LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Wednesday, 30 December 2009
Navy Seals and Marines in pursuit operations vs bandit Abu Sayyaf Kidnap Group and the remnants of Basilan Jailbreak clash with lawless elements group.
Firefight erupted between Navy troops and undetermined number of armed men 7:25pm, 29 December 2009 at Brgy Candiis, Mohammad Ajul, Basilan.
VADM FERDINAND S GOLEZ, Navy Chief condoles with the families of a Lieutenant Junior Grade and a Petty Officer Third Class (PO3) of the Navy Special Operations Unit 6 based in Naval Forces Western Mindanao were Killed-In-Action (KIA). A Seaman First Class (SN1) was wounded but now in stable condition in a military hospital.
Rear Admiral Alexander Pama, the commander of Naval Forces Western Mindanao Command directed the extrication of casualties from the armed engagement site while the operation continues vs the group headed by Abu Sayyaf subleader Muntong Pula.
“We will be relentless in the pursuit operations even during the holiday. We have to get these convicts and terrorists and bring them to justice. There’s no reason for a revelry with them lurking in the hinterlands of Basilan.”
Lieutenant Colonel Edgard A Arevalo PN(M), Navy Spokesman.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Statement of the Naval Public Affairs Office re Sinking of MV Catalyn B and MV Baleno 9 as of 271430H Dec 09
LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Sunday,27 December 2009
After four days of aerial search by our Navy Islanders and two days of sea surface search for missing passengers by four of our ships, we are yet to see survivors from Catalyn B. Accounts from survivors that the ship capsized in less than two minutes reinforces our apprehensions that those twenty one (21) missing could have gone down with the ship.
We are hoping otherwise in case of the reported 22 still missing among the 88 reported personnel of MB Baleno 9 (per Coast Guard PIO: 70 passengers; 18 crew; 62 survivors; 4 casualty; 22 missing). After navy aerial search at 7:55 AM onwards today and accounts of survivors that more could have perished, the Navy search and rescue teams aboard PS 32 to be joined by PG 394 race against time to save any of or all the missing passengers. We are soliciting prayers that may the rescuers find the survivors at the nick of time. (End)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Sunday,27 December 2009
After four days of aerial search by our Navy Islanders and two days of sea surface search for missing passengers by four of our ships, we are yet to see survivors from Catalyn B. Accounts from survivors that the ship capsized in less than two minutes reinforces our apprehensions that those twenty one (21) missing could have gone down with the ship.
We are hoping otherwise in case of the reported 22 still missing among the 88 reported personnel of MB Baleno 9 (per Coast Guard PIO: 70 passengers; 18 crew; 62 survivors; 4 casualty; 22 missing). After navy aerial search at 7:55 AM onwards today and accounts of survivors that more could have perished, the Navy search and rescue teams aboard PS 32 to be joined by PG 394 race against time to save any of or all the missing passengers. We are soliciting prayers that may the rescuers find the survivors at the nick of time. (End)
Statement of Naval Public Affairs Office re-sinking incident of MV Baleno 9
LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Sunday, 27 December 2009
In regard to the reported capsizing of MV Baleno 9, a RORO Type vessel plying Calapan Oriental Mindoro-Batangas City route, Philippine Navy Chief Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez AFP orders the forthwith dispatch of Disaster Response and Rescue Teams of the Fleet-Marine Ready Force to conduct search and rescue. BRP Iloilo (PS32) with medical team departed Cavite at 04:13 A.M. for Verde Island where the incident happened. Navy Islander with tail number PNI 312 takes off for aerial search 7 A.M. Another aircraft, PNH 412 on-call. Meanwhile, a smaller and more agile Navy vessel PG 394 directed to depart Subic as soon as possible to proceed vicinity Verde Island. “In the face of all these untoward incidents anew and amidst our limitations, our countrymen can depend on your Navy for succor,” says Vice Admiral Golez. (End)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Sunday, 27 December 2009
In regard to the reported capsizing of MV Baleno 9, a RORO Type vessel plying Calapan Oriental Mindoro-Batangas City route, Philippine Navy Chief Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez AFP orders the forthwith dispatch of Disaster Response and Rescue Teams of the Fleet-Marine Ready Force to conduct search and rescue. BRP Iloilo (PS32) with medical team departed Cavite at 04:13 A.M. for Verde Island where the incident happened. Navy Islander with tail number PNI 312 takes off for aerial search 7 A.M. Another aircraft, PNH 412 on-call. Meanwhile, a smaller and more agile Navy vessel PG 394 directed to depart Subic as soon as possible to proceed vicinity Verde Island. “In the face of all these untoward incidents anew and amidst our limitations, our countrymen can depend on your Navy for succor,” says Vice Admiral Golez. (End)
Navy Responded to a Call after Boats Collide
LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Friday,25 December 2009
Navy alerts anew its search and rescue response teams to take action to a disaster call from a collision between M/B Catalyn B and F/V Anatalia at vicinity 4 kilometer northwest of Limbones Island, Cavite yesterday. Forty-six others have been rescued, twenty-four are still reportedly missing, while there are three who were recovered.
Naval Disaster Response Task Unit-National Capital Region(NDRTU-NCR) has been organized to formally undertake the search and rescue mission headed by COMMO JOSE MIGUEL S RODRIGUEZ AFP. Navy’s BRP Sulpicio Fernandez (PG853) with full complement of 3 officers and 15 crew and 2 Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat from the Naval Special Operations Group had been in the search area for two days now to assist the Philippine Coast Guard. Two Naval vessels, BRP Dagupan City(LC551) and BRP Iloilo(PS 32), also proceeded in the area. Likewise, Navy Aircrafts PNI 312 and PNH 421 took off from Naval Base Heracleo Alano and help out in the search and rescue. A medical team from Cavite Naval Hospital (CNH) was also augmented to render assistance to those who are in need of medical attention and care.
A series of tragedies have struck the Philippines over recent months and this is another painful incident that befell our countrymen, especially this Christmas. But as the nation is being confronted by these challenges, your Philippine Navy units remain organized, equipped and are suited for deployment at a moment’s notice. Your Navy works and performs even non-combat roles hand-in-hand with other government and non-government agencies to help our countrymen in need.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Friday,25 December 2009
Navy alerts anew its search and rescue response teams to take action to a disaster call from a collision between M/B Catalyn B and F/V Anatalia at vicinity 4 kilometer northwest of Limbones Island, Cavite yesterday. Forty-six others have been rescued, twenty-four are still reportedly missing, while there are three who were recovered.
Naval Disaster Response Task Unit-National Capital Region(NDRTU-NCR) has been organized to formally undertake the search and rescue mission headed by COMMO JOSE MIGUEL S RODRIGUEZ AFP. Navy’s BRP Sulpicio Fernandez (PG853) with full complement of 3 officers and 15 crew and 2 Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat from the Naval Special Operations Group had been in the search area for two days now to assist the Philippine Coast Guard. Two Naval vessels, BRP Dagupan City(LC551) and BRP Iloilo(PS 32), also proceeded in the area. Likewise, Navy Aircrafts PNI 312 and PNH 421 took off from Naval Base Heracleo Alano and help out in the search and rescue. A medical team from Cavite Naval Hospital (CNH) was also augmented to render assistance to those who are in need of medical attention and care.
A series of tragedies have struck the Philippines over recent months and this is another painful incident that befell our countrymen, especially this Christmas. But as the nation is being confronted by these challenges, your Philippine Navy units remain organized, equipped and are suited for deployment at a moment’s notice. Your Navy works and performs even non-combat roles hand-in-hand with other government and non-government agencies to help our countrymen in need.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Statement of the Naval Public Affairs Office RE- Kidnapping Incident in Maluso, Basilan
Tuesday, 10 November 2009
BY: LTCOL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Marines are hot on tracks of the group responsible in the recent kidnapping incident of two persons reportedly abducted early today, 10 November 2009 in Masluso, Basilan. At around 9AM, BGEN EUGENIO CLEMEN, Commanding General, 1st Marine Brigade based in Basilan dispatched a company of Force Reconnaisance Marines and another Special Operations Platoon of Marines from MBLT-1 to pursue the unidentified kidnappers. The Marines has so far recovered a fragmentation grenade believed to be of the kidnappers in an area where the abductors purportedly halted to rest in transit to the jungles. A company of Army troopers from 32IB also pursues the kidnappers according to BGEN CLEMEN. Meanwhile, a Division Reconnaisance Company from the Army’s 1st Division based in Zamboanga is now rushing to Basilan onboard a Navy boat to reinforce the Marines.
We hope to intercept or catch up with the kidnappers before they reach the mountains and immediately rescue the victims.
No one claims responsibility yet.
BY: LTCOL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Marines are hot on tracks of the group responsible in the recent kidnapping incident of two persons reportedly abducted early today, 10 November 2009 in Masluso, Basilan. At around 9AM, BGEN EUGENIO CLEMEN, Commanding General, 1st Marine Brigade based in Basilan dispatched a company of Force Reconnaisance Marines and another Special Operations Platoon of Marines from MBLT-1 to pursue the unidentified kidnappers. The Marines has so far recovered a fragmentation grenade believed to be of the kidnappers in an area where the abductors purportedly halted to rest in transit to the jungles. A company of Army troopers from 32IB also pursues the kidnappers according to BGEN CLEMEN. Meanwhile, a Division Reconnaisance Company from the Army’s 1st Division based in Zamboanga is now rushing to Basilan onboard a Navy boat to reinforce the Marines.
We hope to intercept or catch up with the kidnappers before they reach the mountains and immediately rescue the victims.
No one claims responsibility yet.
Farm-to-Market Road in Basilan Inaugurated; Local Execs Urge Public to Cooperate with the AFP
Tuesday, 03 November 2009
BY: LTCOL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
The ground works for a major road in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan that connects three barangays which has seen recent encounters between the AFP and the bandit Abu Sayyaf Group was inaugurated on Wednesday, 28 October 2009.
BGEN EUGENIO N CLEMEN AFP, Commander, 1st Marine Brigade, Gov. Jum J. Akbar, and Mayor Ingatun Lukman G. Istaru of Tipo-Tipo led the inaugural ground-breaking ceremony. The nine (9)- kilometer farm-to-market road project in Tipo-Tipo will connect the provincial road to the Barangay roads of Sungkayot, Silangkum, and Matata-- sites of recent bloody armed encounters between the AFP and ASG. The project was a joint undertaking of the AFP and the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P). The 1st Mobile Naval Construction Battalion of the Naval Construction Brigade leads the implementation of the project.
Governor Akbar of Basilan Tipo-Tipo Mayor Istaru expressed their full support in the project and conveyed their appreciation during the ground-breaking ceremony. The Governor urged the Basilenos to cooperate with the military in ensuring completion of the project and report all acts by threat groups that will derail its timely completion.
Mayor Istaru for his part attributed the roots of criminalities in his town to the absence of roads that will connect the people to schools, clinics, market, and other infrastructures necessary for development. The two officials jointly urged their constituents to support and protect all projects initiated by the AFP for the betterment of the province.
RADM ALEXANDER P PAMA AFP, Commander, Naval Forces Western Mindanao stressed in his remarks the economic and strategic value of the road rehabilitation which will redound to the well being and security of the community.
RADM ALEXANDER P PAMA AFP, Commander, NFWM giving his remarks on the groundbreaking ceremony.
Governor Jum J. Akbar listens to CNFWM briefing on the plan of rehabilitation.
RADM PAMA, Gov. Akbar, CPT CLAYPOOL and BGEN CLEMEN laying the time capsule marking the start of the project.
LT CADISAL of 1MNCBN explains the details of the road rehabilitation at the project site.
BY: LTCOL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
The ground works for a major road in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan that connects three barangays which has seen recent encounters between the AFP and the bandit Abu Sayyaf Group was inaugurated on Wednesday, 28 October 2009.
BGEN EUGENIO N CLEMEN AFP, Commander, 1st Marine Brigade, Gov. Jum J. Akbar, and Mayor Ingatun Lukman G. Istaru of Tipo-Tipo led the inaugural ground-breaking ceremony. The nine (9)- kilometer farm-to-market road project in Tipo-Tipo will connect the provincial road to the Barangay roads of Sungkayot, Silangkum, and Matata-- sites of recent bloody armed encounters between the AFP and ASG. The project was a joint undertaking of the AFP and the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P). The 1st Mobile Naval Construction Battalion of the Naval Construction Brigade leads the implementation of the project.
Governor Akbar of Basilan Tipo-Tipo Mayor Istaru expressed their full support in the project and conveyed their appreciation during the ground-breaking ceremony. The Governor urged the Basilenos to cooperate with the military in ensuring completion of the project and report all acts by threat groups that will derail its timely completion.
Mayor Istaru for his part attributed the roots of criminalities in his town to the absence of roads that will connect the people to schools, clinics, market, and other infrastructures necessary for development. The two officials jointly urged their constituents to support and protect all projects initiated by the AFP for the betterment of the province.
RADM ALEXANDER P PAMA AFP, Commander, Naval Forces Western Mindanao stressed in his remarks the economic and strategic value of the road rehabilitation which will redound to the well being and security of the community.
RADM ALEXANDER P PAMA AFP, Commander, NFWM giving his remarks on the groundbreaking ceremony.
Governor Jum J. Akbar listens to CNFWM briefing on the plan of rehabilitation.
RADM PAMA, Gov. Akbar, CPT CLAYPOOL and BGEN CLEMEN laying the time capsule marking the start of the project.
LT CADISAL of 1MNCBN explains the details of the road rehabilitation at the project site.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Marines Inaugurate Health Center in Lamitan, Basilan
Tuesday, 03 November 2009
BY: LTCOL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
The Philippine Marines in Basilan headed by BGEN EUGENIO N CLEMEN AFP, Commander, 1st Marine Brigade inaugurated the newly-constructed Health Center in Barangay Bohe Bessey, Lamitan, Basilan on 27 October 2009. The Health Center completed in 24 October 2009 is one of the engineering projects of the AFP’s National Development Support Command (NDSC) in the province.
In his keynote address during the ceremony, BGEN CLEMEN stressed the importance of the project in the community. With the completion of the Health Center, the wellbeing of the poor barangay folks are assured of free health services, education and livelihood especially in that part of the war torn province of Basilan. He also urged the residents of the barangay to persuade their relatives and friends who are ASG members to avail the “Balik-Baril” Program of the government and return to the folds of the law.
Local officials of Lamitan especially Barangay Chair Herman A. Kasanarin of Bohe Bessey conveyed their gratitude and appreciation to the project. They noted as particularly noteworthy is how the Philippine Navy and the local leaders gathered their acts together in develoment endeavors in support to peace and development efforts in the province.
The project, which is in line with the Health Education and Livelihood Program (HELP) of the government, started in July this year was undertaken by the Philippine Navy Seabees headed by CDR MEDERICO R CELSO PN, Commanding Officer, 1st Mobile Naval Construction Battalion (1MNBN).
BGEN EUGENIO N CLEMEN AFP, Commander, 1st Marine Brigade giving his remarks during the inauguration ceremony of the Health Center in Brgy Bohe Bessey, Lamitan, Basilan.
Hon. Herman A. Kasanarin, Chairman of Brgy Bohe Bessey receiving the symbolic key of the Health Center from BGEN CLEMEN during the turn-over ceremony. Joining BGEN CLEMEN is LTCOL BENJAM J ESPINOSA PN(M)(GSC), Commanding Officer, Marine Battalion Landing Team-9.
Residents of Barangay Bohe Bessey availing of the free basic health services during the inauguration of the health center.
BY: LTCOL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
The Philippine Marines in Basilan headed by BGEN EUGENIO N CLEMEN AFP, Commander, 1st Marine Brigade inaugurated the newly-constructed Health Center in Barangay Bohe Bessey, Lamitan, Basilan on 27 October 2009. The Health Center completed in 24 October 2009 is one of the engineering projects of the AFP’s National Development Support Command (NDSC) in the province.
In his keynote address during the ceremony, BGEN CLEMEN stressed the importance of the project in the community. With the completion of the Health Center, the wellbeing of the poor barangay folks are assured of free health services, education and livelihood especially in that part of the war torn province of Basilan. He also urged the residents of the barangay to persuade their relatives and friends who are ASG members to avail the “Balik-Baril” Program of the government and return to the folds of the law.
Local officials of Lamitan especially Barangay Chair Herman A. Kasanarin of Bohe Bessey conveyed their gratitude and appreciation to the project. They noted as particularly noteworthy is how the Philippine Navy and the local leaders gathered their acts together in develoment endeavors in support to peace and development efforts in the province.
The project, which is in line with the Health Education and Livelihood Program (HELP) of the government, started in July this year was undertaken by the Philippine Navy Seabees headed by CDR MEDERICO R CELSO PN, Commanding Officer, 1st Mobile Naval Construction Battalion (1MNBN).
BGEN EUGENIO N CLEMEN AFP, Commander, 1st Marine Brigade giving his remarks during the inauguration ceremony of the Health Center in Brgy Bohe Bessey, Lamitan, Basilan.
Hon. Herman A. Kasanarin, Chairman of Brgy Bohe Bessey receiving the symbolic key of the Health Center from BGEN CLEMEN during the turn-over ceremony. Joining BGEN CLEMEN is LTCOL BENJAM J ESPINOSA PN(M)(GSC), Commanding Officer, Marine Battalion Landing Team-9.
Residents of Barangay Bohe Bessey availing of the free basic health services during the inauguration of the health center.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Empowering LGUs in Disaster Response Management
Friday, 30 October 2009
BY: LTCOL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
With the onslaught of Typhoons “Ondoy” and “Pepeng” that saw the pressing need for immediate action by the Local Government Units (LGU) to respond to distress calls, the Philippine Navy has undertaken measures to empower LGUs in disaster response management.
Two teams from the Naval Forces Northern Luzon (NAVFORNOL) based in La Union recently conducted a training demonstration on proper boat handling inLingayen, Pangasinan and Laoag City in Ilocos Norte. The move aims enhance the capability of LGUs to respond to emergency situations during calamities. The Navy teams taught participants the basics of rescue operations and employing rescue equipment.
Though Disaster Response and Rescue Teams (DRRT) are integrated into naval units all over the country and deployed as the need arises, the Navy advocates self-reliance among LGUs for the conduct of search and rescue missions during natural calamities and disasters.
BY: LTCOL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
With the onslaught of Typhoons “Ondoy” and “Pepeng” that saw the pressing need for immediate action by the Local Government Units (LGU) to respond to distress calls, the Philippine Navy has undertaken measures to empower LGUs in disaster response management.
Two teams from the Naval Forces Northern Luzon (NAVFORNOL) based in La Union recently conducted a training demonstration on proper boat handling inLingayen, Pangasinan and Laoag City in Ilocos Norte. The move aims enhance the capability of LGUs to respond to emergency situations during calamities. The Navy teams taught participants the basics of rescue operations and employing rescue equipment.
Though Disaster Response and Rescue Teams (DRRT) are integrated into naval units all over the country and deployed as the need arises, the Navy advocates self-reliance among LGUs for the conduct of search and rescue missions during natural calamities and disasters.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Harsh Weather Forces Chinese Vessel to Seek Shelter in Quezon
Monday, 26 October 2009
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Responding to an emergency call of a reported Chinese fishing vessel at vicinity Panukulan, Quezon, Commodore Joel Babas, Commander of Naval Forces Southern Luzon (NAVFORSOL) directed Navy vessel Diesel Fast Craft 321 (DF 321) from Puerto Real Pier with representatives from Task Force Likas Yaman to interdict the suspected vessel. At around 5:30 AM yesterday, 25 October 2009, the inter-agency group accosted the Chinese fishing vessel Bao-feing of Panamanian registry loaded with round logs. After a thorough investigation by TF Likas Yaman Puerto Real representatives headed by Atty. Dennis Guererro disclosed that apprehended vessel with 24 crew has complete documents. It is enroute to China from Solomon Islands when it encountered harsh weather forcing it to seek shelter in Quezon.
The Navy’s immediate response manifests its unrelenting and unequivocal stand in safeguarding and preserving our forest and marine resources from any and all unlawful exploitations from within and without.
Two weeks ago, the Philippine Navy confiscated 1,680 board feet of illegal logs worth over P70,000.00 in separate occasions in Cagayan and Palawan. The Navy along with representatives from the Coast Guard, LGU-Cagayancillo, and Tubattaha Management Office apprehended five individuals who were caught transporting 10 sharks, considered as endangered species in Palawan.
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Responding to an emergency call of a reported Chinese fishing vessel at vicinity Panukulan, Quezon, Commodore Joel Babas, Commander of Naval Forces Southern Luzon (NAVFORSOL) directed Navy vessel Diesel Fast Craft 321 (DF 321) from Puerto Real Pier with representatives from Task Force Likas Yaman to interdict the suspected vessel. At around 5:30 AM yesterday, 25 October 2009, the inter-agency group accosted the Chinese fishing vessel Bao-feing of Panamanian registry loaded with round logs. After a thorough investigation by TF Likas Yaman Puerto Real representatives headed by Atty. Dennis Guererro disclosed that apprehended vessel with 24 crew has complete documents. It is enroute to China from Solomon Islands when it encountered harsh weather forcing it to seek shelter in Quezon.
The Navy’s immediate response manifests its unrelenting and unequivocal stand in safeguarding and preserving our forest and marine resources from any and all unlawful exploitations from within and without.
Two weeks ago, the Philippine Navy confiscated 1,680 board feet of illegal logs worth over P70,000.00 in separate occasions in Cagayan and Palawan. The Navy along with representatives from the Coast Guard, LGU-Cagayancillo, and Tubattaha Management Office apprehended five individuals who were caught transporting 10 sharks, considered as endangered species in Palawan.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Navy Confiscates Illegal Logs in Cagayan and Palawan, Apprehend Poachers
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Friday, 23 October 2009
The Philippine Navy confiscated illegal logs and apprehended poachers in Cagayan and Palawan in three separate ocassions last week.
Members of the Naval Special Operations Unit-2 intercepted a motor banca carrying 46 pieces of lumber (red lawaan) in the vicinity of San Vicente Island, Sta Ana, Cagayan, Friday evening, 16 October 2009. The undocumented forest products measuring 680 board feet have an estimated market value of P20,000.00. Aso discovered aboard the motor banca was a chainsaw unit worth P30,000.00. The Navy team was conducting seaborne patrol in the area when it spotted the watercraft.
Meanwhile, Navy personnel conducting maritime patrol in Canabongan Island, Balabac, Palawan also intercepted a watercraft transporting around 100 pieces of illegally cut lumber, locally known as Ipil, Thursday afternoon, 15 October 2009. The forest products measuring 1,000 board feet and bound for Malaysia have an estimated market value of P52,184.40
In another operation in Palawan, personnel from the Tubbataha Reef Detachment (composed of personnel from the Navy, Coast Guard, LGU-Cagayancillo, and Tubattaha Management Office) apprehended five individuals who were caught transporting 10 sharks, considered as endangered species, aboard a watercraft Thursday morning, 15 October 2009. The authorities who chased F/BCA Alma Mae after it gnored warning shots discovered the creatures when it conducted board and search procedure. Also discovered were various fishing gears and paraphernalia.
Apprehending authorities were forced to throw away the dead sharks midway off Tubbataha and Puerto Princesa City while on its way to escort the five crew members of F/BCA Alma Mae to Puerto Princesa City for proper turn-over to local authorities.
The Navy remains committed to the protection and preservation of our marine resources especially in the vulnerable fringes of our territorial waters that are seldom patrolled. As in the many circumstances in the past, the Navy endeavors and perpetuates the protection of our economy and patrimony especially in the vast and porous borders of our maritime nation.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Friday, 23 October 2009
The Philippine Navy confiscated illegal logs and apprehended poachers in Cagayan and Palawan in three separate ocassions last week.
Members of the Naval Special Operations Unit-2 intercepted a motor banca carrying 46 pieces of lumber (red lawaan) in the vicinity of San Vicente Island, Sta Ana, Cagayan, Friday evening, 16 October 2009. The undocumented forest products measuring 680 board feet have an estimated market value of P20,000.00. Aso discovered aboard the motor banca was a chainsaw unit worth P30,000.00. The Navy team was conducting seaborne patrol in the area when it spotted the watercraft.
Meanwhile, Navy personnel conducting maritime patrol in Canabongan Island, Balabac, Palawan also intercepted a watercraft transporting around 100 pieces of illegally cut lumber, locally known as Ipil, Thursday afternoon, 15 October 2009. The forest products measuring 1,000 board feet and bound for Malaysia have an estimated market value of P52,184.40
In another operation in Palawan, personnel from the Tubbataha Reef Detachment (composed of personnel from the Navy, Coast Guard, LGU-Cagayancillo, and Tubattaha Management Office) apprehended five individuals who were caught transporting 10 sharks, considered as endangered species, aboard a watercraft Thursday morning, 15 October 2009. The authorities who chased F/BCA Alma Mae after it gnored warning shots discovered the creatures when it conducted board and search procedure. Also discovered were various fishing gears and paraphernalia.
Apprehending authorities were forced to throw away the dead sharks midway off Tubbataha and Puerto Princesa City while on its way to escort the five crew members of F/BCA Alma Mae to Puerto Princesa City for proper turn-over to local authorities.
The Navy remains committed to the protection and preservation of our marine resources especially in the vulnerable fringes of our territorial waters that are seldom patrolled. As in the many circumstances in the past, the Navy endeavors and perpetuates the protection of our economy and patrimony especially in the vast and porous borders of our maritime nation.
Marines to Render Hero’s Welcome to Officer Killed in Sulu Bomb Explosion
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Friday, 23 October 2009
The Marine officer who was hit by a landmine last Wednesday while leading his team during patrol in Patikul, Sulu will be accorded hero’s welcome today, 23 October 2009 at the Marine Headquarters in Taguig City.
MAJ GEN JUANCHO A SABBAN AFP, Commandant, Philippine Marine Corps will lead officers and enlisted personnel in paying their last respects to a fallen comrade, 2LT DULAN F CORDERO PN(M). The late Marine officer will be awarded the Posthomous Wounded Medal.
A landmine hit 2LT CORDERO who was conducting patrol with his team from the Marine Battalion Landing Team-5 (MBLT-5) along the vicinities of Barangay Upper Tugas in Patikul, Sulu on Wednesday morning, 21 October 2009. The device was planted along the cut off water pipe that exploded when MBLT-5 passed near the vicinity to check the water pipe. Another Marine was also wounded during the incident.
2LT CORDERO graduated from the PMA in 2006 and was assigned to Sulu in March 2007 after completing his training at the Marine Base Ternate. The former corps commander of his ROTC unit in Tacloban City, 2LT CORDERO, 27 years old, excelled in judo during his cadet days and was a company commander in the academy.
“His leadership trait always stood out. Once he set a goal, he was determined to achieve it”, said 2LT Rafael Naranjo, a former company-mate at the PMA and also a Marine officer now assigned in Sulu. He adds that being competitive and a fighter was deeply ingrained in Cordero’s character.
According to a former roommate, Cordero who is the eldest in a brood of three, was aware of the dangers facing the job did but this did not discourage him from joining the Marines. “He wanted to be a warrior”, said Ens Nelson Alquiza who is now a Navy pilot.
Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez condoles with the family of 2LT CORDERO. Despite suffering casualties during the recent attacks in Sulu, the Navy leadership will not be detered from pursuing lasting peace and progress in Mindanao through its security efforts and various humanitarian projects undertaken by the soldiers. According to Vice Admiral Golez, putting an end to the Navy’s operations in the island-province would lend futile the sacrifice of the soldiers in the south especially those who have died in battle.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Friday, 23 October 2009
The Marine officer who was hit by a landmine last Wednesday while leading his team during patrol in Patikul, Sulu will be accorded hero’s welcome today, 23 October 2009 at the Marine Headquarters in Taguig City.
MAJ GEN JUANCHO A SABBAN AFP, Commandant, Philippine Marine Corps will lead officers and enlisted personnel in paying their last respects to a fallen comrade, 2LT DULAN F CORDERO PN(M). The late Marine officer will be awarded the Posthomous Wounded Medal.
A landmine hit 2LT CORDERO who was conducting patrol with his team from the Marine Battalion Landing Team-5 (MBLT-5) along the vicinities of Barangay Upper Tugas in Patikul, Sulu on Wednesday morning, 21 October 2009. The device was planted along the cut off water pipe that exploded when MBLT-5 passed near the vicinity to check the water pipe. Another Marine was also wounded during the incident.
2LT CORDERO graduated from the PMA in 2006 and was assigned to Sulu in March 2007 after completing his training at the Marine Base Ternate. The former corps commander of his ROTC unit in Tacloban City, 2LT CORDERO, 27 years old, excelled in judo during his cadet days and was a company commander in the academy.
“His leadership trait always stood out. Once he set a goal, he was determined to achieve it”, said 2LT Rafael Naranjo, a former company-mate at the PMA and also a Marine officer now assigned in Sulu. He adds that being competitive and a fighter was deeply ingrained in Cordero’s character.
According to a former roommate, Cordero who is the eldest in a brood of three, was aware of the dangers facing the job did but this did not discourage him from joining the Marines. “He wanted to be a warrior”, said Ens Nelson Alquiza who is now a Navy pilot.
Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez condoles with the family of 2LT CORDERO. Despite suffering casualties during the recent attacks in Sulu, the Navy leadership will not be detered from pursuing lasting peace and progress in Mindanao through its security efforts and various humanitarian projects undertaken by the soldiers. According to Vice Admiral Golez, putting an end to the Navy’s operations in the island-province would lend futile the sacrifice of the soldiers in the south especially those who have died in battle.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Launching of the AFP Photo Exhibit In Partnership with SM Mall of Asia for the benefit of the victims of Typhoons “Ondoy” and “Pepeng”
BY: LCOL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Wednesday, 21 October 2009
The AFP, in cooperation with SM Supermalls, will launch a 4-day Photo Exhibit for the benefit of the victims of Typhoons “Ondoy” and “Pepeng”. Launching Ceremony today, 21 October 2009, 6 PM, will be at the Ground Floor, South Wing, SM Mall of Asia. Vice Admiral Emilio C Marayag Jr, the AFP Deputy Chief of Staff is the Guest of Honor. Top brass of the Navy, Army, and Air Force will grace the occasion. Ms Annie S Garcia, President, SM Shopping Center Management Corporation will symbolically award Certificates of Recognition to AFP Units and Personnel for their heroic efforts in the conduct of Search, Rescue, Humanitarian, and Relief Operations to typhoon victims.
The photo exhibit which runs from 21-25 October 2009 will showcase through the images the extent of the destruction of the typhoons and the Filipinos indomitable spirit and soldiers’ selflessness in helping the victims. Photos were taken by soldiers during and after the rescue and relief missions. Proceeds of the donation in the exhibit will go to the victims of “Ondoy” and “Pepeng”. You are cordially invited.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Wednesday, 21 October 2009
The AFP, in cooperation with SM Supermalls, will launch a 4-day Photo Exhibit for the benefit of the victims of Typhoons “Ondoy” and “Pepeng”. Launching Ceremony today, 21 October 2009, 6 PM, will be at the Ground Floor, South Wing, SM Mall of Asia. Vice Admiral Emilio C Marayag Jr, the AFP Deputy Chief of Staff is the Guest of Honor. Top brass of the Navy, Army, and Air Force will grace the occasion. Ms Annie S Garcia, President, SM Shopping Center Management Corporation will symbolically award Certificates of Recognition to AFP Units and Personnel for their heroic efforts in the conduct of Search, Rescue, Humanitarian, and Relief Operations to typhoon victims.
The photo exhibit which runs from 21-25 October 2009 will showcase through the images the extent of the destruction of the typhoons and the Filipinos indomitable spirit and soldiers’ selflessness in helping the victims. Photos were taken by soldiers during and after the rescue and relief missions. Proceeds of the donation in the exhibit will go to the victims of “Ondoy” and “Pepeng”. You are cordially invited.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Marines Foil Shipment of Explosive Materials to Lawless/Bandit Groups
BY LTCOL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Monday, 19 October 2009
Marines foiled a possible shipment of bomb-making components to lawless and bandit groups after it seized hundreds of sacks of ammonium nitrate during a raid in a Tawi-Tawi warehouse Friday morning, 11AM, 16 October 2009.
Members of the 22nd and 32nd Marine Company, MBLT-2 led by 2LT SARTO PN(M) confiscated around 233 sacks of ammonium nitrate during a raid in a warehouse in Brgy Lamion, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi. The components packed in 25 kilos per sack is used in the manufacture of improvised explosive device (IED) and commonly used for dynamite fishing. The items are approximately worth P517,000.00.
Initial investigation revealed that confiscated items were broughtto the Philippines from Malaysia and that the warehouse serves as a storage facility of ammonium nitrate that is distributed to various places in Tawi-Tawi. Investigation also revealed that said items were bound for an MNLF area in Sitangkai, Tawi-Tawi, as well as to the ASG and other lawless groups planning to wreak havoc in Mindanao.
The owner of the warehouse, a certain Holkim Mating alias Radji, a resident of the barangay was arrested and detained by the combined team of Marines and PNP.
The raid on the warehouse of Holkim Mating was prompted by the confiscation of nine sacks of ammonium nitrate earlier in the day. The team of 2LT SARTO, acting on intelligence information conducted board and search procedure aboard M/L Piaksah moored at Chinese Pier in Bongao and discovered the contraband items. After questioning, the crew pointed to the warehouse of Holkim Mating as their source. Hence, the raid. Total amount of confiscation is P537,000.00
The owner, a certain Tanduya Jurjani of Sipangkot, Sitangkai town revealed that she bought the items from an unidentified warehouse in Brgy Lamion, Bongao.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Monday, 19 October 2009
Marines foiled a possible shipment of bomb-making components to lawless and bandit groups after it seized hundreds of sacks of ammonium nitrate during a raid in a Tawi-Tawi warehouse Friday morning, 11AM, 16 October 2009.
Members of the 22nd and 32nd Marine Company, MBLT-2 led by 2LT SARTO PN(M) confiscated around 233 sacks of ammonium nitrate during a raid in a warehouse in Brgy Lamion, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi. The components packed in 25 kilos per sack is used in the manufacture of improvised explosive device (IED) and commonly used for dynamite fishing. The items are approximately worth P517,000.00.
Initial investigation revealed that confiscated items were broughtto the Philippines from Malaysia and that the warehouse serves as a storage facility of ammonium nitrate that is distributed to various places in Tawi-Tawi. Investigation also revealed that said items were bound for an MNLF area in Sitangkai, Tawi-Tawi, as well as to the ASG and other lawless groups planning to wreak havoc in Mindanao.
The owner of the warehouse, a certain Holkim Mating alias Radji, a resident of the barangay was arrested and detained by the combined team of Marines and PNP.
The raid on the warehouse of Holkim Mating was prompted by the confiscation of nine sacks of ammonium nitrate earlier in the day. The team of 2LT SARTO, acting on intelligence information conducted board and search procedure aboard M/L Piaksah moored at Chinese Pier in Bongao and discovered the contraband items. After questioning, the crew pointed to the warehouse of Holkim Mating as their source. Hence, the raid. Total amount of confiscation is P537,000.00
The owner, a certain Tanduya Jurjani of Sipangkot, Sitangkai town revealed that she bought the items from an unidentified warehouse in Brgy Lamion, Bongao.
Navy All Set for “Ramil”
BY: LT COL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Monday, 19 October 2009
The Philippine Navy has placed all its Disaster Response and Rescue (DRR) units in Northern and Southern Luzon areas on red alert status since 230PM last Saturday, 17 October 2009 in preparation for Typhoon “Ramil”.
Units from the Naval Forces Northern Luzon (NAVFORNOL) under COMMO JOSE LUIS ALANO, Naval Education and Training Command in (NETC) in Zambales under REAR ADMIRAL VICENTE AGDAMAG, and NAVAL FORCES SOUTHERN LUZON (NAVFORSOL) under COMMO JOEL BABAS have prepositioned their respective Disaster Response and Rescue Teams (DRRT) in key areas where “Ramil” is expected to hit Thursday, 22 October 2009.
Naval reservists will augment regular Navy personnel from the Fleet-Marine DRR Teams in Luzon. The assets set to be deployed for the conduct of search and rescue operations are an Islander plane, 18 rubber boats, 13 M35 trucks, 2 amphibious trucks, and 2 amphibian crafts. The Navy has also added 7 Dehavilland boats and 2 choppers in its inventory of DRR equipment.
A Dehavilland boat is more reliable than a rubber boat since it has an aluminum hull and can carry more individuals than an ordinary rubber boat. Unlike a rubber boat, a Dehavilland boat is not susceptible to punctures during the conduct of operations.
The Navy’s bid for the procurement of a multi-role vessel (MRV) to boost its disaster response and relief operations has found urgency with the recent onslaught of disastrous storms. One of the projects under the Navy modernization program, the addition of MRV in its inventory will not only enhance the Navy’s conduct of maritime and naval operations but also its humanitarian efforts especially during the time of natural calamities and disasters.
The MRV can load more personnel and equipment that can be deployed to areas during emergencies. This asset can also serve as a “government floating center” where representatives from various government agencies can deliver the much needed services to far-flung areas around the country.
It can be recalled that before “Pepeng” hit the country, Naval units in Metro Manila, Cavite, Northern Luzon, and Southern Luzon areas have prepositioned their respective DRRTs in key areas to respond to distress calls by the citizens and assist LGUs in their rescue and relief efforts.
Vice Amiral Ferdinand S Golez has instructed Navy DRRTs to intensify their preparations before undertaking their respective missions to help more individuals in need and prevent accidents in the conduct of their operations.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Monday, 19 October 2009
The Philippine Navy has placed all its Disaster Response and Rescue (DRR) units in Northern and Southern Luzon areas on red alert status since 230PM last Saturday, 17 October 2009 in preparation for Typhoon “Ramil”.
Units from the Naval Forces Northern Luzon (NAVFORNOL) under COMMO JOSE LUIS ALANO, Naval Education and Training Command in (NETC) in Zambales under REAR ADMIRAL VICENTE AGDAMAG, and NAVAL FORCES SOUTHERN LUZON (NAVFORSOL) under COMMO JOEL BABAS have prepositioned their respective Disaster Response and Rescue Teams (DRRT) in key areas where “Ramil” is expected to hit Thursday, 22 October 2009.
Naval reservists will augment regular Navy personnel from the Fleet-Marine DRR Teams in Luzon. The assets set to be deployed for the conduct of search and rescue operations are an Islander plane, 18 rubber boats, 13 M35 trucks, 2 amphibious trucks, and 2 amphibian crafts. The Navy has also added 7 Dehavilland boats and 2 choppers in its inventory of DRR equipment.
A Dehavilland boat is more reliable than a rubber boat since it has an aluminum hull and can carry more individuals than an ordinary rubber boat. Unlike a rubber boat, a Dehavilland boat is not susceptible to punctures during the conduct of operations.
The Navy’s bid for the procurement of a multi-role vessel (MRV) to boost its disaster response and relief operations has found urgency with the recent onslaught of disastrous storms. One of the projects under the Navy modernization program, the addition of MRV in its inventory will not only enhance the Navy’s conduct of maritime and naval operations but also its humanitarian efforts especially during the time of natural calamities and disasters.
The MRV can load more personnel and equipment that can be deployed to areas during emergencies. This asset can also serve as a “government floating center” where representatives from various government agencies can deliver the much needed services to far-flung areas around the country.
It can be recalled that before “Pepeng” hit the country, Naval units in Metro Manila, Cavite, Northern Luzon, and Southern Luzon areas have prepositioned their respective DRRTs in key areas to respond to distress calls by the citizens and assist LGUs in their rescue and relief efforts.
Vice Amiral Ferdinand S Golez has instructed Navy DRRTs to intensify their preparations before undertaking their respective missions to help more individuals in need and prevent accidents in the conduct of their operations.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
MARINE SILENT DRILLERS, DRUM AND BUGLE TEAM HIGHLIGHTS DARAGANG MAGAYON FESTIVAL IN ALBAY
By: LIEUTENANT DARWIN F NIEVA PN
Director, NFSL Public Affairs Office
Thursday, 1 October 2009
LEGAZPI CITY, October 1, 2009 – Philippine Marine Silent Drillers and Drum and Bugle Team performed today at the launching of Ibalong Festival and Legazpi Port Fiesta, here at Legazpi City. The contingent came all the way from navy headquarters in Manila on order of Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez AFP, Flag Officer-In-Command of the Philippine Navy to support the annual festivities of the city.
Sarah Moran, a student of Bicol University College of Arts and Letter told the writer how appreciative the people are to the exquisite performance of the marines. “People were astonished by the coordinated and snappy executions of your team,” she said. Ms. Ryadz Barcia, a national correspondent of a certain media outfit, said that the performance was splendid and worth the wait and rain.
Today, Magayon Festival has evolved to become a celebration of the rich culture and warm hospitality of the Albayanos as well as a showcase of the best that Albay can offer – fascinating destinations capped by the captivating Mayon Volcano, delightful cuisine, unique Bicolano products, and many more (Legazpi City Official Website).
The Navy is ready to embark on any endeavors to give much needed relief and reprieve them from life’s daily grind.
Director, NFSL Public Affairs Office
Thursday, 1 October 2009
LEGAZPI CITY, October 1, 2009 – Philippine Marine Silent Drillers and Drum and Bugle Team performed today at the launching of Ibalong Festival and Legazpi Port Fiesta, here at Legazpi City. The contingent came all the way from navy headquarters in Manila on order of Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez AFP, Flag Officer-In-Command of the Philippine Navy to support the annual festivities of the city.
Sarah Moran, a student of Bicol University College of Arts and Letter told the writer how appreciative the people are to the exquisite performance of the marines. “People were astonished by the coordinated and snappy executions of your team,” she said. Ms. Ryadz Barcia, a national correspondent of a certain media outfit, said that the performance was splendid and worth the wait and rain.
Today, Magayon Festival has evolved to become a celebration of the rich culture and warm hospitality of the Albayanos as well as a showcase of the best that Albay can offer – fascinating destinations capped by the captivating Mayon Volcano, delightful cuisine, unique Bicolano products, and many more (Legazpi City Official Website).
The Navy is ready to embark on any endeavors to give much needed relief and reprieve them from life’s daily grind.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
9 NAVY DRRTS AIDED AS PEPENG HIT NORTHERN LUZON
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Wednesday, 14 October 2009
After grueling two weeks of rescue and relief operation, Navy Disaster Response and Rescue Teams (DRRT) were ordered to go back to their respective headquarters in San Fernando, La Union, Cavite and Metro Manila. The teams composed of officers, enlisted personnel, Navy reservists, amphibious crafts, rubber boats, 6x6 trucks and various other rescue and relief equipment has so far conducted a sizable number of rescue and relief missions notwithstanding equipment limitations and sapped energy due to prolong exposure to elements during these humanitarian operations.
A total of nine Disaster Response and Rescue Teams were able to rescue 873 individuals from their flooded homes to evacuation centers in San Carlos City, Dagupan City, Rosales, Calasiao and Sta Barbara, all in Pangasinan. Nine hundred thirty (930) stranded passengers were also brought to safety. The teams also recovered three elderly casualties in Rosales, Pangasinan. Two thousand six hundred twenty-two (2,622) families benefited from the relief goods distributed by the DRRTs in coordination with the LGUs of Pangasinan and Laoag not to include the 1,102 lbs of relief goods air dropped by the Navy’s Helicopter and Islander.
The Philippine Navy employed all the floating, air and land assets to alleviate the devastation caused by Typhoon “Pepeng” to our countrymen in the North. Naval Forces Northern Luzon through its Commander, Commodore Jose Luis Alano coordinated with other Fleet-Marine units to augment their teams already dispatched. DRRTs from Manila-Cavite area immediately responded to the call for augmentation.
The Philippine Navy though with scarce resources, will remain committed to be at the forefront of humanitarian endeavors in support to national government for the welfare of our fellow Filipinos.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Wednesday, 14 October 2009
After grueling two weeks of rescue and relief operation, Navy Disaster Response and Rescue Teams (DRRT) were ordered to go back to their respective headquarters in San Fernando, La Union, Cavite and Metro Manila. The teams composed of officers, enlisted personnel, Navy reservists, amphibious crafts, rubber boats, 6x6 trucks and various other rescue and relief equipment has so far conducted a sizable number of rescue and relief missions notwithstanding equipment limitations and sapped energy due to prolong exposure to elements during these humanitarian operations.
A total of nine Disaster Response and Rescue Teams were able to rescue 873 individuals from their flooded homes to evacuation centers in San Carlos City, Dagupan City, Rosales, Calasiao and Sta Barbara, all in Pangasinan. Nine hundred thirty (930) stranded passengers were also brought to safety. The teams also recovered three elderly casualties in Rosales, Pangasinan. Two thousand six hundred twenty-two (2,622) families benefited from the relief goods distributed by the DRRTs in coordination with the LGUs of Pangasinan and Laoag not to include the 1,102 lbs of relief goods air dropped by the Navy’s Helicopter and Islander.
The Philippine Navy employed all the floating, air and land assets to alleviate the devastation caused by Typhoon “Pepeng” to our countrymen in the North. Naval Forces Northern Luzon through its Commander, Commodore Jose Luis Alano coordinated with other Fleet-Marine units to augment their teams already dispatched. DRRTs from Manila-Cavite area immediately responded to the call for augmentation.
The Philippine Navy though with scarce resources, will remain committed to be at the forefront of humanitarian endeavors in support to national government for the welfare of our fellow Filipinos.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Marines Apprehend Suspected ASG Leader with P3.3M Bounty in Tawi-Tawi
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Tuesday, 13 October 2009
Members of Marine Battalion Landing Team 2 (MBLT2) arrested a top leader of the bandit AbuSayyaf Group in Tawi-Tawi Saturday evening, 10 October 2009.
Abdulkahil Mallah, suspected to be Ibni Acosta who is a sub-leader of the ASG-Urban Terrorist Group was about to board a vessel at Bongao Pier when he was accosted by the Marines led by 2LT EMERY L TORRE PN(M). Mallah was bound for Zamboanga City to seek medical treatment for a gunshot wound near his neck.
On 09 October, Mallah and his three companions were reportedly shot by an unkonwn assailant for an undetermined reason at Sitio Kasulutan, Tubig Tanah. The assailant then fled to Kalye Bisaya, Brgy Kasanyangan. Initial investigation led to the capture of Mallah.
Mallah has a standing warrant of arrest for 21 counts of kidnapping for ransom and serious illegal detention. He has a P3.3M reward for his capture. He did not resist arrest. Mallah, guarded by the marines is back at the hospital undergoing medical treatment for his wound.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Tuesday, 13 October 2009
Members of Marine Battalion Landing Team 2 (MBLT2) arrested a top leader of the bandit AbuSayyaf Group in Tawi-Tawi Saturday evening, 10 October 2009.
Abdulkahil Mallah, suspected to be Ibni Acosta who is a sub-leader of the ASG-Urban Terrorist Group was about to board a vessel at Bongao Pier when he was accosted by the Marines led by 2LT EMERY L TORRE PN(M). Mallah was bound for Zamboanga City to seek medical treatment for a gunshot wound near his neck.
On 09 October, Mallah and his three companions were reportedly shot by an unkonwn assailant for an undetermined reason at Sitio Kasulutan, Tubig Tanah. The assailant then fled to Kalye Bisaya, Brgy Kasanyangan. Initial investigation led to the capture of Mallah.
Mallah has a standing warrant of arrest for 21 counts of kidnapping for ransom and serious illegal detention. He has a P3.3M reward for his capture. He did not resist arrest. Mallah, guarded by the marines is back at the hospital undergoing medical treatment for his wound.
Marines Clash with Armed Men in Sulu and Basilan
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Thursday, 08 October 2009
Marines clashed with unidentified armed men in Sulu and Basilan last Monday, 05 October 2009 and killed in action one Marine and wounded another.
Around 30 men under Khabir Malik attacked two detachments of MBLT11 in Brgy Bitan-ag, Panamao, Sulu at 11AM. The 40-minute firefight inflicted an undetermined number of casualties among the enemy. No casualties were reported among the Marines.
At 2:15 PM, 48 members of 26MC, MBLT6 who were conducting combat clearing operations along Sitio Talatac, Brgy Bato-Bato, Indanan, Sulu engaged a group of 150 armed men in a two-hour battle. Another Marine was also wounded.
Killed in action was Private First Class Valeriano Bacud Pagulayan, a native of Penablanca, Cagayan province. Pagulayan, 27 years old entered the Marines in February 2008 as a trainee and graduated six months later. He was deployed to Sulu and became part of the Jolo Internal Defense Force.
According to Staff Sergeant Richard Lapingkao, Pagulayan’s platoon sergeant, the young Marine had dreamed of becoming a soldier since he was young because a number of his relatives belonged to the Marines. His father is a farmer and he has five other siblings. Lapingkao said Pagulayan deeply attached his life to the service and added he was proud of his comrade who died in the call of duty. Pagulayan had been in previous encounters in the past but the encounter last Monday in Brgy Bato-Bato was Pagulayan’s first major one. He succumbed to his wounds while his comrades were asministering first aid.
Meanwhile, two more Marine detachments in Brgy Bohelebong, Tipo-Tipo, Basilan were also attacked simultaneously Monday afternoon. The Marine successfully repelled both attacks that lasted for 30 minutes without sustaining casualties.
Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez condoles with the family of Pfc Pagulayan. He adds that the deaths of Marines in battle will not go in vain as the Navy will pursue its fight against lawless elements in the south. “The Navy will not be cowed but will be more vigilant by these attacks that are meant to harrass our operating units. We will remain focused in our commitment to bring about lasting peace in the island province through peace and development efforts. In the end we are confident that the people will discern who are their true protectors.”
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Thursday, 08 October 2009
Marines clashed with unidentified armed men in Sulu and Basilan last Monday, 05 October 2009 and killed in action one Marine and wounded another.
Around 30 men under Khabir Malik attacked two detachments of MBLT11 in Brgy Bitan-ag, Panamao, Sulu at 11AM. The 40-minute firefight inflicted an undetermined number of casualties among the enemy. No casualties were reported among the Marines.
At 2:15 PM, 48 members of 26MC, MBLT6 who were conducting combat clearing operations along Sitio Talatac, Brgy Bato-Bato, Indanan, Sulu engaged a group of 150 armed men in a two-hour battle. Another Marine was also wounded.
Killed in action was Private First Class Valeriano Bacud Pagulayan, a native of Penablanca, Cagayan province. Pagulayan, 27 years old entered the Marines in February 2008 as a trainee and graduated six months later. He was deployed to Sulu and became part of the Jolo Internal Defense Force.
According to Staff Sergeant Richard Lapingkao, Pagulayan’s platoon sergeant, the young Marine had dreamed of becoming a soldier since he was young because a number of his relatives belonged to the Marines. His father is a farmer and he has five other siblings. Lapingkao said Pagulayan deeply attached his life to the service and added he was proud of his comrade who died in the call of duty. Pagulayan had been in previous encounters in the past but the encounter last Monday in Brgy Bato-Bato was Pagulayan’s first major one. He succumbed to his wounds while his comrades were asministering first aid.
Meanwhile, two more Marine detachments in Brgy Bohelebong, Tipo-Tipo, Basilan were also attacked simultaneously Monday afternoon. The Marine successfully repelled both attacks that lasted for 30 minutes without sustaining casualties.
Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez condoles with the family of Pfc Pagulayan. He adds that the deaths of Marines in battle will not go in vain as the Navy will pursue its fight against lawless elements in the south. “The Navy will not be cowed but will be more vigilant by these attacks that are meant to harrass our operating units. We will remain focused in our commitment to bring about lasting peace in the island province through peace and development efforts. In the end we are confident that the people will discern who are their true protectors.”
Monday, October 5, 2009
Navy’s Relief Efforts for “Ondoy” Victims in Cainta, Rizal in Full Swing
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Monday, 05 October 2009
The relief efforts of the Philippine Navy to victims of typhoon “Ondoy” in Cainta, Rizal went in full swing since Saturday, 03 October 2009 after typhoon “Pepeng” did not make a landfall in Metro Manila and neighboring areas as expected.
In coordination with the local government of Cainta and private organizations, the Navy distributed throusands of packs of relief goods to residents who patiently waited infront of the Cainta Municipal Hall and also to areas that are still flooded, while clearing operations went underway for debris that littered the streets.
Even before the Navy established its Advanced Command Post at the Municipal Hall 9:30 PM of 02 October 2009, residents had gathered infront of the Hall waiting for their packs of goodies. Before daybreak, the crowd has swelled. Not even the rain which began to pour in the afternoon forced them to seek shelter as they snaked through lines and began to swarm around a team of Navy officers and personnel distributing relief goods. Another team from the Navy controlled the crowd onty too eager to get their share of goods and go home.
For three hours, the eager residents, even pregnant women and grade school kids endured the rains brought by “Pepeng,” together with the Navy teams who were also soaking wet under the rain, distributing a truckload of goods from ABS-CBN’s Sagip Kapamilya.
Meanwhile, the Marines’ Light Amphibious Riverine Craft (LARC) vehicle parked infront of the Hall, painted with the sharp teeth of a hungry predator with traces of blood oozing from the teeth drew a number of people. Kids assited by members of the Marines climbed atop the vehicle to get a feel of it. The LARC vehicle was later dispatched to flooded areas in Cainta to deliver relief goods.
As of press time, Navy teams of over 50 officers and enlisted personnel delivered over 7,000 packs of relief goods to typhoon victims in Cainta, Rizal. Navy teams also conducted clean-up operations and a feeding program with government and private agencies.
Relief operations in Cainta, Rizal are still ongoing. Aside from the Navy’s search and rescue efforts during typhoons, the Navy is also prepared to undertake relief and rehabilitation efforts to victims of natural calamities. These deeds according to Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez is a testament of the Navy’s commitment to uplift the lives of the Filipinos especially those who are in need.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Monday, 05 October 2009
The relief efforts of the Philippine Navy to victims of typhoon “Ondoy” in Cainta, Rizal went in full swing since Saturday, 03 October 2009 after typhoon “Pepeng” did not make a landfall in Metro Manila and neighboring areas as expected.
In coordination with the local government of Cainta and private organizations, the Navy distributed throusands of packs of relief goods to residents who patiently waited infront of the Cainta Municipal Hall and also to areas that are still flooded, while clearing operations went underway for debris that littered the streets.
Even before the Navy established its Advanced Command Post at the Municipal Hall 9:30 PM of 02 October 2009, residents had gathered infront of the Hall waiting for their packs of goodies. Before daybreak, the crowd has swelled. Not even the rain which began to pour in the afternoon forced them to seek shelter as they snaked through lines and began to swarm around a team of Navy officers and personnel distributing relief goods. Another team from the Navy controlled the crowd onty too eager to get their share of goods and go home.
For three hours, the eager residents, even pregnant women and grade school kids endured the rains brought by “Pepeng,” together with the Navy teams who were also soaking wet under the rain, distributing a truckload of goods from ABS-CBN’s Sagip Kapamilya.
Meanwhile, the Marines’ Light Amphibious Riverine Craft (LARC) vehicle parked infront of the Hall, painted with the sharp teeth of a hungry predator with traces of blood oozing from the teeth drew a number of people. Kids assited by members of the Marines climbed atop the vehicle to get a feel of it. The LARC vehicle was later dispatched to flooded areas in Cainta to deliver relief goods.
As of press time, Navy teams of over 50 officers and enlisted personnel delivered over 7,000 packs of relief goods to typhoon victims in Cainta, Rizal. Navy teams also conducted clean-up operations and a feeding program with government and private agencies.
Relief operations in Cainta, Rizal are still ongoing. Aside from the Navy’s search and rescue efforts during typhoons, the Navy is also prepared to undertake relief and rehabilitation efforts to victims of natural calamities. These deeds according to Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez is a testament of the Navy’s commitment to uplift the lives of the Filipinos especially those who are in need.
Navy Rescues 55 as “Pepeng” Batters Ilocos Norte
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Monday, 05 October 2009
Two Disaster Response and Rescue Teams (DRRT) saved 55 individuals tthat included 2 families from Ilocos Norte as “Pepeng” battered the province.
The teams from NAVFORNOL Command based in Poro Point, La Union composed of two officers and 31 enlisted personnel were pre-deployed to conduct search and rescue operations where they are needed. Team 1 led by Ens Alejandro Janayan rescued 48 individuals in Pagudpud town yesterday, 04 October 2009. The team also assisted the town mayor in distributing 600 packs of relief goods to the residents and conducted clearing operations. Janayan’s team also successfully evacuated to safer grounds 20 persons who were stranded along the national road in barangays Balaoi, Pancian, and Pasaleng, Pagudpud town and treated a civilian who sustained wounds. Minor landslides have been reported but the roads remained passable.
Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez has reminded Commo Jose Luis Alano, NAVFORNOL Commander to issue a directive to all rescue teams to take extra preacautions after a landslide was reported in Brgy Tarrag, yesterday afternoon, 04 October, that almost hit Janayan’s team conducting clearing operations near the area. Heavy rains and strong winds forced Janayan’s team to suspend its operations.
Meanwhile, Team 2 headed by Ens Dominador Merida rescued two familes of seven that included a 7-month old baby in Brgy Nalasin, Paoay town. Last night, the team received instructions to proceed to Bacarra town to rescue 24 familes trapped in floodwaters.
It can be recalled that Naval units in Metro Manila, Cavite, Northern Luzon, and Southern Luzon areas have prepositioned their respective DRRTs as early as Friday in anticipation of typhoon “Pepeng.” Rescue operations by DRRT in Northern Luzon areas aided by naval reservists are in full swing as “Pepeng” battered Northern Luzon provinces. Other DRR teams are on standby to respond to distress calls by citizens and assist LGUs in their rescue and relief efforts to the locals.
The Navy’s DRR teams which are integrated into naval commands all over the country are always put on alert status during the typhoon season. According to Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez AFP, the alert status keeps the Navy DRRO teams ready for dispatch to respond to any emergency situation at any given time, or upon signal from the national government, or any LGU.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Monday, 05 October 2009
Two Disaster Response and Rescue Teams (DRRT) saved 55 individuals tthat included 2 families from Ilocos Norte as “Pepeng” battered the province.
The teams from NAVFORNOL Command based in Poro Point, La Union composed of two officers and 31 enlisted personnel were pre-deployed to conduct search and rescue operations where they are needed. Team 1 led by Ens Alejandro Janayan rescued 48 individuals in Pagudpud town yesterday, 04 October 2009. The team also assisted the town mayor in distributing 600 packs of relief goods to the residents and conducted clearing operations. Janayan’s team also successfully evacuated to safer grounds 20 persons who were stranded along the national road in barangays Balaoi, Pancian, and Pasaleng, Pagudpud town and treated a civilian who sustained wounds. Minor landslides have been reported but the roads remained passable.
Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez has reminded Commo Jose Luis Alano, NAVFORNOL Commander to issue a directive to all rescue teams to take extra preacautions after a landslide was reported in Brgy Tarrag, yesterday afternoon, 04 October, that almost hit Janayan’s team conducting clearing operations near the area. Heavy rains and strong winds forced Janayan’s team to suspend its operations.
Meanwhile, Team 2 headed by Ens Dominador Merida rescued two familes of seven that included a 7-month old baby in Brgy Nalasin, Paoay town. Last night, the team received instructions to proceed to Bacarra town to rescue 24 familes trapped in floodwaters.
It can be recalled that Naval units in Metro Manila, Cavite, Northern Luzon, and Southern Luzon areas have prepositioned their respective DRRTs as early as Friday in anticipation of typhoon “Pepeng.” Rescue operations by DRRT in Northern Luzon areas aided by naval reservists are in full swing as “Pepeng” battered Northern Luzon provinces. Other DRR teams are on standby to respond to distress calls by citizens and assist LGUs in their rescue and relief efforts to the locals.
The Navy’s DRR teams which are integrated into naval commands all over the country are always put on alert status during the typhoon season. According to Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez AFP, the alert status keeps the Navy DRRO teams ready for dispatch to respond to any emergency situation at any given time, or upon signal from the national government, or any LGU.
Navy Rescues Four Passengers from a Capsized Boat in Real, Quezon
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Sunday, 04 October 2009
Navy personnel aboard DF321 and M/B Mayon rescued four individuals from a banca that capsized 350 nautical miles off Puerto Real, Quezon, Thursday morning, 01 October 2009.
Reports reaching this Headquarters said that M/B RPN was bound for Puerto Real to buy provisions when they encountered strong winds and heavy rains that caused their banca to capsize. Navy personnel on board DF321 and M/B Mayon who saw the four floating in the open sea immediately rushed to the scene. The two Navy vessels were docked at the pier that time. Navy personnel threw life jackets and life rings to the distressed individuals and rescued the four with the assistance of a fisherman, Crisanto L Dumasian of F/B Golden Sea.
Rescued were Roberto P Gucilatar, the chief engineer and his three crew members: Jordan J Ramos, Cesar P Gucilatar, and Jessie D Juz. Their motor banca is owned by Quezon Governor Raffy P Nantes. None of the passengers were reportedly harmed by the incident. The four were turned over to local officials of Real, Quezon.
Naval Forces Southern Luzon (NAVFORSOL) which covers the area of Real has prepositioned Disaster Rescue and Response Teams (DRRT) in certain areas in time for typhoon “Pepeng.” With the shifting of the typhoon’s direction, NAVFORSOL’s DRRT remain on the alert for possible deployment and to respond anytime to any distress calls by the citizens. This clearly shows the Navy’s commitment in helping the national government uplift the welfare of the Filipinos.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Sunday, 04 October 2009
Navy personnel aboard DF321 and M/B Mayon rescued four individuals from a banca that capsized 350 nautical miles off Puerto Real, Quezon, Thursday morning, 01 October 2009.
Reports reaching this Headquarters said that M/B RPN was bound for Puerto Real to buy provisions when they encountered strong winds and heavy rains that caused their banca to capsize. Navy personnel on board DF321 and M/B Mayon who saw the four floating in the open sea immediately rushed to the scene. The two Navy vessels were docked at the pier that time. Navy personnel threw life jackets and life rings to the distressed individuals and rescued the four with the assistance of a fisherman, Crisanto L Dumasian of F/B Golden Sea.
Rescued were Roberto P Gucilatar, the chief engineer and his three crew members: Jordan J Ramos, Cesar P Gucilatar, and Jessie D Juz. Their motor banca is owned by Quezon Governor Raffy P Nantes. None of the passengers were reportedly harmed by the incident. The four were turned over to local officials of Real, Quezon.
Naval Forces Southern Luzon (NAVFORSOL) which covers the area of Real has prepositioned Disaster Rescue and Response Teams (DRRT) in certain areas in time for typhoon “Pepeng.” With the shifting of the typhoon’s direction, NAVFORSOL’s DRRT remain on the alert for possible deployment and to respond anytime to any distress calls by the citizens. This clearly shows the Navy’s commitment in helping the national government uplift the welfare of the Filipinos.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Armed Men Blow Up Bridge in Sulu
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Saturday, 03 October 2009
A group of armed men believed to be followers of Tahil Sali, Ahadun Andak, and Abraham Joel blew up the Salaam Bridge in Indanan, Sulu late Thursday noon, 01 October 2009. An improvised explosive device (IED) triggered the explosion. No one was reported hurt in the incident.
The bridge is near the site of the 21 September 2009 attack where eight marines including an officer were killed in action. Suspected members of the MNLF and ASG have previously bombed the bridge. This recent attack rendered tbe bridge totally damaged and unpassable to vehicles that transport people as well as agricultural and domestic products to and from the capital town of jolo.
Investigation conducted by MBLT6 revealed that two hours before the explosion, the lawless group of Sali, Andak, and Joel with more or less 200 armed men were sighted at Sitio Taisan. The group of Joel with his followers then proceeded to the vicinity of Sitio Talatac, Brgy Bato-Bato and set an IED that later exploded at the Salaam Bridge.
Investigation also revealed that on the eve of 30 September, the group of Sali went to the MNLF camp in Brgy Langpas and reportedly borrowed a B40 RPG and 100 MNLF followers of Commander Gafur Hussein to augment the MNLF forces in Camp Marang.
The blowing up of the Salaam Bridge comes after the explosion that damaged the Dayuan Bridge in Indanan town at 10 PM, 29 September 2009. Dayuan Bridge about 4 kms from Jolo connects the capital town to Indanan town proper, Maimbung, and Parang. It remains passsable. No one was hurt during the explosion. Members of the bandit ASG are believed to be behind the explosion.
This abominable act of terrorism is an attack against the peace-loving citizens of Sulu who stand to suffer by the assault to their quest for peace existence.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Saturday, 03 October 2009
A group of armed men believed to be followers of Tahil Sali, Ahadun Andak, and Abraham Joel blew up the Salaam Bridge in Indanan, Sulu late Thursday noon, 01 October 2009. An improvised explosive device (IED) triggered the explosion. No one was reported hurt in the incident.
The bridge is near the site of the 21 September 2009 attack where eight marines including an officer were killed in action. Suspected members of the MNLF and ASG have previously bombed the bridge. This recent attack rendered tbe bridge totally damaged and unpassable to vehicles that transport people as well as agricultural and domestic products to and from the capital town of jolo.
Investigation conducted by MBLT6 revealed that two hours before the explosion, the lawless group of Sali, Andak, and Joel with more or less 200 armed men were sighted at Sitio Taisan. The group of Joel with his followers then proceeded to the vicinity of Sitio Talatac, Brgy Bato-Bato and set an IED that later exploded at the Salaam Bridge.
Investigation also revealed that on the eve of 30 September, the group of Sali went to the MNLF camp in Brgy Langpas and reportedly borrowed a B40 RPG and 100 MNLF followers of Commander Gafur Hussein to augment the MNLF forces in Camp Marang.
The blowing up of the Salaam Bridge comes after the explosion that damaged the Dayuan Bridge in Indanan town at 10 PM, 29 September 2009. Dayuan Bridge about 4 kms from Jolo connects the capital town to Indanan town proper, Maimbung, and Parang. It remains passsable. No one was hurt during the explosion. Members of the bandit ASG are believed to be behind the explosion.
This abominable act of terrorism is an attack against the peace-loving citizens of Sulu who stand to suffer by the assault to their quest for peace existence.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Navy Deploys Rescue Teams as “Pepeng” Hits the Country
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Saturday, 03 October 2009
Navy Disaster Response and Rescue Teams (DRRTs), anticipating worst case situation with “Pepeng” making a landfall in Northern Luzon, have been prepositioned in different areas needing immediate response in northern and southern Luzon including Metro Manila.
As of yesterday, 02 October 2009, Naval Forces Northern Luzon Commander Commo Jose Luis Alano has dispatched one DRRT prepositioned in Cagayan; two in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte; one in Pangasinan; and two in Zambales. In Metro Manila, twelve DRRTs composed of 21 officers and 180 enlisted personnel established an Advanced Command Post in Minicipal Hall, Cainta, Rizal together with rescue teams from the Air Force and Army.
Monitoring and hearing PAG-ASA forecast on typhoon “Pepeng” that it will not hit Metro Manila, the Navy’s rescue teams in Metro Manila immediately shifted to relief operations for the victims of typhoon “Ondoy.”
As of press time, Captain Miguel Jose Rodriguez, Commander, Fleet-Marine Ready Force, and over-all in-charge of the Navy’s rescue teams led some 20 personnel of the Navy, together with Cainta Mayor Ramon Ilagan and Vice Mayor Arturo Sicat in distributing 4,500 packs of relief goods. The goods benefited flood-stricken families in the Greenwoods, Pag-ibig, and Mercedes Villages, and Sitio Arinda, all of Brgy San Juan, Cainta. Relief operations are ongoing in the area with ABS-CBN’s “Sagip Kapamilya.”
Meanwhile, one DRRT was dispatched to Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte after residents alarmed the authorities of a possible landslide in the area. At 7:30 PM yesterday, 02 October 2009, another DRRT proceeded to the Parongking River, Brgy, Taliban, Calasiao, Pangasinan after receiving reports that a 13-yr old boy is missing and might have drowned in the river. Rescue operations are ongoing.
Commo Alano has directed the deployment of DRRTs to the following areas: Laoag, Ilocos Norte; Naval Base Camilo Osias, san Vicente, Cagayan; Aparri, Cagayan; Cagayan Colleges Tuguegarao, Cagayan; Cabanatuan Heroes College, Balanga, Bataan; Northern Philippines College for Maritime Science and Technology, San Fernando City, La Union; and Naval Detachment Bonuan. Around 1,000 naval reservists in said areas have been alerted to assist Navy personnel during the conduct of rescue operations.
Also on high alert status are the two DRRTs of Naval Forces Southern Luzon composed of the following: 2 medical teams, 4 NAVSOU and 3 Reservist DRRT with a total of 8 officers and 39 enlisted personnel. The teams have 3 M35 trucks (6x6), 6 rubber boats with OBM, and 2 rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIB).
Around 9:30 PM yesterday, 02 October 2009, the Navy together with composite elements from the PNP and other AFP units evacuated a total of 86 individuals from the San Pedro Relocation Center National High School to the Landayan Evacuation Center, San Pedro, Laguna. The evacuees included a pregnant woman, 68 children, and 17 adults. Fifteen sacks of relief goods were distributed to the evacuees around 10:30 PM.
Navy rescue teams have doubled up their preparation for typhoon “Pepeng.” Gaining lessons from “Ondoy’s” onslaught in Metro Manila and some areas in Luzon last week, Navy Chief Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez has directed unit commanders to preposition their rescue teams to areas where “Pepeng” is expected to hit.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Saturday, 03 October 2009
Navy Disaster Response and Rescue Teams (DRRTs), anticipating worst case situation with “Pepeng” making a landfall in Northern Luzon, have been prepositioned in different areas needing immediate response in northern and southern Luzon including Metro Manila.
As of yesterday, 02 October 2009, Naval Forces Northern Luzon Commander Commo Jose Luis Alano has dispatched one DRRT prepositioned in Cagayan; two in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte; one in Pangasinan; and two in Zambales. In Metro Manila, twelve DRRTs composed of 21 officers and 180 enlisted personnel established an Advanced Command Post in Minicipal Hall, Cainta, Rizal together with rescue teams from the Air Force and Army.
Monitoring and hearing PAG-ASA forecast on typhoon “Pepeng” that it will not hit Metro Manila, the Navy’s rescue teams in Metro Manila immediately shifted to relief operations for the victims of typhoon “Ondoy.”
As of press time, Captain Miguel Jose Rodriguez, Commander, Fleet-Marine Ready Force, and over-all in-charge of the Navy’s rescue teams led some 20 personnel of the Navy, together with Cainta Mayor Ramon Ilagan and Vice Mayor Arturo Sicat in distributing 4,500 packs of relief goods. The goods benefited flood-stricken families in the Greenwoods, Pag-ibig, and Mercedes Villages, and Sitio Arinda, all of Brgy San Juan, Cainta. Relief operations are ongoing in the area with ABS-CBN’s “Sagip Kapamilya.”
Meanwhile, one DRRT was dispatched to Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte after residents alarmed the authorities of a possible landslide in the area. At 7:30 PM yesterday, 02 October 2009, another DRRT proceeded to the Parongking River, Brgy, Taliban, Calasiao, Pangasinan after receiving reports that a 13-yr old boy is missing and might have drowned in the river. Rescue operations are ongoing.
Commo Alano has directed the deployment of DRRTs to the following areas: Laoag, Ilocos Norte; Naval Base Camilo Osias, san Vicente, Cagayan; Aparri, Cagayan; Cagayan Colleges Tuguegarao, Cagayan; Cabanatuan Heroes College, Balanga, Bataan; Northern Philippines College for Maritime Science and Technology, San Fernando City, La Union; and Naval Detachment Bonuan. Around 1,000 naval reservists in said areas have been alerted to assist Navy personnel during the conduct of rescue operations.
Also on high alert status are the two DRRTs of Naval Forces Southern Luzon composed of the following: 2 medical teams, 4 NAVSOU and 3 Reservist DRRT with a total of 8 officers and 39 enlisted personnel. The teams have 3 M35 trucks (6x6), 6 rubber boats with OBM, and 2 rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIB).
Around 9:30 PM yesterday, 02 October 2009, the Navy together with composite elements from the PNP and other AFP units evacuated a total of 86 individuals from the San Pedro Relocation Center National High School to the Landayan Evacuation Center, San Pedro, Laguna. The evacuees included a pregnant woman, 68 children, and 17 adults. Fifteen sacks of relief goods were distributed to the evacuees around 10:30 PM.
Navy rescue teams have doubled up their preparation for typhoon “Pepeng.” Gaining lessons from “Ondoy’s” onslaught in Metro Manila and some areas in Luzon last week, Navy Chief Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez has directed unit commanders to preposition their rescue teams to areas where “Pepeng” is expected to hit.
Enemy Casualty in Latest Sulu Assault Climbs to 14; Fresh Troops to Arrive in Sulu
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Friday, 02 October 2009
Confirmed enemy fatalities in the latest assault on a tank infantry convoy in Sulu yesterday, 01 October 2009 have climbed to 14 while another battalion of marines deploys in the island province to augment security forces.
Field reports reaching this Headquarters said that security forces have recovered two more bodies bringing the total to five from three in yesterday’s attack by armed men led by Khabir Malik on MBLT-11 post in Bitan-ag, Panamao town. Three bodies recovered by MBLT-11 were identified as: Al- Bashir Malik Jadjaie, reportedly a cousin and close-in aide of Ustadz Malik; Nidzmi Arkani Tahang; and Aswads Laguindin. Two more bodies, that of Darwin Hassan and Hamid Mudar Saipudin were later identified and reported by the PNP-Panamao.
Intelligence information recovered from residents in the area have reported that nine more attackers died when Marines from 311th Marine Company ferociously repulsed the aggressors in a foiled assault. Three of them were reported to be that of a certain Apek and a certain Apud (last names unknown), and one Murphy Siraje. Six more aggressors who died in the unsuccessful attack are undergoing identification.
MBLT-11 led by Lt Col Hernani Songano linked up with the EOD Team of the 2nd Marine Brigade in Brgy Seit, Panamao to detonate IEDs and clear the area from landmines when they were ambushed in Bitan-ag. The attack lasted for more than an hour.
Aside from the attack in Bitan-ag yesterday, unidentified armed men also harrassed the 26 MC detachment in Brgy Kagay, Indanan, Sulu. No casualties were reported during the incident.
Meanwhile, the AFP beefs up its troops conducting security operations in the island province as a battalion of marines with their implements boards Philippine Navy Vessel BRP Dagupan City (LC551). MBLT7 under the command of Maj Arnel Tolato will serve both as a deterrent and as a maneuver force. MBLT-7 based in Basilan province is tasked to prevent lawless groups from perpetrating lawlessness in downtown Jolo and reinforce Marine units in case of attacks.
Humanitarian and development projects remain primordial in the agenda of the Philippine Navy. Combat operations and law enforcement action had to be resorted to however so as to protect innocent civilians from the lawless groups that prey on peace-loving Suluanos. “The faster we get rid of these threat groups, the faster we revert to humanitarian and development projects to benefit the people of Sulu,” says Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez, Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Friday, 02 October 2009
Confirmed enemy fatalities in the latest assault on a tank infantry convoy in Sulu yesterday, 01 October 2009 have climbed to 14 while another battalion of marines deploys in the island province to augment security forces.
Field reports reaching this Headquarters said that security forces have recovered two more bodies bringing the total to five from three in yesterday’s attack by armed men led by Khabir Malik on MBLT-11 post in Bitan-ag, Panamao town. Three bodies recovered by MBLT-11 were identified as: Al- Bashir Malik Jadjaie, reportedly a cousin and close-in aide of Ustadz Malik; Nidzmi Arkani Tahang; and Aswads Laguindin. Two more bodies, that of Darwin Hassan and Hamid Mudar Saipudin were later identified and reported by the PNP-Panamao.
Intelligence information recovered from residents in the area have reported that nine more attackers died when Marines from 311th Marine Company ferociously repulsed the aggressors in a foiled assault. Three of them were reported to be that of a certain Apek and a certain Apud (last names unknown), and one Murphy Siraje. Six more aggressors who died in the unsuccessful attack are undergoing identification.
MBLT-11 led by Lt Col Hernani Songano linked up with the EOD Team of the 2nd Marine Brigade in Brgy Seit, Panamao to detonate IEDs and clear the area from landmines when they were ambushed in Bitan-ag. The attack lasted for more than an hour.
Aside from the attack in Bitan-ag yesterday, unidentified armed men also harrassed the 26 MC detachment in Brgy Kagay, Indanan, Sulu. No casualties were reported during the incident.
Meanwhile, the AFP beefs up its troops conducting security operations in the island province as a battalion of marines with their implements boards Philippine Navy Vessel BRP Dagupan City (LC551). MBLT7 under the command of Maj Arnel Tolato will serve both as a deterrent and as a maneuver force. MBLT-7 based in Basilan province is tasked to prevent lawless groups from perpetrating lawlessness in downtown Jolo and reinforce Marine units in case of attacks.
Humanitarian and development projects remain primordial in the agenda of the Philippine Navy. Combat operations and law enforcement action had to be resorted to however so as to protect innocent civilians from the lawless groups that prey on peace-loving Suluanos. “The faster we get rid of these threat groups, the faster we revert to humanitarian and development projects to benefit the people of Sulu,” says Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez, Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy.
Media Release and Statement from Navy Public Affairs Office 01Oct 09
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Thursday, 01 October 2009
Marines from 311th Company of MBLT 11 in Bitan-ag,Panamao, Sulu repulsed an attack by unidentified group of armed men.
In a field report by MGen Ben Dolorfino, CG, WestMinCom to VAdm Ferdinand Golez, Navy Flag Officer in Command, the incident that happened 1105AM of 01 October 2009 left 3 (body recovered) dead and scores others from the attackers wounded when the Marines ferociously engaged the enemy and fire support from government troops came.
The Navy leadership grieves the loss of an officer and the wounding of 9 other enlisted marines (names withheld). Recovered from the periphery are: A 90mm Recoiless Rifle (bazooka) with 4 live ammos and a spent shell; and two M16, AK-47, and one Garand rifle.
Fleet-Marine units in the area will remain vigilant and prepared to foil every assault in our units that defend the peace and security in that island province. There will be no let up in development endeavors in Sulu amidst the pursuit operations on-going against the perpetrators.(End).
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Thursday, 01 October 2009
Marines from 311th Company of MBLT 11 in Bitan-ag,Panamao, Sulu repulsed an attack by unidentified group of armed men.
In a field report by MGen Ben Dolorfino, CG, WestMinCom to VAdm Ferdinand Golez, Navy Flag Officer in Command, the incident that happened 1105AM of 01 October 2009 left 3 (body recovered) dead and scores others from the attackers wounded when the Marines ferociously engaged the enemy and fire support from government troops came.
The Navy leadership grieves the loss of an officer and the wounding of 9 other enlisted marines (names withheld). Recovered from the periphery are: A 90mm Recoiless Rifle (bazooka) with 4 live ammos and a spent shell; and two M16, AK-47, and one Garand rifle.
Fleet-Marine units in the area will remain vigilant and prepared to foil every assault in our units that defend the peace and security in that island province. There will be no let up in development endeavors in Sulu amidst the pursuit operations on-going against the perpetrators.(End).
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Navy Cleans Up Ondoy’s Mess in Sta Mesa
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Thursday, 01 October 2009
The Philippine Navy mobilized its personnel for a massive clean-up drive in Old Sta Mesa, Manila yesterday morning, 30 September 2009. Armed with assorted cleaning gears, the Navy also brought two firetrucks, five M35 trucks, and an ambulance.
Team Navy composed of 35 officers, 463 enlisted personnel, with three medical officers assisted residents of Zone 59, 6th District, Old Sta Mesa in cleaning up the piles of garbage and debris in the aftermath of “Ondoy.” The Navy also assisted residents in the adjacent barangays of San Juan, Progreso, and Batis. Navy personnel hauled the volume of garbage from residential homes to nearby thoroughfares for easier loading into garbage trucks. The Navy also hosed down the streets after it was free from garbage. At the height of the typhoon, floodwaters reached as high as 4 meters deep.
At 1:45 pm, the medical team rushed a resident, Mr Rufino Jutohot to the nearest hospital after he collapsed while helping in the clean-up. Mr Jutohot was reportedly suffering from diabetes and high-blood pressure. The activity which was finished past 5pm significantly reduced the volume of trash and garbage in the streets and main thoroughfares.
REAR ADMIRAL DANILO M CORTEZ, Vice Commander, Philippine Navy and REAR ADMIRAL FELICIANO A ANGUE, Chief of Naval Staff personally supervised the activity as part of the Navy’s efforts to help alleviate the plight of “Ondoy” victims. The activity at Sta Mesa is the Navy’s contribution to the AFP’s massive clean-up drive where the Army was sent to clean up Marikina, Air Force to Pasig, and GHQ to Cainta.
Navy Alerts Anew its Disaster Relief Response Teams for "Pepeng"
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Thursday, 01 October 2009
As Typhoon "Pepeng" threatens to hit Northern Luzon, "We have placed all Philippine Navy units on 'Red Alert' and prepositioned in key areas", assures Commodore Jose Luis Alano, the Commander of Naval Forces Northern Luzon.
A Disaster Relief Response Team (DRRT) was fielded in Cagayan Province, 2 Teams in La Union, a Team in Pangasinan, and 2 Teams (from Naval Education and Training Command) in Zambales. Each DRRT is manned by an Officer and 15 Enlisted Personnel. They are equipped with rubber boats, portable generators, life saving kits, and M35 trucks.
They have also put on alert status Naval Reservists residing in Cagayan, Ilocos Norte, Pangasinan, and Nueva Ecija. They have undergone disaster response trainings which are the expertise presently needed.
Philippine Navy units are pre-organized and equipped as DRRTs and are suited for deployment at a moment’s notice. These DRRTs may be attached with local National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC), the latter being primarily tasked to respond to emergencies. (End)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Thursday, 01 October 2009
As Typhoon "Pepeng" threatens to hit Northern Luzon, "We have placed all Philippine Navy units on 'Red Alert' and prepositioned in key areas", assures Commodore Jose Luis Alano, the Commander of Naval Forces Northern Luzon.
A Disaster Relief Response Team (DRRT) was fielded in Cagayan Province, 2 Teams in La Union, a Team in Pangasinan, and 2 Teams (from Naval Education and Training Command) in Zambales. Each DRRT is manned by an Officer and 15 Enlisted Personnel. They are equipped with rubber boats, portable generators, life saving kits, and M35 trucks.
They have also put on alert status Naval Reservists residing in Cagayan, Ilocos Norte, Pangasinan, and Nueva Ecija. They have undergone disaster response trainings which are the expertise presently needed.
Philippine Navy units are pre-organized and equipped as DRRTs and are suited for deployment at a moment’s notice. These DRRTs may be attached with local National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC), the latter being primarily tasked to respond to emergencies. (End)
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
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.
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.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
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.
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.
Friday, September 25, 2009
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.
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.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
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!!!
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!!!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
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.
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)
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.
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.
Friday, September 18, 2009
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)
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)
Thursday, September 17, 2009
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)
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)
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
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.
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.
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.
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.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
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.
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.
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.
Monday, September 7, 2009
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.
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.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
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..
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.
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.
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.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)