Thursday, January 27, 2011

Naval exercise draws thousands in Pantukan

By: Ben O. Tesiorna
CNN iReport, Thursday, 27 January 2011

PANTUKAN, Compostela Valley – A military exercise of the Philippine Navy held in this idyllic coastal barangay of Kingking drew more than a thousand spectators as the military showcased their latest sea vessels as well as the capability of their Marine soldiers and the elite Navy Seals.


Commodore Philip Cacayan of the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao said the Fleet-Marine exercise dubbed as Exercise Pagsisikap 11 is designed to test, evaluate and enhance the capability of their units in conducting Fleet-Marine operations.


Thursday’s exercise was participated in by a Navy patrol ship, two patrol gunboats, two multi-purpose attack craft (MPAC), Navy Seals with fast patrol boats and company from the 1st Marine Brigade. A Navy Islander aircraft and a Huey helicopter were also utilized during the military exercise.


The MPACs were recently bought by the Philippine Navy at an estimated value of P75 million each. They presently have three MPACs and three more are scheduled to be bought thru the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ modernization program.


MPACs is expected to boost the Navy’s special operations and in other emergency situations. It will also enhance the Navy’s conduct of maritime operations. MPAC can transport limited number of personnel and equipment at a high speed of 40 knots and can be deployed to areas during emergencies to deliver the much-needed services to far-flung areas around the country.


Commodore Cacayan said the coastal town of Pantukan was chosen as the ideal site for their exercise because of its proximity to the NFEM headquarters in Panacan, Davao City.

“Compostela Valley is also one of the provinces which has not been visited by the Navy before so we have chosen that area to let the local residents know that they have a Navy that can help them in their quest for peace and development in their area,” Cacayan said.

An American mining firm is also set to operate in the mountainous area of Pantukan this year fuelling speculations that the military exercise could be a show of force to assure the American company of the security of their operations in the area.

Militant organizations also claimed that American military personnel are involved in the naval exercise. Commodore Cacayan denied this though saying that the exercise was initially scheduled in 2010 but due to their numerous activities they moved it to January 27, 2011.

AFP Eastern Mindanao Command chief Lt. Gen. Arthur Tabaquero meanwhile congratulated the Philippine Navy for their exemplary show of wares and skills.

“It’s the best exercise I have seen for many years. A clear manifestation that the Navy and the Marines can secure use anytime of the day,” Tabaquero said.

Businessman and 705th Squadron Naval Reserve Command Capt. Marfinio Tan also expressed satisfaction on the capability of the Philippine Navy. He said they will also be conducting another exercise in General Santos dubbed as Exercise Sikat.

The local government of Pantukan led by Mayor Tok Sarenas was also present to witness the naval exercise. Compostela Valley Governor Arturo Uy also sent his gratitude to the Philippine Navy for choosing his province as the venue of their military exercise. BOT

Monday, January 24, 2011

Philippine Navy eyeing coast guard boat purchase from US

The China Post, Monday, January 24, 2011

The Philippine Navy on Sunday said it was in talks with the United States government to buy a secondhand coast guard cutter to upgrade its ageing fleet.

Navy chief Rear Admiral Alexander Pama said the 380-feet (115 meter) Hamilton class vessel, which he did not name, would significantly boost Manila's capability to patrol its archipelago.

“We are actively discussing with the U.S. government the possible acquisition of the Hamilton class,” he said.

“We need this to boost security in our exclusive economic zone.”

Pama said the Hamilton class cutters are the biggest vessels used by the U.S. coast guard, with the exception of heavy ice breakers.

The vessel was expected to arrive in Manila in the first half of the year, replacing the navy's flagship BRP Raja Humabon, a Cannon-class destroyer escort which is probably one of the world's oldest war ships, the Filipino navy said.

Equipped with a retractable hangar, a helicopter flight deck and powered by a dual engine or gas turbines, the Hamilton cutter is described as a high endurance cutter with close-in weapons systems.

Pama said he could not disclose exact figures for the purchase, which he described as the first of several being planned.

The Philippines is considered a non-NATO military ally by the United States, which has been sending troops to the impoverished country for training missions to help crush al-Qaida-linked militants in its troubled south.

The Philippine armed forces is considered by many experts as among the weakest in the Asian region, but President Benigno Aquino vowed to modernize it shortly after assuming his post in June last year.

The China Post

Navy eyes purchase of coast guard cutter from US (Philippines)

By Alexis Romero
The Philippine Star, Monday, January 24, 2011

MANILA, Philippines - The Navy plans to acquire a Hamilton-class cutter from the United States to boost its capability to conduct patrols and rescue missions.

Navy chief Rear Adm. Alexander Pama said officials are now negotiating with their US counterparts for the acquisition of the ship.

“There are negotiations for the possible acquisition of a US Coast Guard cutter. It will definitely boost (our capability) a lot given this is a weather heavy endurance cutter,” Pama told reporters over the weekend.

He said they are still threshing out details of the acquisition of the vessel, which is used to conduct patrols in the high seas.

“We are still discussing this. Nothing is final. We are in the stage where there is understanding already. We will formally send a letter request,” the Navy chief said.

A cutter is a high-speed vessel that can cut through waves. If the acquisition pushes through, the ship would be the first Hamilton-class cutter in the Navy’s inventory.

Navy spokesman Capt. Giovanni Bacordo said the ship might arrive in the country within the first semester of this year.

He said the US Coast Guard cutter would become their largest ship once it becomes part of their assets.

“It (cutter) would be our largest ship at 380 ft. long. At present, our largest surface combatant, BRP Rajah Humabon, is only 308 feet long,” Bacordo said.

Navy officials declined to say whether the US would donate the cutter and how much the ship costs. Pama, however, said the Philippines might shoulder the needed repairs and training of personnel who will use the ship.

“I cannot tell the exact figure. It depends on the components to be placed in the ship. That would determine the pricing,” he said.

When asked if the cutter would be designated as the Navy’s flagship, Bacordo said: “It depends on the Navy leadership.”

Navy records showed that out of the 53 patrol ships in the inventory, only 25 are operational.

These patrol ships are of the average age of 36.4 years old. The biggest of these vessels like the Mine Sweeper Frigates and patrol craft escorts are 66 and 67 years old, respectively.

Only two of the seven Navy transport vessels are operational and are already 15 years old.

The non-operational vessels are 64 years old. On the other hand, only four of the 10 Navy auxiliary ships are operational. From among the 32 small crafts, 23 are operational with an average age of 21.3 years old.

The Navy is searching for ways to upgrade its capabilities without using the yearly budget, which is usually allotted for salaries and operational expenses. It has bared plans to set up a foundation that will gather assistance from private firms and individuals who want to help in improving its capabilities.

“We are planning to have this navy foundation where well-meaning individuals, groups, or firms can donate property, educational grant or anything that can be of help to us,” Bacordo said in an earlier interview.

The foundation may be formed within the first half of the year.

The Navy has also formed a new office that will look into proposals designed to tap public-private partnerships (PPP) to fund its modernization program.

The Capacity Resource Development and Special Projects Branch, which is under the Navy’s Resource Management Office, was tasked to find possible sources of income and to study proposals related to PPP.

Navy officials have cited the need to modernize the military’s rescue teams since the country is vulnerable to typhoons and other disasters.

Philstar.com

Sunday, January 23, 2011

Navy eyes purchase of coast guard cutter from US

By Alexis Romero
The Philippine Star, Monday, 24 January 2011

The Navy plans to acquire a Hamilton-class cutter from the United States to boost its capability to conduct patrols and rescue missions.

Navy chief Rear Adm. Alexander Pama said officials are now negotiating with their US counterparts for the acquisition of the ship.

“There are negotiations for the possible acquisition of a US Coast Guard cutter. It will definitely boost (our capability) a lot given this is a weather heavy endurance cutter,” Pama told reporters over the weekend.

He said they are still threshing out details of the acquisition of the vessel, which is used to conduct patrols in the high seas.

“We are still discussing this. Nothing is final. We are in the stage where there is understanding already. We will formally send a letter request,” the Navy chief said.

A cutter is a high-speed vessel that can cut through waves. If the acquisition pushes through, the ship would be the first Hamilton-class cutter in the Navy’s inventory.

Navy spokesman Capt. Giovanni Bacordo said the ship might arrive in the country within the first semester of this year.

He said the US Coast Guard cutter would become their largest ship once it becomes part of their assets.

“It (cutter) would be our largest ship at 380 ft. long. At present, our largest surface combatant, BRP Rajah Humabon, is only 308 feet long,” Bacordo said.

Navy officials declined to say whether the US would donate the cutter and how much the ship costs. Pama, however, said the Philippines might shoulder the needed repairs and training of personnel who will use the ship.

“I cannot tell the exact figure. It depends on the components to be placed in the ship. That would determine the pricing,” he said.

When asked if the cutter would be designated as the Navy’s flagship, Bacordo said: “It depends on the Navy leadership.”

Navy records showed that out of the 53 patrol ships in the inventory, only 25 are operational.

These patrol ships are of the average age of 36.4 years old. The biggest of these vessels like the Mine Sweeper Frigates and patrol craft escorts are 66 and 67 years old, respectively.

Only two of the seven Navy transport vessels are operational and are already 15 years old.

The non-operational vessels are 64 years old. On the other hand, only four of the 10 Navy auxiliary ships are operational. From among the 32 small crafts, 23 are operational with an average age of 21.3 years old.

The Navy is searching for ways to upgrade its capabilities without using the yearly budget, which is usually allotted for salaries and operational expenses. It has bared plans to set up a foundation that will gather assistance from private firms and individuals who want to help in improving its capabilities.

“We are planning to have this navy foundation where well-meaning individuals, groups, or firms can donate property, educational grant or anything that can be of help to us,” Bacordo said in an earlier interview.

The foundation may be formed within the first half of the year.

The Navy has also formed a new office that will look into proposals designed to tap public-private partnerships (PPP) to fund its modernization program.

The Capacity Resource Development and Special Projects Branch, which is under the Navy’s Resource Management Office, was tasked to find possible sources of income and to study proposals related to PPP.

Navy officials have cited the need to modernize the military’s rescue teams since the country is vulnerable to typhoons and other disasters.


Navy buying used US cutter

By Donna Pazzibugan
The Philippine Daily Inquirer, Monday, 24 January 2011

The Philippine Navy is seeking to acquire a secondhand ship from the United States Coast Guard to upgrade its antiquated fleet.

Navy Flag Officer in Command Rear Admiral Alexander Pama said they were in talks with the US government to acquire a Hamilton class cutter, the largest ship in the US Coast Guard Fleet next to its polar icebreakers.

"We are actively discussing with the US Government the possible acquisition of a Hamilton-class cutter," Pama told reporters.

He said they had their eye on a high-endurance cutter to significantly boost country's capability to patrol its vast waters.

"We need this to boost security in our exclusive economic zone," he said.

The Hamilton-class cutter, at 115 meters, would be the biggest ship in the Philippine Navy fleet which consists of donated World War II era ships with an average age of 65 years.

The normal operating life span of a sea vessel is 30 years.

Pamadid not give the cost of acquisition, saying negotiations were ongoing.

But he said the Navy might shoulder the cost of repairs and training to operate the ship.

"We are in the stage where there is an understanding. We are about to send formal letter request," he said.

Former Navy flag officer in command Rear Admiral Danilo Cortez, who retired on Jan. 4 inspected the vessel they planne dto acquire by November, according to Navy spokesperson.

Capt. Giovanni Bacordo also said they expected the ship to be in the country within the first half of the year.

The vessel will replace the Navy's flagship BRP Raja Humabon, a Cannon-class destroyer escort which is probably one of the world's oldest war ships, the Navy said.

The Hamilton-class cutter is equiped with a rectractable hangar, helicopter flight deck and a close-in weapon system. It's powered by a dual engine or gas turbines.

Navy soon to get its largest vessel ever

By Victor Reyes
Malaya, Monday, 24 January 2011

The Navy is in the process of acquiring a Hamilton class US Coast Guard cutter, a high-endurance ship which will be the Navy’s largest vessel if the acquisition under the Foreign Military Sales of the US Department of Defense pushes through.

Rear Adm. Alexander Pama, Navy chief, did not say at what price the vessel would be acquired. He said details are still being discussed.

Pama said the vessel might be delivered this year.

He said discussions are also ongoing for the acquisition of other US ships.

Navy spokesman Capt. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said former Navy chief Rear Adm. Danilo Cortez inspected the cutter during a visit to US last November. Cortez retired early this month.

The cutter will be the first in the inventory of the Navy whose modernization program is being delayed by lack of funds.

Pama said the vessel is expected to boost the Navy’s capability, particularly in the conduct of patrol in the high seas and in search and rescue operations during disasters.

Twelve High Endurance Cutters (WHEC) were introduced in the US Coast Guard inventory in the 1960s. The first of the class was the Hamilton (WHEC-715) commissioned in 1967.

According to the US Coast Guard website, the 378-foot WHEC class is the largest of cutters, aside from three major icebreakers, ever built for the US Coast Guard.

These are equipped with a helicopter flight deck, retractable hangar, and facilities to support helicopter deployment.

The largest surface combatant ship of the Navy now is the destroyer escort BRP Rajah Humabon which is 308 feet long.

Navy Eyeing purchase of used sea vessel from US

The Manila Times, Monday, 24 January 2011

THE Philippine Navy on Sunday said it was conducting talks with the United States government to buy a second-hand coastguard cutter to upgrade its ageing fleet. Navy chief Rear Admiral Alexander Pama said the 115-meter Hamilton class vessel, which he did not name, would significantly boost Manila’s capability to patrol its archipelago.

“We are actively discussing with the US government the possible acquisition of the Hamilton class,” he said.

“We need this to boost security in our exclusive economic zone,” Pama added.

The Navy admiral said the Hamilton class cutters are the biggest vessels used by the US coastguard, with the exception of heavy ice breakers.

The vessel was expected to arrive in Manila in the first half of the year, replacing the navy’s flagship BRP Raja Humabon, a Cannon-class destroyer escort, which is probably one of the world’s oldest war ships, the Filipino Navy said.

Equipped with a retractable hangar, a helicopter flight deck and powered by a dual engine or gas turbines, the Hamilton cutter is described as a high endurance cutter with close-in weapons systems.

Pama said he could not disclose exact figures for the purchase, which he described as the first of several being planned.

The Philippines is considered a non-NATO military ally by the United States, which has been sending troops to the impoverished country for training missions to help crush Al-Qaeda-linked militants in Mindanao.

The Philippine armed forces is considered by many experts as among the weakest in the Asian region, but President Benigno Aquino 3rd vowed to modernise it shortly after assuming his post in June last year.
AFP

34 Nawawalang Mangingisda, Nasagip ng Navy

By Pasky Natividad
Saksi, Monday, 24 January 2011

Nailigtas ng Philippine Navy ang 34 mangingisda sa Paly Island, Taytay, Palawan matapos na agad ilunsad ng Naval Forces West (NFW) Command na nakabase sa Puerto Princesa City ang BRP Rizal (PS74).

Ang F/B Jonathan I, na kinalululanan ng mga ito ay isa sa 13 sasakyan na iniulat na nawawala simula noong nakaraang Linggo, January 16 dahil sa malakas na hanging dala ng northeast monsoon. Ang mga nailigtas na mangingisda na mula sa Occidental Mindoro at PPC ay kinikilala ni Ms Norie Esparagoza, ang may-ari ng F/B Jonathan.

Agad nilapatan ng paunang lunas ang mga nakaligtas matapos silang matagpuan ng grupo ng Navy. Samantala, habang isinusulat ito ay patuloy pa rin ang PS 74 sa search and rescue para sa tatlo pang mangingisda sa karagatan ng Roxas at Linapacan.

Nakilala ang mga itong sina Bong Escondo, Bito Roldan at Limuel Tirincio. Nauna rito, matagumpay ring nailigtas ng PS 74 ang pitong mangingisda mula sa M/V marlette Joy.

Dinala ang mga nakaligtas sa Puerto Princesa City at inihatid sa Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Ang PS 74 ay pinamumunuan naman ni Capt. Elpidio F. Francisco PN(GSC).

"The Navy is perpetually ready to respond to various distress calls. We will remain commited to be at the forefront of humanitarian and development endeavors in support to national government for the welfare of our fellow Filipinos." Ang pahayag ng opisyal.

Thursday, January 20, 2011

Deaths from rains hit 59; landslide sensors stolen

By: Victor Reyes
Malaya, Thursday 20 January 2011

THE death toll from weeks of continuous heavy rains in 11 regions yesterday rose to 59 from 54, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

Also yesterday, the Navy rescued 34 passengers and crewmen of a boat that capsized in Palawan on January 16.

Three crewmen remain missing. This brings to 35 the total number of missing persons.

The NDRRMC reported that a landslide sensor installed by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau in landslide-prone St. Bernard town in Leyte was stolen two days ago.

A week ago, two river sensors of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration in Pangasinan and Tarlac were also stolen, compromising the government’s monitoring of flooding.

"We may not be able to issue warning on landslides," said Benito Ramos, NDRRMC executive director and head of the Office of Civil Defense, when asked on the effect of the theft of the landslide sensor.

The NDRRMC said the number affected people also increased to 323,149 families or 1,650,754 individuals, with 12,523 families staying in evacuation centers.

There was also a slight rise in damage to infrastructure, agriculture and private property, now at P1.78 billion.

The five new fatalities recorded by the NDRRMC were victims of drowning.

The vessel F/B Jonathan capsized off Paly island in Taytay town because of strong winds and turbulent water.

Navy spokesman Capt. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said the Navy’s BRP Rizal reached the area yesterday and found the 34 rescued "clinging to the debris of the boat."

The three missing were identified as Bong Escondo, Bito Roldan and Limuel Tirincio.

The Philippine Red Cross appealed for donations amid the continuous heavy rains and flooding and for the effects of the La NiƱa phenomenon, which means more rains than normal.

PRC secretary general Gwendolyn Pang said needed are mats, blankets, mosquito nets, jerry cans, tents, rice, sardines, noodles, toothbrush and toothpaste, bath soap, sanitary napkins, shampoo, towels, and medicinal alcohol. – With Gerard Naval

Sunday, January 16, 2011

Navy explosives expert honored

By: Alexis Romero
The Philippine Star, Sunday, 16 January 2011

The US Navy recently feted a Filipino Navy officer and explosives disposal expert for his efforts to ensure the safety of civilians against explosive devices.

Lt. Leo Dimoc was given the Explosive Ordnance Device (EOD) Officer Master Technician and Warfare badge, the first Filipino to receive such recognition. The badge signifies that the recipient is capable of handling explosive devices based on the qualifications set by the US Navy.

Navy spokesman Capt. Giovanni Bacordo said Dimoc is only the fourth Asian to receive such a badge.

“The award is based upon Lt. Dimoc’s sustained superior performance over the last two years, having flawlessly executed his chain of command’s EOD vision by tactically leading his team during the disposal of more than 100,000 rounds of retrograde ordnance, with a perfect safety record,” Bacordo said.

Dimoc was honored in a ceremony attended by Navy and police officials and representatives from the Joint United States Military Advisory Group in Camp Aguinaldo. Dimoc has been handling explosive devices since he joined the Naval Special Operations Group in 1997. He had shipping experience on board the BRP Quezon and BRP Pangasinan.

“As a demolitionist, we destroy the enemy and their implements. As an EOD technician, we render safe disposal of unexploded ordnance and improvised explosive devices,” Dimoc said.

Dimoc underwent training for seven months at the Basic Naval EOD Course at the Naval School EOD in Florida. He led the unit which disposed of around 40,000 lbs of explosive war remnants at the Naval Ordnance Depot Detachment in Caballo Island in 2009 and 2010. He also led a group that disposed a submarine-launched mobile mine at the east coast of Luzon and recovered a hand grenade at the Cavite City Hall.

Dimoc was also involved in the disposal of a fragmentation grenade thrown by a suspected Abu Sayyaf member at a village in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi. In addition, he helped organize the Counter IED conference in Fort Bonifacio in 2009.

Brace for strong La Nina

By: Marvin Sy
The Philippine Star, Tuesday, 11 January 2011

Senators Loren Legarda and Francis Pangilinan are calling on concerned sectors to brace for the impact of La NiƱa this year, a phenomenon which they said could lead to significant loss of life and property.

Legarda, chair of the Senate committee on climate change, said all local government units (LGUs) should follow the lead of their counterparts that have joined the United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR) in making their cities and municipalities more resilient to natural calamities.

She lauded the LGUs in Region VII, mostly from Cebu, for committing to the UN’s 10 Essential Actions to Reduce Disaster Risks, the latest group to join the program.

She said this would help in the efforts to prepare for the impacts of climate change in the country by making their respective cities and municipalities more prepared for natural disasters.

“This serves as a warning to us of what we should expect in the coming days and months. The UN campaign will help us become more prepared when disasters occur.”

She said the Metro Manila LGUs would also commit to the UN program in a ceremony to be held this February.

“We must prepare our people to adapt to a changing climate. We have to learn from the lessons of devastating disasters we have experienced year in, year out. We should start the year with a firm resolve of not tolerating any casualties or losses,” Legarda said.

Pangilinan, Senate committee on agriculture chairman, on the other hand said that the incessant rains experienced in Southern Leyte and Albay could result in a full blown agricultural crisis unless the officials of the national government and the LGUs start preparing for worst-case scenarios.

He said the country has just started feeling the effects of the La NiƱa phenomenon and that according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), more typhoons could be expected this year, particularly during the months of January to March.

“The country’s agricultural sector has already taken blows from the combined effects of the drought caused by El NiƱo and the series of typhoons that followed it last year. We experienced negative growth from January to September of 2010,” Pangilinan said.

He said the government should be able to use data from Pagasa, Bureau of Agricultural Statistics, and other concerned agencies to be able to come up with measures to address the disastrous effects of La NiƱa on the agricultural sector.

“Something must be done right away, and the earlier we come up with these measures, the more we can shield our countrymen from a looming disaster and threat to our food security,” Pangilinan said.

Citing data from the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Agricultural Statistics, he noted that the agricultural sector posted a growth rate of -2.62 percent from January to September 2010.

Rains, flooding hit agriculture sector

The amount of property damaged by the heavy monsoon rains in several provinces has exceeded P752 million, even as disaster managers brace for further evacuation in the light of possible flooding and landslides.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has pegged the amount of damage in agriculture, infrastructure, and private properties at P752.27 million as of 5 a.m. yesterday.

Of the amount, P593.34 million accounted for infrastructure damage, P158.9 million constituted agricultural damage and P31,300 for private properties.

In terms of infrastructure, the Caraga region was the most badly hit with damage amounting to P383.33 million followed by Eastern Visayas (P93.29 million) and Bicol (P68.9 million).

The Caraga region remains the worst hit in terms of infrastructure (P383.33 million) followed by Eastern Visayas (P93.19 million), and Bicol (P88.75 million).

The same regions were also the most affected in terms of crop damage.

Caraga suffered P104.52 million worth in terms of agricultural damage while Eastern Visayas and Bicol recorded P31.35 million and P17.4 million, respectively.

Damage to private properties was recorded in Cebu City in Central Visayas (P20,000) and Lanao del Norte in Northern Mindanao (P11,300).

The death toll from the heavy monsoon rains remained at 33 while the number of displaced persons was unchanged at 1,120,685.

The affected individuals are located in 21 provinces within MIMAROPA, Bicol, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Northern Mindanao, Davao, Caraga, and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

NDRRMC said a total of 40,618 families or 209,978 people have benefited from the resources and evacuation centers of the Social Welfare department and the local governments.

A total of 4,200 families or 17,584 people are still inside 71 evacuation centers as of yesterday morning.

NDRRMC said disaster managers in Camarines Sur are preparing for preemptive evacuation in anticipation of possible flooding and landslides in 26 municipalities.

These municipalities are Baao, Balatan, Buhi, Bula, Iriga City, Libmanan, Lupi, Minalabac, Pamplona, San Fernando, Sipocot, Sangay, Caramoan, Lagonoy, Garchitorena, Presentacion, Bato, Canaman, Milaor, Naga City Nabua, Pili, Ragay, San Fernando, Siruma and Tinambac.

“(There was) no fishing activity in Siruma and no land transportation since Wednesday due to heavy rains. Food packs were delivered in said municipality for distribution to affected families,” NDRRMC said.

The cost of assistance from the combined resources of state agencies, local governments, and non-government organizations has risen to P12.48 million.

The Navy, on the other hand, said it has completed its first sortie of relief operations to displaced families of Cagraray Island in Bacacay, Albay.

Navy spokesman Capt. Giovanni Bacordo said 470 families benefited from the “Food for Work” program implemented by the Albay provincial government.

The relief goods were distributed by sailors from the Naval Forces Southern Luzon who were on board BRP Simeon Castro.

“The Philippine Navy command in Bicol committed two gunboats for the relief operation of island communities,” Bacordo said

Disaster resiliency pushed Militants want delay on farmland rentals

Meanwhile, four of the biggest rural-based groups --the militant Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP), the fisherfolk alliance Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya), the peasant women federation Amihan and the Unyon ng mga Manggagawa sa Agrikultura --yesterday urged President Aquino to impose a moratorium on payment of land rent on farms damaged by heavy rains and flooding in 21 provinces and five other regions all over the country.

KMP secretary-general Danilo Ramos urged Aquino to issue an executive order compelling landlords to refrain from collecting land rent in disaster ravaged areas affected by continuous massive flooding and landslides since December 2010 in at least 1,073 farming villages in eight regions, especially from Caraga, Eastern Visayas and the Bicol regions.

The KMP said landlords extraction of land rent from poor farmers usually ranges from 50 to 70 percent of the farmers produce, which it described as extremely exploitative.

“Aside from quick and substantial economic relief and assistance, we strongly compel the Aquino administration to impose moratorium on payment of land rent of farms in devastated farming communities,” Ramos said.

Aside from land rent moratorium, he said the government should also postpone payment of debts to landlords, traders and government financial groups like Quedancor and cancellation of interests to those with damaged crops.

Pamalakaya national chairperson Fernando Hicap, for his part, demanded that the Aquino government and the Department of Agriculture provide financial compensation of P10,000 to P15,000 per hectare to farmers whose crops were damaged and order the Land Bank of the Philippines to implement zero-interest credit line amounting to P10,000 to P15,000 per hectare to farmers.

He said the same compensation package should be given to fisherfolk in affected regions. The KMP said the acquisition of motorized water-pumps, pipes and tubes, tractors, hand tractors, farm tools and carabaos for the use of affected farmers, and fuel subsidy for their operation were also necessary to help farmers in calamity stricken areas. Helen Flores, Rhodina Villanueva, Alexis Romero, Miriam Desecada

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Hero's burial for officer who died after passing fitness test

By Donna Pazzibugan
Philippine Daily Inquirer, Tuesday, January 11, 2011

MANILA, Philippines—The Marine officer who succumbed to a heart attack after a physical fitness test last week will be given a hero’s burial, the Navy announced.

Lt. Col. Leonard Vincent Teodoro, 42, assistant chief for operations of the Marine Corps Staff (MC3), will be laid to rest at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Fort Bonifacio on Jan. 11, according to Navy spokesperson Capt. Giovanni Bacordo, “as befits the service and sacrifice he had rendered to the country.”

As previous commanding officer of Marine Battalion Landing Team-7 based in Basilan, Teodoro led his men in successful operations against the Abu Sayyaf and other lawless groups, neutralizing some of their leaders.

Teodoro graduated from the Philippine Military Academy in 1989. He died on Jan. 5 after suffering cardiac arrest following a physical fitness test which consisted of push-ups, sit-ups and a 3.2-kilometer run at Camp Aguinaldo.

He passed the test, a requisite for promotion to the rank of colonel, and was walking to his car after talking with some colleagues when he collapsed.

He suffered a sudden cardiac death, said Capt. Vicente Villa, officer in charge of the Camp Aguinaldo Station Hospital emergency room.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson said the AFP would review its physical exam policy following Teodoro’s death.

Teodoro’s remains lie at the BNS Mortuary at the Fort Bonifacio Naval Station in Taguig City.

Teodoro and his wife, Lee Angelique, had two children, Louie Andrea, 13, and Adrian Vincent, 11.

Inquirer.net

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Tulong sa Navy

Bagong Tiktik, Thursday, January 6, 2011

Nang pangunahan ni Pangulong Noynoy Aquino ang pagpapalit ng liderato ng Philippine Navy nitong martes, nakita niya ang kalunos-lunos na kalagayan ng hukbong pandagat ng Pilipinas. Panahon pa naman daw pala ng giyerang Vietnam ang karamihan ng mga barko, eroplano, helicopter at mga kagamitan ng Navy at nangako siya ng kinakailangang modernisasyon ng mga ito.

Tama at agaran ang kinakailangang pagbabago dahil isa ang Pilipinas sa may pinakamalawak na coastal area sa buong mundo na sakop na responsibilidad ng Navy. Paano nga naman nilang mababantayan ang atoing karagatan kung bukod sa sisinghap-singhap ang mga barko't iba pang sasakyan ng Navy ay iilan lamang ito?

Napakalaking tulong kung matutupad ang modernisasyon dahil makatutugon ang hukbong pandagat sa pangangailangan ng bansa sa seguridad lalo sa paghahanap ng langis sa karagatan.

Mabagal ang pag-usad sa paggalugad ng mga lugar na pagkukunan ng enerhiya, partikular sa bandang timogng bansa dahil andoon ang pangamba ng mga komunista, militanteng mga muslim, pati ng mga terorista. Kung may makikitang kakasang hukbong pandagat, magdadalawang-isip ang mga ito.

Kung moderno rin at may sapat na dami ang mga kagamitan ng Navy, higit silang makaktulong lalo sa panahon ng mga kalamidad at makapagsisilbi sa mga mamamayan.

Lubhang kinakailangan ng bansa ang modernisasyon at pagdagdag ng mga kagamitan, lalo ang sapat at naangkop na pagsasanay hindi lamang sa Navy kundi sa kabuuang puwersa ng Pilipinas. Kailagang tapatan ng pamahalaang ang kagitingan at katapangan ng ating mga tagapagtanggol para maging mas epektibo sila sa sinumpaang tungkulin.

New Navy chief vows to have more training programs

By Alexis Romero
The Philippine Star, Wednesday, January 5, 2011

New Navy chief Rear Adm. Alexander Pama yesterday vowed to implement training programs to enhance the competence of Navy personnel.

“In the area of competence, I would like to pay particular focus on educating and training our personnel in order to equip our sailors, Marines, airmen, seabees and support and maintenance personnel with new skill sets,” Pama said in a speech during the turnover rites the Navy headquarters in Manila.

“This is to prepare them to operate and maintain material assets that are newly acquired or those planned for acquisitions,” he added.

Pama said he will also focus on instilling discipline among members of the Navy and at the same time seek the upgrading of equipment.

Pama assumed his post as Navy chief yesterday in a change of command ceremony led by President Aquino.

Present were Vice President Jejomar Binay; Muntinlupa Rep. Rodolfo Bia-zon, himself a former AFP chief; AFP chief of staff Ricardo David, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim, and Cavite Rep. Jose Emilio Abaya, among others.

Pama, a member of Philippine Military Academy Class ’79, succeeded Navy chief Rear Adm. Danilo Cortez, who has reached the mandatory retirement age of 56.

He had held important military positions like Navy vice commander, Navy inspector-general, and Naval Forces Western Mindanao chief.

He was also head of the Task Force Trillium, a joint military and police group formed to address the abduction incidents in Basilan. Pama also served as the commanding officer of six Navy vessels.

David, meanwhile, said the military would conduct a nationwide survey to determine the sentiments of the public toward the military.

He said the conduct of the survey is in line with the implementation of the new internal security plan “Bayanihan.”

The survey may be conducted in areas affected by insurgency and armed conflict like Davao, Caraga, Bicol, Negros, Samar, and Cotabato to determine the military’s weak points.The plan, which took effect last Jan. 1 and will be in force until 2016, focuses on development projects to address the roots of rebellion.

There were speculations that some ground commanders oppose the new security plan but the military leadership denied this.

Noynoy backs Navy upgrade

By Norman Bordadora
Philippine Daily Inquirer, Wednesday, January 5, 2011

President Aquino yesterday promised to back the Philippine Navy's desperately needed modernization but also called on the group to continue security the country's seas, particularly those that host ongoing petruleum exploration.

In his speech during the turnover of command from Rear Admiral Danilo Cortez to new Navy Flag Officer in Command (FOIC) Rear Admiral Alexander Pama, Mr. Aquino said these critical areas include the seas around Kalayaan Island Group, Malampaya, Palawan, Mapun and Sulu.

"I salute you on the accomplishment of your duty to protect our territory despite such obstacles as antiquated vessels and the lack of some important equipment. Be assured that your government will also work double time to come up with effective ways to improve these things and maintain the integrity of the Navy," President Aquino said.

"I am quite confident that while we strenghten your ranks and upgrade your equipment, you will continue to take care of the security of our seas especially in the areas of petroleum exploration in the Kalayaan Island Group, Malampaya, Palawan, Mapun and Sulu," he added.

President Aquino said the Navy's role in securing these areas is proof of its huge contribution not only in the country's security aspect
"but also in strengthening the potential of our national economy."

Before ending his prepared speech, Mr. Aquino turned spontaneous and said he was unpleasantly surprised when he learned that one of the two vessels tasked to patrol waters off Palawan was still running on outriggers.

"In one of the briefings on the Kalayaan Island Group, I was shocked- I know that we have a shortage of ships-(but) I was surprised when I learned that of two boats (in Palawan).. one of them still had outriggers," President Aquino said.

President Aquino said the Navy does not lack lobbyists for funding for more modern ships and equipment.

he mentioned former Marine commandant and now Muntinlupa Rep. Rodolfo Biazon, chair of the House committee on national defense; former Navy officer Cavite Rep. Jun Abaya, chair of the house committee on appropriations; and Marine reservist Vice President Jejomar Binay.

Tuesday, January 4, 2011

Dagdag benepisyo sa mga sundalo pangako ni P'Noy

Taliba, Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Muling nangako ngayon ang Pangulong Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III na makakaasa ang mga sundalo ng karagdagang benepisyo maliban sa dinobleng combat pay.

Magugunitang simula ngayong Enero, mula sa dating P240, magiging P500 na ang kada araw na combat pay ng mga sundalong napapasabak sa operasyon.

Ginawa ng Pangulo ang talumpati kasabay ng turnover ceremony ng Philippine Navy leadership kung saan pormal nang umupo si Rear Adm. Alexander Pama bilang bagong Flag Officer in Command (FOIC) kapalit ng nagretirong si Rear Adm. Danilo Cortez.

Sinabi ng Pangulo na alam nitong kakarampot lamang ang naibigay na dagdag combat pay kaya patuloy sila sa paghahanap ng pondo para sa kanilang benepisyo.

Kabilang dito ang mga benepisyong pangkalusugan, pabahay at iba pang pangangailangan para mapataas ang morale ng mga sundalo.

Kasabay nito, todo-papuri naman ang Pangulo kay Cortez habang ipinaabot din nito ang pagtitiwala kay Pama na pamunuan ang Philippine Navy.

Nangako rin ito ng buong suporta sa bagong liderato ng Hukbong Pandagat.

"Pero kung may paraan naman po tayong dagdagan ang inyong benepisyo, bakit naman po namin ito ipagdadamot sa inyo, hindi po ba? At tuloy-tuloy na po ito. Mula sa armas, hanggang sa mga barko; mula sa mga benepisyong pangkalusugan, hanggang sa mga pabahay, titiyakin nating makakatanggap ng sapat na pabuya at sustento ang ating hukbong-dagat," ani Aquino.

Bagong navy chief, pormal nang nanungkulan

Saksi sa Balita, Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Pormal nang nanungkulan bilang bagong commander ng Philippine Navy si Rear Admiral Alexander Pama.

Pinalitan ni Pama ang nagretiro nang si Rear Admiral Danilo Cortez.

Si Pama ay miyembro ng Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class '79.

Ginanap ang turnover of command sa Phil. Navy headquarters sa Maynila na dinaluhan ni Pangulong Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III.

Bago maging pinuno ng Navy, nagsilbi si Pama bilang vice commander ng Hukbong Pandagat at naging Naval Inspector General.

Naging kumander din ito ng Naval Forces sa Western Mindanao at ng Anti-Terrorism Task Group ng Philippine Navy.

Dati itong chief of staff ni dating Defense Sec. Gilbert Teodoro.

Samantala, kasabay naman ng kaniyang pagretiro ay ginawaran si Cortez ng Philippine Legion of Honor na may degree na commander.

Samantala, kasabay ng change of command ceremony, tiniyak ni Pangulong Aquino na susuportahan ang modernization program ng Phil. Navy.

Malaki aniya ang ginagampanang papel ng Hukbong Pandagat partikular sa pagbibigay proteksyon sa karagatan ng bansa partikular kung saan may mga oil exploration kagaya ng Kalayaan Group at Malampaya.


By Willy Perez
The Philippine Star, Wednesday, January 5, 2011

President Aquino looks on as incoming Navy chief Rear Adm. Alexander Pama (right) salutes his predecessor, Rear Adm. Danilo Cortez, during the formal turnover of command at the Philippine Navy headquarters in Manila yesterday.

Change of Command


The Manila Times, Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Retiring Rear Admiral Danilo Cortez (left), President Benigno Aquino 3rd and newly installed Philippine Navy chief Rear Admiral Alexander Pama salute one another during turnover ceremony at Navy headquarters on Roxas Boulevard in Manila on Tuesday.

He's In


People's Journal, Wednesday, january 5, 2011

New Navy chief Rear Admiral Alexander Pama salutes his predecessor Rear Admiral Danilo M Cortez during the turnover ceremony yesterday. President Benigno Aquino pledged to modernize the country's ageing naval fleet.

Tempo, Wednesday, January 5, 2011

President Aquino witnesses the change of command between the incoming navy chief, Rear Admiral Alexander Pama (right), and retiring Rear Admiral Danilo Cortez at the Philippine Navy headquarters in Manila yesterday.

By Jack Burgos
Hataw, Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Iginawad ni Pangulong Benigno Simeon Aquino III ang "welcome salute" kay bagong Flag Officer in Command Philippine Navy Rear Admiral Alexander Pama sa ginanap na Philippine Navy turn-over ceremonies sa PN Headquarters, Naval Station Jose V Andrada, Roxas Boulevard, Maynila kahapon. Pinalitan sa pwesto ni Pama ang nagretirong si Rear Admiral Danilo Cortez.

Police Files Tonite, Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Sinaksihan ni P-NOY ang change of command sa Pagitan nina incoming Navy chief Rear Adm. Alexander Pama (kanan) at nag retirong si Rear Adm. Danilo Cortez.

By Tony Cunanan
X-Files, Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Ginanap kahapon ang pagsasalin ng tungkulin at bandila na pinangunahan ni Pangulong Noynoy Aquino mula kay Outgoing Rear Admiral Danilo M. Cortez AFP kay Rear Admiral Alexander P. Pama AFP at sinaksihan nina Vice-President Jojo Binay, Manila Mayor Alfredo S. Lim at Rep. Rodolfo Biazon sa Naval Public Affairs HQ Phil. Navy Naval Station Jose V Andrada 2335 Roxas Blvd., Manila

MODERNONG HUKBO


Abante Tonite, Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Sa kanyang pagsaksi sa turn-over of command ng Philippine Navy leadership sa headquarters nito, ipinangako ni Pangulong Benigno ‘Noynoy’ Aquino III - kasama si AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Ricardo David Jr., at mga kumander at senior officers ng apat na major services ng hukbong sandatahan – ang pagsuporta ng kanyang administrasyon sa modernisasyon ng hukbo.

Monday, January 3, 2011

Pama, new Navy FOIC, seen as doer and planner

By Victor Reyes
Malaya, Monday, january 3, 2010

PRESIDENT Aquino has designated Rear Adm. Alexander Pama as Navy chief, replacing Rear Adm. Danilo Cortez who is reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56 on Tuesday.

Cortez has been acting Navy chief since May last year. He will turn over the post to Pama tomorrow in rites at the Navy headquarters on Roxas boulevard, which will be led by President Aquino.

Pama, PMA ’79, assumed the post of Navy vice commander just last November.

With his appointment as Navy chief, Pama is due for a third star.

PMA Class ’79 now has three members who are three-star generals -- Army chief Lt. Gen. Arturo Ortiz, Northern Luzon Command chief Lt. Gen. Gaudencio Pangilinan, and AFP deputy chief of staff Lt. Gen. Eduardo Oban.

More movements are expected in the coming months with the retirement of ranking officers, including AFP chief Gen. Ricardo David, in March.

Pama, before being named Navy vice commander, served as the Navy’s inspector general also for two months. Prior to that, he commanded the Naval Forces Western Mindanao Command and the military’s Task Force Trillium for two years in concurrent capacity, fighting the terrorist group Abu Sayyaf.

He also served as senior military assistant to former Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro until the latter resigned to run for president. He also served as assistant AFP deputy chief of staff for plans and programs.

Pama also headed the Navy’s ask Force Group Stingray, an anti-terrorism unit, and the Navy’s task groups 61.1 and 61.2 operating in the Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-tawi area. He also commanded a total of six ships, including the presidential yacht BRP Ang Pangulo.

"He is an operator," said Navy spokesman Capt. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo of Pama. "He is also a strategic thinker."

Pama vowed to continue implementing the Navy’s Sail Plan, a concept launched in 2008. The plan’s vision is to have a strong and credible Navy by 2020.

Pama bested a number of contenders for the top Navy post, including his PMA classmate, Rear Adm. Jose Luis Alano, commander of the Navy’s Philippine Fleet.

There are several two-star and three-star flag officers but most of them are retiring. These include PMA superintendent Vice Adm. Leonardo Calderon (Class ’76) and AFP Inspector General Vice Adm. Mario Catacutan (Class ’77) who are due for retirement in March and September this year.

Under the law, no officer can be appointed as permanent commander of the major services – Army, Navy, and Air Force – if he has less than a year in service left.

The controversial Rear Adm. Feliciano Angue (Class ‘78) was reportedly left out of the race because of his pending case in connection with statements denouncing the military’s promotion system and alleged politicking by some senior officials in the May 2010 presidential elections.

He is under pre-trial investigation, preparatory to possible court martial, for alleged insubordination and violation of the military’s Code of Ethics.


Pama to assume as new Navy FOIC

By Elena Aben
Manila Bulletin, Monday, January 3, 2010

The Philippine Navy will have a new Flag Officer-in-Command (FOIC) in the person of Rear Admiral Alexander Pama when its present commander, Rear Admiral Danilo Cortez, retires Tuesday, January 4.

A change of command ceremony at the Navy headquarters on Roxas Boulevard will be led by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) commander-in-chief President Aquino. It will be followed by the first AFP command conference for the year, where the President will announce his instructions and command guidance in line with the implementation of the new Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan.

The appointment of Pama, member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class 1979, signals the start of a major reshuffle in the Armed Forces, especially as the Chief of Staff, Gen. Ricardo A. David Jr. is due to retire in March.

Brig. Gen. Jose Mabanta Jr., AFP spokesman, explained the reshuffle comes as there will be vacancies to be created with coming retirement of several top armed forces officials. Thus, he said, as the effect cascades down below, there will be movements upwards.

Bemedalled officer named new Philippine Navy chief


By Dona Z Pazzibugan
Philippine Daily Inquirer, Monday, January 3, 2010

A veteran in the military campaigns against the Abu Sayyaf has been named the new flag officer in command of the Philippine Navy.

Rear Admiral Alexander Pama, currently the Navy vice commander, will assume the naval command on Tuesday in turnover ceremonies to be attended by President Aquino at the Navy headquarters in Manila.

He succeeds Rear Admiral Danilo Cortez who retires from service upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56 on Tuesday.

Military spokesperson Brigadier General Jose Mabanta Jr. confirmed Pama’s appointment on Sunday. He said President Aquino will attend the turnover ceremonies and preside over his first military command conference for the year 2011.

Pama belongs to the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1979 whose members now occupy top positions in the military. Among them are Army commanding general Lieutenant General Arturo Ortiz, Northern Luzon Command chief Lieutenant General Gaudencio Pangilinan and Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (Isafp) chief, Brigadier General Romulo Bambao.

Pama has received numerous military medals and civilian awards in the course of his naval career since graduating from the PMA.

On December 21, Pama was given the Distinguished Service Star award during the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ 75th anniversary rites for gains made against the Abu Sayyaf while heading the Naval Forces Western Mindanao based in Zamboanga City for two years.

Oplan ‘Bayanihan’

Pama takes over the Navy command at a time the AFP is implementing “Bayanihan,” a new counterinsurgency plan that veers from combat operations-centered strategy and stresses “winning the peace rather than defeating the enemy.”

Pama was appointed Navy vice commander last December after having served as the Naval Inspector General for three months.

Before his appointment as the Naval Inspector General last September, he was commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao which engaged in battles with bandits, Islamic extremists and secessionist rebels in southern Mindanao. He held this post since October 2008.

Pama was also concurrent commander of the Joint Task Force Trillium which mounted offensives against the Abu Sayyaf in Basilan and Zamboanga.

‘Stingray’ commander

Pama also served as commander of the Navy’s antiterrorism group, the Naval Task Group “Stingray” and commanded other naval task groups that operated in the provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

Pama also successfully completed shipboard and shore assignments and has served as commanding officer of six Navy vessels including the presidential yacht, BRP Ang Pangulo.

Among the numerous staff positions in the Navy headquarters and AFP general headquarters he held were: division chief of the operations control division of the AFP Office of Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence (J-2); assistant chief of naval staff for intelligence (N2); commander of the Naval Intelligence Security Force; superintendent of the Naval School Center; AFP assistant deputy chief of staff for plans (J5); and senior military assistant and chief of staff to then defense secretary Gilbert Teodoro.

Pama was awarded the Philippine Legion of Honor (Degree of Officer) and conferred the Distinguished Service Star by the military five times.

Adopted son

Pama received his latest service star during the AFP 75th anniversary rites on December 2 “for eminently meritorious and valuable service” as commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao from October 3, 2008 to September 2, 2010 and as head of the Joint Task Force Trillium from January 30 to September 2, 2010.

“Rear Admiral Pama effectively managed and supervised the conduct of the Navy’s Fleet-Marines operations in Western Mindanao,” the citation said.

Other awards Pama received include two Distinguished Navy Crosses, an Outstanding Achievement Medal, the Silver Wing Medal and numerous medals for merit, commendation and campaign such as the Senior Command-at-Sea Badge and the Marine Command Badge.

The Zamboanga City government has acknowledged Pama’s accomplishments by conferring him the honor of being called its “Adopted Son (Hijo Adoptivo).”

Pama was born on December 21, 1956 in Passi, Iloilo, the second of six children of Artemio Pama and Alice PatiƱo.

He is married to Carmela Aquino from La Paz, Iloilo. They have two sons, Gorby and Archie.

Noynoy appoints Pama as FOIC of Navy

By Mario J Mallari
The Daily Tribune, Monday, January 3, 2010

President Aquino has appointed another member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1979 to a key position in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) as commanding general of the Navy.

AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Jose Mabanta Jr. said that Navy Vice Commander Rear Adm. Alexander Pama was appointed as incoming flag officer in command (FOIC) of the Navy.

Pama, a well-rounded Navy officer, will formally assume the top Navy post tomorrow Vice Rear Adm. Danilo Cortez, of PMA Class of 1977, who will retire from the active service.

The Commander in Chief, President Aquino, is expected to attend the turn over ceremonies scheduled at the Navy headquarters along Roxas Boulevard in Manila.

“It has just been announced the new FOIC will be Adm. Alexander Pama. The turn over will be on the 4th,” said Mabanta.

“This went through the mill, it was recommended to the Commander in Chief who approved the designation,” added Mabanta.

Mabanta cited Pama’s wide experience in the field and office works. Prior to his appointment as Navy vice commander, Pama served as inspector general of the Navy and commanding general of the Naval Forces-Western Mindanao and concurrent Task Force Trillium chief.

Pama also headed other military task forces assigned to run after terrorists in Mindanao region.

According to Mabanta, the changing of the guard at the Navy will be the first of series of movements in the AFP hierarchy with the scheduled retirement of top-ranking military officers during the first quarter of the year.

“There will be movements upward, several high ranking officers will retire,” said Mabanta. He added that several officials are reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56 this month and in February.

AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Ricardo David Jr. himself is reaching the mandatory retirement in March.

“The chief of staff is retiring in March, so there would be huge reshuffle, if you remove someone on top, it will cascade down below,” Mabanta said.

For his part, Pama vowed to fully support the AFP’s newly launched internal peace and security plan Bayanihan aimed at ending the decades-long insurgency problem in the country. At the same time, Pama said he would pursue the modernization program of the Navy.

Only last month, another member of the PMA Class of 1979, Brig. Gen. Tristan Kison, was appointed as commanding general of the National Capital Region Command, the AFP’s primary anti-coup unit.

New Navy chief namedNew Navy chief named

By Florante Solmerin
Manila Standard Today, Monday, January 3, 2010

Another member of the Philippine Military Academy’s “Matapat” Class ‘79 has just been promoted, adding to the growing list of the fair-haired boys who now occupy sensitive posts in the Armed Forces.

Rear Admiral Alexander Pama will assume his post as Navy’s flag-officer-in-command on January 4, replacing Rear Admiral Danilo Cortez, a class mate of Armed Forces chief Ricardo David, who will reach mandatory retirement on March 7, 2011.

Military spokesman Brig. Gen. Jose Mabanta Jr. on Sunday said the turnover of command will take place on Jan. 4. “Immediately after the turnover, there will be a command conference that will be officiated by the commander-in-chief (President Aquino),” Mabanta said.

With his new post, Pama outclassed his classmate, Philippine Fleet commander Rear Admiral Jose

Luis Alano, and will join his classmates in key positions such as Army chief Lt. Gen. Arturo Ortiz and Northern Luzon Command commander Lt. Gen. Gaudencio Pangilinan. His classmates include Major Gen. Francisco Cruz Jr, deputy chief for intelligence of the Air Force.

Most of his classmates got promoted several weeks after President Aquino assumed office.

Pama started his military career as a cadet in 1974. He was recipient of the 1979 PMA Journalism Award for being Editor-In-Chief of the PMA “The Corps” Magazine.

His assignments included Naval Forces Western Mindanao, Joint Task Force “Trillium” (Zamboanga-Basilan), Naval Task Group “Stingray” (Anti-Terrorism Task Group), and Naval Task Groups 61.1 and 61.2 (Basilan-Sulu-Tawi-Tawi).

Apart from being closely identified with former defense secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., Pama was also known as a close friend of Senator Gregorio Honasan.

Pama vowed to push forward the modernization of the service.

Sunday, January 2, 2011

Navy planning to acquire seven vessels next year

By Alexis Romero
The Philippine Star, Wednesday, Decmber 29, 2010

The Navy plans to acquire seven vessels next year to improve its operations and upgrade its capabilities.

Navy spokesman Capt. Giovanni Bacordo told The STAR that they want to buy three offshore patrol vessels, three multipurpose attack craft and a landing craft utility in 2011.

“We seek to upgrade the capabilities of the Navy. The acquisition will help us perform our duties,” Bacordo said.

He said the attack craft, which will be used to insert troops during combat operations, would cost P89 million each.

On the other hand, the P178-million landing craft utility would be used to transport troops and logistics.

Bacordo said the patrol vessels would be used to conduct patrols at the Malampaya natural gas offshore facility in Palawan.

Information about the cost of the patrol vessels is not yet available.

Bacordo said the Navy has three multipurpose attack vessels in its inventory.

Two are deployed in Western Mindanao while another is stationed in Palawan.

He said they also have three landing craft utility but no offshore patrol vessels.

Bacordo said the purchase of a multi-role vessel is still in the pipeline but this would depend on the availability of funds.

He said they could not rely solely on the Navy’s annual budget for funds to cover the purchases since 70 percent of it goes to salaries while the rest is used to fund maintenance and operating expenses.

The purchase of the multi-role vessel, which costs about P5 billion, has been planned since 2007. Its acquisition, however, was stalled due to lack of financial resources.

A multi-role vessel is capable of delivering basic services to far-flung areas and can be used for disaster and humanitarian missions.

Earlier, the military announced plans to lease its properties to private firms to generate funds for its modernization program.

Officials said such a scheme would allow the military to procure equipment without bloating the deficit, which is expected to hit P325 billion this year.

Authorities are still determining how much would be generated from the project.

Last November, acting Navy chief Rear Adm. Danilo Cortez told The STAR that at least six firms have expressed interest in the project.

One of the six firms – Malaysian Resources Corp. Berhad – has submitted a proposal that would involve the lease of a 33-hectare Navy property in Fort Bonifacio in Taguig.

The Armed Forces Modernization Act, which took effect on Feb. 23, 1995, has given the military the opportunity to modernize in 15 years with a total fund of P331 billion.

More than 15 years have passed since the law was enacted but there are views that the military is not even close to what may be called a modern battle force. The delay in the law’s implementation has been attributed to the lack of state resources.


PLDT conducts training seminar for Philippine Navy

The Daily Tribune, Friday, December 17, 2010

Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. Corporate Business Group’s FVP and head Nerissa Ramos (front row, 7th from left) recently graced the graduation ceremony of the participants of the two-day security training seminar which PLDT hosted and conducted for the Philippine Navy at the PLDT TelTec Building in Mandaluyong City. The Philippine Navy is the naval arm of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). It is administered through the Department of National Defense. Currently, the Navy establishment is actually composed of two type commands, the Philippine Fleet and Philippine Marine Corps. It is further organized into seven Naval Operational Commands, five Naval Support Commands, and seven Naval Support Units considering the vastness of the territorial waters that the Navy has to protect and defend, optimal deployment of naval resources is achieved through identification of suitable locations where the presence of these units are capable of delivering responsive services.

Marines home for holidays after 10 years in South

By Alexis Romero
The Philippine Star, Thursday, December 16, 2010

Marine Cpl. Amando Marquez, who has been assigned to critical areas like Lanao del Norte and Basilan, is excited to celebrate the holidays with his mother and siblings.

Marquez, who hails from Tanza, Cavite, has not celebrated Christmas with his family for a couple of years since he has been deployed to the South, which is said to be the lair of various armed groups.

“We plan to eat together on Christmas. I will make up for the times that I was not with them,” Marquez, who has been in the service since 2006, told The STAR in Filipino.

Marine S/Sgt. Albert Ekid, who got enlisted in 1995, wants to visit his wife and three children in Zamboanga City as well as his father and siblings in his hometown in Mt. Province.

While Ekid was lucky to have been given the chance to visit his wife and children every Christmas, he has not seen his family in the North for years.

“We have not seen each other for a long time and we hope we can gather together (this holiday season),” said Ekid, who was involved in various operations against the Abu Sayyaf.

Marquez and Ekid are members of the Marine Battalion Landing Team 6, which returned to Manila the other day for retraining after 10 years of battling lawless elements in Mindanao.

The battalion members were honored in a ceremony led by Navy chief Rear Adm. Danilo Cortez.

Lt. Col. Robert Velasco, commander of the 380-strong battalion, said his soldiers will be given the opportunity to visit their loved ones during the holidays.

“It feels great that we are returning (in Manila) during the Christmas season. All Marines are happy. They will be given the chance to be with their families,” Velasco said.

“When they were in the field, they celebrated in far-flung detachments. We also hang lanterns but it feels different if Christmas is celebrated with your family,” he added.

Velasco nevertheless said the Marines are already used to celebrating the families away from their families.

Members of the battalion will undergo retraining in various Navy headquarters, including those in Manila and Cavite. They will be replaced in Basilan by the Marine Battalion Landing Team 9.

Among the battalion’s achievements was the killing of key Abu Sayyaf leader Albader Parad last February in Indanan, Sulu.

The team was also instrumental in the release and subsequent rescue of Red Cross workers Mary Jean Lacaba, Eugenio Vagni, and Andreas Notter in 2009.

The battalion also saw action in Basilan, Tawi-Tawi, North Cotabato, and Lanao del Norte.