ARMM provides relief and medical

aid to displaced families in Sulu

About 4,000 families affected by intensified military operations against members of the Abu Sayyaf Group in the province of Sulu in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) received relief goods and medical assistance.

ARMM regional Vice-Governor Haroun Alrashid Lucman Jr. led the delivery of the humanitarian assistance with Sulu Governor Abdusakur Totoh Tan II and Director Ramil Masukat of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and ARMM – Humanitarian Emergency Action and Response Team (ARMM-HEART).

As of September 5, close to 4,000 families have been displaced by the military’s offensive against the Abu Sayyaf with most of the evacuees coming from five municipalities namely:
Patikul with 1,122 families;
Maimbung with 1,321 families;
Indanan with 400 families;
Parang with 1,113 families; and
Panamao with 29 families.

Myrna Jo Henry, ARMM-HEART information officer, said the agency’s convergence team validated the number of affected families that received the region’s relief and medical assistance.

“We closely coordinated with the provincial government of Sulu to ensure the safety of our constituents,” regional Vice Governor Lucman said.

ARMM-HEART is a convergence of agencies that oversees disaster preparedness and response in the region. The team includes the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, Office of Civil Defense, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Science and Technology, The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, Department of the Interior and Local Government, and the Regional Planning and Development Office, among others.

The government has intensified its operations against the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu following orders from President Rodrigo Duterte. The Philippine Navy has also deployed its largest vessel to lead the naval blockade against lawless elements who were reported as planning an escape via the Sulu Sea.

To ensure coordinated efforts between government troops fighting terrorism and illegal drugs, President Duterte placed the entire country on September 3 under a state of lawlessness. BPI Press Release

Duterte formally accepts Philippine
chairmanship of ASEAN in 2017

President Rodrigo Duterte has formally accepted the Philippine chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Nations (ASEAN) in 2017 from Vientiane, Laos.

In his prepared speech at the closing ceremony of the ASEAN Summit at the National Convention Center in Laos' capital Thursday afternoon, Duterte said during the Philippines chairmanship, he will highlight ASEAN as a model of regionalism and a global player with the interest of the people as its core.

"We will pursue initiative and enhance cooperation, a global partners to ensure that the ASEAN citizens live in peace, stability, security and ...we will maintain (solidarity and unity) at all times," the iron-fisted president vowed. .

Duterte assured the Philippines is ready and willing to steer and guide the association, but said crucial to the realization of the goals is a cooperation and support of all ASEAN member states and their dialogue partners.

Towards this end, Duterte invited his fellow ASEAN leaders "to be our dynamic and vibrant partners as we guide ASEAN in 2017. Our theme, 'Partnering for Change, Engaging the World' captures our resolve to consolidate our community for our people's with the sense of togetherness and common identity and able to take our rightful place in the global community of nations."

According to Duterte, the Philippines ASEAN chairmanship coincides with the historic milestone event as it will celebrate the 50th founding anniversary of the association.

"It will be an occasion for us to set the tone for the next 50 years. Join us in making the commemoration of ASEAN's 50 years a success. With great honor and humility, I accept a chairmanship of the ASEAN from our excellent host, the People's Democratic Republic of Laos. I look forward to seeing you all in the Philippines in 2017," Duterte concluded his speech.

Before Duterte’s speech, he congratulated Lao Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith for chairing ASEAN in 2016.

“I have benefited immensely from our discussions and exchanges, providing me with insights on how best to build upon Lao PDR’s efforts in community building,” Duterte said.

Sisoulith was quoted as responding to Duterte's statement: “I trust that under the Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship in 2017, in addition to the meaningful celebration of the 50th anniversary of ASEAN, the ASEAN Community will continue to gain new achievements in order to turn the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 into reality with concrete outcomes.”

“The Lao PDR will continue to extend its full support to the Philippines,” Sisoulith added.

He said: “Your Excellency, President Rodrigo Duterte, on this auspicious occasion, I have the honor to hand over the ASEAN chairmanship to the Philippines starting from the 1st of January 2017.” MGPI News

Death toll in fighting between govt troops and Abu Sayyaf in Sulu rises to 45

Major File on Tan Jr., spokesman of the Western Mindanao Command.

Heavy gun battle between government troops and Daesh-linked militants has resumed a day after the military suffered 15 deaths Monday in Sulu in the southern Philippines, according to the military officials.

In a news briefing Tuesday afternoon, Western Mindanao Command spokesman Major Filemon Tan Jr. said since the intensified military offensives were launched from August 26, to date in Sulu, casualties on the Abu Sayyaf group have reached a total of 30 to include their leaders.

"The number of killed Abu Sayyaf bandits is already 30 while 11 others injured. On the government side, we suffered 15 killed in action and 29 others wounded," Tan told defense reporters in a press briefing at Camp Navarro, Upper Calarian, Zamboanga City.

"So the total number of deaths on both sides is 45 and 40 others
including our troops and Abu Sayyaf were injured since Friday
fighting," Tan said

He said during the National Heroes Day on Monday, August 29, fifteen of their Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) comrades were immortalized as heroes.

"Our forces fought gallantly, the firefight was intense and our troops sacrificed their lives to give the next generation the peace and security they truly deserve," Tan said.

"We will mourn the loss of our brothers, but it will not dampen the fighting spirit of our troops. The momentum is in our side and we will continue this fight until we accomplish the mission," he added.

The regional Army spokesman said whoever block the way of troops or help the Abu Sayyaf, will be dealt more severely.

"What you see is just the tip of the iceberg, more troops, more
equipment and more firepower will be committed to destroy the Abu Sayyaf. It is just a matter of time," said Tan.

He said the Armed Forces of the Philippines is appealing to the
Filipino people to pray for their troops.

Meanwhile, the Commander, Joint Task Force Sulu, Brigadier General Arnel de la Vega, said in a statement that intense fighting is on going in Sulu since 1:50pm of 29 August 2016.

He said Army soldiers of the 21st Infantry Battalion led by Lieutenant Colonel Presco Lobos are battling heavily armed terrorist Abu Sayyaf under sub-leader Jamiri Jawong Jauhari in Sitio Kugan, Barangay Bakung, Patikul, Sulu.

"In this fierce on going armed encounter, two ASG members were killed and a number of them severely wounded as they withdrew southeast,"Lobos said.

The security forces meanwhile suffered zero casualty, he added.

Tan said the soldiers grieve for their fallen comrades last Monday, but instead of waning, the soldiers pressed on in the fight. The ultimate sacrifice and acts of gallantry become their driving force to hit back once.

Tan said the total Abu Sayyaf fighters in Sulu and Tawi-Tawi are placed at 481.

The military, however, does not have exact figures on the group's
sympathizers, supporters or operatives recruited through dubious means.

The Abu Sayyaf beheaded two Canadians and a Filipino teenager this year.

Just early this month, two of the seven Indonesian sailors kidnapped from a tugboat off Tawi-Tawi escaped captivity but there was speculation the Abu Sayyaf freed them after their families paid their ransoms.

Aside from remaining Indonesian captives, three Malaysians sailors, a Dutch bird watcher, a Norwegian and some Filipinos are still being held by the Daesh-affiliated group. MGPI News

Hundreds benefit from medical
outreach in 3 towns in Basilan

Scene during the Children of War Basilan Association's medical and dental outreach mission at the municipal hall in Tipo-Tipo town in Basilan Province Tuesday, August 23, 2016. Photo courtesy of Mirasol Monteza/RMN

More than 500 children and their parents from the municipalities of Ungkaya Pukan, Al- Barka and Tipo-Tipo have benefited from the medical and dental mission sponsored by the Save The Children of War Basilan Association.

The community outreach activity was made possible through the efforts of Dr. Arlyn Jawad-Jumao-as, the association's founding president, together with Dr. Alfonso Bravo, Lamitan District Hospital Administrator, Dr. Rhoda Delgado, and Dr. Christlen Delgado, dentist.

It was conducted at the municipal hall in Tipo-Tipo town on Tuesday, wherein both parents and their children received free medicines after the free consultation made by the four physicians.

"Nakakadurog ng puso habang tinitingnan ko ang mga bata na nangangailangan ng medical attention pero hindi sila nabibigyan ng pagkakataon because of the peace and order problem," Jumao-as said.

It was learned from a health worker (volunteer) who declined to be named that there are still many internally displaced persons at an evacuation center.

"Sad to say din po na hindi natapos ang medical mission at marami pa ang nakapila because of the encounter yesterday (Tuesday) in Tuburan," she said.

The volunteer added a military official who spearheaded the security forces securing the area ordered to immediately stop the said outreach activity for security reason.

Save The Children of War Basilan Association aims to reach out those family from far flung and remote areas of Basilan who are always affected by the conflict between the government troops and Abu Sayyaf militants.

The association's outreach activity Tuesday which was supported by JCI Lamitan, Tipo-tipo Municipal Health workers, 19th Special Forces company (4SFBn) led by Capt. Dexter Dantog, company commander also conducted free haircut, feeding activities and school supplies distribution.

This forthcoming October 4, the association will be having its founding anniversary with the theme: "Festival of Peace," to be celebrated in Basilan. MGPI News

On issue of involving Misuari in Bangsamoro peace process

Mayor Beng: It is not for me to say
whether it's welcome or unwelcome

Mayor Isabelle "Beng" Climaco-Salazar of Zamboanga city with one of his legal officers receives a Philippine Airlines toy token from the Manila-based PAL representatives who announced their cabin crew hiring during a press conference at City Hall Monday, August 22, 2016. 

Reacting on the issue welcoming Moro National Liberation Front chairman Nur Misuari in renewed peace efforts for Mindanao, Mayor Isabelle Climaco-Salaza on Monday said it is not for her to say whether it is welcome or unwelcome.

"There has been a case filed by the local government unit and as far as the city government of Zamboanga city is concerned we will continue to appeal for justice especially for all the victims of the siege," the mayor told local reporters.

But Climaco, one of the signatories to the charges of rebellion and crimes against humanity versus Misuari, said they are also bound to the higher authority which is the Department of Justice (DOJ) to institute whatever legal actions that they may have with regards to the case.

The mayor's comments were in reaction to the earlier reports saying that Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim that their group has no problem with Misuari being part of the peace talks with the Philippine government.

Murad was quoted as saying by media that the inclusion of Misuari in the peace talks is part of the process of converging two peace agreements, especially as the MILF and the MNLF have a similar goal “That is self-governance for the Bangsamoro."

Murad made the statement during the start of the two-day meeting between the MILF and the Philippine government in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia last week to discuss the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

Meanwhile, Climaco in an interview after her regular press conference at city hall Monday reiterated that "we have to await the Department of Justice on what legal measures they will do to lift the arrest order against Misuari.

"Kita (We), we can only speak on the part of complainants and I am one of those signatories but until the DOJ can provide that legal enactment, the situation remains as is," the mayor said.

"But looking at the situation of where we are now, as what I have said in the past, there has been neglect from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process because they have segregated Nur Misuari, and so claro (clear) that he is recognized by the international bodies," she added.

In fact, Climaco said when she talked with Misuari, "his demand was we must implement the peace process. And I said it is not within me because I am just a local chief executive and from that we must take note of what was stated because he is still the duly recognize representative."

It may be recalled that President Rodrigo Duterte during his visit in Sulu last August 12 said that he is okay with the idea of involving Misuari in an inclusive Bangsamoro peace process. The president also said he does not want the MNLF founder to be detained despite of a pending warrant of arrest.

Duterte said if something happens to Misuari under the government custody, the state could mean deterioration of any peace efforts, specifically with the Tausugs.

Misuari is facing charges of inciting rebellion and crimes against humanity in relation to the Zamboanga siege in 2013, a crisis that ended with some 200 casualties and displaced tens of thousands of families. MGPI News

President Duterte names 57 politicians, 7 judges, 93 police involved in illegal drugs​

President Rodrigo Duterte has named fifty-seven politicians, seven members of the judiciary and ninety-three law enforcers which he said were allegedly involved in illegal drugs during his visit
​at ​the wake of soldiers who were killed in the clash with communist insurgents at the Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Panacan, Davao City on early Sunday morning

Included in the president's list narco-personalities
​​by GMA News online on Scribd were 7 incumbent mayors, 6 former mayors, in Luzon; 8 incumbent mayors, 6 former mayors, two congressmen in Visayas; 27 incumbent mayors, 1 ex-mayor, 1 vice mayor, 1 congressman, and 1 ex-provincial board member in Mindanao; 1 former vice mayor in Palawan, 7 judges; and 93 both high-ranking and low-ranking police officers.

Duterte, however, said the involvement of those listed in the illegal drug trade "might be true or it might not be true," adding that the alleged narco-officials had rights under the Constitution, that they were presumed innocent until proven otherwise, and that they would have their day in court.

The president was reading the list out loud because "my mouth, walang (there's no) ‘due process’ dito (here)." He said he was making the list public because it was his sworn duty to inform the public of the state of the country.

The president also made it clear that if anyone was mistakenly included in the list, he would take full responsibility for the mistake and that the fault was entirely his.

Meanwhile, Duterte said that soldiers and police officers assigned to provide security for alleged narco-politicians were to report to their mother units within 24 hours.

The narco-cops included the list were likewise ordered to report to the Philippine National Police headquarters within 24 hours.

Also, firearm permits issued to officials allegedly involved in illegal drugs were canceled. The weapons were to surrendered to the PNP in 24 hours.

During his speech in Davao City, the President ordered policemen and soldiers assigned to the alleged narco-politicians to report back to their superiors within 24 hours.

He also ordered the policemen he identified as involved in the drug trade to report to the Philippine National Police headquarters in Camp Crame within 24 hours.

For the judges allegedly involved in illegal drugs, he ordered them to report to the Supreme Court within 24 hours as well. Hader Glang

Below is the Presidential Communications Office's full transcript of a speech wherein Duterte bared his long list of alleged "narco-officials."

SPEECH OF PRESIDENT RODRIGO DUTERTE DURING HIS VISIT TO THE BATTLE CASUALTIES

​Ngayon ‘pag ganito, if the talks fail, meron tayong usapan, I would insist you include the landmine issues or else no talks at all. Then we fight for another 45 years. Walang problema, mag-recruit ako ng isang milyong Pilipino. Fight.

In the 45 years, ano ang nakita ninyo sa pamilya ninyo? Nakita mo ‘yung anak ninyong lumaki? Have you elected a single leader here in Davao? Manalo lang kasi na-ticket. And yet I carry BAYAN, kasi pareho ang damdamin natin. The problem is armed struggle. I can be a communist party member but I will never go to war.

Iyong armadong pakigbisog ang problema eh. Now, I am not trying to na -- to understand me. I am saying now: Stop the landmines or you tell the leaders at itong gobyerno ko, get out from the talks. Alam mo bakit? I am now invoking the Geneva Conventions. It is part of the international law not only of the Philippines but around the world.

Either you stop it or we stop talking. Fight na lang, another 45 years. But makakababa ba kayo kung mamatay ang mga tatay mo, nanay mo? Kayo ba ‘pag birthday ng mga anak niyo, nakakababa kayo doon sa ano? Is that the life that you really need? Iyong mga leader ninyo hindi naman nananalo. So anong gusto ninyo?

Either you stop it now or I am ordering the government panel to come home. At para ‘yung gastos nila eh ‘di ibigay ko na lang sa sundalo. ‘Sige, magbili kayo ng isang barkong explosives diyan, paputukin natin itong…’

I am not pleading this time. That’s an ultimatum. I hear another explosion killing people -- not only soldiers -- killing people, no talks, pasensiya na. Adre, iyan talaga ang buhay, kung hindi tayo magkaintindihan eh ‘di… Good. Hindi naman nauubusan ng pera ang gobyerno. Hindi naman talaga ninyo kayang tumbahin. Bukas…

The Defense department is asking for 20 more thousand troops. Tiningnan ko ‘yung budget wala akong pera. Pero iyan ang gusto ninyo, ibigay ko sa Defense department ‘yung gusto nila additional 20,000. Huwag na ‘yung mga -- mga pagkain diyan, medisina, huwag na ‘yan. Dito muna sundalo kasi may giyera tayo. For peace, kansela mo ‘yan, we sacrifice the hungry and the poor para may panlaban tayo, patayan… Iyan ang gusto ninyo, eh ‘di sige. Hindi naman ako mahirap kausapin eh. Kapag iyan ang gusto mo, my God.

Now, I am reading now the personalities in the Philippines. It might be true, it might not be true. But then iyong sinasabi ninyong due process, isa ‘yan. Baka sakali maidemanda itong mga taong ito, administrative or criminal, then they should have due process, presumption of innocence. Lahat iyan sa Constitution ibigay ko ‘yan.

But my mouth is -- walang due process dito. Iyong due process has nothing to do with my mouth. Walang proceedings dito, walang abugado. Ako’y nagsasalita po sa taumbayan at malaman po ninyo anong katotohanan sa ating buhay dito sa Pilipinas. Ako po’y kaisa-isang Presidente na gumagawa nito.

Alam mo bakit? Kailangan malaman ng tao kung ano ang nangyayari sa bayan natin. It is very important for people to know the state of things or conditions in this country. That is my sworn duty.

Hindi ninyo ako mapigilan and I am not afraid sabihin ninyo na, “ikulong ako ‘pagka -- ” fine. Wala akong drama diyan. At sabihin ko sa inyo totoo, I can… Pwede kong iwanan ito, ang presidency, wala akong sabihin mo na hangal-hangal ako diyan sa adjuration ng tao. Ayokong magpakita nga sa Maynila because it would cause traffic. I am finished, I am done. Wala akong honor na hahabulin sa buhay ko. Presidente na ako. Hindi ako makikipagkompetensiya diyan sa politiko. Trabaho ko is to take care of the Filipino, period.

Now, there are things that are really reaching crisis and it is not even epidemic. Kayo, it’s pandemic. You know, two years ago sabi ng PDEA three million addicts, noon iyon, two, three years ago I remember. Sabi nila 92 percent of the barangays in the Metro Manila are contaminated with drug use. Noong mayor ako, ako ‘yung binubugbog ng human rights issue. Hindi ako nakinig sa inyo kasi may trabaho ako eh at alam ko talagang nagka… It was really spreading like wildfire and I was scared for my country kasi Pilipino ako.

Ngayon, Presidente ako, I have to worry sa lahat ng mga anak ninyo. Why? Because kung two million iyon, two years or three years ago, incremental, ibig sabihin tumubo talaga iyan. Maraming na-contaminate naman kasi ‘yung natamaan maghanap ng biktima iyon para suporta niya. Iyon namang isa -- and it’s a vicious cycle -- it is almost an internecine affair amongst -- sa ating Pilipino.

So, ito, droga. I said, sorry, meron ditong tumawag sa akin. But you know, if there is a rule, a law, either you enforce it or none at all. Iyong mga kaibigan kung hindi ko basahin kasi kilala kita, ang pinakamabuti kong magawa para sa bayan, mag-resign. Ganun ako katali, mahiya naman ako sa kumpare ko eh nakatulong naman ito sa pagka-Presidente ko, well and good, at mabayaran kita sa anumang paraan. Mabuhay ka, kung sabihin mo may naghurumintado diyan, tawagan mo ako harapin natin dalawa. Pero not this one because this is not personal to me.

Hindi ko kayo kalaban, wala akong sama ng loob sa inyo pero galit na ako ngayon. Kasali ka na. Someday magkikita tayo.

I will start with judges: Judge Mupas of Dasmariñas, Cavite; Judge Reyes, only known, Baguio City; Judge Savilo RTC Branch 13, Iloilo City; Judge Casiple, Kalibo, Aklan; Judge Rene Gonzales, MTC, blanko dito; Judge Natividad, RTC Calbayog City; Judge Ezekiel Dagala, MTC, Dapa Siargao.

Mayor: Reynaldo Flores, Naquilian, La Union; Dante Garcia, Tubao, La Union; Martin de Guzman, Bauang, La Union; Marjorie April Salazar, Lasam, Cagayan; Goto Violago, San Rafael, Bulacan; Marino Morales, Mabalacat, Pampanga; Felix Castillo, Langiden, Abra.

Ex-mayor: Eufronio Derigel, Agoo, La Union; Jesus Celeste, “Boying” alias, Bolinao, Pangasinan; Jose “Pepe” Miranda, Santiago City, Isabela; Vicente Amante, San Pablo City, Laguna; Ryan Dolor, Bauan, Batangas.

Vice Mayor Edgardo Trinidad, El Nido, Palawan

In the Visayas: Alex Sentina, Calinog, Iloilo; Julius Ronald Pacificador, Hamtic, Antique; Jed Mabilog, I think he is the mayor, Iloilo City; Wilfredo Salangutin Bietbeta, Carles, Iloilo; Marciano Malones, Maasin, Iloilo… Sabi ko noon eh and I was campaigning actually, lahat ng tao doon, lahat ng tao, “Mayor, kung maaari tulungan mo kami, ‘way ko sintimiyento sa inyo ah, way ko utang, TY ka bang nagpangayo sa akon?’ Nandoon ako sa Iloilo many times, almost desperate mayor and droga. So we will just pray, just pray that I will win and maybe in the fullness of God’s time, I will take care of this problem. Ito, I am sorry, kaibigan tayo pero: Marciano Malones, Maasin Iloilo.

Michael Rama, the former mayor of Cebu City; Hector Ong, Laoang, Northern Samar; Rolando Espinosa, alam mo hinahanap kita hanggang ngayon, nauna ka lang kay Bato. Lahat kayong local officials at this point mag-ano muna ako ha -- Beda Cañamaque, Basay, Negros Oriental; ex-mayor Madeleine Ong, Laoang, Northern Samar.

Dito muna ako. All policemen, PNP personnel assigned as security guards, security personnel ng mayor I have mentioned, you are hereby relieved of your duty and immediately report to your mother unit. Wala na itong… Tatanggalin ko ‘yung operational authority over them. 24 hours, lahat military police, nakadikit diyan sa mga itong mga ito, I give you 24 hours to report to your mother unit or I will whack you and dismiss you from the service.

Vice Mayor Francis Ansing Amboy, Maasin, Iloilo; Fralz Sabalones, San Fernando, Cebu, who ran for mayor but actually maybe lost; Attorney Antonio Pesina of Iloilo City; Erwin Tongtong Plagata, Iloilo City, the most “shabulized” [is that the word?] shabulized, is there such a word “shabulized”? Wala akong personal sa kanila ha. Iloilo.

Congressman -- ex-congressman JC Rahman Nava, Guimaras; Congressman Party-list Jeffrey Celis, Panay chapter, leader ko pa. Iyan oh, Panay chapter, bwisit. Wa bay ibang trabaho diyan? Baka may bakante sa inyo?

Mindanao: Abubakar Abdul Karim Afdal, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur; Gamar Ahay Janihim, Sirawai, Zamboanga del Norte; David Navarro, Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur; Bobby Alingan, Kolambugan, Davao del Norte; Yusufa Munder Bobong Ramin, Iligan City Lanao del Norte; Jessie Aguilera, Alegria Surigao del Norte; Fahad Salik, Marawi City; Muhammad Ali Abinal, 'yung nag-surrender -- sino 'yung kasama niya? dalawa sila; Jamal Dadayan, Buadipuso-Buntong, Lanao del Sur; Sabdullah Macabago; Saguiaran, Lanao del Sur; Muslim Aline Macadatu, Lumbatan, Lanao del Sur; Rasul Sangki, Datu Saudi-Ampatuan, Maguindanao; Montaser Sabal, Talitay, Maguindanao; Vicman Montawal, Datu Montawal, Maguindanao, pati 'yung sarili ninyong bayan; Samsudin Dimaukom, Datu-Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao; Norodin Salasal, Datu Salibo, Maguindanao; ex-mayor Benahar Tulawie, Talipao Sulu; Reynaldo Parojinog alias Andong, the mayor of Ozamis City; Nova Princess Parojinog Chavez, used to be the wife of I think Colangco, 'yung poster boy doon sa -- pablondie-blondie pa ang buhok -- hindi naman tisoy. Alam mo maski saan kayo magpunta aabangan ko kayo. Maski wala na ako sa presidency, habang may baril ako. Gusto ninyo gisingin ninyo ako para... Ito sabi niya hindi, maybe I believe you as a personal friend. He is the -- kasama namin sa Kausa sa -- but I am sorry because your name appears here. Omar Solitario Ali, Marawi City, he used to be the...I said alam mo magkaibigan tayo ng iba 'non, Rama of Cebu, either I read all or I read not. I cannot, you know, play. Sa trabaho kong ito I cannot. Kailangan basahin ko itong lahat nandito, galing sa military pati sa police. Lahat nandito or hindi ko basahin.

Abdul Wahab Sabal, vice mayor ito, Talitay, Maguindanao; Otto Montawal, Datu Montawal, Maguindanao; Nida Dimagkon, Datu-Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao; Arafat Salic, Marawi City; Rasmiyah Macabago, Saguiaran, Lanao del Sur; Congressman Guillermo Romarate Jr., second district, Surigao del Norte; former second vice district -- board member -- Ricardo Parojinog Ardot, so iba itong si ano, kapatid siguro ito.

Iyan ang order ko sa pulis, 'yang Davao. Ngayon, Presidente ako ganun. Bakit maghintay ka pa na ang ilabas diyan, "Sir apple lang ito, gutom ako." That ain’t that way. Illegal? No, of course not. Human rights...

Ngayon, itong mga NGO, you’ve been repeating this kind of sloganeering that a, you know, a drug addict -- addiction is a disease, is an ailment. Sakit iyan. Hindi dapat patayin, dapat igamot.

Okay itong six... Saan ba opisina ninyo? Itong 600,000 ibigay ko sa inyo bukas. Sabihin ko doon mga, 'i-deliver ninyo ‘yan.' Sino ‘yun? Iyong NGO. Hala sige, ipagamot mo.

Sabi mo sakit ‘yan. Sige, ibigay mo. Kayo na ang bahala. Human rights? United Nations? Come here, you lecture dito.

Instead of kayong mga NGO mag -- you go around lecturing ‘yung shabu -- let alone ‘yung salvaging, salvaging... Huwag kayong pumasok diyan kayong mga anak. Kayo naghihintay lang 'pag may matumba, 'ah human rights violation'. Ako, I guaranteed, they will not go to prison, period.

In the performance of duty itong mga ‘to, they will not... Not one of them will go to prison. Hanggang Presidente ako, wala ‘yung... I will allow a police officer or a soldier or an officer of the Armed Forces, in the performance of their duties, kasuhan ninyo, I would like to say now: They will never go to prison. Not under my watch.

Ngayon, itong mga pulis na kidnapper, itong mga nag-lasing or spraying the armalite and killing civilians, well I’m sorry, kasali ’yan doon sa -- basura ka sa akin tingin ko.

Do not pray for any deliverance from me. PO2 Michael Cortez Barile Police Station; SPO1 Jen dela Victoria PS5 Cebu CPO; SPO1 Onel Nabua, Barile Police Station; PO2 Jomar Ibañez, Lapu-Lapu Police Station; PO3 Ryan Martus Kiamco, Cebu Provincial Office.

PNP officers Mindanao: PCI Ibrahim Jabiran, Zamboanga CPO, PCI Perfecto Abrasaldo Awi Jr., Misamis Oriental; Police Inspector Roy Sinujales Montes, Iligan PRO; Police Superintendent Ricardo Gando Pulot alias "Dugan", chief of police Quezon, Bukidnon; Police Inspector Martin Plaza former Panabo Chief Intel.

Kaya kayo naka-600,000. Ito ‘yan sila. Non-police, non-commissioned officer: PO1 Pier Dizo, ‘yun aide ko command si Dilo o baka mapalitan nila ito maaresto ko 'yan si Dilo, kawawa naman. ‘Yung isang aide ko, ‘yung counterpart niya sa Maynila. PO3 Omar... Ito Zamboaga del Sur 'yan ha si Dizo. PO1 Omar Juani Zamboanga City Public Safety; Rommel Mansul, PRO 9, walang -- nako bakit itong report na ito? PO3 Daryl Page, Tabasan Municipal Station; SPO1 Totong Joe Valdez, 9th RNG; SPO1 Rodrigo, mabuti na lang hindi Duterte, malapit na ako madisgrasya dito. Babarilin ako sa likod na walang — nakaka-cap na ang mga baril niyan eh. Naghahanap lang 'yan ng excuse para --- patay 'yan.

SPO4 Rodrigo Ramos, Bukidnon PRO; SPO1 Reynaldo dela Victoria, CDO; SPO3 Emilio Mendoza-Lozaria, PP5 Iligan City; Marlo Espinosa Bukidnon; Police SPO3 Richie Mat, CIDG Mati, Davao Oriental, ano siguro ito ’yung Davaoeño?

SPO3 Rosell Iliviera, CIDG Tagum, Davao del Norte; PO3 Jessie Balabag, Region 11. Ikaw bakit ka nakatawa diyan? Ikaw ha. PO3 Felomeno Toronia, Digos Police Station; PO1 Glenn Alicarte, PRO12, walang address; PO1 Philip Pantarolia, Tacurong City Police Office; SPO1 Gerry dela Rosa SCPPO, is that complete? PO3 Bebot Ruiz, GSCPO; Police -- PO3 Estelito Solanio-Malongon, MPS Sarangani; PO1 Jerebel Ocsio, PRO RMN.

I am sorry for my country. I grieve for the agony and suffering of the Republic of the Philippines. SPO1 Billones Ernesto, NCR; JS1 Montemayor Lito, Roxas District, Jail Aparri district; PO1 Vicente Reynaldo Celis, NCR; PG Saet Drexel, MIMAROPA; SPO1 Tubil Felix, Region 3; SPO3 Angeles Nicolas Ponce, Region 3; SPO2 Erseni Rod Marinduque, BFP; FO1 Reynaldo Valencia, Claveria Police Station; SSergeant Vic dela Cruz, MIMAROPA; Brigadier General Leoncio Daniega, NCR; SPO3 Gerry Mendoza, NCR; Reymante Dayto, Region 5; Reymar Dayto, Region 5.

Visayas: Zamora Renato Gumaro, Region 6; J1 Alan Coca Manatad, Region 7; SPO3 Christie Cielo Tingad, Region 7.

Mindanao, this is last. Meron tayong problema dito, RSAD Casimiro Castro, CAFGU 38IB 6thInfantry Division ARMM; PFC RSAD Phillip Miro 40IB 6th Infantry Division ARMM; Corporal Cusinan Lopez Llamad Loi, 52 Brigade ARMM; PFC Mamadali Ipad, 64IB 6th Infantry Division ARMM; Yasin Abolgalib, Bobong Yasim Buboy, walang ano; JO1 Cobacho Alfredo Galis; FO1 Ablaca Nicolas Ponce, ARMM; FO3 Ibañez Ricardo Villariz, Region 9; Marine Corporal Alfrenz Gurias Abedin, Western Mindanao; Jimmy Manlangit, Region 12.

This is a... Others are doing re-validation again. Alam mo kasi hindi ma... I could be wrong. I could be wrong pero 'pag ito kasi it has undergone a process. So any mistake of the military and the police dito, ako ‘yun nagkasala.

I ordered the listing, I ordered the validation. I’m the one reading it, and I am the sole person responsible for this. Now I am ordering those mentioned here, I said, report to your Chief PNP 24 hours.

You are hereby relieved of your — whatever your position there. Umalis kayo diyan mag-report kayo. I said, I’ll be harsh. Lahat ng mga mayors dito na-mention, I’m ordering the PNP chief, tanggalin ‘yung police supervision and cancel any and all private arms na naka-lisensiya sa kanila. There are all cancelled.

Go out to the naked... Go out naked to the world and show your -- kalokohan ninyo. Lahat military police 'pag ikaw assigned sa security, go back to your mother unit immediately. Tapos ‘yung cancellation of the firearms licenses and permits sa lahat ng ni-mention na ito, are ordered cancelled as of tonight.

Lahat kayong judge whatever, you report to the Supreme Court. Police, you report to PNP Chief. And sa Army, you are report to the Chief of Staff, General Visaya -- 24 hours lahat. You do not do that, I will order the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the entire PNP to hunt for you. MGP News

Clashes erupt between AFP troops, NPA
rebels 2 days after Duterte lifted truce

Clashes brokeout between between government troops and communist rebels, killing one of them in Surigao del Norte in the troubled southern Philippines barely two days after the lifting of unilateral ceasefire by President Rodrigo Duterte.

Military spokesman Brigadier General Restituto Padilla told reporters in Manila that a suspected member of the New People's Army was killed in a clash with Army troops in Malimano town Surigao del Norte province in the northern part of Mindanao at past 8 a.m. on ​Monday.

"The clashes that broke out were the first recorded fighting between government forces and communist rebels after President Rodrigo Duterte called off the unilateral ceasefire last Saturday," GMA News quoted Padilla as saying in the press briefing at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

According to Padilla, the five-minute clashes between the communist rebels and the Army’s 30th Infantry Battalion resulted in the death of one rebel and recovery of an AK-47 automatic rifle, two improvised explosive devices, assorted ammunition, magazines and food.

"There were no casualties recorded on the government side," he said, adding that police and military troops were responding to NPA extortion complaints before the clashes started near the Malimono City Hall.

Padilla said the rebels were supposed to pick up cash and supplies from the residents of Barangay (village) San Isidro and Binucayan but this was foiled by the state forces.

1st Lt. Ken Enciso, commander of the 30IB Bravo Company, was quoted as saying that during their dialogue with residents, they have learned that several sari-sari stores have closed due to extortion activity of NPAs.

Also 30IB Commander Lt. Col. Rico Amaro said the military as well as the police will not tolerate any extortion activities and called on members of the NPA to live peaceful lives.

"We will continue to reach out with our NPA brothers and sisters and convince them to live a peaceful life. We, however, will not tolerate criminal acts; together with the PNP and the vigilance of our community, through prompt reporting of concerned citizens, we can prevent future extortion activities of this group," Amaro said.

The military did not identify the victim, but the body will be turned over to a civilian authority before it is returned to its family for a decent burial, according to media reports.

The latest firefight between government forces and communist guerrillas was the second since Duterte declared a truce last July 25 during his first State of the Nation Address (SONA), a move that could put an end to a five-decade communist insurgency.

A few days after declaring a truce with the CPP, the NPA ambushed government troops in Davao del Norte which left one government militiaman dead and three others injured.

On Saturday night, Duterte ordered police and military forces to resume all operations against the NPA after the deadline for the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) to explain the ambush carried out by the NPA on government troops in Davao del Norte last week expired.

Despite this development, Duterte said he is still interested in pursuing peace talks with the communist rebel group after he revoked a unilateral ceasefire and ordered government forces to resume all operations against the Maoist insurgents.

"We are hoping that we can just talk. Maybe we did not understand each other," GMA News quoted Duterte as saying in a short statement delivered before new appointed officials took oath inside Rizal Hall in Malacañan Palace on Monday

"Best way really is to talk again and maybe find out if it's reachable or beyond our reach. I hope we can proceed with the talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines," he said.

On Sunday, at a meeting with members of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) and their families, the President said he offered to talk peace with every rebel group in the country so he could save lives.

"I am trying to save lives. I hit the ground running and offered peace to everybody, to the communists, to the [Moro Islamic Liberation Front]...I cannot go into [that] with the Abu Sayyaf. Those are the enemies that have to be destroyed," he was quoted as saying by ABS-CBN.

"We are spending billions and I hate to, you know, sign a paper nung mayor ako to buy bullets just to kill a Filipino," he said.

Instead of condemning the CPP for not immediately reciprocating the government's declaration of a unilateral ceasefire, Duterte explained that he understands the communist rebellion because he comes from a poor background.

"Ito namang mga komunista, kaibigan kami (This communists, we are friends). They are socialist but they are Communist Party of the Philippines. I am just socialist in my dimension kasi anak ako ng mahirap (because I am a son of poor). I hate government and anyone oppressing the people," he said.

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza issued a similar statement “Let's wait and see. But so far, as of the moment, there is no supervening factor that will affect the upcoming talks in Oslo on August 20," according to an ABS-CBN report.

Dureza said the government will consult all sectors and military regarding the planned ceasefire of the CCP-NPA.

During an impromptu speech before the oath-taking of Malacañang appointees Monday, Duterte said: "I believe that as a nation, as people, as citizens of this country and knowing fully well the cost of fighting with each other... It's all a despicable thought to me but I hope that we can proceed with talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines."

The president stressed that he wants to have talks with the whole CPP community and not just with their founding chairman Joma Sison.

Duterte said he only wants the country to attain peace before he steps down at the end of his term in 2022 so he declared ceasefire and pulled out the soldiers, only to get ambushed.

"Ako pa ang namatayan, kami pa ngayon ang kontrabida? (I have lost life (I am bereaved), now we are still the villain?)," he asked in tagalog.

Sison, chief political consultant of the NDFP, earlier described Duterte a "very volatile" leader who rushes to decisions after lifting the ceasefire last weekend.

"Ayaw ni Duterte ng ceasefire, ayaw na rin niya ng peace negotiations, bahala siya! Pinakaayaw ng kilos rebolusyonaryo yung nambu-bully (Duterte doesn't want the ceasefire, he does not also want peace negotiations, it's up to him! The revolutionary movement does no really want who bully," ABS-CBN quoted Sison as saying.

The CPP said in a statement that it would issue a unilateral ceasefire declaration with the government on the resumption of peace talks in Oslo, Norway on August 20.

Duterte is also set to meet with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in Mindanao for peace talks.

The president will meet with MNLF founder Nur Misuari in a few days to give rebel leaders safe conduct passes.

However, the president stressed that he will not hold talks with terrorist group Abu Sayyaf which he described as criminals.

"We will be going for the framework regarding the two factions (MILF and MNLF) but I'm very sorry to say that there will be no talks about these things with Abu Sayyaf. I will not deal with criminals. I will not deal (with) persons of extreme brutality. There is no redeeming factor or reason for me to sit down and talk with criminals," Duterte said. MGP News

Communist rebel group to issue unilateral truce on Aug. 20

After President Rodrigo Duterte called off the government's unilateral ceasefire, the leadership of communist rebel group said on Sunday that it is willing to issue a unilateral ceasefire declaration.

"To further support peace negotiations, the CPP is willing to issue a unilateral ceasefire declaration separately but simultaneously with the Duterte government on August 20," the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) said in a statement.

The CPP statement posted on the National Democratic of the Philippines (NDFP) official website on Sunday, July 31, added the time-frame can be determined through negotiations.

Reacting to the communist group's statement, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza said: "Indeed, this is a welcome development. It affirms the value of the President's firm actions for peace. This is what we have been waiting for."

Dureza announced last month (July 19) that the peace negotiations between the Philippine government and the communist rebel group leadership will formally begin on August 20 to 27, 2016 in Oslo, Norway.

"The first round of formal peace talks between government and the NDF will proceed as scheduled on August 20 to 27 even as President Rodrigo Duterte on Saturday lifted his five-day unilateral ceasefire," MindaNews quoted Dureza as saying.

The communist group's central committee expressed dismay over the lifting of unilateral declaration of ceasefire by President Duterte last July 25, saying "It is too bad that he has withdrawn such an order."

The CPP, however, said that this (revoked unilateral ceasefire) will not affect preparations for formal resumption of peace negotiations scheduled for August 20-27 in Oslo, Norway, nor will it preclude the President from reissuing such a declaration simultaneously with a similar unilateral declaration by the CPP and NPA on August 20.

The CPP said they continue to look forward to work with the President in peace negotiations, adding that with his declared intent of resolving the issues at the root of the armed conflict, President Duterte will not want the fascist zealots of the US counter-insurgency doctrine to succeed in derailing peace negotiations and seeing him fail to forge a lasting peace agreement with the NDFP.

"It was quite capricious for the President to have imposed such ultimatums of a few hours or several days for the CPP to act in accordance with his whims. It was quite disconcerting that the GRP President would impose such an inflexible ultimatum on the CPP. Despite his anti-crime bravado, it would seem he has shown the drug lords and protectors of criminal syndicates more flexibility and accommodation."

The CPP said it is advisable for the President to exercise a little more prudence and display more measured temperament as a way of appreciating the situation from a broader historical perspective in order to avoid such impulsive acts as imposing ultimatums by the hour on a conflict that has spanned nearly fifty years.

In a statement emailed to Anadolu Agency (AA) Sunday evening, Dureza said "it is very clear that the President walked the extra mile for peace. And no doubt, he will still continue to do so at any given opportunity."

The peace adviser said he will make his corresponding recommendations to the President and the whole Cabinet tomorrow Monday, August 1, during the scheduled Cabinet meeting in the afternoon.

During the State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 25, the President declared a unilateral ceasefire with the CPP/NPA/NDF “in order to stop violence on the ground, safeguard the citizenry, and provide an enabling environment for the resumption of peace negotiation."

Dureza said consistent with previous unilateral ceasefires, like during Christmas holidays, there was high expectation that the NDF would forthwith and immediately announce also its own as positive response to the President's declaration.

"This was precisely the reason for the President's statement in the SONA that he was calling on and expecting the NDF to respond accordingly," he said.

According to him, the following day, July 26, the NDF, instead of issuing its expected declaration said they could not do so as yet as they were waiting for the precise written orders on the ceasefire.

In immediate response, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and subsequently the Philippine National Police issued their respective policy guidance in writing on how they would carry on with a ceasefire in place, said Dureza.

"Copies thereof were sent immediately to the NDF in Utrecht, the Netherlands. Yet, in spite of this, there was still no declaration from them," he added.

The following day, July 27, Dureza said a fire fight happened between the NPAs and elements of the AFP civilian auxiliary in Davao del Norte resulting to the death of a civilian auxiliary force member and the wounding of 3 others.

The President then called on the CPP/NPA/NDF again to explain why this happened in the midst of his ceasefire declaration.

Duterte gave the NDF the end of the following day, July 28, to do so. Still the expected declaration was not issued.

"The following day, July 29, during the President's visit in a military camp in Asuncion, Davao del Norte, he lamented the unnecessary loss of lives and publicly asked again the NDF to issue its own declaration of unilateral ceasefire to avoid similar incidents to happen," Dureza said in a statement.

"Although already obviously disappointed and exasperated, he announced 5 o'clock the following day, July 30, as a final deadline otherwise he would lift the government's ceasefire in order to further secure the civilians and secure the peace."

"By 5 o'clock in the afternoon of July 30, the final deadline the President announced lapsed and
still there was no declaration from the NDF. But the President still patiently waited," Dureza continued.

In the meantime, Dureza said disturbing messages from the ranks of the NPA were monitored. Its Southern Mindanao Regional Command claimed the government's unilateral ceasefire was “non-existent” as it also blamed the AFP as “sabotaging” the ceasefire.

"Its leadership also belittled the efforts of the President, saying that he could not dictate on the revolutionaries. By 7pm, knowing that an unanswered ceasefire declaration was not for the best interest of the nation, the President then authorized the release of a statement declaring the lifting of the ceasefire."

However, Dureza said after an hour thereafter, past the deadline and evidently informed of the President's announced position, the NDF publicly stated in the media that it was already ready to issue its own corresponding ceasefire declaration.

Meanwhile, some Senators expressed support to the lifting of ceasefire with communist group.

Sen. Joseph Victor Ejercito agreed with the president’s decision, saying “he has every reason to call off the truce.”

”It was President Duterte who offered a handshake for peace and reconciliation. It was the Reds who rejected and in the process violated the truce offered by the government,” he added.

Senate Majority Leader Vicente Sotto III said President Duterte made the right decision when the popular leader did not extend the ultimatum.

”It would show that the president and this administration mean business. We are extending our hand of peace and friendship, yet we get nothing in return. I support the president’s decision,” Sotto said.

Senate minority member Antonio Trillanes IV also supported the president’s decision.

”I support President Duterte’s lifting of the ceasefire with the communists,” Trillanes, a former Navy officer, said.

Senator Panfilo Lacson said the President made the right decision since the ultimatum was made six days after he declared the ceasefire and the NPA rebels even ambushed the government militiamen.

”The president already gave his word to set an ultimatum at 5 p.m. Because of the ambush, he said that if they (rebels) will not reciprocate, he will revoke the ceasefire. Siguro taliwas sa kanyang character na pag nagbitaw ng salita na pag sinabi niya, talagang alam nating gagawin niya,” Lacson said.

Lacson criticized the CPP-NPA-NDF for announcing in the media that they were about to declare a ceasefire three hours after the 5 p.m. ultimatum expired.

”The president declared the ceasefire 25 (of July) but they did not reciprocate. Now that it was lifted after the ultimatum lapsed, they said they would call a ceasefire at 8 p.m. Stupid is just a common phrase. It’s not literal (that they would declare ceasefire),” Lacson said.

Lacson said the CPP-NPA-NDF should declare its own ceasefire as a show of their goodwill and good faith.

Neophyte Senator Sherwin Gatchalian expressed optimism that the peace agreement between the government and the CPP-NPA-NDF will be achieved expeditiously “with President Digong’s showing of goodwill.”

”The NDF should also move expeditiously to achieve peace. President Digong is their only chance to achieve peace. He is the only president that sympathizes with their cause and movement,” Gatchalian said.

Senator Juan Edgardo Angara said President Duterte had little choice when he set the ultimatum after the attack of the government militiamen, “especially as the president has been making a tour of military camps.”

”Hopefully both sides can engage in confidence building measures in the run up to the peace talks,” Angara said. MGP News

Govt forces resume operations vs NPA rebels  as calls mount for resumption of peace talks

Government forces have resumed all operations against communists rebels, as calls mount for President Rodrigo Duterte and the leftist group to continue with the peace process.

This, after the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New People's Army, failed to declare their truce following Saturday deadline President Rodrigo Duterte had imposed the communist group.

Earlier, Duterte ordered all security forces to be on high alert and continue to discharge their normal functions and mandate to neutralize all threats to national security, protect the citizenry, enforce the laws and maintain peace and order.

Quoting Major Ezra Balagtey, spokesperson of the Eastern Mindanao Command, as saying, the MindaNews reported that EastMinCom has issued a directive for all units to be on high alert and to resume operations against the NPAs.

"...consistent with the directive coming from the military chain-of-command,” Balagtey said adding the directive was issued after President Rodrigo Duterte lifted the unilateral ceasefire with the NPA on Saturday night."

The Armed Forces of the Philippines on Saturday said that the lifting of the ceasefire declaration was a "missed opportunity." It said that it will abide by Duterte's new instructions.

The military's Western Mindanao Command also confirmed army units have resumed offensive action against the communist rebels.

Also the Philippine National Police chief Director, General Ronald dela Rosa, said that the police will also abide by the instructions.

"The PNP will follow the instructions of the commander-in-chief," Dela Rosa said in a statement issued to reporters in Manila.

However, Senate Minority Leader Ralph Recto on Sunday called on the government and the National Democratic Front to continue with the peace process despite a complication in the resumption of formal peace talks with communist rebels.

"I urge the NDF and the government not to pull the trigger but to push the reboot button. In the search for peace, deadlines should be extended, or it results in more dead bodies," Philstar quoted Recto as saying in a media statement.

Recto called on the NDF to "take the high ground" with an NPA ceasefire.

"I believe government will have no choice but to respond positively. Peace has always been an irresistible proposition," he added.

Recto also called for a "typhoon truce" so the government and local communities can prepare for the typhoon season.

He said that the peace talks under the Duterte administration are off to an "auspicious start" and said parties should not waste the good will already generated between the government and the rebels.

The ceasefire that Duterte announced last Monday and binding only on government forces, was meant to pave the way for progress in the peace process with the CPP-NPA-NDF, including the resumption of formal peace talks in Norway.

Dureza has said talks will push through despite the incident.

Meanwhile, Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate said the lifting of the government’s unilateral ceasefire is “unfortunate” and he hopes the talks will push through on August 20.

He called on both government (GPH) and the NDF “to thresh things out on the Davao del Norte incident and the ceasefire issues in the scheduled talks. More than ever, let us pursue earnestly the road to a just and lasting peace that our country and people have long waited for.”

For Pastor Dann Pantoja of the Peacebuilders’ Community, looks at the lifting of the ceasefire as “a missed opportunity” for both parties “to start anew in their peace talks based on good faith and mutual trust.’

He said it can also be a setback to the peace process.

Pantoja noted that the ceasefire was “an expression of an ‘all-out-good-faith’ and could have been reciprocated with an equal expression of good faith by the NDFP. But the NDFP seemed to have chosen the technical preconditions.”

Jeremy Simons, a peace and reconciliation advocate, said there is a limit to Duterte’s political capital with both the left and the military “to move the peace process forward on the ground where long time insurgency and counter insurgency dynamics prevail, especially lacking independent monitoring like a Bantay Ceasefire mechanism.”

“Also, there is a general misunderstanding of how fractured the leadership of ground level NPA commanders is, especially in Lumad communities where local tribal dynamics prevail,” Simons added.

“This is a challenge that all peace processes have to face. This is not insurmountable,” Kaloy Manlupig of Balay Mindanaw said, adding “successful peace processes have shown us that the search for common ground is not that easy, but not impossible to achieve.”

“There is hope,” he said, adding that, "In peace processes, it is not about brinkmanship. The one who blinks is considered a dove."

On Saturday evening, the largest ecumenical alliance of church federation leaders in the country has urged the communist rebel
group to declare a unilateral ceasefire as Philippine President Duterte had done on the part of the government.

The Philippine Ecumenical Peace Platform (PEPP) on Saturday evening, the group said: "It strongly encourages the NDF to reciprocate the gesture toward peace by also declaring a unilateral ceasefire to show a common commitment to establish the conditions for the resumption of the formal peace talks."

This comes as Duterte 5 pm deadline lapsed on Saturday for the CPP to reciprocate the government’s unilateral ceasefire.

The PEPP also urged both the government and the NDFP to continue the pursuit of peace. "They should not allow mistrust to deter or defeat this new beginning that is providing so much hope to our nation and people," it said.

PEPP said both parties to uphold their determination to continue the pursuit of peace, trusting that lasting peace is possible. They should not allow mistrust to deter or defeat this new beginning that is providing so much hope to our nation and people.

"Let our hearts be open to the understanding that we need each other in the pursuit of peace that is the fruit of trust and justice. Let us remain focused and steadfast in our endeavor. We urge all sides to dialogue on contentious issues that may come along the way."

Meanwhile, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza said the first round of formal peace talks between government and the NDF will proceed as scheduled on August 20 to 27 even as President Duterte on Saturday lifted his six-day unilateral ceasefire.

“Let’s wait and see. But so far, as of the moment, there is no supervening factor that will affect the upcoming talks in Oslo on August 20,” Dureza told MindaNews an hour after Duterte lifted the ceasefire on Saturday.

Duterte spoke with Dureza after the presentation of the Peace Roadmap at the State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on July 18, 2016.

On Sunday, Dureza told ABS-CBN that the ceasefire with communist rebels will be discussed on Monday in a Cabinet meeting in Malacañan following a pronouncement by the CPP that it is ready to declare its own truce.

“Indeed, this is a welcome development. It affirms the value of the president's firm actions for peace. This is what we have been waiting for,” he said.

Dureza said there was “high expectation” that the NDF would immediately announce its own ceasefire after Duterte’s declaration.

“This was precisely the reason for the President's statement in the SONA that he was calling on and expecting the NDF to respond accordingly,” the presidential peace adviser said.

The NPA Southern Mindanao Regional Command had claimed that the government's unilateral ceasefire was "non-existent" and that the military was “sabotaging” the truce.

Officials previously said that the issues surrounding the ceasefire would not affect the resumption of the peace negotiations on Aug. 20 to 27 in Oslo, Norway.

The NPA has been waging an armed struggle against the government since the late 1960s. The rebellion, the only remaining communist insurgency in the region, has left more than 40,000 people dead. MGP News

President Duterte warns communist group

to lift unilateral truce after NPA ambush

President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday threatened to withdraw the unilateral ceasefire with the communist rebel group he declared during his first State of the Nation Address (SONA).

The warning came a day after the ambush of the Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) staged by the New People's Army (NPA) on Wednesday in Barangay (village) Gupitan in Kapalong, Davao del Norte. The attack killed a government militiaman and injured four others.

In a televised speech before hundreds of​ troops of the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) in Lucena City, Quezon on Thursday afternoon​, Duterte said he called a leftist congressman and Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, chairman of the negotiating panel of the government, to demand an explanation from the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on the incident in Davao del Norte.

The president said in tagalog: “Sabi ko, ‘Ano ba ito, are we in into these truce or are we not?’ Sabi ko sa kanila, Give me an answer by tonight because kapag tomorrow, wala, tatanggalin ko, balik tayo sa away."

(Translation: "I said, what's this, are we in into this truce or are we not? I said to them, give me an answer by tonight because when tomorrow, nothing would be done, I will cancel, we return to the fray or fight)".

"If you do not honor or you kill a single soldier or a CAFGU, which is also a soldier of the Republic, eh sabi ko kalimutan na natin ito (eh I said let's forget this). Fight na lang (just fight). I am demanding an explanation from the Communist Party of the Philippines,” he said.

According to Duterte, disciplinary action will also be taken against those responsible on the government side.

“Kung nagkasala kami rito (If we have wronged), we punish our men and women sa serbisyo (in the service). Expect the same and I demand an answer na kung sino ang nagkasala (that who are guilty), they must also put under disciplinary action. Otherwise, wala tayong pinag-usapan (we have not discussed). That is my deal,” he said.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines had earlier suspended its military operations against the CPP-NPA-National Democratic Front (NDF) effective Tuesday following Duterte's declaration of a unilateral ceasefire during his first State of the Nation Address on Monday.

In the SONA, Duterte also said he aims for a "permanent and lasting peace" before his term ends in 2022.

On the other hand, the CPP welcomed the ceasefire declaration, describing it as a positive boost to the peace talks scheduled on August 20 to 27 in Norway, but adding that the release of political prisoners should follow immediately. But has yet to declare its own ceasefire.

On Thursday, Peace Process Jesus Dureza announced that negotiators between the government and communist rebels will resume in Oslo, Norway on August 20, after a decade-long lull.

Dureza told reporters in Manila that there was no immediate commitment from the government to release communist party members who are facing criminal charges.

"The resumption was postponed to next month from late July to make sure that all negotiators are available," Dureza said. MGP News

Pres. Duterte and four ex-Philippine presidents meet for the first time

For the first time, President Rodrigo Duterte and former presidents Benigno Aquino III, Fidel Ramos, and Gloria Arroyo and Joseph Estrada have met for the National Security Council meeting.

The meeting came in the wake of arbitral tribunal's ruling invalidating China's massive South China Sea claim. It also came after US Secretary of State John Kerry and US congressional delegation paid a courtesy call on Duterte before noon Wednesday at Malacanang palace, Manila.

Malacanang said Duterte and Kerry had a working lunch where they affirmed the "long-standing" relationship between the two countries and discussed a wide range of "common concerns" such as terrorism, crime, drugs, religious fanaticism and maritime security.

According to ABS CBN report, Duterte and the four ex-presidents convened in one room to discuss policy and chart a course for the future of the country.

Malacañang palace spokesperson Ernesto Abella was quoted as saying that an overview of the road map for peace and development was presented in the first council meeting under the Duterte administration.

The council was also given an update on the government's campaign against illegal drugs.

Charter change and a shift to federalism was also discussed in the meeting.

Ramos, a member of the council, earlier agreed to become Manila's special envoy to Beijing.

Malacañang earlier said Duterte would convene the NSC ''in order to agree on vital policies and strategies on important matters, including the recent ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration on the West Philippine Sea."

The council is composed of 35 leader-members from the executive and legislative branches of government, such as Vice President Leni Robredo, Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III, House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, the majority and minority leaders of both Houses of Congress, chairs of Senate and House committees involved in national security concerns, and various members of the Cabinet. MGP News

ARMM celebrates "2016 National

Science Technology Week" 

Basilan Governor Jim Salliman Hataman, DOST-ARMM Sec. Myra Mangkabung and Lamitan City Vice Mayor Oric Furigay hold a press conference during the kickoff activity Monday in connection with the "National Science and Technology Week" from July 25-27, 2016.at Datu Dizal Cultural Center in Lamitan City, Basilan.

Thousands of students, youth, leaders and representatives from other sectors in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) joined hands with science technology experts and top local government officials to observe the "National Science and Technology Week (NSTW)" taking place from July 25-27 at Datu Dizal Cultural Center in Lamitan City, Basilan Province.

Hosted by the city government of Lamitan City under the administration of ​Mayor Rose Furigay and Vice Mayor Oric Furigay, the various events with the theme " Juan Science One Nation," highlight the capability of local S&T inventors, experts and inspires the youth and other sectors in believing that Filipinos can do it and that local technology works.


It was graced by Basilan Governor Jim Salliman-Hataman as keynote speaker​ and some ARMM regional cabinet secretaries.

"The NSTW is the premier event annual calendar of the science community. It is celebrated since the 1950s...the various events, fora and exhibits are the perfect venues for technology developers and invetors, as well as S&T service providers and clients, to interact and pursue potential opportunities," DOST-ARMM Sec. Myra Mangkabung said in a speech at the Lamitan's cultural center.

Mangkabung added every NSTW celebration is designed to optimize every opportunity to make S&T a way of life for all Filipinos.

According to her, the theme for this year's NSTW celebration is a forceful phrase depictive of the vision and dream of every Filipinos to be productive and competitive to make both ends meet and keep abreast with global economic integration.

She said the gains and strides of science and technology in the fields of science, engineering mathematics and other technical disciplines bring science and technology closer to the people experience the vital role of science, technology, and innovation in improving the people's quality of life, protecting the environment, and contributing to national development particularly in poverty alleviation.

"For more than three years from Fiscal Year's 2013, 2014, 2015 and the first quarter of 2016, DOST-ARMM made significant achievements in the programs, activities and projects...it is implementing concomitant with its major final outputs," Mangkabung declared.

"DOST-ARMM made significant efforts in providing technology innovation support to micro, small and medium enterprises that enabled us to improve our productivity level.Technical assistance and consultancy service were provided to afford SMEs the opportunity to enhance our production capacity and competitiveness," she added.

In the field of technology transfer, Mangkabung said that for more than three years were enhanced through various strategies that would empower micro, small and medium enterprises as well as community-based entrepreneurs.

Technology transfer activities were implemented through the transition support program-small enterprise technology upgrading (SET-UP) for established firms, "the Teknolohiyang Pangkabuhayan" program for community-based featuring the DOST-ITDI developed "Water Filter System" utlizing nano technology-based training and capacity-building and the "One-Stop-Shop" product development, the DOST-ARMM secretary said.

For the province of Basilan, Mangkabung said twenty-four projects were implemented out of the eleven targeted for implementation generating an accomplishment rating of 218%.

"We have also put in place technical interventions through innovation to improve the productivity and competitiveness of the micro, small and medium enterprises as well as community-based projects," she said.

During Monday's event, Mangkabung and Chancellor Atty. Lorenzo Reyes signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the establishment of food innovation center at MSU Tawi-Tawi, College of Technology and Oceanography.

The innovation center is a facility that aims to produce value added agricultural and fishery food products by becoming the hub for innovation and technical support services for the food processing industry in the ARMM region.

Mangkabung also said for the province (Basilan) they have implemented four livelihood-generating and poverty-alleviating programs under ARMM HELP's to address poverty issues.

The four are bakery projects are located in Switch Yakal, Lantawan, Badja, tipo-Tipo, Pintasan, Mohammand Ajul and Batto-Bato, Akbar town. The MOA for the fifth bakery project in Bato Bato, Lamitan City was also signed Monday morning.

The projects were in response to the call of ARMM Regional Governor Mujiv Hataman. In the same manner, the PAMANA-MNLF capacity development project was implemented benefiting 291 MNLF communities and cooperatives, according to Mangkabung.

To address internet connectivity in the region, the government through the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process allocated P50 million for the inter-connectivity with the 5 major sites in ARMM - Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, Jolo in Sulu, Datu Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao, Marawi in Lanao del Sur, and Lamitan, Basilan.

"This is also coupled with the DOST-ICT project of OneConnect in which 98% of the total municipalities and cities in ARMM are recipient of the connectivity, both project primarily intends to bridge the digital gap in the region," said Mangkabung.

As they celebrate the 2016 NSTW, Mangkabung enjoined all and sundry to utilize to the fullest extent technology and innovation for productivity and competitiveness.

"Scientific concept and ideas, invention, photo-​typing and pantenting must be supported to encourage generation of new knowledge and discoveries. Reaserch, development and extension program must be enhanced and afforded all our researchers and end-users," she concluded. MGP News

President Duterte to soldiers, policemen

in Zamboanga, Basilan: "Just do your job"

Amid government fight vs terrorism and illegal drugs

President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday told soldiers and policmen to do their job amid the government’s fight against terrorism and illegal drugs.

Duterte, who visited military bases in Zamboanga city and its neighboring province of Basilan on Thursday, also vowed to provide financial assistance to them.

He asked the troops to do their sacrifice and promised that if they'll fall into trouble, or face cases to such lawful performance of their duties, he will take the cudgels for them.

“Maybe I take pride in winning the presidency but I’m fighting a war here. Drugs in Manila and other places, here in Mindanao, its terrorism. It will need your sacrifice and mine too,” the President
told military and police personnel in a speech at the headquarters of Western Mindanao Command in Zamboanga City.

He said he will provide financial assistance to soldiers so that they would not engage in illegal activities.

"I’ll look for money. If you encounter problem, you know those imponderables of life... you don't need to go far, just go to your commanding officer, he will call me and I look for ways for it."

The President apparently made the remarks to discourage soldiers from engaging in corruption especially after the military had also been ordered to participate in anti-drug operations.

He also promised to upgrade the Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center in Quezon City to provide the “best medical treatment” to state forces.

He said he was willing to spend money to improve the hospital, also known as the V. Luna Hospital.

“I will rebuild the V. Luna. I will complete it. I will add another building maybe, a new one, and you’ll have the best medical treatment,” he said. “I’ll spend money and we will improve the hospital for immediate and urgent need to be done there.”

The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines also said he would convert the presidential yacht "BRP Ang Pangulo" into a floating hospital.

“I will either convert it into a hospital. I will see first if how much I would spend. I will make it (BRP Ang Pangulo yacht) hospital, I will put that wherever the fighting is,” he said.

During his visit in Basilan, Duterte received a situation briefing from military commanders at 104th Brigade in Tabiawan, Isabela City.

He was told that a firefight between government troops and the Abu Sayyaf Group was reportedly ongoing when he arrived in the area.

Recent clashes between government troops and the Abu Sayyaf Group have caused more than 3,000 families from three municipalities to flee their homes.

In his visit in Basilan, Duterte has pleaded for peace and an end to hatred among all rebel groups during Thursday's visit to the troubled southern Philippines.

In his first trip as commander-in-chief of the armed forces of the Philippines, the newly inaugurated president pitched federalism as one way to address the "historical wrongs" done to Muslims in Mindanao, which he claims fuels rebellion and terrorist acts.

Duterte has proposed to amend the country's constitution to grant regions more federal autonomy.

Accompanied by defense and security officials, he arrived in Basilan on Thursday to be met by military commanders who have been engaged in an offensive against the Daesh-linked Abu Sayyaf for weeks.

After disappearing into a conference room for a closed-door briefing on the ongoing military operation, he met with local officials led by Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Regional (ARMM) Governor Mujiv Hataman.

Both men took time out to talk to troops engaged in the battle with group renowned for kidnapping and beheading its victims, but reporters were restricted from taking video and conducting interviews.

Hataman said Duterte's visit boosted the morale of local government leaders and security forces working to address the Abu Sayyaf problem, while complementing ARMM development programs.

As the two leaders spoke, operations to flush out more than 200 Abu Sayyaf from the mountains of Magcawa in Basilan continued.

Hataman told reporters he had welcomed the news that a comprehensive peace roadmap had received Duterte's blessing -- a roadmap based on a formula presented by Duterte's newly appointed presidential adviser to the peace process, Jesus Dureza.

The fact that the roadmap was approved within a month of the president's appointment shows the administration's commitment to peace and recognizes the urgency of the issue, added the governor.

"The ARMM knows firsthand the effects of a peace process between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front that is inclusive and accounts for the realities on ground," he added.

"With the support of the national government, the ARMM has made strides in matters of economic development and has brought basic social services closer to the people."

Hataman praised Duterte's decision to build on the gains of past negotiations and ensure the implementation of long-signed agreements between the government and the MILF.

In 2014, the two signed a peace deal that would have been sealed by a proposed law to replace the current ARMM with a more inclusive Bangsamoro autonomous region.

However, the Bangsamoro Basic Law stalled as Congress adjourned for campaigning for the May 9 polls.

"That his administration has made it a priority to act upon previously mutual agreements, trusting the wisdom of those who have always been at the forefront of the peace negotiations, sets a proactive tone with regard to the peace process, especially when it comes to addressing the Bangsamoro struggle," Hataman said.

"The ARMM regional government has always taken an active role in the struggle for peace and justice and we look forward to working with the Duterte administration in hopes of finally realizing the dreams and aspirations of the Bangsamoro people."

Since 1991, the Abu Sayyaf group -- armed with mostly improvised explosive devices, mortars and automatic rifles -- has carried out bombings, kidnappings, assassinations and extortions in a self-determined fight for an independent province in the Philippines.

Earlier this year, the group beheaded two Canadian hostages after ransoms failed to be paid. It has threatened to decapitate a Norwegian captured with them in September if a P300-million ($6 million) ransom demand is not met.

Two militant groups in the Philippines' troubled south -- the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and the Abu Sayyaf -- have pledged allegiance to Daesh, prompting fears during the stalling of the peace process between the government and the MILF that Daesh could make inroads in a region torn by decades of armed conflict. MGP News

ARMM receives P4-million worth of medical equipment from aid agency and EU

The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) received P4-million worth of medical equipment from the international aid agency Oxfam and the European Union (EU).

Justin Morgan, Oxfam country director, formally turned-over to ARMM Executive Secretary Atty. Laisa Alamia and Dayang Sangkula Jumaide of the region’s Department of Health the medical assistance on Thursday, July 14.

Morgan said the medical equipment will help improve the delivery of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services to 14 cities and municipalities in the region. Among the items turned over are fetal dopplers, oxygen tanks, wheelchairs, examination tables, delivery tables, and pediatric stethoscopes.

A program funded by EU dubbed Improving Availability of Reproductive Health Services in the ARMM, or ARCHES, it seeks to contribute to poverty reduction and improved well-being of the population in the region through better and more equitable access to health services.

The assistance will also help build the capacity of local governments to deliver SRH services. ARCHES is a joint undertaking between Oxfam and four women’s rights organizations working with local communities in the region namely Al Mujadilah Development Foundation, Inc. in the province of Lanao del Sur; Pinay Kilos in Sulu and Basilan; Tarbilang Foundation Inc., in Tawi-Tawi and United Youth of the Philippines-Women in Maguindanao.

“We believe in the importance of protecting the rights and welfare not only of women but also the families they raise and support, and we recognize that there is a need to ensure that reproductive health services are made available for all, especially for the disadvantaged,” ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman said.

In October 2012, a landmark legislation known as the Reproductive Health Care Act of 2012 for the ARMM was signed. It created and established a reproductive healthcare program for families in the region that promotes natural family planning method and focuses on strengthening child healthcare facilities.

“It is in the spirit of upholding the Bangsamoro's right to health that we welcome and accept with gratitude the medical equipment that Oxfam and their partner organizations are donating to the ARMM in order to ensure that local governments can provide better reproductive health services,” Gov. Hataman added.

He also said the regional government is looking forward to continuously working with them towards a healthy Bangsamoro for all the women, children, and their families. PR

Pinoys rejoice over Philippines' win in territorial case vs China

                                          Photo courtesy of ABS-CBN
The Filipinos including government officials and politicians have rejoiced Philippines win in territorial case it filed against China before the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, Netherlands.

Displaying a big Philippines flag and rattling the drums, hundreds of people mostly members of US Pinoys for Good Governance gathered at Aristocrat Baywalk, Roxas Boulevard, Manila, at around 3p.m. on Tuesday to release several balloons to celebrate the landmark tribunal's ruling.

The celebrants called on China to abide by the UN Convention on the law of the Sea, and to respect Philippine Sovereignty over its Exclusive Economic Zone, which includes the Scarborough Shoal, Kalayaan Islands, Mischief Reef, and Ayungin Shoal.

Meanwhile, Filipino officials and politicians posted their respective statements on their Facebook pages after the UN Arbitral Tribunal handed down its decision on Philippines protest against China’s illegal occupation of Philippine territories in the West Philippine Sea, ruling out that China's nine-dash line claim over the disputed waters is invalid.

Ambassador Lauro Baja, a permanent representative to the UN for the Republic of the Philippines, said that the challenge now for the Filipinos is how to parlay this (ruling on the case) into big winnings to protect and promote the country's concern in the West Philippines Sea.

"What the immediate move I see right now is to engage China on talks about the award," Baja said. "Of course, the China does not recognize the decision but sometimes directs bare fruits.

Our option would be mainly diplomatic. Now is the time to study on how we can leverage our success in the panel vis-a-vis the China, vis-a-vis the other stakeholders or the allies like the US, Japan, Korea, Australia and the ASEAN. We must now take some affirmative actions in this regard so that our victory could be taken up for implementation," Baja said.

For Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate, he said the favorable ruling of The Hague Arbitral Tribunal "strengthens and solidifies the Philippine position in future bilateral talks with China, especially now that her expansionist 9-dash line theory is declared without legal, historical and moral basis."

"Despite the ruling in favor of the Philippines, we call on the international community to step in and pressure China to de-escalate the situation in the West Philippine Sea and should stop militarizing the area," he said.

“China has already reclaimed at least 7 of our reefs such as the Panganiban (Mischief), Mabini (Johnson South), Gavin (Gaven), Calderon (Cuarteron), Hughes (Kennan), Malvar (Eldad) and Kagitingan (Fiery Cross) Reefs, that are clearly within Philippine territory and exclusive economic zone but hardly anything has been done by the previous Aquino administration to effectively address it," said the progressive solon.

Zarate also said that in addition to the international support against China’s provocative acts,"we also urged the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte to initiate further diplomatic moves to strengthen our own claims and fortify our positions, even as we engaged China in mutually beneficial bilateral or multilateral talks."

“Every Filipino here or abroad should defend our territory, our exclusive economic zones, our national sovereignty," Zarate said.

Meanwhile, former Akbayan Representative Walden Bello, wrote that "hopefully, the Duterte administration will stand firm on this ruling.

Senator Loren Legarda said in her Facebook page the International Tribunal of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea has spoken and that as state parties to the UNCLOS and responsible members of the international community, we are duty-bound to respect its decision.

"I welcome the impartial, authoritative decisions rendered by the Tribunal and can only hope that these will serve as guideposts for the parties in this dispute. It serves no valid purpose to further exacerbate the dispute by refusing to heed the decision handed down by the Tribunal, for in the end, such refusal to honor its decision will only undermine the primary objective of the UNCLOS – and that is to establish a legal order for the seas to promote its peaceful use," Legarda said.

Senator Grace Poe, political rival of Duterte in the May 9 presidential race, ​ said: "I join the nation in welcoming the landmark decision of the Arbitral Tribunal affirming the rights of our country over its 200-mile exclusive economic zone in the West Philippine Sea."

She said the resolution rendered "in this historic case confirms our stand that we fully adhere to the rules of international law in the peaceful settlement of disputes."

The Senator said the West Philippine Sea is theirs and this legal and moral victory is significant as it will provide the government a binding ruling under the UNCLOS and international law in dealing with China as well as the allies, in whatever mode of negotiation that may be taken by the current administration to ensure compliance of parties involved.

"The Tribunal’s ruling is no paper judgment. Our government should exhaust all avenues and encourage full compliance of the decision through peaceful and diplomatic means. The landmark decision of the Arbitral Tribunal is a historic victory for our Country."

"Equally important is that, based on early reports, it is definitive, categorical and expectedly upheld the provisions of UNCLOS which could help the Duterte Administration in pursuing the next course of action. Lastly, the favorable decision is a vindication of the foreign policy direction of the Aquino Administration,

"The Tribunal concluded that there was no legal basis for China to claim historic rights to resources within the sea areas falling within the ‘nine-dash line," Poe said.

Senator Risa Hontiveros also said: I join the Filipino people in celebrating the United Nations' Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling in favor of the Philippines' rightful claim over the West Philippine Sea.

"The historic decision is a triumph of Philippine sovereignty and international law; it is a "slingshot" that struck "Goliath China's" bullying in the region," she said.

She commended the previous government for filing the arbitration case in the face of continuing Chinese continuing threats and incursions in the Philipppine territory.

"I commend the Filipino people, particularly our fisherfolk, for their strong, peaceful and united resolve to defend the country's sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea. This is our victory. I trust that the Duterte administration will build on this victory to further safeguard the country's sovereignty and marine jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea and in advancing genuine peace and regional stability."

"This historic win must be strengthened by the new government. To deviate from the spirit of this ruling would render the victory hollow and our sovereignty compromised," the senator further said.

According to her, the Duterte administration must capitalize on the decision to strengthen international public opinion to our favor and mobilize allies to rally behind our sovereignty. This should be a signal to China to end its bullying and militarist expansion in the region. The US government must also be reminded that the West Philippine Sea should not be a staging ground for their superpower games.

She also encouraged the government to craft an interdependent and progressive foreign policy guided by the Hague ruling.

"It should serve as the administration's reference to upholding national sovereignty and territorial integrity in the region. President Duterte must use all democratic multilateral platforms to protect our national interest and foster stronger ties with our regional neighbors.

The Senator called on the Chinese government to respect the ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration. "As a regional leader and emergent global power, China must prove to the international community that it abides by the international law and is committed to regional peace."

Also Senator JV Ejercito, the son of former President now Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada, said they welcome the Permanent Court of Arbitration's favorable decision for the Philippines which declares that China has no historic title over West Philippine Sea or South China Sea.

"It is only proper that the unanimous decision of the international tribunal's members must be respected in our collective pursuit for peaceful resolution of the dispute," Ejercito said.

President Rodrigo Duterte's foreign affairs officials have called for sobriety after the Philippines won the maritime case it filed against China before the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Hague in the Netherlands.

In a press conference after the ruling was released on Tueday, Foreign Affairs Secretary Pefecto Yasay said: "Our experts are studying the Award with the care and thoroughness that this significant arbitral outcome deserve. In the meantime, we call all concern to exercise restraint and sobriety."

In Malacañang, President Rodrigo Duterte was scheduled to hold a Cabinet meeting with the landmark ruling on the agenda, according to GMA News report.

Communications Secretary Martin Andanar was quoted as saying that President Duterte will reserve comment on the issue until he receives a complete and thorough interpretation” of the decision.

“We shall wait for SolGen’s interpretation of the ruling. The SolGen shall provide the President a synopsis of the ruling tomorrow morning and a complete and thorough interpretation in 5 days,” Andanar said.

President Duterte earlier cautioned against using the favorable decision to “taunt or flaunt.”

China, meanwhile, has boycotted the hearings of the UN arbitration tribunal and has earlier said it will ignore any ruling on the case saying the tribunal does not have jurisdiction over the dispute.

China's state-run Xinhua news agency earlier described the UN arbitration tribunal as a "law-abusing tribunal."

The Philippine Embassy in China warned its citizens to be aware of "threats to their welfare and the safety of their belongings because of the current situation or political issue." MGP News