniza Sumnda-Usman, founder of Teach Peace, Build Peace; Western Samar 1st District representative, Hon Mel Sarmiento; University of the Philippines President Alfredo Pascual; academician and economist, Prof. Solita Collas-Monsod; Francis Estrada, founder of General Partner of Equity Managers Asia; Cesar Bautista, Co-Chair of the National Competitiveness Council and former secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry; Secretary Jose Ramon Albert of the National Statistics Coordination Board; former Defense Secretary Avelino Cruz Jr.; Fr. Jose Cruz SJ, Vice President for University and Global Relations of Ateneo; Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras; Regina Lopez, Managing Director of ABS-CBN Foundation; and Assistant Secretary for Policy of the Office of the Presidential adviser on the Peace Process Jennifer Oreta.

AFP to work with external stakeholders: launches Multi-Sector Governance Council

IT IS one thing for a man in a position of power to help others in need, but to help others in need when his own influence is limited makes him a real leader and gentleman.

A few years back, Lucy*, a DND employee, received a text from a friend, asking for help, because militants were harassing and extorting their small community north of Manila. The situation was beyond the polices help.

She asked friends, rank-and-file employees like herself, for help. One of them gave her a number, and she was told that this was the Deputy Senior Military Assistant, a certain Lt Col Bautista. She felt a certain trepidationwhat if he declines?but wanting to help, she texted him anyway.

It came as a surprise that he was far from aloof; it felt like she was texting a friend. He was brisk and efficient, yet unintimidating. He asked for data, location and a contact person, and assured her he would do everything he can. He even reported progress to her periodically, without any sort of prompting. She was so overcome with worry that she forgot if she even gave him a word of thanks.

Later that day, the friend who asked for help texted Lucy: Ate, ok na. Salamat.

Whatever reservations Lucy had about the young officers willingness and ability to help were obscured by sheer wonder as to how he could have pulled it off so quickly, and with aplomb. What made a good impression on her, though, was that he took her request seriously, without even knowing who she was or what she looked like in person, and went the extra mile to help.

Manny Sundalo is a popular moniker now, but the spirit of service to his countrymen extends way beyond todays hashtags, to a time that he was a relative unknown, helping anyone lucky enough to stumble upon his cellphone number. Even then, Manny Sundalo truly delivered.

The Soldiers Soldier: Before He Was Manny Sundalo

PARTING SHOT

*Names have been changed to protect privacy.

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