Navy Rescues 20 Cebuano Fishermen in Palawan

By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

Tuesday, 29 September 2009

The Philippine Navy sailors of Naval Forces West (NFW) stationed in Palawan rescued 20 fishermen from Cebu around 1pm, 28 September 2009.

Initial reports provided to this Headquarters by Commodore Orwen J Cortez, NFW Commander, the fishermen on board F/B John Paul were bound for Sinamahan Reef when they encountered big waves due to typohon “Ondoy”. Their fishing boat capsized and four of their companions are still missing.

Navy personnel aboard M/L Super Nashville conducting routine maritime patrol immediately acted on reports of the sea mishap and rescued the 20 at vicinity 10 nautical miles off Sinamahan Reef. The Navy tried to sustain the search and rescue operations but failed to find the other four due to deteriorating weather condition.

Rescued were: Armando Wagwag, 57, owner and boat captain; Micheal Conversion, 40; Romulo Wagwag, 25; Gomercindo Tanyo, 24; Charlito Celiona, 51; Eric Macaraya, 37; Renato Degrano, 18; Roman Tanyo, 31; Raymund Duallo, 26; Reymundo Duallo, 50; Micheal Duallo, 30; Edgar Lambuon, 18; Saturnino Unok, 36; Rolando Amorin, 32; Diosephos Degrano, 20; Martin Segurino, 51; Isgani Flores, 36; Reymundo Balasi, 36; Juanito Paquhibot, 39; and Charlito Wagwag, 35. All are residents of Baring, Lapu Lapu City.

Meanwhile, four of their companions are still missing. They are Romulo Manahay, 31; Roque Legaspi, 32; Federico Amit Jr, 28; and German Gonzales, 30. NFW has dispatched available assets to conduct SAR for the remaining four.
The rescued fishermen were brought to Balabac town. Commo Cortez has directed BRP Juan Magluyan (PG 392) to transport the 20 to Puerto Princesa City for further medical care.

Amidst many deployment of Fleet-Marine units in rescue, retrieval and relief operations in Quezon and Bulacan provinces and in Metro Manila towns of CAMANAVA, Paranaque, Cainta, Pasig, and Marikina, the Navy is perpetually ready to respond to various distress calls. We will remain committed to be at the forefront of humanitarian and development endeavors in support to national government for the welfare of our fellow Filipinos.

Navy Rescues Hundreds as “Ondoy” Lashes at Luzon

LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

Sunday, 27 September 2009

Philippine Navy rescue teams rescued hundreds of residents at the height of typhoon “Ondoy” yesterday, 26 September 2009.

As floodwaters continued to rise in Metro Manila and some Luzon areas due to non-stop rains, Navy Chief Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez activated the battle staff at Ft Bonifacio to have personal supervision of the Navy’s rescue efforts not only in the CAMANAVA area, but also in areas outside of Manila and Cavite. Joining Vice Admiral Golez are Rear Admiral Feliciano A Angue, Chief of Naval Staff and other central staff officers who established direct communication with the Navy rescue teams in the areas.

In Metro Manila, Navy teams rescued residents whose homes were submerged in floods and passengers who were stranded: 17 from the rooftop of Brgy Hall, Montevista, Marikina City; 5 persons stranded at floodway Crispa, Pasig to Riverside Village, Cainta; 150 from Navotas; 40 from Jose Abad Santos, Tondo; and 750 from Espana, Manila.

Navy rescue teams from different units are composed of the following: Philipine Fleet- 18 SEALs and 28 enlisted personnel (EP) equipped with 3 rubber boats, 1 M35 truck, and 1 trailer truck; Philippine Marine Corps- 1 Officer; 30 EP with 1 rubber boat, 2 M35 trucks, 1 DRR Trailer truck, and additional PMC supplement with 1 M35 truck, 1 van type truck; Bonifacio Naval Station team- 20 Officers, 8 EP, 1 M35 truck, and 2 rubber boats.

A Naval Detachment based in Infanta, Quezon of Naval Forces Southern Luzon evacuated 43 personnel from Brgy Banglos to an evacuation center in Gen Nakar, Quezon. The Navy team also assisted the NDCC in distributing relief goods to victims of flash floods in Brgy Ilog, Infanta. Two rescue teams from Naval Forces Northern Luzon were dispatched to Sta Maria and Bustos towns in Bulacan composed of 5 Officers, 31 EP, and 8 reservists with 2 M35 trucks and 2 rubber boats.

As of this morning, four rescue teams from the Naval Education and Training Command based in San Antonio, Zambales are set for deployment to conduct SAR operations in flooded towns. The teams have coordinated with the LGUs of the affected areas.

The Navy rescue teams are now concentrating their efforts in Cainta, Rizal, Pasig, and Provident Village, Marikina, which are the most affected by typhoon “Ondoy.” Also this morning, a SEAL and Marine team rescued 120 residents of Provident Village, Marikina while another team rescued a 65-year old woman from Brgy Tumana. Rescue operations are still ongoing.

Vice Admiral Golez has directed all Navy units in Luzon areas to dispatch their respective rescue teams for the conduct of SAR operations and assist concerned LGUs in their relief efforts. Disaster Rescue and Response Operations (DRRO) teams are integrated into naval commands all over the country to respond to any emergency situation where well-equipped and trained Navy teams are prepared to undertake rescue and rehabilitation missions.

NAVFORSOL’S Flagship Serves Albayanos

By: LIEUTENANT DARWIN F NIEVA PN
Director, NFSL Public Affairs Office

LEGAZPI CITY, September 19, 2009 – “Ang Philippine Navy o Hukbong Dagat ay napakahalaga dahil pinangangalagaan nito ang ating bansa laban sa mga dayuhan na gustong sakupin ang ating bansa, sa mga taong may masasamang loob at sa mga sumisira sa ating mga likas na yaman. Ang Philippine Navy ay nagpuprotekta sa ating bansa. Kung wala nito, magiging magulo ang ating bansa, walang mga batas na matutupad at maraming suliranin ang magaganap sa ating bansa...” ("The Philippine Navy is important because it protects our country from foreign invaders and against lawless elements who ruin our natural resources. Without the Philippine Navy, there will be no order in the country, laws will not be implemented, and more problems will arise...")

Above passage was an excerpt taken from the winning piece of Mary Joy Demetillo, a grade 6 student of Victory Village Elementary School, Legazpi City in an Essay Writing Contest sponsored by Barko ng Republika ng Pilipinas Iloilo or PS32 of the Naval Forces Southern Luzon, Philippine Navy in connection with its weeklong community service at the city.

Consistent with the Philippine Navy’s commitment of a vital partner in lasting peace and sustainable development, Team BRP Iloilo lead by its commanding officer, CAPT NARCISO A VINGSON PN(GSC), collaborated with local government units of Brgy 27 and 28 of Victory Village and school officials on September 14 to 19, 2009 in bringing social services and further strengthening rapport between the Philippine Navy and the Legazpenos. The weeklong community service included the following:

• “Open Ship” or Tour for 365 pupils aboardship;
• Educated 100 pupils on National Geography and Philippine Navy highlighting it’s role for lasting peace and sustainable development of the country;
• Held Essay Writing Contest to reinforce lectures and develop writing skills.
• Donated fabricated trash cans to Victory Village Elementary School, and Brgy 27 and 28, of Legazpi City;
• Facilitated feeding program to 100 children and emphasized the importance of good nutrition;
• Facilitated goodwill basketball game with Team Navy and Brgy basketball team;
• Participated in the celebration of the 24th International Coastal Clean-up Day.

BRP Iloilo (PS-32) is one of several Miguel Malvar class Patrol Corvettes in service with the Philippine Navy. She is formerly an ex-USN Patrol Craft Escort based on the Admirable class minesweeper hull that were produced during World War II, and is now classified as a corvette protecting the vast waters of the Philippines. BRP Iloilo is presently deployed at Bicol to complement efforts in affirming lasting peace and sustaining prosperity in the region.

PHILIPPINES: A MARITIME POWER

(A speech delivered by VICE ADMIRAL FERDINAND S GOLEZ AFP, Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy before Deans of Colleges, Faculty Members, and Students of Miriam College on 22 September 2009)

On behalf of the men and women of the Philippine Navy, I am distinctly pleased to be here today, to meet you all, students and faculty members of the College of International, Humanitarian and Development Studies here at Miriam College. It is such a rare privilege for the Navy, your Navy, to be given this opportunity to mingle with the future international politics and development experts of our country. I consider this as one of the greatest honors in my service life. Thank you very much for inviting me here.

Upon receiving your invitation from one of the passionate advocates for maritime nationhood, Dean Leticia Ramos-Shahani, the first thing that came to my mind was that: I should not miss this rare chance to acquaint you all with updates, on the realities that confront our state as a maritime nation and how your Philippine Navy is doing its best to address such concerns and opportunities. I would like also to emphasize upon you the significance of your Navy in the past, at present and in the future, and the seeming potentials of our country as a maritime power.

Let me begin by asking you this very simple question, are we divided by waters, or united by seas?

The Philippines is an archipelago and an archipelagic state. By definition from the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS, an archipelago consists of a group of islands, including parts of islands, interconnecting waters and other natural features which form an intrinsic geographical, economic, and political entity, or which have been historically regarded as such. The archipelagic design of our country is not a random coincidence. We are geo-strategically located at the heart of Southeast Asia. Our 7,100 islands, 300,000 square kilometers area with 36,289 kilometers of coastline provides us with the sustenance of our people, a source of wealth for our entrepreneurs, and a bridge that links one barangay to another and one island to another to form our archipelago.

As an archipelago, inevitably we have a rich maritime heritage and a legacy which transcended centuries. Filipino society flourished by the coasts with the surrounding seas as their enduring inspiration. Early Filipinos developed advanced techniques in boat-making, and developed maritime commerce among the islands of the archipelago. Indeed, the master of seas and oceans is our birthright, our identity. We are historically seafaring people. We are pre-destined to become a maritime power.

The naval strategist Alfred Thayer Mahan explicitly described that a great navy is a mark and prerequisite of national greatness. He described the six elements of being a maritime power. These are geographic position pertaining to the easy access to major trade routes; physical conformation or having vast seaboard and numerous deep ports; extent of territory or the proportion of population to the length of the coastline; number of population engaged in sea-going occupations; character of the people leaning towards commerce; and character of the government which builds a strong navy.

Relating these elements to our own potentials, the Philippines is a strategic niche, archipelagic in nature, which prompts easy access to major trade routes from interior via rivers and bays, not to mention the five international shipping routes that passes through the country. We are also at the apex of the coral triangle, having the most diverse coral reefs in the world. We have numerous deep and safe harbors that accommodate our naturally seafaring people. And the country is 5th in the world to have the easiest accessibility to the coast; having over 36 thousand kms of coastline, with 65 of the 81 provinces coastal.

Our glorious maritime history together with the making of a potential maritime power should only lead us to becoming what we are destined to be, towards our fate as an archipelago, that of maritime dominance. And indeed, we had a glorious past as a maritime power but through the years, we have disregarded this greatness and developed a continental awareness despite the distinctly coastal society.

Our country’s geographical form also presents us increasingly complex challenges, such as preservation of sovereignty over our vast waters, entry of maritime security threats, occurrences of maritime terrorism, as well as the onslaught of calamities and environmental disasters, both natural and man-made.

Because of the extent of the country’s maritime jurisdiction, that is about 2.2 million square kilometers, maritime security preservation in the Philippines has been a collaborative undertaking among various government agencies that coordinate in the strategic and operational levels. The Philippine Coast Guard, under the Department of Transportation and Communications, is the government agency that has the primary responsibility of promoting safety of life and property at sea and safeguards the marine environment and resources among others. The Armed Forces of the Philippines, under the Department of National Defense is mandated to be the protector of the people and the state. Its goal is to secure the sovereignty of the state and the integrity of the national territory. It is in this light that the Navy plays a crucial role, responsible for the naval defense of our maritime nation against all enemies, both foreign and domestic.

It is imperative, then, that we should have a strong and credible navy. A navy is a symbol of its nation’s pride and a versatile instrument of national power. Thus, we in the Philippine Navy, your Navy, hopes to reawaken our nation’s true identity as a maritime nation, to revive the maritime consciousness among our people so that we can set sail towards our destiny, regain our pride as heirs of a sophisticated maritime culture and develop our potentials as a maritime power.

Your Navy today remains committed to the defense of a united archipelagic Philippines and the security of our maritime economy as our vision proudly proclaims: “by 2020, we shall be a strong and credible navy that our maritime nation can be proud of.” We have formulated our roadmap, we call the Philippine Navy Strategic Sail Plan 2020, that serves as a blueprint for evolving towards a more responsive maritime institution that can address the needs of the Navy’s various stakeholders. Dean Shahani, other than being one of the very dedicated members of the Philippine Navy Board of Advisers, also helped us in crafting our Sail Plan.

In order to confront all possible security challenges of today as well as prepare for the future, your Navy performs while transforming. The Navy is the relevant force of the future, fighting on multi-dimensional battle space - on water, through our ships, manned by our trained and highly competent sailors; on air through the Navy’s air assets, manned by our highly-skilled naval aviators; on land, best exemplified by the elite fighting force, the fearless officers and enlisted men of the Philippine Marine Corps, and someday even beneath the surface of our seas.

With these capabilities, your Navy has traditionally three roles: military, constabulary and diplomatic. The military role addresses the call to secure and defend the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Philippines. This involves fleet-marine operations exploiting the ability of the force to maneuver from the sea that permits the application of military capabilities and sustainment of units. Further, naval presence is maintained within the Philippine’s area of maritime jurisdiction to reinforce claims in disputed territory and contested waters.

The diplomatic role prompts the Navy to contribute to regional peace and stability, and prevent inter-state conflicts. Your Navy ensures that its actions are for peaceful purposes and aims for cooperation rather than dispute with allied or partner navies. The Philippine Navy conducts a wide range of military and non-military activities designed to promote peace and security and enhance maritime security cooperation in the region.

The constabulary role is concerned with preserving the internal peace and unity of the Philippine archipelago. Your Navy, as an active guardian of national development, conducts inter-agency operations which pertains to coordinative efforts with other maritime enforcement agencies, such as the Philippine Coast Guard, Maritime Industry Authority, the Philippine National Police-Maritime Group, and the Bureau of Fisheries among others. In this cooperative regime, your Navy leverages its strength and competency with the mandate and expertise of our sister agencies in order to fulfill our non-core tasks under a delegation scheme. These include enforcement of our customs, narcotics, fisheries, environmental, and forestry laws and regulations.

At this time, as I speak before you, your Navy is out there principally in the Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-tawi archipelago leading the way as the main security force in that part of our country. As envisioned, we aim to attain genuine peace in this area in Mindanao as a prelude to its progress and development. Similarly, your Navy was the main effort in the search and rescue operations of the ill-fated Superferry 9 where hundreds of lives were saved on the Sulu Sea. Likewise, one of our capital ships, BRP QUEZON PS70, just completed her humanitarian mission in the island province of Batanes, where your Navy ably delivered diesel fuel for the NAPOCOR powerplant for sustained power generation of the province, as well as transported basic commodities for the residents of Batanes. If the Navy can lead the way in these representative areas of our country, there is no reason why we will not be as relevant for the entire nation.

Ultimately, your Navy is mandated to protect a wide range of our domestic interests at sea and in the coastal areas. Despite the limitation in resources, we continually address challenges that confront the peace and prosperity of our country.

So to answer my question earlier, as far as your Navy is concerned, the sea as our maritime space is not a physical obstacle but rather a bridge that transcends the physical separation of our islands thus linking each and every community to one archipelago, one identity, one Filipino maritime nation. It is a consolidating element of national identity and a way forward towards nationwide progress.

Your Navy is a firm believer in the Filipino maritime nation. We hope that all of you here will share in our dream of reaching naval prominence for the country’s welfare which ultimately will lead to naval dominance for lasting peace, progress, and development.

Before closing, please allow me to show you a video that I hope will enlighten you more, encourage you and other members of your family to serve our maritime nation, through our Philippine Navy.

In closing, in behalf of the Philippine Navy, let me thank you again for giving me this opportunity to spend a few hours with all of you, the great honor is mine.

Good Navy day to all! Go Navy Fleet-Marine team!!!

Navy Chief affirms commitment to the defense of country

By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

Wednesday, 23 September 2009

“Your Navy today remains committed to the defense of a united archipelagic Philippines and the security of our maritime economy.” This was the assurance given by Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez, Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy to students of Miriam College, Quezon City during a lecture on “Philippines: A Maritime Power” on 22 September 2009.

This commitment according to the Navy Chief is anchored on the Navy vision as enunciated in the PN Strategic Sail Plan: that “by 2020, the Navy shall be strong and credible that the Philippines as a maritime nation can be proud of.” “This Sail Plan,” Admiral Golez adds, “serves as a blueprint for evolving towards a more responsive maritime institution that can address the needs of the Navy’s various stakeholders.”

Admiral Golez expounded on the Navy’s three traditional roles: military, constabulary, and diplomatic. He also cited the Navy’s efforts in Mindanao. “At this time, as I speak before you, your Navy is out there principally in the Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi archipelago leading the way as the main security force in that part of the country. As envisioned, we aim to attain genuine peace in this area in Mindanao as a prelude to its progress and development,” he said.

Admiral Golez also cited tha Navy’s recent involvement in humanitarian mission where the Navy was the main effort during the search and rescue oeprations in the sinking of Super Ferry 9. He also cited Navy ship BRP Quezon, PS 70 which delievered diesel fuel for Napocor in the island province of Batanes, as well as transported basic commodities for residents in the area. “If the Navy can lead the way in these representative areas of our country, there is no reason why we will not be as relevant for the entire nation,” Vice Admiral Golez declared.

The lecture is part of the celebration of the College of International, Humanitarian and Development Studies (CIHDS) Week of Miriam College. Dr Leticia Ramos Shahani, Dean of CIHDS and one of the authors of the PN Strategic Sail Plan 2020 invited Admiral Golez to deliver a lecture before students of the College.

Part of the FOIC, PN’s lecture was the screening of the Navy instituitonal videos to introduce the Navy to the students. The PMC Quartet Band wowed the students with their song numbers. Joining the FOIC, PN are Maj Gen Juancho Sabban, Commandant, Philippine Marine Corps, Rear Admiral Danilo Cortez, Vice Commander, Philippine Navy, Rear Admiral Feliciano Angue, Chief of Naval Staff, and officers and enlisted personnel from the Fleet-Marine units in the Manila-Cavite area.

FOIC, PN Expresses Condolences to the Marine KIA

By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

Monday, 21 September 2009

Vadm Ferdinand S Golez, Flag Officer in Command expresses the condolences of the Philippine Navy to eight members (including an officer) of the Philippine Marine Corps who were killed in action in Sitio Talatac, Brgy Bato-Bato, Indanan, Sulu 1:50 pm today 21 September 2009. Nine of the Marines were wounded in a daring singular attack by around 100 terrorist Abu Sayyaf reportedly led by Dr. Abu against the passing 6-vehicle convoy.

The Marines from 4th Battalion were enroute back to headquarters after a successful operation that led to the successful retaking of Brgy. Buansa in Indanan yesterday when ambushed. The M-35 (6X6) truck the victims were boarding was hit by a Rocket Propelled Grenade bursting it into flame. The Marines instantaneously fired back inflicting casualties on their ambushers. Intel reports indicate that 3 were killed and around 5 wounded.

Security Forces from JTF Comet headed by MGen Ben D Dolorfino are bracing for retaliatory attacks like this one that followed shortly the flag-raising ceremony held 10:00 AM today in the once ASG-held camp. We will not allow terrorist groups and their Jemaah Islamiya cohorts to continue with their atrocities. These recent casualties from our ranks will not deter gov’t forces from seizing the momentum in these renewed surgical offensives these lawless groups who launch attacks even during Ramadan. (End)

Navy Ship Rescues 9 Passengers of Capsized Boat in Cotabato City

By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

Wednesday, 23 September 2009

The Philippine Navy’s Diesel Fast Craft (DF 323) rescued nine passengers of a capsized ferry boat in Cotabato City yesterday, 22 September 2009.

In a report sent by Cdr Elpidio Francisco, Commander, Naval Task Group 73 (CNTG 73) to Navy Chief Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez, DF 323 was on its way yesterday noon to Palembang, east of Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat when it was stopped by a motor boat who informed the Navy of the incident. Upon getting clearance from CNTG 73, PO3 James Collado, DF 323 boat captain immediately rushed to the rescue scene and recovered the nine passengers of F/B Pamela 7 in the vicinity off Lubong Pt, between Cotabato City and Kalamansig around 11pm.

F/B Pamela 7 with 20 passengers on board was bound for Kalamansig from Cotabato City when it capsized around 2pm Monday, 21 September 2009 due to rough seas. The incident however was not reported. The 11 other passengers who had been rescued earlier by a motor boat were brought to Cotabato City. The passengers rescued by the Navy- 7 males, 1 female and a child were ferried to Kalamansig last night.

The Navy’s immediate response that saved lives anew manifests its multi-faceted role that includes non-combat missions such as search and rescue operations during times of emergencies and natural calamities.

Updates On the Reported Apprehension of a Marine Personnel by Village Guards as of 1100H

By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

Friday, 18 September 2009

We are happy that the good Prof. Lumbera accepts our apology. We have already said that he was not subject of surveillance. The student is on an information/verification task per a given academic situation. Recognizing the apprehension of our countryman, the Navy has stopped the conduct of the practical exercises and, on its own initiative, initiated an inquiry on the incident. Further, VADM Ferdinand Golez, the Flag Officer In Command of the Philippine Navy has ordered the reevaluation of the training program particularly on the conduct of practical exercises like information and reports verification. We are committed into striking a good balance between realism in training and privacy concerns of persons and properties that may be affected in similar academic exercises. (End of Statement)

On the Reported Apprehension of a Marine Personnel by Village Guards

By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

Thursday, 17 September 2009

Reported apprehension by Maligaya Village guards of Corporal Guerrero Hannival M Mondido PN(M) for allegedly spying on Prof. Bienvenido Lumbera, a national artist:

1.) We confirm, he is a Navy Personnel.

2.) He is undergoing the Naval Enlisted Personnel Intelligence Course (NEPIC). Per info given by CAPT BAYANI GAERLAN, the Chief of the Naval Intelligence, CPL Guerrero was tasked to conduct an “information verification” pursuant to a scenario where a house on that address was frequented by a communist insurgent leader. He went there to verify but was accosted.

3.) We apologize to Prof. Bienvenido Lumbera for any inconvenience the incident had caused him. Director, Naval Intelligence Training Institute is preparing a formal letter for the good professor.

4.) The student likely flanked that module and he could be Returned to Unit (RTU). He did not only fail the requirement of his scenario, he was even caught. (End of Statement)

ASG Attack on Navy Engineers in Basilan Won't Derail School Building Project

BY: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office


An attack by the bandit Abu Sayyaf Group to a team of naval engineers in Basilan will not deter the Navy from completing the school building project in Sumisip town. This was the assurance given by Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez, Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy after receiving reports of the assault by the ASG.

Members of the 39th Marine Company, Marine Battalion Landing Team-9, who were providing security to the team of engineers exchanged fire with an undetermined number of ASG Friday morning, 11 September 2009. The engineers from the Naval Construction Brigade (Seabees) were reconstructing school buildings at Sitio Erely, Brgy Central, Sumisip town that were burned down by the ASG in March 2009.

The Marines who immediately returned fire forced the enemy to flee. Reinforcements from a nearby detachment arrived to conduct clearing operations. No casualties were reported on either side.

Vice Admiral Golez said the Navy’s Fleet-Marine team remains firm in its commitment of delivering services and humanitarian projects in the area despite threats posed by lawless groups. “The Navy recognizes the importance of this project to uplift the lives of residents and the vicious attack by the ASG will not stop us from pursuing development projects in Basilan.” “This attack only emboldens the Navy all the more to pursue development projects where they are needed the most,” added Vice Admiral Golez.

In winning the hearts and minds of the people, the AFP shifts its fight from the battlefield to Civil Military Operations (CMO) that will involve soldiers in medical, dental, disaster relief, government development projects, and other humanitarian missions.

Navy Confiscates 100 Drums of Smuggled Gasoline in Sulu

BY: LTCOL ADGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

Following the government’s drive to decimate economic saboteurs, Philippine Navy vessel BRP Rafael Pargas (PG 379) confiscated 100 drums of smuggled gasoline in Parang, Sulu Thursday afternoon, 10 September 2009. The smuggled gasoline was on board M/L J-Sayang-1 when the Navy intercepted the motor launch in the vicinity southwest off Bunga Pt, Parang, Sulu.

Patrol Gunboat 379 and elements of Naval Special Operations Unit-6 launched the operation based on intelligence information from NISG- Western Mindanao. Board and search procedure conducted by the Navy yielded the drums of smuggled gasoline with an estimated market value of P607,500.00. The items, without proper documents are reportedly from Sandakan, Malaysia. The said motor launch is owned by a certain Jomalol Dahi while the ship’s master is identified as Master Patronbara Uri with 13 crew and one passenger. The Navy vessel escorted the motor launch to Jolo Pier for proper turn-over to the local office of the Bureau of Customs.

Navy units in the south have remained vigilant in their inter-agency conduct of maritime operations together with the Bureau of Customs to prevent pirates and lawless groups from exploiting our marine resources and using our maritime territory for their illegal activities. “A secure maritime environment is a big boost to the government’s economic development goals and peace efforts especially in Mindanao,” says Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez, Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy. “The Philippine Navy remains committed to its objectives through intensified operations of Fleet-Marine units all over the country against insurgent and separatist groups, smugglers and other lawless and criminal elements who retard the country’s economic gains.”
In July this year, intensified maritime and negation patrols resulted in the confiscation of smuggled goods worth P10.95 million in the Basilan-Sulu area. LCdr Ronnie C Pava is the skipper of PG 379.

NETC Relief Efforts re-Botolan Zambales Flooding

By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

Friday, 11 September 2009

O/a 0913130H Sep 09, NETC dispatched the PN Assistance and Rescue Teams 3 and 4 to transport relief goods from Botolan PDCC Provincial Capitol to Brgy Carael, Botolan, Zambales. The teams are composed of 2 officers, 2 medical officers, 18 enlisted personnel with 1 M35 truck, 1 Almazora Bus and 2 rubber boats with OBM. Progress Report to follow.

Leadership Retreat for Navy Officers Reinforces 7 Habits of Effective People

By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

Wednesday, 09 September 2009

The Philippine Navy concluded its 4-day Leadership Retreat at the Development Academy of the Philippines, Tagaytay City on 04 September 2009. The activity was attended by 30 junior and mid-level officers from various Fleet-Marine units of the Navy.

Anchored on Franklin Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, the activity aims to impart among participants principles and techniques among supervisors that would translate in a highly effective workforce and mission accomplishment. Mr. Simon C. Mossesgeld, a team-building and leadership consultant of the Ateneo de Manila University’s Center for Leadership and Change, Inc facilitated the discussions and workshops during the retreat.

The 7 Habits according to Franklin Covey, a global professional-services firm, include the following: be proactive; begin with the end in mind; put first things first; think win-win; seek first to understand, then to be understood; synergize; sharpen the saw.

The Leadership Retreat initiated by the Center for Naval Leadership and Excellence (CNLE) is one of the ventures of the Center in strengthening leadership and excellence in the Officers Corps in line with the Navy Sail Plan 2020. Just last month, the Center conducted the 8th Leg of its Leadership Forum Series with Justice Secretary Reynato S. Puno as the Guest Speaker.

According to Navy Chief Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez, these undertakings will greatly improve the professionalism and promote value enhancement among the Navy’s officers personnel. These traits are highly important as the Navy strives to achieve its vision as enunciated in the PN Sail Plan: that by 2020, the Navy shall be strong and credible that the Philippines as a maritime nation can be proud of.

Navy Inaugurates Fitness Center

By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

Wednesday, 09 September 2009

The Philippine Navy inaugurated today, 08 September 2009 the Progressive Readiness Training Center (PRTC) in Naval Station Jose Francisco, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. The PRTC, a fitness gym located at the 2nd floor of the Jurado Hall, boasts of world-class facilities and modern gym equipment that Philippine Navy personnel can avail of.

Qualified instructors are also available during gym hours that include Saturdays and Sundays. Aside from Navy personnel, the gym which charges a minimal fee, is also open to Navy dependents, personnel from the Air Force, Army, and PNP. The PRTC also welcomes Navy personnel who have retired from the service as well as guests and civilians who are not dependents of Navy personnel.

Coinciding with the inauguration ceremony this afternoon is the opening ceremony of the HPN & HSG Sportsfest 2009 wherein units from the Navy Headquarters, Naval Station Jose Andrada, Roxas Blvd, Manila will compete in basketball, volleyball, badminton, and table tennis. An added highlight is the awarding of Physical Fitness Badge to officers and personnel who garnered the highest scores in the annual Physical Fitness Test (PFT). The PFT was supervised by The Naval Special Service Office, who will also oversee the management and maintenance of the PRTC.

Navy Chief Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez, a health and fitness enthusiast, said that the PRTC stands as a commitment to the wellness, health, and general well-being of Navy personnel. “The facility will provide us with our needs, provide us with our requirements, and provide us with the different necessities that are needed in the pursuit of our duties and responsibilities”, added Vice Admiral Golez.

Philippine Navy Search, Rescue and Recovery Operations Unrelenting as of 0740H

By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

Monday, 07 September 2009

Navy Patrol Gunboat 111 and Diesel Fast 348 are now at the Search and Rescue or Recovery (SARR) area relieving-in place the six Philippine Navy Vessels that promptly begun rescue operations as early as 730 AM of 06 Sept 09.

CDR RAMIL ENRIQUEZ, CO of PG 111 reports oil sleek in the area. Weather is fine.

Philippine Navy’s PG 116, PG 117, Multi-Purpose Attack Crafts BA 482 and BA 483, and the 2 Rigid-Hull Inflatable Boats had to return to Naval Forces Western Mindanao Headquarters in Zamboanga City for refueling and reprovisioning after 18 hrs of unrelenting SAR operations and its food and water given to the hungry and thirsty passengers rescued.

Navy Chief VADM Ferdinand Golez directs unrelenting rescue operations even at night time aware that time is ticking against the passengers who may still be struggling to survive.

Philippine Navy Search and Rescue Operations on Superferry 9 Passengers

By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

Sunday, 06 September 2009



>As early as 450AM of 06Sept09 Sunday, Naval Forces Western Mindanao Commander RAdm Alexander Pama dispatched 2 Patrol Gunboats (PG 116 under CDR Carlos Sabarre and PG117 under LCdr Teofilo Pulmano);

>Around 530AM Navy Chief Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez directed all available floating and air assets in the area to be deployed. Two Multi-Purpose Attack Crafts (BA 482 & BA483) dispatched to SAR operations area; at break of sunlight, Navy Islander aircraft took off from NavForWeM Headquarters to the SAR area;



>As of 720 AM the FIRST GOVERNMENT vessel ever to arrive in the SAR area in Siocon Bay, ZDN is Navy Patrol Gunboat 116, followed by Navy PG 117 at around 745AM. Immediately, the personnel of the vessels began retrieval of passengers of the ill-fated ferry.

>As of 820AM, around 115 passengers were already rescued by the four Navy Vessels. Naval ad hoc task group Superferry 9 headed by on-scene officer CDR Sabarre was formed to integrate navy rescue efforts and coordinate efforts of other rescue agencies arriving in the area. He reported that most rescued passengers were “very weak and needing urgent medical attention”. Drinking water is also a scarce.

> NavForWestern Mindanao operations coordinated for the availability of said personnel, water, and first aid kits, & medicines.

>At around 10AM, PG 116 has rescued 111 (including the Ship Captain of Superferry9) ; PG117 has rescued 59 (with 1 casualty); BA483 has 17 and BA482 has 71;

>As of 1120AM, Two Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats with one team each of Phil Navy SEALs were dispatched to augment the rescue and retrieval teams already in the area; RAdm Pama, MGen Ben Dolorfino, CG, Westmincom flew to the SAR area to personally assess the situation.

>As of 2PM, the Navy Contingent alone (emphasis supplied so as to avoid confusion as to the figures) has rescued 442 passengers while 4 dead bodies were retrieved. From the number, the earlier passengers rescued or recovered were brought by MV Meriad to Zamboanga City as of 130PM;

>Navy Chief Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez condoles w/ the families of those that succumbed in this latest sea tragedy even as rescue and retrieval operations by the Navy and other government agencies are still ongoing. "The Phil Navy remains steadfast in its commitment to serve our countrymen especially in times of crisis by being there when needed the most," he said in a statement. .

Update in Super Ferry 9 Incident as 0930H

By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

Sunday, 06 September 2009



As of 0830H, the vessel already capsized (bottom hull is sighted) at vicinity 5.2NM SW off Talulu Pt., Sibuco Bay, Zamboanga Del Norte or at Lat 07 Deg 29.5 mins N Long deg 57.3 min E. A total of 227 passengers (1 drowned) were rescued and transferred to MV Meriad. As of 0845H, following vessels have embarked passengers onboard: PG116 - 36; PG117 – 20; BA 483 – 17; and BA 482 – 71. Search and rescue operations still ongoing.

Update in Super Ferry 9 Incident as 0632H

By:LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

Sunday, 06 September 2009



As of 450 AM 06 Sept 09 Patrol Gunboat 116 and Patrol Gunboat 117 have been dispatched from the Naval Forces Western Mindanao headquarters to help Superferry 9 in distress. By around 730 AM, the Navy vessels are expected to be in the search and Rescue area in Siocon Bay, 17 nautical miles off SW off Zamboanga, says Rear Admiral Alexander Pama, the Commander of Naval Forces Western Mindanao. Navy Chief Vice Admiral Ferdinand Golez directed other naval floating and air assets in the area to assist in the rescue operation following a reported “abandon ship” order from the captain of Superferry. The Navy’s newly acquired Multi-Purposed Attack craft has been dispatched as of 6 AM to be aided by a Navy Islander (Aircraft) to act as spotter took off as of same time. Progress reports to follow.

Navy Apprehends Vessels Engaged in Illegal Fishing In Pangasinan

By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

Thursday, 03 September 2009

The Navy in coordination with the Municipal Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council (MFARMC) apprehended five fishing boats engaged in illegal fishing in Pangasinan on Tuesday evening, 01 September 2009. Two Navy vessels- BRP Alberto Navarette (PG 394) and Diesel Fast Craft 317 (DF 317)- were immediately dispatched after Naval Forces Luzon (NAVFORNOL) Command received information about an ongoing illegal fishing activity in San Fabian town.

The Navy vessels intercepted the five fishing boats past 10PM northwest off Guecet Pt, Dagupan. The five fishing boats identified as F/B St Jude, F/B Jinky-1, F/B Blade Maker, F/B Lady Liza, and F/B Hannah Gayle were caught fishing using fine mesh net, which is a violation of Republic Act 8550 or the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998. Confiscated from the five fishing boats were an undetermined volume of fish species and fishing gears approximately worth P120,000.00. The boats with a total crew of 20 personnel were also operating without pertinent documents. The confiscated items and the boat crew were turned over to local MFARMC and PNP officials.

With its goal of combating illegal fishing activities in the area, Naval Forces Northern Luzon (NAVFORNOL) Command have intensified its maritime patrol and maritime law enforcement operations in its area of responsibility. NAVFORNOL has also strengthened its tie-up with various local government units and other government agencies in northern Luzon as a way to help local fisher folks from being deprived of their income due to illegal fishing activities in the north.