By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Thursday, 27 August 2009
The recent statements by Lt Gadian on actual participation of US Servicemen in Combat Operations are hearsay and unfounded claims. There has never been any time that our American counterparts directly participate in any actual combat operation. The AFP and USAF are well aware of the law and adheres to it religiously. What we derive from our counterparts are training of our troops and information about the terrorists that helps us in our conduct of actual operations. Its hearsay because Lt Gadian has never been into actual combat operation to be able to say for herself that American soldiers actually participate in combat operations.
Lt Gadian is facing unresolved issues over her allegations of corruption in Balikatan fund. She refuses to present evidence given all the opportunities and the fora to do so. Now and again, she dishes out preposterous claims which we doubt she will, she should prove;
This should not be an unwilly habit of anyone, especially members of the AFP to drag the institutions into a controversy by issuing irresponsible statements that she cannot substantiate and and leave the issue hanging. Our countrymen are intelligent enough to see thru the motive and doubt the credibility of Lt Gadian in again coming up with statements that are only meant to cause a controversy.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Monday, August 24, 2009
Korean Navy Visit to the Philippines
BY: LT COL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
The Philippine Navy is all set to meet with their Korean counterparts as two Korean ships, CHOI YOUNG, a destroyer ship and DAE CHONG, a logistics ship arrive today, 24 August 2009 in Manila for a 4-day port visit. Highlight of the visit is the wreath-laying ceremony at the Philippine Expeditionary Force to Korea (PEFTOK) Memorial Monument at the Libingan ng mga Bayani tomorrow morning, 25 August. The officers and crew of the ships headed by RADM KIM DONG-KYUN, Korean Task Group Commander will pay courtesy calls to Manila and police officials, hold an open ship tour and cultural presentation to showcase their country’s rich cultural heritage, and will also participate in sports events to strengthen the camaraderie with the Philippine Navy, slated in the next few days.
Navy Chief Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez expressed optimism over the visit as this strengthens the ties between the two navies that both share a commitment in building peace and security in the region through their efforts in safeguarding their maritime territories. The Philippines and Korea also has a shared history in fighting for peace and freedom when the Philippines sent its contingent that comprised of 7,500 troops in South Korea in 1950.
After the traditional courtesy call of the Korean delegation to Vice Admiral Golez scheduled today, the activity kicks off with the professional exchange between the officers of the two navies. CHOI YOUNG and DAE CHONG will leave on 27 August 2009, Thursday.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
The Philippine Navy is all set to meet with their Korean counterparts as two Korean ships, CHOI YOUNG, a destroyer ship and DAE CHONG, a logistics ship arrive today, 24 August 2009 in Manila for a 4-day port visit. Highlight of the visit is the wreath-laying ceremony at the Philippine Expeditionary Force to Korea (PEFTOK) Memorial Monument at the Libingan ng mga Bayani tomorrow morning, 25 August. The officers and crew of the ships headed by RADM KIM DONG-KYUN, Korean Task Group Commander will pay courtesy calls to Manila and police officials, hold an open ship tour and cultural presentation to showcase their country’s rich cultural heritage, and will also participate in sports events to strengthen the camaraderie with the Philippine Navy, slated in the next few days.
Navy Chief Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez expressed optimism over the visit as this strengthens the ties between the two navies that both share a commitment in building peace and security in the region through their efforts in safeguarding their maritime territories. The Philippines and Korea also has a shared history in fighting for peace and freedom when the Philippines sent its contingent that comprised of 7,500 troops in South Korea in 1950.
After the traditional courtesy call of the Korean delegation to Vice Admiral Golez scheduled today, the activity kicks off with the professional exchange between the officers of the two navies. CHOI YOUNG and DAE CHONG will leave on 27 August 2009, Thursday.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Update in Mantangule Island, Balabac Incident as of 211300H
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Friday, 21 August 2009
As of today 21 Aug 1300H, the more or less 1,500 evacuees that fled their homes have returned to their homes following the successful fleet-marine operations that ended the atrocities committed by the MNLF Group. In a report sent by Commodore Orwen Cortez, the Commander of Naval Forces West to Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez, Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy, the jubilant residents started heading to their homes this morning and were restored to their normal lives. Commodore Cortez, LTC Yuri Pesigan, the Commanding Officer of MBLT-8, MGen Hernane Perez, the Commanding General, Western Command and P/SSUPT Trampe, Palawan PNP Provincial Director visited the townfolks who thanked the AFP and the PNP for coming to their aid.
A company-sized marines from 38th Marine Company established their post stay-behind force to see to it that the situation shall continue to remain placid.
"We feel elated by the people’s display of gratitude even as we continue to be haunted by accusation as to how the fleet-marine operations were conducted in support of the local PNP of Mantangule island".
"But the Navy will remain steadfast in its commitment to be our people’s partner in peace, progress, and prosperity", Vice Admiral Golez added.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Friday, 21 August 2009
As of today 21 Aug 1300H, the more or less 1,500 evacuees that fled their homes have returned to their homes following the successful fleet-marine operations that ended the atrocities committed by the MNLF Group. In a report sent by Commodore Orwen Cortez, the Commander of Naval Forces West to Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez, Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy, the jubilant residents started heading to their homes this morning and were restored to their normal lives. Commodore Cortez, LTC Yuri Pesigan, the Commanding Officer of MBLT-8, MGen Hernane Perez, the Commanding General, Western Command and P/SSUPT Trampe, Palawan PNP Provincial Director visited the townfolks who thanked the AFP and the PNP for coming to their aid.
A company-sized marines from 38th Marine Company established their post stay-behind force to see to it that the situation shall continue to remain placid.
"We feel elated by the people’s display of gratitude even as we continue to be haunted by accusation as to how the fleet-marine operations were conducted in support of the local PNP of Mantangule island".
"But the Navy will remain steadfast in its commitment to be our people’s partner in peace, progress, and prosperity", Vice Admiral Golez added.
Navy Renames Bases and Stations After Predecessors
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Thursday, August 20, 2009
The Philippine Navy has adopted new names for its bases and stations around the country to pay homage to distinguished naval leaders who have distinguished themselves in the profession of arms. In line with HPN General Order Nr 229 dated 07 July 2009, the renaming of Navy installations gives honor to our predecessors in the military/naval service who fought for the protection of our sovereignty, territorial integrity, democracy, and the maritime interests of the country.
Fort San Antonio Abad, the home of the Philippine Navy located at Roxas Blvd, Manila has been renamed Naval Station Jose Andrada, after the first Flag Officer in Command of the Philippine Navy (FOIC, PN). Commodore Andrada, a graduate of the US Naval Academy in 1930 became FOIC, PN from February 1939 to November 1941, and November 1945 to August 1949. He was chosen as the first Commanding Officer of the Off Shore Patrol, then the sea-going arm of the Philippine Army during WWII.
The Marine Headquarters located at Ft Bonifacio formerly called Marine Base Manila is now Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown. Brown, a member of PMA Class 1955 was a Navy Captain when he became Commandant of the Philippine Marines in July 1970. He was commandant of the 1st Marine Brigade (formerly first Marine Company and later first Marine Battalion) when he was promoted to commodore in 2 September 1972.
The following are the new names of the Navy’s bases and stations:
NAVAL OPERATING BASES:
Naval Base Cavite (Sangley Pt) Naval Base Heracleo Alano
San Vicente NOB Naval Base Camilo Osias
Mactan NOB Naval Base Rafael Ramos
MARINE FACILITIES:
MB Manila Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown
MB Ternate Marine Barracks Gregorio Lim
MB Zamboanga Marine Barracks Arturo T Asuncion
MB Tawi-Tawi Marine Barracks Domingo J Deluana
NAVAL STATIONS:
NS Batu-Batu Naval Station Juan Magluyan
NS San Miguel Naval Station Leovigildo Gantioqui
NS Poro Point Naval Station Ernesto R Ogbinar
NS Legazpi Naval Station Julhasan A Arasain
NS Balabac Naval Station Narciso Del Rosario
NS Puerto Princesa Naval Station Apolinario Jalandoon
NS Pag-Asa Naval Station Emilio Liwanag
NS Ulugan Naval Station Carlito Cunanan
NS Guimaras Naval Station Alfonso Palencia
NS Tacloban Naval Station Dioscoro Papa
NS Davao Naval Station Felix Apolinario
NS Zamboanga Naval Station Romulo M Espaldon
Bonifacio Naval Station Naval Station Jose Francisco
Fort San Antonio Abad Naval Station Jose Andrada
Fort San Felipe Naval Station Pascual Ledesma
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Thursday, August 20, 2009
The Philippine Navy has adopted new names for its bases and stations around the country to pay homage to distinguished naval leaders who have distinguished themselves in the profession of arms. In line with HPN General Order Nr 229 dated 07 July 2009, the renaming of Navy installations gives honor to our predecessors in the military/naval service who fought for the protection of our sovereignty, territorial integrity, democracy, and the maritime interests of the country.
Fort San Antonio Abad, the home of the Philippine Navy located at Roxas Blvd, Manila has been renamed Naval Station Jose Andrada, after the first Flag Officer in Command of the Philippine Navy (FOIC, PN). Commodore Andrada, a graduate of the US Naval Academy in 1930 became FOIC, PN from February 1939 to November 1941, and November 1945 to August 1949. He was chosen as the first Commanding Officer of the Off Shore Patrol, then the sea-going arm of the Philippine Army during WWII.
The Marine Headquarters located at Ft Bonifacio formerly called Marine Base Manila is now Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown. Brown, a member of PMA Class 1955 was a Navy Captain when he became Commandant of the Philippine Marines in July 1970. He was commandant of the 1st Marine Brigade (formerly first Marine Company and later first Marine Battalion) when he was promoted to commodore in 2 September 1972.
The following are the new names of the Navy’s bases and stations:
NAVAL OPERATING BASES:
Naval Base Cavite (Sangley Pt) Naval Base Heracleo Alano
San Vicente NOB Naval Base Camilo Osias
Mactan NOB Naval Base Rafael Ramos
MARINE FACILITIES:
MB Manila Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown
MB Ternate Marine Barracks Gregorio Lim
MB Zamboanga Marine Barracks Arturo T Asuncion
MB Tawi-Tawi Marine Barracks Domingo J Deluana
NAVAL STATIONS:
NS Batu-Batu Naval Station Juan Magluyan
NS San Miguel Naval Station Leovigildo Gantioqui
NS Poro Point Naval Station Ernesto R Ogbinar
NS Legazpi Naval Station Julhasan A Arasain
NS Balabac Naval Station Narciso Del Rosario
NS Puerto Princesa Naval Station Apolinario Jalandoon
NS Pag-Asa Naval Station Emilio Liwanag
NS Ulugan Naval Station Carlito Cunanan
NS Guimaras Naval Station Alfonso Palencia
NS Tacloban Naval Station Dioscoro Papa
NS Davao Naval Station Felix Apolinario
NS Zamboanga Naval Station Romulo M Espaldon
Bonifacio Naval Station Naval Station Jose Francisco
Fort San Antonio Abad Naval Station Jose Andrada
Fort San Felipe Naval Station Pascual Ledesma
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Anti- Terror Exercise Concludes Today in Gensan
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Thursday, 20 August 2009
The Exercise Southeast Asia Cooperation Against Terrorism (SEACAT) 2009 concluded today, 20 August 2009 in General Santos City after participating assets from the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) have completed the series of activities that began Monday, 17 August 2009 in the waters off Zamboanga. Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) and NFEM dispatched patrol gunboats, patrol ships, and Naval Special Operations (NAVSOG) teams to engage US Navy Ship Safeguard in scenarios such as the Maritime Interdiction Operation (MIO) and Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS). These activities focused on information exchange, coordinated surveillance operations, locating, tracking, and intercepting of enemies that allow the participating navies to employ appropriate measures in dealing with pirates and other lawless elements at sea during real-life situations.
Also dispatched was Philippine Navy Islander aircraft that conducted maritime air patrol/reconnaissance in support of the floating assets. Coast Watch Station- Zamboanga was also utilized during the exercise in monitoring the movement of USNS Safeguard, the designated target vessel during the MIO and VBSS. USNS Safeguard sets off to Singapore for the closing ceremonies tomorrow, 21 August 2009.
By undertaking the exercise, participating navies are exposed to techniques useful to combat maritime threats and fight lawless elements operating in the high seas. The exercise also enhances the navies’s cooperation and coordination in support of a cohesive response to terrorism, transnational crimes, and crimes in the high seas and contributes to ASEAN’s efforts in building peace and security in the region that has taken strong stance against terrorism and has remained vigilant in safeguarding its maritime territory from pirates, smugglers, and other criminal elements.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Thursday, 20 August 2009
The Exercise Southeast Asia Cooperation Against Terrorism (SEACAT) 2009 concluded today, 20 August 2009 in General Santos City after participating assets from the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) have completed the series of activities that began Monday, 17 August 2009 in the waters off Zamboanga. Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) and NFEM dispatched patrol gunboats, patrol ships, and Naval Special Operations (NAVSOG) teams to engage US Navy Ship Safeguard in scenarios such as the Maritime Interdiction Operation (MIO) and Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS). These activities focused on information exchange, coordinated surveillance operations, locating, tracking, and intercepting of enemies that allow the participating navies to employ appropriate measures in dealing with pirates and other lawless elements at sea during real-life situations.
Also dispatched was Philippine Navy Islander aircraft that conducted maritime air patrol/reconnaissance in support of the floating assets. Coast Watch Station- Zamboanga was also utilized during the exercise in monitoring the movement of USNS Safeguard, the designated target vessel during the MIO and VBSS. USNS Safeguard sets off to Singapore for the closing ceremonies tomorrow, 21 August 2009.
By undertaking the exercise, participating navies are exposed to techniques useful to combat maritime threats and fight lawless elements operating in the high seas. The exercise also enhances the navies’s cooperation and coordination in support of a cohesive response to terrorism, transnational crimes, and crimes in the high seas and contributes to ASEAN’s efforts in building peace and security in the region that has taken strong stance against terrorism and has remained vigilant in safeguarding its maritime territory from pirates, smugglers, and other criminal elements.
Navy Statement from Director, Naval Public Affairs Office re allegation made by MNLF Chair Nur Misuari
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Navy Statement from Director, Naval Public Affairs Office re allegation made by MNLF Chair Nur Misuari that the MNLF men were “massacred” by the operating units in Mantangule Island, Balabac, Palawan.
● What transpired on 19 Aug 09 is a legitimate law-enforcement action against the MNLF group.
● At least three of them have standing warrant of arrest. The PNP attests to that.
The armed engagement happened only long after the MNLF members refused to lay down arms following a negotiation with two of Abdurajak’s emissaries. The fact that they entrenched themselves in a mosque and strategic locations indicate their willful disregard for the rule of law embodied by police out to serve warrants of arrest.
● The MNLF men have long been extorting money from poor fisher folks. The local residents who felt greatly relieved from the group’s abuses attest to that. The people sought the help of the Marines.
● The military response had been prudent and the force applied commensurate to and necessary for the restoration of law and order in the island. The MNLF group is heavily armed.
If there’s anyone who have allegations contrary the legitimacy of this operation must so prove.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Navy Statement from Director, Naval Public Affairs Office re allegation made by MNLF Chair Nur Misuari that the MNLF men were “massacred” by the operating units in Mantangule Island, Balabac, Palawan.
● What transpired on 19 Aug 09 is a legitimate law-enforcement action against the MNLF group.
● At least three of them have standing warrant of arrest. The PNP attests to that.
The armed engagement happened only long after the MNLF members refused to lay down arms following a negotiation with two of Abdurajak’s emissaries. The fact that they entrenched themselves in a mosque and strategic locations indicate their willful disregard for the rule of law embodied by police out to serve warrants of arrest.
● The MNLF men have long been extorting money from poor fisher folks. The local residents who felt greatly relieved from the group’s abuses attest to that. The people sought the help of the Marines.
● The military response had been prudent and the force applied commensurate to and necessary for the restoration of law and order in the island. The MNLF group is heavily armed.
If there’s anyone who have allegations contrary the legitimacy of this operation must so prove.
SUCCESSFUL FLEET-MARINE OPERATIONS RETAKE MANTANGULE ISLAND IN BALABAC, PALAWAN
Thursday, 20 August 2009
BY: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
After 96-hours of Fleet-Marine operation-- including intelligence & personnel build-up, insertion of SEALs & Marines, time allowance given for negotiation, and eight hours of protracted firefight in close proximity--ten MNLF men were declared fatalities, five were captured, a Marine was wounded, and assorted firearms were recovered.
"Give due respect to the dead MNLFs the way we want them to respect our fallen comrades that they will be first to have custody of after an armed confrontation," Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez, the Navy Flag Officer in Command yesterday reminded the Fleet-Marine personnel that figured in this successful liberation of Sitio Marabon, Mantangule Island in Balabac Municipality in Palawan. Thirty to 40 Moro National Liberation Front members stormed the island, occupied a mosque, and sent around 400 families fleeing to safety in the nearby islands (see related stories in this page).
The last part of the Fleet-Marine operations ended at around 3PM 18August 2009 after nearly eight hours of close-range firefight with around thirty fully armed men. The protracted skirmishes resulted to the death of 10 MNLF men, 7 of them were recovered, 3 were no longer retrieved from the sea where they attempted to escape on board a pump boat. They refused to surrender after hearing warning shots fired and instead shot it out with the Navy SEALs, according to Commander Alberto Cruz, the Task Group head. Three of the fatalities are the leader Abdullah Abdurajak a.k.a “Pa Guro” and his two sons Ebrahim Sabtula. The rest are Said Abdulradjak, one alias Kimpo, Nuh Abduradjak, Abdul Madjid, and one alias Sarip Hasim. The captured MNLF members were identified as Mannan Said, Bajar Usop, Sukarno Jamal, Alqasim Ladjahassan, and Saheron Batiik. Also recovered were assorted firearms and ammunitions, and a bladed weapon.
To the ground component commander and Commanding Officer MBLT-8 and the commander of the Naval Task Group 41.5 of the Philippine Fleet LTCol Yuri Pesigan and Commander Alberto Cruz, respectively of the Fleet-Marine team that operated in Mantangule Island, VADM Ferdinand Golez yesterday sent the message: "The Command Team of the Philippine Navy extends its commendations & congratulations of to all of you out there who made the Navy especially proud today. Carry on the good work!"
BY: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
After 96-hours of Fleet-Marine operation-- including intelligence & personnel build-up, insertion of SEALs & Marines, time allowance given for negotiation, and eight hours of protracted firefight in close proximity--ten MNLF men were declared fatalities, five were captured, a Marine was wounded, and assorted firearms were recovered.
"Give due respect to the dead MNLFs the way we want them to respect our fallen comrades that they will be first to have custody of after an armed confrontation," Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez, the Navy Flag Officer in Command yesterday reminded the Fleet-Marine personnel that figured in this successful liberation of Sitio Marabon, Mantangule Island in Balabac Municipality in Palawan. Thirty to 40 Moro National Liberation Front members stormed the island, occupied a mosque, and sent around 400 families fleeing to safety in the nearby islands (see related stories in this page).
The last part of the Fleet-Marine operations ended at around 3PM 18August 2009 after nearly eight hours of close-range firefight with around thirty fully armed men. The protracted skirmishes resulted to the death of 10 MNLF men, 7 of them were recovered, 3 were no longer retrieved from the sea where they attempted to escape on board a pump boat. They refused to surrender after hearing warning shots fired and instead shot it out with the Navy SEALs, according to Commander Alberto Cruz, the Task Group head. Three of the fatalities are the leader Abdullah Abdurajak a.k.a “Pa Guro” and his two sons Ebrahim Sabtula. The rest are Said Abdulradjak, one alias Kimpo, Nuh Abduradjak, Abdul Madjid, and one alias Sarip Hasim. The captured MNLF members were identified as Mannan Said, Bajar Usop, Sukarno Jamal, Alqasim Ladjahassan, and Saheron Batiik. Also recovered were assorted firearms and ammunitions, and a bladed weapon.
To the ground component commander and Commanding Officer MBLT-8 and the commander of the Naval Task Group 41.5 of the Philippine Fleet LTCol Yuri Pesigan and Commander Alberto Cruz, respectively of the Fleet-Marine team that operated in Mantangule Island, VADM Ferdinand Golez yesterday sent the message: "The Command Team of the Philippine Navy extends its commendations & congratulations of to all of you out there who made the Navy especially proud today. Carry on the good work!"
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Update in Mantangule Island, Balabac Incident as of 191400H
BY: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
LTC Yuri Pesigan the ground component commander of the fleet-marine operations team reports the recovery of 7 dead bodies and a total of 6 firearms and a bladed weapon (2 garand rifles, and M14 rifle, and an M79 grenade launcher, 2 cal. 45 pistols and a kris) from the marauders. Two were captured in the running gunbattle that is still ongoing. A wounded Marine grazed by bullet in the face near his eye has been airlifted to a hospital in Rio Tuba in southern tip of mainland Palawan. LCol Pesigan and Commander Alberto Cruz of Naval Task Group 41.5, and the members of the local PNP, with orders coming from Commodore Orwen Cortez, the Commander Naval Forces West, endeavor to get all the MNLF members before sundown to prevent their possible escape or for dissolving with the civilians/evacuees.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
LTC Yuri Pesigan the ground component commander of the fleet-marine operations team reports the recovery of 7 dead bodies and a total of 6 firearms and a bladed weapon (2 garand rifles, and M14 rifle, and an M79 grenade launcher, 2 cal. 45 pistols and a kris) from the marauders. Two were captured in the running gunbattle that is still ongoing. A wounded Marine grazed by bullet in the face near his eye has been airlifted to a hospital in Rio Tuba in southern tip of mainland Palawan. LCol Pesigan and Commander Alberto Cruz of Naval Task Group 41.5, and the members of the local PNP, with orders coming from Commodore Orwen Cortez, the Commander Naval Forces West, endeavor to get all the MNLF members before sundown to prevent their possible escape or for dissolving with the civilians/evacuees.
Update in Mantangule Island, Balabac Incident as of 191000H
LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Reports sent to Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez, Navy Flag Officer In-Command by Commodore Orwen Cortez, Commander, Naval Forces West indicate that the fleet-marine operations led by the ground component commander Marine Lieutenant Colonel Yuri Pesigan was constrained to attack the MNLF group of Abdullah Abdurajak that is holed in the mosque they occupied in Sitio Marabon, Mantangule, Balabac, Palawan.
The enemy failed to surrender before sundown per ultimatum given by LTC Pesigan to Haji Sukarno Jamal, the emissary of the surrender filler. The Navy SEAL and Marine Teams under the orders of Commo Cortez launched a surgical assault on the MNLF group midnight of 18 August 09.
Sporadic firefighting that started 7am, 19 August 2009 ongoing. Two dead with firearms (one dead body already recovered) and two men captured from the marauders. Navy ships of Naval Task Group 41.5 under Commander Alberto Cruz are now patrolling the seas to pre-empt the enemy from escaping.
VADM Golez: “We will pursue the operation until its rapid conclusion and restore the rule of law in the island. We will get these marauders and kidnappers who are now shooting it out with our fleet-marine personnel.”
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Reports sent to Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez, Navy Flag Officer In-Command by Commodore Orwen Cortez, Commander, Naval Forces West indicate that the fleet-marine operations led by the ground component commander Marine Lieutenant Colonel Yuri Pesigan was constrained to attack the MNLF group of Abdullah Abdurajak that is holed in the mosque they occupied in Sitio Marabon, Mantangule, Balabac, Palawan.
The enemy failed to surrender before sundown per ultimatum given by LTC Pesigan to Haji Sukarno Jamal, the emissary of the surrender filler. The Navy SEAL and Marine Teams under the orders of Commo Cortez launched a surgical assault on the MNLF group midnight of 18 August 09.
Sporadic firefighting that started 7am, 19 August 2009 ongoing. Two dead with firearms (one dead body already recovered) and two men captured from the marauders. Navy ships of Naval Task Group 41.5 under Commander Alberto Cruz are now patrolling the seas to pre-empt the enemy from escaping.
VADM Golez: “We will pursue the operation until its rapid conclusion and restore the rule of law in the island. We will get these marauders and kidnappers who are now shooting it out with our fleet-marine personnel.”
Updates in Balabac Standoff
LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Four platoons of Marines from Marine Battalion Landing Team-8 and teams of Navy Seals have landed in Brgy. Mantangule in batches. The first 2 platoons and teams from NAVSOG landed in the island as of 2200H Monday 17 August and occupied the location near the MILF group 12 noon today 18 August.
Two more platoons set foot this morning and took their respective positions relative to the enemy. Fire support base was put up. The commander on the ground and Battalion Commander of MBLT-8 Major Yuri Pesigan gave the ultimatum for the MNLF group to lay down their arms before sunset. The notice sent by Pesigan at 1500H was received by Hadji Sukarno Jamal—emissary for the surrender initiated by “Pa Guro’s” group.
As of this time 1830H, the group of “Pa Guro” has not yet surrendered although there were no reported hostilities since.
Should the group refuse to give up, we will be constrained to enforce the law as last resort. Until then, we will allow the peaceful resolution of the standoff thru negotiation between the emissary and the commander on the ground.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Four platoons of Marines from Marine Battalion Landing Team-8 and teams of Navy Seals have landed in Brgy. Mantangule in batches. The first 2 platoons and teams from NAVSOG landed in the island as of 2200H Monday 17 August and occupied the location near the MILF group 12 noon today 18 August.
Two more platoons set foot this morning and took their respective positions relative to the enemy. Fire support base was put up. The commander on the ground and Battalion Commander of MBLT-8 Major Yuri Pesigan gave the ultimatum for the MNLF group to lay down their arms before sunset. The notice sent by Pesigan at 1500H was received by Hadji Sukarno Jamal—emissary for the surrender initiated by “Pa Guro’s” group.
As of this time 1830H, the group of “Pa Guro” has not yet surrendered although there were no reported hostilities since.
Should the group refuse to give up, we will be constrained to enforce the law as last resort. Until then, we will allow the peaceful resolution of the standoff thru negotiation between the emissary and the commander on the ground.
Balabac Incident
LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Philippine Navy patrol vessels and gunboats are now patrolling the seas off Balabac Island in Palawan to prevent the MNLFs from escaping.
Teams from Naval Special Operations Group (SEALs), platoons of Marines from MBLT 8, and PNP personnel deploy to counteract the group led by the group by Pa Guro that reportedly occupied a mosque at Marabon Island Balabac Saturday, 14 August 2009 terrorizing the people to flee their homes.
We will not allow lawless elements to sow panic and cause havoc to helpless civilians and law enforcement action directed against the group of Pa Guro who reportedly extorts money from the residents in the island defines the role of the navy in projecting naval power from the ship to the shore to strike against lawless elements preying on civilians.
Philippine Navy has to dislodge and stop Pa Guro’s group now dugged-in the island anticipating confrontation with government forces.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Philippine Navy patrol vessels and gunboats are now patrolling the seas off Balabac Island in Palawan to prevent the MNLFs from escaping.
Teams from Naval Special Operations Group (SEALs), platoons of Marines from MBLT 8, and PNP personnel deploy to counteract the group led by the group by Pa Guro that reportedly occupied a mosque at Marabon Island Balabac Saturday, 14 August 2009 terrorizing the people to flee their homes.
We will not allow lawless elements to sow panic and cause havoc to helpless civilians and law enforcement action directed against the group of Pa Guro who reportedly extorts money from the residents in the island defines the role of the navy in projecting naval power from the ship to the shore to strike against lawless elements preying on civilians.
Philippine Navy has to dislodge and stop Pa Guro’s group now dugged-in the island anticipating confrontation with government forces.
2 Air Force UH-1H choppers fired by bandits
LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Around 1003H, today 16 August 2009, two (2) Air Force UH-1H choppers that carried on board BGEN Rustico Guerrero, the Commanding General of 1st Marine Brigade leading the combat operations and law enforcement actions in Basilan, and four (4) companions were fired upon from the ground by unidentified armed men at the vicinity of Barangay Limbo Upas, Albarka, Basilan.
The pilots, BGEN Guerrero, and Mr Leo Alcamoso were unscatched, Jorge Bandola, Egay Luciano and Louie Iglesia—TV journalist, cameraman from National Broadcasting Network 4 photographers from the Office of the press secretary, respectively sustained superficial splinter wounds. The helis had to make doctrinal landing in Lamitan City as a matter of precaution before proceeding back to Edwin Andrews Airforce Base in Zamboanga. The chopper incurred torn transmission oil line due to bullet hit. BGEN Guerrero’s group was at Sitio Kurellem, Silangkum, Tipo-Tipo, Basilan for the ceremonial flag raising ceremony in the erstwhile Abu Sayyaf Group stronghold and turnover the sitio back to its residents thru Mayor of Tipo-Tipo. It will be recalled that ASGs seized and occupy the sitio and drove away the local residents. It took 23 lives-2young officers and 21 soldiers—to wrest control of and liberate the sitio from the crutches of the bandit ASGs. We will unrelentlessly conduct combat operations to decimate the terrorists, end their sowing of terror.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Around 1003H, today 16 August 2009, two (2) Air Force UH-1H choppers that carried on board BGEN Rustico Guerrero, the Commanding General of 1st Marine Brigade leading the combat operations and law enforcement actions in Basilan, and four (4) companions were fired upon from the ground by unidentified armed men at the vicinity of Barangay Limbo Upas, Albarka, Basilan.
The pilots, BGEN Guerrero, and Mr Leo Alcamoso were unscatched, Jorge Bandola, Egay Luciano and Louie Iglesia—TV journalist, cameraman from National Broadcasting Network 4 photographers from the Office of the press secretary, respectively sustained superficial splinter wounds. The helis had to make doctrinal landing in Lamitan City as a matter of precaution before proceeding back to Edwin Andrews Airforce Base in Zamboanga. The chopper incurred torn transmission oil line due to bullet hit. BGEN Guerrero’s group was at Sitio Kurellem, Silangkum, Tipo-Tipo, Basilan for the ceremonial flag raising ceremony in the erstwhile Abu Sayyaf Group stronghold and turnover the sitio back to its residents thru Mayor of Tipo-Tipo. It will be recalled that ASGs seized and occupy the sitio and drove away the local residents. It took 23 lives-2young officers and 21 soldiers—to wrest control of and liberate the sitio from the crutches of the bandit ASGs. We will unrelentlessly conduct combat operations to decimate the terrorists, end their sowing of terror.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Government Forces Clashed Fiercely Against Lawless Groups in Basilan
BY: LT COL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
ASG’s major stronghold falls
In compliance to the order of the Commander–in-Chief President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to rid Basilan (and Sulu) of terrorists and lawless elements, security forces of the 1st Marine Brigade-led operations under the command of BGen Rustico Guerrero attacked known enemy lair at around 355AM 12Aug2009. The primary military objective is the terrorists’ nerve center-- training camp, and improvised explosive manufacturing base --located in Sitio Kurilem, Brgy. Silangkum,Tipo-tipo,Basilan Province. The Army’s Light Reaction Unit ferociously engaged around 50 lawless MILF groups-aided Abu Sayyaf terrorists believed to be under ASG leader Furuji Indama. Following the intense firefight that ensued, two air force UH-1H helicopters flew in around 5AM to evacuate wounded personnel. The attempt had to be aborted however when the aircrafts were met with heavy volleys of fire from the bandit groups. Air evacuation was successful conducted only at 820 AM and at 222 PM where casualties were flown to Zamboanga City.
At around 530 AM of the same day, Scout Rangers encountered more or less 150 heavily armed ASG & their cohorts at Hill 440 in the vicinity of Barangay Baguindan, Tipo-tipo. Fierce gun-battle raged between government forces & the bandit groups. Meanwhile, reinforcing Marines ferociously engaged more or less 70 combined ASGs & MILFs also in Baguindan, Tipo-tipo. The protracted firefights peaked at around 1130 in the morning and between 6 to 7 PM & subsided to sporadic engagements at around 830 in the evening. The field report reaching Headquarters Philippine Navy reveal that a total of 31 terrorists were killed in the clashes.
The lawless groups suffered heavy casualty –dead or wounded. Retrieval operations yesterday had to stop at nightfall. As of press time today 13 Aug 09, confirmed dead were ASG sub commanders Jony Poy, Abdullah Hud Limaya (son of Hud Limaya the commander of 2nd Brigade of MILF’s 114 Base Command), and 114 MILF Base Command Commander Ashib Salim. We are validating intelligence reports received that there were other ASG commanders who died during the skirmishes namely: Nurhasan Jamiri, Abdul Hud, and Moton Indama (purported brother of ASG commander Furuji).
From the initial tally of recovered firearms yesterday, the latest figure: four light machine guns, four M-14 rifles, five M203 grenade launchers, two rocket-propelled grenades, five M-16 rifles (two of them fitted with scopes), a “Baby Armalite” with M203 grenade launcher, five Minimi Squad Automatic Weapons, four units of Cellular phones, and a sizeable number of improvised explosive devices, bomb-making equipment and components.
“In successfully seizing the terrorist’s major stronghold in Barangay Silangkum,Tipo-tipo, Basilan and thus depriving the lawless groups of a strategic advantage, government troops suffered casualty”, MGEN Ben Mohammad D Dolorfino Commanding General, Western Mindanao Command mournfully declares . Twenty Three (23) were Killed-In-Action (including 2 junior officers) while 21 were Wounded-In-Action. The operation had been surgical and deliberate employing reasonable force to minimize collateral damage to life and property of civilians residing near the ASG stronghold.
“The Philippine Navy mourns the death toll and the injuries sustained by our operating units in Basilan”, says Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez, Flag Officer in Command of the Philippine Navy. “But more than enemy body counts and recovery of their war materiel, the soldiers’ gain in taking Sitio Kurilem, Barangay Silangkum, Tipo-tipo Basilan and depriving the bandits of its staging area of its kidnapping, bomb-production, and other nefarious activities, are both tactical and strategic victories that these fallen soldiers won with their lives and limbs.”
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
SECURITY FORCES ENCOUNTER WITH UNIDENTIFIED GROUP IN BASILAN; ONE DEAD
BY: LT COL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
A reported member of suspected criminal group operating in Basilan was killed during an encounter with the Marines led by 1Lt Ryan Lacuesta PN(M), and members of the PNP last Sunday night, 09 August 2009. Killed during the encounter was a certain Padjing Pasa when his group of about eight armed men engaged in a fire fight with the combined group of 29th Company of Marine Battalion Landing Team (MBLT) 9 and a platoon of PNP Special Action Force in Bohe Piyat, Baiwas, Sumisip, Basilan Province.
Marines Engage Enemy in Basilan Firefight
BY: LT COL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Marines from two companies of Marine Battalion Landing Team 7 (MBLT-7) engaged enemies in a firefight on two separate occasions in Basilan Sunday evening, 09 August 2009. No casualties were reported on either side.
In another incident, a detachment from the 27th Marine Company under 2Lt Jojit Ofiaza was harassed around 10PM, same day by ten followers of a kidnap for ransom group of Pula Muntong and a certain Iklam. The team of 2Lt Ofiaza was manning their detachment at Tuburan when they were attacked. The firefight lasted for 45 minutes until the enemy withdrew to Sitio Marang Marang.
Marines with SAF, PNP Arrests Kidnapper of Micro-Finance Worker
BY: LT COL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Combined operating troops of MBLT-1 headed by LTC FERNANDO R GOMEZ PN(M)(GSC) under the 1st Marine Brigade under the command of BGEN RUSTICO GUERRERO AFP, and SAF Battalion of the PNP under P/Supt Nestor Salcedo arrested kidnap suspect Melvin Akalon@ Otoh Akalon-- a rouge former MILF Group member-- in an early morning raid of 11 August 2009, Tuesday in Brgy Libug, Sumisip, Basilan Province.
Suspect Akalon, a former MILF member under MILF Comdr Amil Mingkong, was with the group of rouge MILF Group sub-cmdr Abygao Bayali during the captivty of micro-financing worker Lea Laping Patris in the hinterlands of Brgy Baiwas, Sumisip Municipality. Lea Patris was recovered by MBLT-1 operatives and CVOs/municipal guards in June 7.
Akalon is also one of the suspects in the ambush of PNP personnel in Brgy Libug, Sumisip, Basilan Province in June 28. He admitted to have been involved in several encounters with CAA members in Baiwas in 2004 while he was still an active member of the MILF under said Amil Mingkong and one Bugao Bayali.
These unrelenting combat operations to rid the province of Basilan of terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group, rouge MILF members, and other criminal elements will continue amidst humanitarian and development projects that the Navy is employing. The Navy leadership under VADM Ferdinand S Golez, the Flag Officer in Command and MGEN Juancho Sabban, the Marine Corps Commandant pursues a more vigorous peaceful and confidence-building initiatives on the one hand and less of combat operations on the other. The Navy adopts a paradigm shift of holistic approach as it bats for attainment of lasting peace and development in southern Philippines.
661 Alicia, Bohol Residents Avail of Free Medical- Dental Services
BY: ENS JUDYLINE B CANONEO PN
Public Affairs Officer, Naval Forces Central
Public Affairs Officer, Naval Forces Central
The Naval Forces Central (NAVFORCEN) in coordination with the Association of Government Information Officers Region VII (AGIO-7) conducted a joint medical-dental mission at Barangay Poblacion, Alicia,
The activity was a combined effort of the different government agencies with participation of volunteer doctors, nurses and dentists from
Central Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Air Force and of the 51st and 511th Marine Reserve Battalions of the Philippine Marines in collaboration with the local government unit of Alicia, Bohol, and the Philippine Information Agency Region VII (PIA-7) along with the Members of 802nd Brigade of 3ID, Philippine Army which provided security during the entire activity.
About 487 patients with medical cases and 174 dental patients benefited from the activity. Services include: medical consultation, blood pressure (BP) and vital signs check-up, circumcision, dental check-up, and tooth extraction. Aside from medical and dental activities, the residents also availed of the free haircut. Beneficiaries were also given free medicines and vitamins provided by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).
The joint activity was launched not only to deliver medical services to the indigent residents of Alicia,
Several information consultations along with other related government services were being addressed by the Public Information Officers (PIOs) of the different government agencies, namely: processing of housing loans and other services thru PAG-IBIG fund, tax processes of the BIR, SSS members benefits, services rendered by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), procedures in joining the military and the proper procedures in correcting deficiencies of personal records at the Civil Registrar’s Office and at the National Statistics Office (NSO).
Monday, August 10, 2009
Goodwill visit of USS George Washington to Manila, Philippines
Monday, 10 August 2009
BY: LTCOl EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
The Philippine Navy is all set to meet with their American counterparts as USS George Washington arrives tomorrow 11 August 2009 in Manila for a 5-day goodwill visit to the Philippines. The officers and crew of the US Navy aircraft carrier headed by CAPT DAVID LAUSMAN USN will participate in community development projects, a 10-brgy outreach program, sports events, and various other humanitarian pursuits.
"We are eager to embark on the many worthwhile endeavors lined-up for this visit," says Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez, the Philippine Navy Flag Officer in Command. "This is one of those opportunities that your navy goes in partnership with brother navies from around the world in civic and community relations projects."
After a traditional courtesy call by the head of the entire delegation and Commander, Task Force 70--Rear Admiral Kevin Donegan USN--with Vice Admiral Golez on 11 August 2009, Tuesday, the activity kicks off with the professional exchange between the officers of the two navies. The days following shall see both navies busy with Filipino veterans and elementary school children's welfare projects, among others endeavors.
USS Washington leaves 15 August 2009, Saturday.
Photos taken from the following sites
http://www.japanfocus.org/-Ch__goku_Shinbun/2861
http://bbs.tiexue.net/post_3338361_1.html
Navy Stops Illegal Fishing, Transport of Logs at Quezon Province
BY: LT DARWIN F NIEVA PN
Director, NFSL Public Affairs Office
ON THIS PHOTO:
LEGAZPI CITY, JULY 09, 2009 – PHILIPPINE NAVY SHIP STATIONED AT PUERTO REAL, QUEZON APPREHENDED FISHING BOAT ENGAGED IN ILLEGAL FISHING AND STOPS TRANSPORT OF LOGS BELIEVED TO BE ILLEGAL CUT DURING A SUCCESSFUL CONDUCT OF MARITIME PATROL OFF THE COAST OF POLILIO AND INFANTA ON JULY 09, 2009.
Director, NFSL Public Affairs Office
ON THIS PHOTO:
Approximately 600 pieces of illegally cut logs floating in the riverbanks in Infanta, Quezon are secured by a rope after the Navy successfully intercepted its transport to an unknown location. The logs were recovered after the boat towing it abandoned the logs when Navy vessel DF-321 that was conducting maritime patrol off Dinahican Pt, Infanta on 9 July 2009 chased the unidentified boat.
LEGAZPI CITY, JULY 09, 2009 – PHILIPPINE NAVY SHIP STATIONED AT PUERTO REAL, QUEZON APPREHENDED FISHING BOAT ENGAGED IN ILLEGAL FISHING AND STOPS TRANSPORT OF LOGS BELIEVED TO BE ILLEGAL CUT DURING A SUCCESSFUL CONDUCT OF MARITIME PATROL OFF THE COAST OF POLILIO AND INFANTA ON JULY 09, 2009.
THE OPERATION WAS IN RESPONSE TO THE INFORMATION RECEIVED FROM A CONCERNED CITIZEN ON JUL 09, 2009 AT 8 AM THAT TWO (2) MOTOR BANCAS TOWING VOLUMES OF ROUND LOGS WERE SIGHTED AT VIC 7 NM SE OF AGTA PT, POLILIO ISL, QUEZON AOUND 5 AM OF THE SAME DATE.
UPON NOTICE, DF321 DEPARTED REAL PIER TO VERIFY SAID REPORT. WHILE UNDERWAY ON OR ABOUT 1105AM, SAID CRAFT SPOTTED A FISHING BOAT CONDUCTING SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY AT VIC 5 NM NE OF LITTLE ROCK, BGY PANDAN, REAL, QZN. DF321 APPROACHED AND CONDUCTED BOARD AND SEARCH OF THE SAID FISHING BOAT WHICH YIELDED FOLLOWING INFORMATION: NAME OF FISCHING BOAT - F/B GOD’S WILL, OWNED AND OPERATED BY ARMINDA RAMOS AND SKIPPERED BY ROLANDO QUINTANA BOTH RESIDENTS OF ATIMONAN, QUEZON WITH SEVENTEEN (17) CREW ON BOARD. SAID BOAT WAS LOADED WITH FOURTEEN (14) STYROFOAMB BOX OF ASSORTED FISH CAUGHT USING FINE MESH NET WHICH IS CLEAR VIOLATION OF SECTION 89 CHAPTER 6 OF RA 8550. APPREHENDED BOAT WAS ISSUED WITH INSPECTION AND APPREHENSION REPORT (IAR), BOARDING CERTIFICATE AND TURNED OVER TO IFARMC, REAL QUEZON FOR PROPER DISPOSITION
THEREAFTER, DF321 CONTINUED MARITIME OPERATION ALONG WATERS OFF POLILIO, QUEZON. ON OR ABOUT 1:30 PM OF THE SAME DAY, SAID NAVAL VESSEL SPOTTED THE TWO (2) REPORTED MOTOR BANCAS TOWING UNDET VOLUME OF ROUND LOGS AT VIC 8 NM NE OFF DINAHICAN PT, INFANTA, QZN. DF321 IMMEDIATELY MANEUVERED TO CHASE THE MOTOR BANCAS HOWEVER THE LATTER VEERED AWAY TOWARDS NORTHWEST DIRECTION AND ABANDONED THE LOGS.
DF321 RETRIEVED APPROX 600 PCS LOGS THENCE DEPARTED SAID AREA ENROUTE TO REAL PIER, QZN TO TURN OVER SAID LOGS TO CENRO REAL, QZN FOR PROPER DISPOSITION.
AFP Units in Albay Taking Active Stance Over Mt. Mayon
BY: LT DARWIN F NIEVA PN
Director, NFSL Public Affairs Office
Director, NFSL Public Affairs Office
ON THIS PHOTO:
Mr Cedric Daep, Executive Director of Albay PDCC, presents the Albay Contingency Plan during an emergency meeting convened by the navy in connection with the recent unrest of Mayon Volcano. Mr Ed Laguerta of PHILVOCS and other AFP and PNP units in Albay attended the conference.
LEGAZPI CITY, JULY 11, 2009 – The Armed Forces of the Philippines, PHILVOCS, Albay Provincial Disaster Coordination Council, and other uniform agencies assigned at Albay meets today at Naval Station Legazpi to re-visit contingency plan and to identify respective roles as part of the preparations being made in connection with the heightened alert level of Mayon Volcano.
Naval Forces Southern Luzon convened the coordinating conference at the naval station upon the directive of its Commander, Commodore Joel E Babas AFP. Commodore Babas stressed that the military should be able to continuously synchronize its plan with the local contingency preparation to be more effective and efficient. Being the most senior military officer at the province, the Commodore also commits the military’s unequivocal support to the local governments of Albay to ensure that all countermeasures are set for any eventualities.
The conference was presided over by Capt Romeo Nebres PN(GSC), NAVFORSOL’s Deputy Commander and attended by 901st Brigade of the Philippine Army, Tactical Operations Group 5 of the Philippine Air Force, Coast Guard District Bicol, Police Regional Office 5, Civil Military Operations Group Southern Luzon of the Navy. Mr Eduardo Laguerta, the Resident Volcanologist of PHILVOCS and Mr Cedric Daep, Executive Director Albay PDCC presented updates on the recent Mayon activities and Provincial Government contingency plan, respectively.
Mr Daep stressed that Albay contingency plan’s primary objective is zero casualty with protection of life and property as its first and second priorities.
In a message send to Mr Daep, the Governor Joey Salceda of Albay and at the same time the Chairman of Albay PDCC lauded the prompt effort and initiative of the military.
Friday, August 7, 2009
2 Rear Admirals, 2 Brigadier Generals Promoted in the Navy
BY: LT COl EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Two new Rear Admirals and two new Brigadier Generals were recently added to the roster of senior officers of the Navy. They were accorded honors by the Philippine Navy on Monday morning, 03 August 2009 together with 20 other officers at the Navy Headquarters in 
The other 20 Fleet- Marine Officers promoted to the ranks of Navy Captains and Marine Colonels are: Commanders Robert A Empedrad, Narciso A Vingson Jr, Elson K Aguilar, Danilo R Rodelas, Samuel Z Felix, Ingemar S Pernes, Gaudencio C Collado Jr, Rene V Medina, Giovanni Carlo J Bacordo, Allan Ferdinand V Cusi, Jande S Francisco, Ramon S Ochoco, Albert A Mogol, Lieutenant Colonels Elvin B Velasco, Arthur M Biyo, Alvin A Parreno, Dante A Hidalgo, Arnulfo G Rafanan, Elmer N Logronio, and Maximo J Ballesteros.
Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez, Flag Officer in Command, Philippine Navy presided over the ceremony. He was joined by Rear Admiral Geronimo Defensor, Commander, Philippine Fleet; MGen Juancho Sabban, Commandant, Philippine Marine Corps; Rear Admiral Danilo Cortez, Vice Commander, Philippine Navy; Rear Admiral Feliciano Angue, Chief of Naval Staff, and senior officers of the Navy and Marines.
The 3rd Marine Brigade headed by Gen Clemen based in Sulu was instrumental 
in the recovery of three ICRC volunteers kidnapped by the Abu Sayaff Group. The 2nd Marine Brigade headed by Gen Pereyra which also operates in Sulu provides the much-needed security forces in combating lawless and insurgent groups in
In his speech during the ceremony, Vice Admiral Golez exhorted the newly-promoted officers to be firm and vigorous in carrying out their duties and responsibilities as the Navy implements its Sail Plan 2020. He recognized their efforts and achievements in attaining their hard-earned ranks through hard work and dedication to the service.
Naval Station Commanding Officer Joins Milo Marathon
BY:NFEM-PAO
THE personnel of the Naval Station in Davao City
This was proven by LCDR MANUEL L GIMENA PN, Commanding Officer, Naval Station Davao as he joined in the 10k fun run of the 33rd Regional Elimination for Davao Region and emerged in the top 15 last July 12, 2009.
Aside from the Naval Station Davao, the activity was also participated in by private companies, schools, government agencies, the EASTMINCOM, 10th Infantry Division Philippine Army and the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao Command.
The regional race was part of the National Milo Marathon, the country's longest and biggest footrace. The fun run started at 5 a.m. at
Finishers in each of the categories were given cash prizes, while the top three male and female finishers in the 21k race got an all-expense trip to
Naval Station Commanding Officer LCDR MANUEL L GIMENA PN actively participated in the Milo Marathon regional race on 12 July 2009 where he emerged as top 15 in the 10k run division.
NAVY PERSONNEL DONATE BLOOD
BY: NFEM-PAO
THE Philippine Navy, through Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) participated in the blood letting activity that was spearheaded by the Rotary Club of Waling-Waling Davao, in cooperation with the Association of Hematologists Mindanao Fund Inc., the Davao Medical Society, and the Philippine National Red Cross. Around 45 officers and enlisted personnel represented the Navy during the blood donation drive held at the Davao Medical Society Compound in Madapo Hills,
The Navy participants were CDR LUZVIMINDA CAMACHO PN, LCDR FLORO C CANALEJA JR PN, ENS MAYREL ALLAN A LUZA PN, ENS ALEX JOE E CORPIZ PN, Enlisted Personnel, civilian employees and Basic Citizen Military Training contingents headed by PO1 Lorenzo Lomibao of the Naval Reserve Command Center Eastern Mindanao.
LCDR FLORO C CANALEJA JR PN was chosen as one the speakers in the said activity because of his recent experience in a dengue case where his daughter feel ill and was hospitalized for almost a week. He stressed the importance of the activity in saving the lives of other people- those affected by dengue and other medical cases needing instant blood transfusion.
Aside from the Philippine Navy, the blood letting activity was also participated in by the 10th Infantry Division, Eastern Mindanao Command, the Philippine National Police, and students from the
Rotary Club of Waling Waling Davao president Dra. Mae Dolendo thanked all the participants who graciously gave their time, effort and blood in order to save lives. (NFEM-PAO)
NAVFORCEN Extended Medical-Dental Care to Oslob People
BY: ENS JUDYLINE B CANONEO PN
Public Affairs Office
Naval Central Forces
The Philippine Navy’s Naval Forces Central (NAVFORCEN), through its operating arms, the 511th Naval Reserve Squadron and the Civil Military Operations Group- Central (CMOG-C), successfully conducted a Medical-Dental Mission at Barangay Lagunde, Oslob, Cebu last August 1, 2009..
The activity was in line with the Command’s thrust on Military Operations to improve civil and community relations to the residents in Oslob. NAVFORCEN likewise aimed to strengthen the ties between the people of Oslob and the military, particularly the Philippine Navy, through civilian outreach program such as this.
The activity was initiated by the Commanding Officer of the 511th Naval Reserve Squadron, Lieutenant Commander Gregorio Sanchez PN (Res) and with the help of volunteer doctors, dentists and nurses of the Cebu Doctor’s Hospital and Vicente Sotto Medical Center.
629 adult and senior citizen patients and 268 children were given medical attention while 38 patients were treated by volunteer dentists. Aside from the medical and dental treatment, a supplemental feeding was also launched by the Civil Military Operations Group- Central and the 511th Naval Reserve Squadron which benefitted 357 children from Barangay Lagunde.
Mayor Ronald L Guaren, , municipal Mayor of Oslob, Cebu and the Barangay Captain of Lagunde, Estudita Abines-Dee personally welcomed the medical and dental team in the area. Along with the information caravan is also a PMA recruitment drive in the area conducted by NAVFORCEN in order to bring forth potential PMA cadets.