Saturday, May 29, 2010

Gonzales, pinasalamatan ang AFP sa tagumpay ng halalan

By: Fer Taboy

BALITA MIYERKULES, MAYO 19, 2010

Pinasalamatan ni Defense
Secretary Norberto Gonzales ang
Armed Forces of the Philippines
sa kanilang mahusay na trabaho
sa nakaraang lokal at pambansang
halalan.
Sinabi ni Gonzales na matapat na
nagampanan ng AFP ang tungkuling
bantayan ang seguridad at integridad
ng kauna-unahang automated polls ng
bansa noong Mayo 10.
Sa kanyang talumpati sa Change
Of Command ceremony ng Philippine
Navy sa Naval Station Jose V.Andrada
Nitong 'Sabado, ipinagmalaki ng
Defense Secretary ang malaking
nagawa ng kababaihan at kalalakihan
ng AFP para sa demokrasya.
"I don't know if the nation will
see this in the future. But this much I
will say as your Secretary of National
Defense, that the Armed Forces of the
Philippines have done the best that this
nation deserve when it comes to this
particular aspect of our democracy.
You have made the last election worthy
of our democracy," ani Gonzales.
"As a citizen of this nation, I would
say thank you to the Armed Forces of
the Philippines."
Nagpahayag rin siya ng
Kalungkutan sa mga pulis at sundalong
nagbuwis ng buhay para protektahan
ang halalan.
"You are today the most important
pillar in our society. Keep remembering
that. And we will keep reminding our
people of the importance of our Armed
Forces in nation building," aniya.
"Most important, we in the
Armed Forces of the Philippines
should recognize that we are actually
the symbol of love of country ..•That
in our uniform rests the symbol that
is the most important sentiment that
will bind our people, tha I will give
strength to the desire of our people
to have a dream and to fulfill those
dreams in the future," sabi pa Defense
chief.

Marine, PNP namayagpag sa Dragon Boat event

Remate Martes 18 Mayo 2010

NAMAYAGPAG ang Marine at Philippine National Police (PNP) teams sa katatapos na Cobra Energy Dink Dragon Boat Regatta 2010 na ginawa sa Manila Bay nitong Linggo.
Ang Fleet-Marine team ay natapos ng 1st sa men’s division, 2nd ang Philippine Dragon Fireblades, 3rd ang PNP at nasa 4th naman ang La Salle University (DSLU) Rowing Team.
Nanguna naman ang PNP sa women’s division, 2nd place ang Triton, 3rd ang DSLU at lumaglag sa 4th ang Rowers Club Philippines.
Napagwagian rin ng Fleet-Marine ang mixed division mataposilampaso ang Philippine Dragon Team Fireblades at Rowers Club Philippines.
Bago ang finals, dalawang Bangka mula sa PNP at Rowers Club Philippines at bumaligtad habang lumalaban dahil sa malakas na alon sa Manila Bay.
Wala naming nasaktan sa insidente dahil agad na nasagip ang mga miyembro ng teams.
Ayon kay Nestor Ilagan, technical director ng Philippine Dragot Boat Federation, talagang nangyayari ang paglubog ng Bangka tuwing kumpetisyon.
Subalit sinisiguro nila na lagging handa ang kanilang rescue upang sumaklolo sa ganitong insidente.

Soldiers recover IEDs after firefight

By: Audrey Morallo

Malaya Tuesday, May 18, 2010

SOLDIERS yesterday r covered 13 ammonium-nitrate type
improvised explosive devices (IEDs) , blasting caps and electrical
wirings on Saturday afternoon after a firefight with suspected
Abu Sayyaf terrorists in Talipao town, in Sulu.
Brig. Gen. Rustico Guerero, commander of the Armed Forces
Joint Task Force Comet, said there were no troop casualties.
"The marines were on patrol and site survey for a road project
when this encounter happened," he said.

Navy eyes new vessel to boost Visayas sea patrol

By ELENA L. ABEN

Manila Bulletin Monday, May 17, 2010 page 8

Security in the Visayas seaboards, as well as the rest of the archipelago,
is expected to be beef up once the Philippine Navy (PN) gets its wish of
acquiring a multi-role vessel (MRV), which costs around P5 billion.
This, after Defense Secretary Norberto Gonzales committed to
complete within his remaining 45 days in office government-to-government
contracts for the acquisition of equipments needed for the Armed
Forces modernization program. President Arroyo herself has
expressed full support to the Navy's intention to procure an MRV, which
will help enhance the naval fleet's capability in territorial defense and
internal security operations, as well as humanitarian missions.
The need for a strong Philippine Navy has always been emphasized
in order to secure the country's maritime domain that spans 37,652
kilometers or 10.6 percent of the total 356,000kilometers of the world’s coastline.
Lt. Col. Edgard Arevalo, Navy spokesman, said the Navy undoubtedly
faces a specially challenging gargantuan task with most of its
ships, as no less than former Navy Flag Officer in Command, Vice Admiral
Ferdinand Golez admits, are even older than him and most of the
naval fleet's officers. "That has long been an open secret. To the pundits, external aggression
is remote at this time," said Arevalo, adding, "If the Philippines
wants to regain the respect of its neighbors and restore pride in the
hearts of its people, a strong navy is imperative."
In one interview, Golez told the Bulletin that the Navy at present
has obsolescent equipment, some of which are already 50 to 60-yearsold,
eyen pointing at the dock beside the Navy headquarters 'along Roxas
Boulevard, which he said has seen action during World War II and the
Vietnam War. Information obtained by this writer
also showed that one of the ships owned by the Navy
was commissioned way back in 1943 in the United States,
where its sister-ship is now displayed in a museum.
Yet despite its weakness in terms of naval capability due to obsolete,
inefficient, and ageing equipment, some of which have already reached
or are reaching the end of their lifespan, the Philippine Navy still
manages to serve well the nation and even deliver tremendous accomplishments.

RP's first line of defense vs external security threat almost done

By JAIME LAUDE

The Philippine STAR NEWS SUNDAY, MAY 16,2010 page 10

The country's first line of
defense against external security
threats is already 60 percent complete with just a few
adjustments to make it fully operational, Navy chief Rear
Admiral Danilo Cortez announced
yesterday. Dubbed Coast Watch Philippines,
Cortez said this first line of defense is envisioned
after Coast Watch South now in full operation and monitoring
major activities in the sea lanes, particularly in southern
Mindanao. Coast Watch South is a combined anti-terror under-.
taking by the United States, Australian and Philippine
governments to monitor and intercept local and foreign terrorists
leaving and entering the country through the southern
backdoor, The US and British governments
have installed monitoring systems at various key points in the country.
"Our Coast Watch Philippines is 60 percent complete
and I intend to pursue this project under my watch as
Navy chief," Cortez said. Cortez took over the reign
of the more than 20,000-strong Navy yesterday, succeeding
Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez who retired from the service.
After installation of these radar monitoring systems are
completed, Cortez said technical people will be working
to "harmonize and integrate operations" of the two systems
to be fully operational. Cortez declined to elaborate
on the details of the project for security reasons.
It was learned, however, the project involved key government
and private agencies that are sending out actual time
information on what is happening in the country's major
sea lanes. "We will endeavor to enhance
the connectivity of the existing and newly-built radar
stations with the Coast Watch Center. Once fully operational,
we can monitor all significant activities in all of the country's
major sea lanes," Cortez said. A Naval officer added Coast
Watch Philippine will function
just like the US's 911,wherein people will be manning its
nerve center and relay all significant events monitored via
installed radar stations in key points of the country.
"This will not only involve the Armed Forces of the
Philippines (AFP) but other government agencies. If they see
something illegal like smuggling and illegal fishing activities,
the center will immediately relay this to the nearest
Naval or Coast Guard st1tion for immediate action," the official
said. The same procedures will also be followed if there are air
or sea intrusions by unfriendly military forces or unidentified
vessels or aircraft, "So this is our first line of defense. If the threat is
monitored on the country's airspace, the Air Force will
be immediately informed for appropriate action. If it is on
the sea, then our Navy will be dispatched," the officer said.

Cortez assumes command of Navy

By ELENA L. ABEN

Sunday, May 16, 2010 page 1

Rear Admiral Danilo Cortez Saturday
assumed as the transition Flag
Officer-in-Command of the Philippine
Navy, taking over from Vice Admiral
Ferdinand Golez, who has reached
the mandatory age of 56.
Cortez, who is the 31st FOIC of
the Navy, will be holding over the
post until such time that the incoming
President and Commander-in-Chief
will appoint a regular FOIC.
Golez, meanwhile, has been requested
by Defense Secretary Norberto
Gonzales to continue to serve
at least 45 days more as adviser to
the defense chief and to the Office of
the National Security Adviser. Golez
has accepted the offer.
In assuming the post, Cortez
thanked Golez for entrusting to him
the flag for acknowledging his
capability to continue the mission
which he (Golez) has started for the
Navy.
"We are truly thankful for the way
you have led the Philippine Navy. Indeed,
you are the epitome of the Navy
way of service," Cortez said in acknowledging
his predecessor's leadership.
Cortez, at the same time, vowed to
continue and aspire to complete the
programs that were started by Golez,
including the acquisition of multi-role
vessels (MRVs), all geared towards
the vision of becoming a strong and
credible Navy that the our maritime
nation deserves.
"I will guarantee that I will continue
the voyage Vice Admiral Golez has set
for us and work out of the box to hasten
its accomplishment," Cortez stated. "I
may not be able to inject new programs
during my stay as your FOIC, but I
promise to bring you closer to the attainment
of our vision," he added.
Golez on the other hand, said that
for the 22months of his stint as head of
the Navy, he led the organization
into exerting all efforts for the accomplishment
of programs that will allow
the Navy to move forward.
"I have planted seeds of commitment
and dedication to every sailor and
marine for them to grow individually
and collectively," said Golez, even as he
enjoined the officers, men and women
of the Navy to continue to pursue what
he has already started for them.
In describing what he has done in
his 22months as Navy FOIC, Golez had
this to share: Beyond the horizon of
my dreams now lie the outcome of our
efforts of today making us all aware of
the value of a Navy for the progress and
development of this maritime nation. A
commitment we will all share."
Meanwhile, Gonzales, who presided
over the turnover ceremony, said
Golez may have reached the end of
his military career but not as a public
servant. He said he has offered Golez
to serve as his adviser in the defense
department and as NSA, which the
latter accepted.

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Cargo ship sumadsad sa Masbate

Hataw, Friday, May 14, 2010

By: D. Garcia/ L. Basilio

LEGAZPI CITY – Sinagip ng Navy sailors ang 22 tripulante ng cargo vessel na sumadsad sa Ticao Island sa Masbate kahapon, ayon sa ulat ng Navy Official.

Sinabi ni Lt. Denver Ramon, spokesman ng Navy sa Bicol, nagsagawa ng distress call ang MV Pacifico dakong 6:10 a.m. kahapon, at sinabing sumadsad ang barko sa Argos Point at dahil sa impact ay nabutas ang bow na pinasukan ng tubig.

Ang barkong pag-aari ng Galaxy Transportation Inc. ay may kargang 50,000 bags ng semento mula sa Cebu at nagdidiskarga sa Masbate port.

Sinabi ni Jesus Hernando, cargo ship captain, ligtas na ang lahat ng mga tripulante ngunit ang kalahati ng cement cargo ay basa na ng tubig dagat.

CARGO VESSEL SUMADSAD SA ISLA NG MASBATE

Abante, May 14, 2010

By:Edwin Balasa

Ligtas na ang mga tri­pulante ng sumadsad na cargo vessel matapos ang mabilis na responde ng Naval Forces Southern Luzon kahapon ng umaga sa isang isla sa Masbate.


Dakong alas-sais ng umaga nang sumadsad ang MV Pacific Cruiser na pag-aari ng Galaxy Transportation sa Magcaragit Island sa nasabing lalawigan. Ang nasabing cargo vessel ay patungo sana sa Masbate City galing sa lalawigan ng Cebu.


Ayon kay Lt. Commander Ariel Leonida, agad silang rumesponde matapos na makumpirma ang nasabing insidente.


Nabatid na libu-libong sako ng semento ang laman ng nasabing cargo vessel nang siyasatin matapos itong madala sa mababaw na bahagi ng dagat.


Ayon pa kay Leonida na posibleng dahil sa sobrang bigat ng karga ang dahilan ng nasabing pagsadsad ng barko.


Patuloy naman ang gina­gawang imbestigas­yon upang mabatid ang dahilan ng insidente.

RTU, Cavite-Navy forge title duel

Manila Bulletin, Friday, May 7, 2010

BAGUIO CITY — Lefty Leo Barredo gave up only three hits as Rizal Technological University beat the Cavite Province-Philippine Navy All Stars, 4-2, to win the men’s crown in the National Open softball championships at the Baguio City Athletic Bowl.

The second year physical education student produced another sterling performance as he struck out six batters while stranding two late in the game to frustrate the Caviteños.

University of Santo Tomas, however, spoiled RTU’s sweep bid by winning the women’s crown with a 3-1 win in the event sponsored by Cebuana Lhuillier, Pera Padala, Cebuana Lhuillier Bank, Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Solutions, Phiten, Just Jewels and Le Soleil de Boracay.

The win was the Blue Thunders’ seventh straight.

Actually, they were unbeaten in the last two years as they ruled the recent State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association, Commission on Higher Education tournament and the Softball Pilipinas – first semi-pro event.

Last year, they topped Association of Southeast Asian Nations championship in Brunei and the Philippine Olympic Festival.

ARRIVAL HONORS

Manila Bulletin, Wednesday, May 5, 2010

By: Elena Aben

Some 272 Philippine Sailors and Marines returned to the country last Tuesday after a month-long overseas mission Malaysia where they engaged the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) in the annual bilateral maritime training activity (MTA) dubbed MALPHI-LAUT 13/10.

Lt. Col. Edgard Arevalo, Navy spokesman, said the arrival honors were rendered to the returning sailors and marines at the Capt. Moya Boat Landing, Naval Base Heracleo Alano, Sangley Point, Cavite City.

According to Arevalo, the Philippine contingent to the MTA MALPHILAUT 13/10 was composed of officers, crew, and some 272 Sailors and Marines. Also part of the contingent was a patrol vessel BRP Apolinario Mabini (PS 36), a logistics ship BRP Dagupan City (LC 551), a PN Helicopter (PNH) 411 and two teams of Naval Operations Group (NAVSOG).

The sailors and marines, among them the 49 Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class 2010 members who joined the Navy, participated in the month-long annual bilateral MTA with the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) in Lumut, Malaysia and Malacca Strait area.

Monday, May 17, 2010

Libo-libo pulis, sundalo ikinasa sa Metro

Remate, Saturday, Apirl 17, 2010

By: Verlin Ruiz at Kyle Gatus

Para matiyak na magkakaroon at maisakatuparan ang kauna-unahang automated election sa Pilipinas, sinimulan na ang pagdeploy sa may 16,000 pulis at anim na batalyong sundalo sa iba't ibang bahagi ng Metro Manila.

ito anf magkatuwang na pahayag nina NCRPO Chief Director Roberto Rosales at AFP NCRCOM Rear Admiral Feliciano Angue kahapon kasunod ng paglulunsad ng AFP-PNP Joint Security- Motorized Patrol 24/7 HOPE.

Ayon kay Rosales, unang ikakalat ang 12,000 pulis kabilang dito ang route security, police visibility patrol, mobile patrol, motorized patrol 24/7 katuwang ang mga kagawad ng AFP-NCRCOM na nagtalaga rin ng kanilang 24/7 riders para masuportahan ang may 50 checkpoint na minamantine ng PNP at AFP sa Mega Manila.
Inihayag naman ni Angue na mistah ni Rosales sa PMA Class 1978 at itinuturing na top contender sa NAvy Flag Officer In Command post na may anim na batalyon o 3,000 sundalo ang kanilang ikinasa para sa malinis, maayos at payapang halalan.

Ayon kay Angue bagaman may mga nauna sna silang deployment ng mga sundalo sa mga checkpoint, magieskort rin ang mga ito sa pag bibyahe ng mga PCOS Machine ng Comelec mula sa bodega nito sa Cabuyao, Laguna gayundin sa ballot boxes patungo sa Central hub nito sa Tandang Sora, Quezon City.

Samanatala, nagpahayag ng pangamba ang isang opisyal ng Catholic Bishops COnference of the Philippines kaugnay sa pagpapakalat ng mga sundalo sa Metro manila para magpatrulya kaugnay ng May 10 national and local elections.

Ayon kay Caloocan Bishop at CBCP Episcopal Commision on Public Affairs chairman Deogracias Iniguez Jr., maaaring bahagi ito ng mapipintong "worst-case election scenarion."

kabilang umano sa mga lugar na babatayan ng militar ang Makati City nainirekomenda na ng pulisya na isailalim sa kanilang kontrol bunsid ng mga election-related violence roon.

Libo-libo pulis, sundalo ikinasa sa Metro

250 navy pinadala sa Malaysia

Abante, April 13, 2010

By: JS Salarzon

Nagpadala kahapon ng 250 na sailors ang Philippine Navy sa Malaysia upang makibahagi sa taunang pagsa­sanay sa tinatawag na MALPHI-LAUT 13/0 na naglalayong mapataas ang antas ng kakayahan ng mga Fi­lipino sailors pagdating sa pagsasagawa ng kanilang operas­yon sa karagatan.

Ayon kay Lt. Junior Grade Rommel Rodriguez, Navy Fleet Public Information Officer, naglayag ang mga Pinoy Sailors mula sa Assault Craft Force Headquarters sa Naval Base Heracleo Alano sa Sangley Point, Cavite City patungong Malaysia.

“Ang pagsali ng ating mga Pinoy sailors sa 13th edition ng pagsasanay kabahagi ng taunang aktibidad sa pagitan ng Navy at Royal Malaysian Navy pagdating sa pagsasagawa ng tactical maneuvers and scenarios sa karagatan. Sampung araw ang pagsasanay na ito,” ayon kay Rodriguez.

2 Thai navy shps on goodwill visit

Manila Bulletin, Thursday, MArch 25, 2010

By: Elena Aben

Two Royal Thai Navy ships — the HTMS Taksin and HTMS Chaopraya, arrived in Manila Wednesday for a five-day goodwill visit, which is expected to further strengthen the ties that bind the Philippine Navy and the Thai Navy as the two countries work togetherin the common pursuit of maintaining peace and stability in the ASEAN region.

Lt. Col. Edgard Arevalo, Navy spokesman, said the Thai delegation is headed by Squadron Commander Rear Admiral Kraisorn Chansuvanich. The ships, now docked at Pier 13 in North Harbor, arrived at around 1 p.m.

Royal Thai Cadet Training Unit’s Commander is composed of 70 officers, 239 enlisted men, 20 non-military rank personnel, and 236 naval cadets. The ships are commanded by Capt. Samarn Khunthaphong and Capt. Skye Bekanan.

The Philippine Navy’s BRP Apolinario Mabini (PS36) met and escorted the visiting ships in the vicinity of Corregidor Island, a time-honored tradition among navies.

Arevalo said shortly after their arrival, the head of the delegation paid a courtesy call to Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez, Philippine Navy Flag Officer-In-Command (FOIC) at the Navy Headquarters on Roxas Blvd.

Navy elite force to hunt down Abu Sayyaf men

Manila Bulletin, Sunday, March 21, 2010

By: Elena Aben

Navy Flag Officer-in-Command Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez has ordered the deployment of the Navy’s elite force, patrol vessels, and gun boats to help get the remaining members of the al Qaeda-inked Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in 60 days, in line with the order of Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Delfin Bangit.

Lt. Col. Edgard Arevalo, Navy spokesman, said send-off ceremony will be held 7:30 a.m. Monday, March 22, at the Navy headquarters in Manila.

Arevalo said newly-repaired surface assets that will be deployed to operational areas in in the Visayas and Mindanao are BRP Rajah Humabon (PF 11), BRP Apolinario Mabini (PS 36), BRP General Mariano Alvarez (PS 38), BRP Simeon Castro (PG 374), BRP Apollo Tiano (PG 851), and BRP Gen. Emilio Aguinlado (PG 140).

A company from the Philippine Marine Corps’ (PMC) elite force will also be deployed to Basilan to augment government forces present in the province. The Philippine Army also sent its specially-trained troops to the area.

The Navy FOIC will preside over the ceremony to be attended by Senior Fleet-Marine unit commanders.

Maj. Gen. Juancho Sabban, Marine Commandant, and Rear Admiral Geronimo Defensor, Commander, Philippine Fleet, will assist Golez during the inspection of troops and their equipment prior to the send off.

“Binibining Pilipinas 2010 winners will likewise grace the occasion to help boost the morale of the sailors and marines which will result in their improved efficiency in the performance of their duties and responsibilities to the country and the Filipino people,” said Arevalo.

Considering the dangers of the task, the Navy will remain committed in the performance of their sworn duties to protect the people and preserve the sovereignty and integrity of the nation,” he added.

Navy to deploy gunboats to Mindanao

The Philippine Star, Sunday, March 21, 2010

By: Jaime Laude



MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Navy is deploying a fleet of gunboats to strategic areas in Mindanao and the Visayas to hasten the defeat of the Abu Sayyaf terrorists.

Navy spokesperson Lt. Col. Edgard Arevalo said they will deploy newly-repaired gunboats BRP Rajah Humabon (PF 11), BRP Apolinario Mabini (PS 36), BRP General Mariano Alvarez (PS 38), BRP Simeon Castro (PG 374), BRP Apollo Tiano (PG 851), and BRP Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo (PG 140).

An elite Marine company will also be dispatched to Basilan to support the ongoing operations against the Abu Sayyaf and other lawless groups in the island province.

Navy chief Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez will preside over the send off ceremony tomorrow at the Navy’s headquarters.

To boost the morale of the Marines, the Navy invited the winners of the Binibining Pilipinas 2010 beauty pageant to be present at the send off.

“Considering the dangers of the task, the Navy will remain committed to the performance of their sworn duties to protect the people and preserve the sovereignty and integrity of the nation,” Arevalo said.

After assuming command of the military’s 125,000-strong force, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Delfin Bangit vowed to crush the Abu Sayyaf within 60 days.

Bangit has directed the three major services – the Army, the Air Force and the Navy – to pool their resources for the operation.

Dagdag-puwersa vs Sayyaf

Police E-Files, Sunday, March 21, 2010

By: Mark Obleadia

Magpapadala ng karagdagang mga puwersa ang Philippine Navy upang tumulong sa isinasagawang pagtugis sa mga bandidong Abu Sayyaf Group(ASG) at kampanya laban sa insureksyon sa Visayas at Mindanao.

Ayon kay Philippine Navy Spokesman Lt. Col. Edgard Arevalo, itatalaga ang PN sa Visyas at Mindanao ang BRP Rajah humabon (PF11); BRP Apolinario mabini (PS 36); BRP Gen. Mariano Alvarez(PS 38); BRP Simeon Castro(PG 851) at BRP Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo(PG 40). Ilang company ng Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) elite force na ipadadala sa Basilan.
Pangungunahan naman ni Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez, Flog Officer in Command, Philippine Navy ang sent off na dadaluhan ng mga Senior Fleet-Marine Unit Commanders, major General Juancho M Sabban, Commandant, PMC at Rear Admiral Geronimo Defensor, Commander, Philippine Fleet na magassist kay Vice Admiral Golez sa pagsasagawa ng inspection ng troops at kanilang mga kagamitan.
Sinabihan ni Arevalo na ang pagtatalaga ng mga personnel at asset ay isa naman hakbang ng Navy bilang bahagi ng kampanya sa pagpapatupadng kaayusan seguridad at mapalakas ang kampanya laban sa mga lawless element sa Visayas at Mindanao.

Sundalo ‘ipapadala’ ng Bb. Pilipinas winners sa Sulu

Sunday Tonite, Sunday, March 21, 2010

By: JB Salarzon

Ngayong araw, buong puwersa ng Binibining Pili­pinas 2010 winners ang makakasama ng matataas na opisyal ng Philippine Navy at Marines upang bigyan ng maikling seremonya ang mga sundalong ipapadala sa Sulu para tumulong sa paglipol ng mga natitira pang Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG).
Pangungunahan ni Flag-Officer-in-Command Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez at Marine Commandant Maj. Gen. Juancho Sabban ang mga binibini para sa pagbibigay ng inspirasyon sa mga sun­dalong sasabak sa labanan.
Ayon kay Lt. Col. Edgard Arevalo, tagapagsa­lita ng Navy/Marines, ang mga sundalo ay kabahagi ng kanilang elite force at mananatili ng 60-araw o dalawang buwan sa Sulu.
Partikular na guguwardiyahan ng mga sundalo ang karagatang nakapa­libot sa iba’t-ibang lugar sa Mindanao kung saan mayroong presensiya ng Abu Sayyaf habang tinutugis ng mga kapwa nilang sundalo ang mga ito sa kalupaan.
Kasama sa mga idedep­loy ang isang kumpanya ng Marines na ang destinasyon ay sa Basilan.
Sa kautusan ni Armed Forces chief Gen. Delfin Bangit, nag-deploy na ng isang batalyon ng elite forces si Army chief Lt. Gen. Reynaldo Mapagu sa Sulu para tugisin at lipulin ang mga bandidong Abu Sayyaf.

Naval, local forces rescue trawler

Manila Bulletin, Sunday, March 21, 2010

By: Elena L. Aben

Combined elements of the Philippine Navy (PN) and local security forces in Tawi-Tawi have rescued a Malaysian fishing trawler hijacked earlier in Sabah, Malaysia.

Rear Admiral Alexander Pama, Naval Forces Western Mindanao ( NFWM) commander and head of Joint Task Force Trillium (TF Trillium), in a report to Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez, the Navy’s Flag Officer-In-Command (FOIC), Philippine Navy, said the Royal Malaysian Navy Area II Commander, First Admiral Anui has notified his office that a Malaysian registered vessel with six crew members was hijacked near Tigabu Island, Sabah, Malaysia by four suspected robbers at around 2:00 a.m. Tuesday

The hijackers were reportedly asking for a 150,000 Malaysian Ringgit as ransom. Pama said upon receipt of the information, he immediately coordinated with the local officials in Mapun and Taganak areas, and dispatched BRP Cebu (PS28) backed by a patrol craft with elements of the Marines from Marine Battalion Landing
Team (MBLT)2 on board.

“Immediate action of these Fleet-Marine Forces resulted to the early release of the fishing boat to its owners in Sabah on Wednesday in Malaysia,” said Pama.

“The decisive move pressured the hijackers into fleeing back to Sabah and release the trawler to its owners,” he added.

Pama noted the successful operation is attributed to the good relations the Royal Malaysian Navy and Philippine Navy has with its counterpart with other navies in the region.

“With a united stand and cooperation against terrorism and transnational crimes, Asians are assured of a peaceful and secured maritime environment. The Navy is always ready to respond to people in distress regardless of race and color. It is part of its commitment to the international community of providing security to local and national vessels transiting our waters,” according to Pama.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Edgard Arevalo, Navy spokesman, also reported the recovery of a kidnap victim by Marine elements in Lamitan City, Basilan.

Arevalo said based on reports reaching the Navy headquarters in Manila, the victim, Examinda Lindio, was seized by a lone suspect March 13 at the vicinity of the public market of Sitio Oval, Barangay Matibay, Lamitan City.

Marines rescue canteen manager

Tempo, Saturday March 20, 2010

By: Nonoy E. Lacson

ZAMBOANGA CITY- Marines rescued a 43-year-old female public school canteen manager in Lamitan City, basilan whow as allgedly kidnapped by the Abu Sayyaf Group(ASG) last week.
They were able to arrest her kidnapper, a suspected member of the ASG.
Western Mindanao Command(WesMinCom) identified the kidnap victim as Examinda Lindio. She was rescued at 2pm last Thursday at the residence of the suspect in Barangay Maloong San Jose, Lamitan City.
her kidnapper, Arvin Guirny Artiaga was arrested a few hours earlier in Brgy. Maloong San Jose.
The military conducted a rescue operation after her family reported after her family reported her disappearance tot he police and military.
Lindio reportedly failed to return home on Idris Drive, barangay maganda, Lamitan City after she left Saturday last week.
Lindio was reported to have been kidnapped after her family received a call from man claiming to be an ASG member who demanded a P2 million ransom.
The caller claimed to be a follower of ASG commander Pulah montong based in the hinterlands of Mohammad Ajul, Basilan.
Military and police troops were immediately deployed to track down Montong's group in Mohammad Ajul.

Kampo ng ASG, nabawi ng militar

Saksi, Monday, March 15, 2010


ZAMBOANGA CiTY -Patuloy pa rin
ang ginagawang clearing operations ng militar
sa basilan, kasunod sa pagkakakubkob sa isang training al homb-making
camp ng bandidong Abu Sayyaf" sa kabunudkan ng Brgy. Baiwas sa bayan ng
Sumisip. Kinumpirma ngayun ni Task Force Trillium chief, Rear Admiral
Alexander Pama, ang malaking accomplishment ng tropa ng gobyerno nitong
nakaraang Linggo lamang. Ayon sa opisyal, nabawi ng mga sundalo ang kampo ng mga
bandido sa area na kung tawagin ay "Hill 850" Makalipas ang ilang oras na engkuwentro.

Sa naturang pangyayari, 3 sa mga ASG members ang nasawi at 12 iba pa ang sugatan sa encounter. Samantala sa hiwalay na pahayag, sinabi naman ni Brig. Gen. Eugenio CLemen, 1st Marine Brigade chief, na ang nasabing Abu Sayyaf camp ay kaya umanong mag-accomodate nang may 100 katao at napapalibutan ng mga booby traps gaya ng mga improvised bombs at landmines.
Narekober din ng militar mula sa kampo ang ilang "training and indoctrination manuals" mga blasting caps, rifle grenades at ilang empty shells ng M-16, Armalite rifles, maliban dito, nakuha din sa lugar and isa ng listahan ng mga contact numbers at subscriber identification module (SIM) Cards,. Batay sa intelligence report, ang naturang kampo umano ay nasa ilalim ng pamumuno ni Abu Sayyaf leader Kair Mundos, kung saan sinasanay ang mga ASG at Jemaah islamiyah(JI) militants sa pag-gawa ng mga bomba. Sa exclusive interview ni Bombo Analy Soberano ngayong umaga kay Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, Lt. Gen. Benjamin Dolorfino, tiniyak naman ng opisyal na tuloy-tuloy pa ang gagawin nilang offensive operations ng pamahalaan laban sa ASG. "Malaking bagay ang pagkakakubkob natin sa kampo ng Abu Sayyaf at sa katunayan ay napakaraming improvised explosive device ang narekober ng troops natin.
"As far as the campaign against terrorism, relentless efforts natin," ani Dolorfino.

Kampo ng ASG nabawi ng militar

Abante, Monday, March 15, 2010

By: Noel Abuel

Nabawi ng military ang isang malaking kampo ng bandidong Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) na sina­sabing isang training at bomb-making camp sa kabundukan ng Bgy. Baiwas sa bayan ng Sumisip, Basilan.

Kinumpirma ni Task Force Trillium chief, Rear Admiral Alexander Pama ang malaking accomplishment ng tropa ng gobyerno kung saan nabawi ng mga sundalo ang kampo ng mga bandido sa area na kung tawagin ay “Hill 850” makalipas ang ilang oras na engkuwentro.

Sa naturang pangyayari, tatlo sa mga ASG members ang nasawi at 12 iba pa ang sugatan.
Kinumpirma rin ni Pama na pitong mga sundalo ang nasugatan sa encounter.

Samantala sa hiwalay na pahayag, sinabi naman ni Brig. Gen. Eugenio Clemen, 1st Marine Brigade chief, na ang nasabing Abu Sayyaf camp ay kaya umanong mag-accommodate ng may 100 katao at napapalibutan ng mga booby traps gaya ng mga improvised bombs at landmines.

Narekober din ng militar mula sa kampo ang ilang “training and indoctrination manuals,” mga blasting caps, rifle grenades at ilang empty shells ng M-16 Armalite rifles.

Troops overrun Sayyaf camp

Philippine Star, Sunday, March 14, 2010

By: Roel Pareño

TABIAWAN, Basilan , Philippines - Government troops overran a suspected Abu Sayyaf training camp near Sumisip town yesterday, following a week of ground offensive that left six extremists killed and 12 wounded.

Anti-terror Task Force Trillium and Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) chief Rear Admiral Alexander Pama said seven troops from the 1st Marine Brigade were wounded as they tried to take over the training camp in Upper Baiwas that were rigged with explosives and booby traps.

Pama said the troops seized several improvised explosive devices (IED), ammonium nitrate, grenades and rifle grenades fashioned into bombs, battery packs, tripwires, and training manuals for bomb making and demolition.

Among the other items recovered were documents revealing an amount of P50,000 was withdrawn on Feb. 4, 2010, indicating ransom money had been paid.

1st Marine Brigade chief Brig. Gen. Eugene Clemen added the troops destroyed 50 huts that served as quarters for more than 100 Abu Sayyaf militants led by Puruji Indama.

Pama said Khair Mundos, an Abu Sayyaf trained by the al-Qaeda linked Jemaah Islamiyah (JI), maintained the camp to train Indama’s men on explosives and bomb making.

Pama said Mundos managed to escape when government troops also launched an offensive on its training camp in Sitio Kurelem in Tipo-Tipo town.

“Khair Mundos and other Abu Sayyaf high value targets from Sulu were encamping in the training camp that was captured,” Pama said.

Pama said the explosives and training manual recovered at the site indicated the alliance of the Abu Sayyaf and JI to launch terror attacks in southern Philippines.

“They have a level of capability which is more dangerous,” Pama warned.

With the continued military operations, Pama said this would deny the Abu Sayyaf sanctuary and prevent them from returning to the area.

Tougher security measures implemented in basilan

Manila Times, Thursday, April 22,2010

By: James Konstantin Galvez and Al Jacinto

The Palace, along with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP), on Wednesday assured that the situation in Basilan is now under control following intensified military campaign against the perpetrators of the recent bombing attack that killed 12 people.

“Security and safety situation in Basilan has improved and is now going back to normal. We have already isolated the cities of Lamitan and Isabela from the reported perpetrators of the bombing last Tuesday,” Philippine Marines Director for Naval Affairs Lt. Col. Edgar Arevalo said in a press conference in Malacañang.

“The members of this terrorist group is now limited in the outskirts of Lamitan City. And we are now continuing with the intensified combat operations as ordered by AFP Chief of Staff Delfin Banguit to ensure that the ASG [Abu Sayyaf Group] will not harm the peaceful, stable, and safe conduct of the May 10 elections,” Arevalo added.

Arevalo also said that additional fresh troops from Manila are now being deployed in Basilan to help in the augmentation and peacekeeping campaign in the province.

He also said that elite members of the Armed Forces and the Marines were deployed to the province to pursue the fleeing members of the Abu Sayyaf.

For his part, Gen. Edgardo Acuña of the national-police deputy chief for operations and concurrent commander of national task force HOPE (Prayer for an Honest, Orderly and Peaceful Elections) said that plans to secure the safe conduct of the elections have already been finalized.

Acuña said that they will employ three-step security plan on the island of Basilan and nearby provinces, which include the orientation of personnel about their responsibilities during election day, additional troops to areas considered as hot spots, and employment of civilian action force that would monitor police personnel specially those assigned to secure election paraphernalia.

“With these contingency measures, we are ready for any unexpected events,” he said.

Meanwhile, Executive Secretary Leandro Mendoza said that the Anti-Terrorism Council is continuously monitoring the situation in Basilan, saying that the President Gloria Arroyo is “dead serious” that there will be no failure of elections.

Basilan has been tagged as an election hot spot because of the presence of private armed groups and history of election-related violence.

Besides Basilan, additional police officers and soldiers have been deployed to nine provinces that are considered as “priority areas” including La Union, Nueva Ecija and Masbate in Luzon; Samar and Iloilo in Visayas; and Lanao del Sur, North Cotabato, Sulu and Maguindanao.

Meanwhile, one of two captured Abu Sayyaf militants tagged as among those behind twin bombings in Basilan had died from his wounds at a local military hospital, officials said Wednesday.

Officials said Umbar, who was wounded in a firefight with troops last week, died late Tuesday in hospital at the military’s Western Mindanao Command headquarters. “An Abu Sayyaf member captured by government troops after the attack in Isabela City in Basilan died of cardio respiratory arrest secondary to sepsis due to his infected wounds,” said First Lt. Steffani Cacho, a regional military spokesman.

She said the body of the militant was handed over to an imam and buried in a coastal village called Caragasan, west of Zamboanga City.

Cacho said another militant, Ajib Hainal, who was also wounded in the fighting and captured by the military in Basilan province, would soon be handed over to the police.

“Hainal is ready for release to the police,” she said.

10 soldiers honored

Manila Bulletin, Friday, March 5, 2010

By: Ginalyn Kabiling

Ten soldiers who excelled in
the combat operations and civic
duties were given a tribute~y
President Arroyo in Malacanang.
Included in the prestigious
list of outstanding soldiers Was
Army Col. Melquiades Feliciano, -battalion commander
of the 71st Infantry Battalion in Nueva Ecija, who was
reportedly implicated in the
disappearance of activist Jonas
Burgos last year.
The President hailed the
awardees of The Outstanding
Philippine Soldiers (TOPS),
coming from the Philippine
Army, Navy, Air Force, and
Technical Service, for their gallantry
and heroism.
Mrs. Arroyo said the annual
TOPS program, initiated by
Metrobank Foundation and Rotary
Club of Makati City, "serves
as avenue to showcase the Filipino soldier's courage, sacrifice,
integrity, duty and service to
the country."
Apart from Feliciano, the
other outstanding soldiers are
Master Sgt. Ruben Lucero,
MasterSgt. Hercules Regis of the
Philippine Army;
Col. Nathaniel Casem, Technical Sgt. Marcelo
Batingan, Sgt. Vicente Sustivierio Jr. of the Philippine Navy,
Col. Arnold Mancita, Master Sgt. Leonilo Pedrosa,
TechnicalSgt. Rogelio Alarcon Jr. of the
Philippine Air Force and
Major Vicente Magaro of the
DentalService.

Navy personnel gets discount from Aboitiz

Tonight, Thursday, March 4,2010

By: Zaida de los Reyes-Palanca

PHILIPPINE Navy
sailors and marines
will now get the chance
to be reunitelJ easily
and more frequently
with their families.
This, after PhiIlppine
Navy Flag officer-in-command
Vice Admiral Ferdinand
S. Golez signed a
memorandum of agreement
with Evelyo Engel,
executive vice president
and CEO of Aboitiz
Transport System and
Corporation '(ATSC), for
the special discount rate
given to non-uniforllled
personnel, civilian employees,
and retired members
of the Navy and all their
qualified dependents.
In a simple ceremony,
Engel said the move will
bolster the cooperation
between the Navy and
Aboitiz who have closely
worked together when
SuperFerry 9 sank in the
waters otr Zamboanga del
Norte on Sept. 9, 2009.
Engel recognized the
Navy's quick response that
saved 442 passengers of
the SF 9. It can be recalled
that the vessel dispatched
by the Naval Forces Western
Mindanao Command
were the first government
assets to arrive in the area
to conduct search and
rescue operations.
For his part. Golez cited
that with the mutual
agreement, bonding
among families of Navy
personnel is now affordable
at a very reasonable
price.
Through its corporate
offices and branches
nationwide, ATSC shall
extend guaranteed Lowest
Tripid Fare on all Super-
Ferry trips, provided that
the Navy and its members
shall meet and comply with
all the requirements and
follow the procedures set
forth ..
Aside from the military
ID,ATSC may also request
for additional IDs.
This initiative. is
among the many projects
of thel command that
seeks to provide for the
basic needs of the sailors
and marines.

Sulu officials laud military for successful operations

Manila Bulletin, Friday, February 26, 2010

By: Nonoy E. Lacson

Jolo, Sulu – Government officials of Sulu lauded the military for their success in their recent combat operations against the notorious Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) that led to the death of Albader Parad and four others Sunday in Indanan, Sulu.

Sulu Gov. Abdusakur Tan said the successful military operations against the ASG in Karawan, Indanan, is a victory for the people of the entire province.

Jolo Mayor Hussin Amin also joined Tan, and the religious sectors here saying the people of Indanan and those living in the adjacent towns can now live peacefully and away from harm and harassment from the ASG.

The military assaulted on Sunday morning a well fortified camp of the ASG in Karawan, Indanan which led to the death of Parad, the infamous ASG leaders, Abdulhamn Jumdail, and four others Tan also renewed his commitment to fully support the military’s peace efforts in the province aimed at keeping Sulu free from terrorist groups.

“The death of Parad will send a strong signal to other lawless groups in the province that the government means business and will continue to hunt them anywhere in the province,” Tan said.

Amin said with the death of Parad, illegal activities like kidnappings for ransom, extortion, and destruction of lives and properties will be minimized.

Amin expressed confidence that very soon, the military would be able to completely neutralize the terrorist group and other lawless groups operating in Sulu.

Imam Hadji Abduraja Abdulla, representing the religious sector, said the death of Parad placed an end to the sufferings of the people of Indanan.

Abdulla said the people would no longer witness the destruction of their villages, farm-to-market roads, bridges, school buildings, and other infrastructures built by the government for the comfort of the populace.

Meanwhile, Joint Task Force Comet commander Marine Brig. Gen. Rustico Guerrero has allowed the families and relatives of the dead bandits to accord them decent burials according to Muslim rites.

Guerrero said the military in Sulu will continue to fight lawless groups operating in the province in order to give way for new development to spur in the area.

Monday, May 3, 2010

Marines foil Abu attack

The Philippine Star, Thursday, 25 February 2010

By: Roel Pareño with Alexis Romero

ZAMBOANGA CITY- Followers of slain Abu Sayyaf
leader Albader Parad attacked on Tuesday night a
Marine detachment at the boundary of Indanan
and Maimbung towns in Sulu, the military said.

However, the Marines thwarted the attack,
which was apparently in retaliation for the
death of Parad and five of his followers during a
special operation last Sunday.

Among those killed was Abdulhaman Jumdail,
brother of Abu Sayyaf leader Umbra Jumdail
alias Dr. Abu Pula. A Marine, S/Sgt. Eliseo Salo,
was killed and three others were wounded
in the surgical military strike.

"No casualty was reported from our side as our
forces have been alerted and have anticipated
the possible retaliatory attack," said Brig. Gen.
Rustico Guerrero, chief of the anti-terror Task Force
Comet.

However, following Tuesday night's incident
the Marines have further beefed up their security
measures to foil more direct attacks by Abu Sayyaf
bandits.

Guerrero said they are now focusing on the group
of Jumdail as they now consider Parad's group as a
spent force.

He disclosed that in last Sunday's offensive Jumdail's
group was just near the hideout of Parad's forces on Mt.
Tukay in Indanan town.

Jumdail's men, he said, tried to reinforce Parad's
group but were prevented as government troops had
positioned themselves along all possible routes.

The Armed Forces' Western Mindanao Command clarified
that Parad was carrying a bounty of $1 million, not
$80,000.

Meanwhile, Salo was given a hero's welcome at
the Marine headquarters in Taguig City yesterday.

Salo's body was flown from Zamboanga City to
Manila to allow the Marine Corps to pay their last
respects to their fallen comrade.

Navy spokesman Lt. Col. Edgard Arevalo said more
than a hundred sailors and Marine personnel led by
Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez and Marine Corps
commandant Maj. Gen.Juancho Sabban attended
the ceremony.

"Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez condoles with the
family of Staff Sergeant Salo. He vows the Navy 'will
sustain its Fleet-Marine operations to rid the
island-province of bandit and terror groups,"
Arevalo said.

Arevalo said Salo will be posthumously promoted
to technical sergeant and will receive a wounded
personnel medal, which is given to soldiers who
sustained injuries during actual combat.

Salo's family will also receive P250,000 in
financial assistance from President Arroyo and PI5,OOO
in burial assistance.

"His (Salo) family will benefit from his pension.
His contributions to all savings and loan associations
will also be refunded," Arevalo said in a telephone
interview.

Arevalo said Salo's body will be
flown to Cagayan Valley, where he will
be buried.

Militar, umani ng papuri mula sa Kongreso

Saksi sa Balita, Tuesday, 23 February 2010

Pinapurihan ng mga mambabatas ang militar sa
pagkakapatay nito sa matataas na lider ng bandidong
Abu Sayyaf kabilang na si Al Bader Parad sa
isang engkwentro sa lalawigan ng Sulu.

Ayon kina Senate Defense Committee Chairman
Rodolfo Biazon at Senate Minority Leader Aquilino
Pimentel Jr., malaking accomplishments ito ng
militar dahil tuluyang napilayan ang bandidong grupo.

"I think that with this the military or the AFP
and probably even the police must exploit this gain.
This is a big gain for military in its campaign
against the terrorist," ayon kay Biazon.

Pero ayon kay Pimentel, dapat tiyakin ng militar
na hindi na makakaporma pa ang grupo dahil maaaring
agad na papalitan ang namatay na lider ng ASG.

Iginiit naman ni Biazon na ngayon na ang tamang
panahon na magsagawa ng hot pursuit operation
laban sa mga bandido dahil maliban sa kapos na
sa supply ng bala ang grupo, maituturing na mahina
na ang kanilang pwersa matapos malagasan ng pinuno.

"The conduct of a pursuit operation I think is
timely because right now there are reports that
the Abu Sayyaf is short in ammunition simply
because the cost of ammunition nowadays have
jumped to probably even beyond the reach of the
Abu Sayyaf already," dagdag pa ni Biazon.

Tumigbak kay Parad pinarangalan

Taliba, Tuesday, 23 February 2010

By: Bobby C. Ticzon

Binigyan ng medalya ang tatlong miyembro ng
Philippine Marines (PM) na kabilang sa tumapos
sa kilabot na buhay ni Abu Sayyaf Group
commander Albader Parad.

Iginawad nina Philippine Marines Corps Commandant
Maj Gen. Juancho Sabban at Western Mindanao Command
(Wesmincom) chief Lt. Gen. Ben Dolorfino sa Camp
Navarro General Hospital sa Zamboanga ang tinaguriang
'wounded personnel medals' kina Private First Class (PFC)
Joselito Carreon, Corporal Anthony Carmona, at
Corporal Marcelino Landicho. Karamihan sa
kanila ay nagtamo ng bullet shrapnels sa
iba't ibang parte ng katawan.

Inilarawan ni Sabban ang operasyon sa Sitio Tukay,
Barangay Karawan, Maimbung, Sulu na perpekto
matapos ang Marine Battalion Landing Team-4
(MBLT-4)ay napatay si Albader Parad
at limang iba pa na miyembro ng Abu Sayyaf.

Gayunman,ikinalungkot naman ni Sabban, ang
pagkamatay ng isa sa mga sundalo sa naturang
operasyon na aniya ay nagbunga dahil sa
kanilang pinalakas na operasyon at opensiba.

Sinabi ni Dolorfino na si Parad ay may
patong na pabuya sa ulo na $l milyong dolyares
at P7 milyong dahil sa pagdukot sa kanyang mga
biktima kabilang ang tatlong humanitarian
workers ng International Committee of the
Red Cross (ICRC).

Sunday, May 2, 2010

35 Navy officials promoted

The Philippine Star, Tuesday, 23 February 2010

By: Alexis Romero

The Philippine Navy promoted 35 of its officials
yesterday.

In a statement, the Navy said the 35 officials
were given their rank insignias during
the Monday morning colors at the Philippine
Navy Headquarters in Manila.

Promoted to the rank of Navy captain were
Commanders Rommel Jude Ong, Rey de la Cruz, Erick
Kagaoan, Loumer Bernabe, Rosauro Sarmiento,
Noel de Vera, Rommel Jayson Galang, Adeluis
Bordado, Joseph Melvin Guevarra, Alberto Cruz, Ramil
Roberto Enriquez, Opiniano Jayme Jr.,
Restituto Bilbao Jr., Rigoberto Banta,
Francisco Gabudao, Socimo de Guzman Jr.,
Reginald Rapanan, Alberto Carlos, Nichols Driz,
Elpidio Francisco, Cesar Martinez, Rufino Arias Jr.,
Ruel Saonoy, Renato Yongque, and Carlito Barizo.

Bestowed the rank of colonel were Lt. Cols.
Elmer Estilles, Martin Villas, Nathaniel Casem,
Eugne Erwin Martinez,Fernando Gomez, Ferdinand
Fraginal,Raul Jesus Caldez, Ariel Caculitan,
Jeson Cabatbat and Jose Cabanban.

The Navy said President Arroyo approved the
interim appointment on Feb. 6.

Chief of Naval Staff Rear Admiral Feliciano
Angue,who led the giving of the rank
insignias, called on thenewly-promoted
officials to be focused and vigorous in performing
their responsibilities as senior officers.