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AL-BRINJI BEDERI MALIAspiring Candidate for Member of ParliamentRepresenting the 3rd District of Tawi-Tawi(Municipalitie...
12/02/2025

AL-BRINJI BEDERI MALI

Aspiring Candidate for Member of Parliament
Representing the 3rd District of Tawi-Tawi
(Municipalities of Simunul, Sapa-Sapa, Sibutu, and Sitangkai)

Personal Information:

Birthdate: November 4, 1968
Birthplace: Tubig-Indangan, Simunul, Tawi-Tawi
Occupation: Businessman
Spouse: Ruth R. Mali
Children: Three

Professional Experience:

2022 – Present: Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Ariaz Corporation
2021 – 2022: Assistant Regional Manager, Bangsamoro Ports Authority
2008 – 2016: Engineering Consultant, Italian and Saudi firms (worked abroad)
2001 – 2005: Regional Director, Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), DOTC-ARMM

Advocacies:

Halal Livelihood Program – Supporting economic opportunities through Halal-certified businesses.
Technology & Education – Enhancing access to modern education and digital innovation.
Healthcare Modernization – Improving medical facilities and healthcare services.
Farming & Fishing Modernization – Strengthening agricultural and fisheries development.
Power, Electricity & Water Modernization – Ensuring sustainable and accessible utilities.

(Mark Navales images)

(Paid Advertisement sponsored by Mr. Edzwan Mohammad Din & Family)

Impeachment Trial Looms: Sara Duterte Denies Charges Amid Political StormBy Mark NavalesThe House of Representatives imp...
07/02/2025

Impeachment Trial Looms: Sara Duterte Denies Charges Amid Political Storm

By Mark Navales

The House of Representatives impeached Vice President Sara Duterte last Wednesday, with 215 lawmakers supporting the fourth impeachment complaint against her.

The complaint cited seven articles of impeachment, including violations of the Constitution, graft and corruption, betrayal of public trust, bribery, conspiracy to commit murder, and misuse of public funds.

In her first public response, Duterte dismissed calls to resign and expressed confidence in surviving the impeachment trial set for June in the Senate. “God save the Philippines,” she said during a Friday press briefing.

She denied the charges, including an alleged assassination plot against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his spouse, calling previous related statements hypothetical.

Duterte is accused of misusing ₱254.898 million as education secretary and amassing unexplained wealth. She downplayed the impeachment’s emotional impact, saying, “It’s more painful to be left by a partner than impeached.”

Despite her impeachment, Duterte, 46, said she hasn’t evaluated Senate votes but remains focused on her defense. Her father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, reportedly offered moral support and legal advice.

The Senate trial, anticipated to be contentious, will determine whether Duterte’s political career survives this high-stakes challenge.

(Gerard Carreon Photo)

U.S. Military-Contracted Aircraft Crashes in the Philippines, Killing FourBy Mark NavalesCotabato City --- A U.S. Depart...
07/02/2025

U.S. Military-Contracted Aircraft Crashes in the Philippines, Killing Four

By Mark Navales

Cotabato City --- A U.S. Department of Defense-contracted aircraft crashed on Thursday in Maguindanao Del Sur, killing all four people on board, including one U.S. military member and three defense contractors, according to the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.

The Beech King Air 300, with registration number N349CA, went down in Malimamon village, Ampatuan town, shortly after 2:00 p.m. Rescuers recovered the bodies from the wreckage, Tim Ambolodto, head of the Maguindanao Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, confirmed.

“Residents reported hearing an explosion and seeing smoke billowing from the aircraft before it crashed,” Ambolodto said. The victims appeared to be foreigners, he added.

In a statement, U.S. Embassy spokesperson Kanishka Gangopadhyay confirmed that the aircraft was providing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) support at the request of Philippine authorities.

“We can confirm that a U.S. military-contracted aircraft crashed in Maguindanao Del Sur on February 6. For further details, we refer you to the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command,” Gangopadhyay said.

The Indo-Pacific Command stated that the names and nationalities of the three contractors are being withheld until their next of kin are notified.

The King Air 300 is a twin-engine turboprop designed by Beechcraft, a subsidiary of U.S.-based Textron Aviation. The aircraft is commonly used for ISR missions and other special operations.

U.S. military personnel, along with Philippine law enforcement, have been conducting reconnaissance and counter-terrorism operations in Mindanao, where local forces are combating extremist groups.

30/01/2025

President Marcos, Army Chief Defend US Typhon Missiles, Stress National Interests

Commander-in-Chief President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has affirmed support for the US Typhon missile system’s presence in the Philippines, underscoring the importance of national security.

Philippine Army Commander Lt. Gen. Roy M. Galido, in his December 2024 year-end report, echoed the President's stance, stating, "We should not be concerned with others' insecurities as our focus remains on safeguarding our national interests."

The Philippine Army also called on like-minded nations to uphold the rules-based international order and respect sovereignty to ensure stability and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

(Video from RTVM.)





Espionage Uncovered: NBI Nets Five Chinese Nationals in Major Spy OperationBy Jeoffrey Maitem and Mark NavalesThe Nation...
30/01/2025

Espionage Uncovered: NBI Nets Five Chinese Nationals in Major Spy Operation

By Jeoffrey Maitem and Mark Navales

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) presented five Chinese nationals accused of espionage on Thursday, pledging that more arrests would follow as the government ramps up counter-intelligence efforts to expose surveillance activities in the country.

NBI Director Jaime Santiago identified the suspects as Cai Shaohuang, alleged field commander; Cheng Jai Tao and Wu Cheng Ting, intelligence operatives; Wang Yong, financier; and Wu Chen Ren, a member of the group. Santiago stated that the suspects had been conducting illegal surveillance operations in Palawan and Manila since 2023.

According to the NBI, the suspects, who claimed to be Taiwanese tourists, were apprehended while recording videos of a Philippine Coast Guard ship using their mobile phones. Investigators also discovered a closed-circuit television camera installed by the suspects, facing the sea from their resort accommodations.

During the operation on January 24, authorities seized mobile devices containing images of Baliluyan Port in Palawan, a Coast Guard station, vessels, navy assets, and terrain maps overlooking Subic Bay International Airport and the naval operating base.

“This group is believed to have engaged in aerial reconnaissance using drone operations, collecting data on Philippine naval assets, among other activities,” Santiago said.

Armed Forces Chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. stated that he suspects the five individuals have additional accomplices.

“This is the reason why we are releasing this information. We want our society to be vigilant, to monitor, and report any suspicious activities,” Brawner told reporters.

The arrests occurred just days after Yuanqing Deng, a software engineer, and two Filipinos, Ronel Jojo Besa and Jayson Amado Fernandez, were apprehended by the government for similar espionage activities.

30/01/2025

Philippine Coast Guard Defends Zambales Waters, Pushes Back Chinese Vessels

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel, BRP Teresa Magbanua, has achieved a significant milestone by successfully pushing the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessel CCG-3304 further away from the coast of Zambales, now estimated to be at a distance of 100-105 nautical miles.

Despite CCG-3304's assertions that it is patrolling within China's maritime jurisdiction and its refusal to recognize the arbitral award, the BRP Teresa Magbanua has persistently emphasized that the Chinese vessel lacks legal authority and is violating the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and the 2016 arbitral award.

In addition, the PCG has been monitoring the presence of three other CCG vessels off the coast of Zambales. CCG-5901 is currently approximately 103.63 nautical miles away, CCG-3502 is at around 115.22 nautical miles, and CCG-3103 is positioned approximately 134.10 nautical miles from the coast of Zambales.

The PCG remains unwavering in its commitment to uphold President Bongbong Marcos' directives, diligently working to prevent CCG from establishing an illegal presence and engaging in coercive actions in the West Philippine Sea, all while ensuring that tensions do not escalate.

(PCG-PIO Video footages)

PCG Faces Challenges in Rescuing Deceased Fisherman Amid Chinese Vessel InterferenceThe Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) ves...
30/01/2025

PCG Faces Challenges in Rescuing Deceased Fisherman Amid Chinese Vessel Interference

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel, BRP Cabra, promptly responded to a distress call from a Filipino fishing boat situated 70 nautical miles southwest of Silanguin Island, Zambales.

Upon arrival, the fishermen faced heavy waves and utilized their indigenous boats to transport the PCG medical team for assistance. Unfortunately, the team discovered that the fisherman had no pulse and was already deceased.

To transport the body of the fisherman back to Subic, Zambales, BRP Cabra bravely navigated through the heavy waves to retrieve the deceased using its crane.

It is crucial to note that the Chinese Coast Guard vessel CCG-3304, despite being aware of the distress call from the Filipino fishermen, engaged in shadowing that hindered the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel's efforts to recover the body.

As of 7 PM, BRP Teresa Magbanua is en route to assume responsibility for patrolling the coast of Zambales to address the illegal presence of the Chinese Coast Guard.

This follows the commendable efforts of BRP Cabra over the past few days in pushing CCG vessels further from the coast.

The PCG remains steadfast in its commitment to prioritize the welfare and safety of Filipino fishermen. Despite facing wave heights of 3 to 4 meters, the PCG vessels will continue to operate courageously while standing firm against the illegal deployment of Chinese Coast Guard vessels off the coast of Zambales.

27/01/2025

Re-Post: Trident News Philippines Documentary about "Mga Ilocano sa Mindanao"

LTO Davao Denies Reports of Implementing Coding Scheme to Ease Traffic CongestionBy Jeoffrey Maitem and Mark NavalesDava...
25/01/2025

LTO Davao Denies Reports of Implementing Coding Scheme to Ease Traffic Congestion

By Jeoffrey Maitem and Mark Navales

Davao City --- A senior official of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) Region 11 vehemently denied Saturday a recent online report about a coding scheme that the office was considering to address traffic congestion in the Davao Region.

The LTO 11 referred to a published report by Rojean Grace Patumbon of Sunstar Davao last January 23.

The report states that the LTO is considering implementing a number coding scheme to address traffic congestion in the Davao Region.

“We clarify that the number coding scheme was introduced as an idea during the discussion and candidly acknowledged by the Assistant Secretary as one of several potential traffic management strategies. This response should not be misconstrued as a definitive plan or policy for Davao City or the region,” said Atty. Ernesto Raphael Robillo, LTO-Davao Regional Director.

Robillio said assistant secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II was indeed interviewed by reporters on January 23 but his statement was taken out of context.


“LTO does not have anything to do with the flow of traffic. We are a support group. Enforcement is just one of the ways to ease traffic. But traffic solutions, we don’t have a decision on that issue. It’s not with us but with the city government,” Robillo explained.


“Assistant Secretary Atty. Mendoza only emphasized that comprehensive and collaborative solutions—such as enhancing public transportation, stricter traffic enforcement, and infrastructure improvements—are key to addressing congestion,” Robillio said.



Earlier this month, the TomTom Traffic Index 2024 showed that Davao emerged as the 8th most congested city worldwide, where residents take almost 33 to travel 10 kilometers. Next to Davao is Manila, which in turn placed 14th worldwide.



The LTO stresses that traffic measures must be well-studied and coordinated with Davao City and its legislative body to serve the public's needs.

“We urge the public to rely on official channels for accurate information and avoid spreading speculative or misleading interpretations,” Robillio said.






Peace Under Fire: Soldiers Killed in Basilan Ambush During UNDP MissionBy Mark NavalesCotabato City --- Troops from the ...
23/01/2025

Peace Under Fire: Soldiers Killed in Basilan Ambush During UNDP Mission

By Mark Navales

Cotabato City --- Troops from the 32nd Infantry Battalion were on board a KM-450 truck when they were ambushed by heavily armed members of lawless elements led by Najal Buena and Oman Hajal Jalis, backed by a former separatist group affiliated with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (M**F). The attack occurred during a United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) mission in Sumisip, Basilan, resulting in the deaths of two soldiers and injuries to 12 others.

Brigadier General Alvin Luzon, commander of the Army's 101st Infantry Brigade, confirmed that the clash took place shortly after 4 p.m. on Wednesday in Barangay Lower Cabengbeng. However, details of the incident were only confirmed a day later due to the area's remote location.

According to Luzon, the troops were providing security for UNDP personnel engaged in a peace and development project in the town. Fortunately, all UNDP representatives were safe as they had left the area before the attack occurred.

“This mission was coordinated through the Joint Peace and Security Committee (JPSC) under the Joint Normalization Committee (JNC), with the support of local leaders,” Luzon stated.

"While securing Barangay Lower Cabengbeng, the troops encountered gunfire from lawless elements led by Najal Buena and Oman Hajal Jalis. Both were reported killed in the encounter and were known for their involvement in violent family conflicts (Rido) in the area. However, the participation of some M**F members in the attack raises serious concerns about their commitment to peace and stability,” Luzon added.

The wounded and deceased soldiers were initially taken to Lamitan City District Hospital and later transferred to Camp Navarro General Hospital for further treatment.

Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Carlito Galvez condemned the attack, describing it as a cowardly act aimed at undermining the progress of the peace process.

“My deepest sympathies go out to the families of the fallen soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of peace,” Galvez said in a statement on Thursday.

In response to the attack, the police and military have been deployed to the area to meet with M**F representatives overseeing the ceasefire. “These measures aim to de-escalate tensions on the ground and facilitate a swift and impartial investigation to establish the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident,” Galvez added.

“We also urge the leadership of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front to conduct their own investigation and assist in bringing the perpetrators to justice,” he emphasized.

Lieutenant General Roy M. Galido, Commanding General of the Philippine Army, strongly condemned the ambush and extended condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, honoring their ultimate sacrifice in securing the people of Basilan. He assured that the Philippine Army would provide full support for the wounded to ensure their immediate recovery.

“As part of our firm resolve to sustain the hard-earned peace and progress in Basilan, we are working closely with local government units and law enforcement agencies to ensure that the perpetrators of this treacherous act face the full consequences of their actions, and justice is served for our fallen heroes,” Galido stated.

Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Chief Minister and M**F Chair Ahod Balawag Ebrahim also condemned the incident and called on all parties to remain calm and address the matter through appropriate channels.

“The Bangsamoro Government strongly believes that the established mechanisms within the peace process, such as the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) and the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG), are the best platforms to investigate and resolve this matter. These mechanisms have been instrumental in maintaining peace, stability, and ensuring accountability on all sides,” Ebrahim said.

The M**F, which boasts a 12,000-strong force, ceased its insurgency after signing a peace agreement with the Philippine government in 2014. The group has since transitioned into a political entity that now governs the Muslim autonomous region in the south.

Defending Sovereignty: Philippine Coast Guard Responds to Illegal China Coast Guard PresencePhilippines ----The Philippi...
21/01/2025

Defending Sovereignty: Philippine Coast Guard Responds to Illegal China Coast Guard Presence

Philippines ----The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has relieved the BRP Gabriela Silang (8301) with the 44-meter Multi Role and Response Vessel, BRP Suluan (MRRV-4406), to continue monitoring the illegal operations of the China Coast Guard vessel CCG-3304 off the coast of Zambales Province. The Chinese vessel has been operating at an average distance of 60-70 nautical miles from the coast.

In a significant development early this morning, CCG-3304 was replaced by another Chinese vessel, identified by bow number 3103. Although smaller than its predecessor, the new vessel is still 77.7 meters in length and 10.4 meters in width—larger than the 44-meter BRP Suluan.

Despite challenging sea conditions with waves reaching 2-3 meters, BRP Suluan has successfully maintained close surveillance of CCG-3103, preventing the larger vessel from approaching the Zambales coastline.

The PCG has also aggressively radio-challenged CCG-3103, asserting that its presence violates the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and the 2016 Arbitral Award.

As of 9 PM, the PCG reports that the vessel commonly referred to as the "monster ship," CCG-5901, is now 113 nautical miles from Zambales but remains within the country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), at a distance of 19 nautical miles from BDM.

Meanwhile, CCG-3304 is approximately 105 nautical miles from Zambales, closing in on BDM at 28 nautical miles. Additionally, CCG-3103 continues its illegal patrol off the coast of Zambales, currently 76 nautical miles from Pundaquit.

The Philippine Coast Guard remains committed to protecting the country's maritime interests while upholding international law and avoiding the escalation of tensions.

Driving Change: Atty. Ernesto Robillo’s Pledge for a Safer and Corruption-Free LTO Region XIBy Mark NavalesDavao City --...
21/01/2025

Driving Change: Atty. Ernesto Robillo’s Pledge for a Safer and Corruption-Free LTO Region XI

By Mark Navales

Davao City ---- The Land Transportation Office (LTO) Region XI in Davao City has achieved significant milestones in improving road safety through the strict enforcement of traffic laws, including Republic Act 4136 (the Land Transportation and Traffic Code) and other regulations. These efforts include the establishment of road safety task forces, implementation of the Anti-Distracted Driving Act, license plate distribution, installation of road safety tarpaulin posters, anti-colorum operations, and daily roadside inspections.

With the appointment of Atty. Ernesto Rafael Robillo as the new Regional Director of LTO Region XI, the agency aims to further enhance its services, ensuring efficiency, fairness, and integrity in public service.

Atty. Robillo officially assumed his role following a turnover ceremony led by Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor Mendoza II.

“It’s not a joke being under public scrutiny, but I am excited about this new environment and responsibility. I will carry out my work with integrity and focus on delivering quality service,” Robillo stated.

Acknowledging the challenges of government service, Robillo shared his extensive experience in public administration and expressed his commitment to implementing programs that will support LTO XI’s objectives. One of his key initiatives is an incentive scheme aimed at encouraging compliance with traffic laws and proper procedures.

“I may be new to this position, but I’ve worked as an administrator for almost 25 years. By profession, I’m a lawyer,” Robillo said.

He outlined his vision for the agency, emphasizing the importance of road safety education for drivers. “Security on the road starts with educating drivers. Before anyone is issued a license, they need to go through the proper seminars and training processes,” he explained.

Robillo highlighted his experience in handling people, addressing concerns, and focusing on service delivery. “The difference now is that I am directly serving the general public in this role,” he added.

The new director aims to introduce incentives to motivate citizens to comply with traffic laws, properly register their vehicles, and obtain legal, valid licenses. “This way, we can reduce accidents caused by unregistered vehicles or untrained drivers,” he noted.

He urged the public to adhere to laws and follow the proper procedures when obtaining licenses and registering vehicles. “We must work together to create a safer and more organized transportation system for everyone’s benefit,” he emphasized.

Furthermore, Robillo is committed to eliminating corruption and irregularities in the licensing and registration process. “There should be no fixing and no anomalous transactions. Our goal is to ensure the public benefits from a transparent and reliable LTO,” he concluded.






Peace Returns to Sulu: A Victory over Decades of ConflictBy Mark NavalesAfter 30 years of conflict with the Philippine A...
10/12/2024

Peace Returns to Sulu: A Victory over Decades of Conflict

By Mark Navales

After 30 years of conflict with the Philippine Army, the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), notorious for its campaign of violence in the southern Philippines, has been largely defeated. This milestone has ushered in an era of peace and development in the southernmost points of the Philippine archipelago.

Formed in the 1990s to create an Islamist state, the ASG carried out numerous atrocities, including assassinations, kidnappings, piracy, extortion, and terror attacks. Their hallmark method of execution—beheading—instilled fear throughout the region.

However, concerted efforts by government forces, local officials, and the community have turned the tide. Sulu is now ranked as "number one in improved peace and order," according to Governor Sakur Tan. He commended authorities and the public for their cooperation in supporting peace and development efforts.

As chairman of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC), Governor Tan recently updated the public on Sulu’s security situation and the strides made in addressing social concerns. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has also lauded the military’s efforts, particularly the 11th Infantry Division, for reducing threats posed by the ASG.

“I have to congratulate all of you who have worked to achieve this success, who have worked very hard and have made many sacrifices so that we can now say that the capabilities of the main threat, which is the ASG, have been severely reduced,” President Marcos said during a visit to Camp Teodulfo Bautista in Jolo.

Building Trust and Reintegrating Rebels

The Army 11th Infantry (Alakdan) Division Commander, MGen Leonardo Peña, PA shared that the Armed forces in tandem with the Sulu local government, worked hard to gain the trust and confidence of the people in the province, understood their cultural needs, and enhanced the collaborative security efforts of different sectors, accepted and supported the return of Abu Sayaff members into the folds of the law, and helped them to be reintegrated to lead a normal life in mainstream society.

"We will continue to remain steadfast in our mission of safeguarding the country and the people, highlighting our crucial role in nation-building." MGen. Peña said.

Brigadier General Christopher Tampus, commander of the 1103rd Brigade, shared his personal experience of walking unarmed along Mauboh Beach in Patikul, a gesture symbolizing the restored peace in the area. Soldiers deployed to Sulu underwent cultural and religious sensitivity training, which fostered trust and collaboration with the local community.

“We started building strong relationships with the people and their local officials. When you respect them, they will trust you in return,” Tampus explained. “In the past, there was no trust. That’s one of the reasons the security problem remained unresolved for so many years.”

Economic and Tourism Revival

Efforts to rebuild communities and revitalize the local economy are yielding visible results. In recent years, cafes and restaurants have opened along the bay walk in towns like Patikul, Talipao, Indanan, and Jolo, signaling Sulu’s transition "from terrorism to tourism," as local restaurant owner Sharfiya Jalani Hayudini proudly stated.

One notable development is the establishment of Jade by the Sea, Sulu’s first water park resort. The resort, opened in 2020 for free by Alfarsi Tan Hassiman, includes water slides, kayaking facilities, and a fish sanctuary featuring Crevalle Jack, groupers, and lobsters.

Sulu Vice Governor Abdusakur “Toto” Tan II highlighted the drastic reduction in negative perceptions about the island’s security. “Seven years ago, there were fears and uncertainty. But now, it’s peaceful. Commerce, development, and national government support have poured in, benefiting the community,” he said.

A Rich Cultural Tapestry

Local and foreign tourists alike are beginning to rediscover Sulu. Visitors are drawn to its pristine beaches, vibrant handicrafts, and rich history, including its Islamic heritage and the unique traditions of ethnic communities like the Badjaos, who are known as sea gypsies.

“Peace has already been achieved,” said Hayudini. “We encourage people to visit Sulu and see its beauty for themselves.”








HANNA ANDONGAN BADAWIYAAspiring Candidate for Municipal CouncilorMunicipality of Datu Piang, Maguindanao del SurPersonal...
10/12/2024

HANNA ANDONGAN BADAWIYA

Aspiring Candidate for Municipal Councilor
Municipality of Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur

Personal Information
Birthdate: September 20, 1978
Birthplace: Barangay Kalipapa, Datu Piang, Maguindanao
Occupation: Businesswoman
Spouse: Norodin M. Badawiya
Children: 4

Work Experience

1998–2003: Local Government Unit (LGU) Employee, Datu Piang
2004–2016: Barangay Treasurer, Barangay Alonganen, Datu Piang, Maguindanao
2022–2023: Private Secretary to Board Member Kaka Jeng Ampatuan Macapendeg, Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Maguindanao del Sur

Advocacies

Education and Youth Support – Advocating for access to quality education and empowering the youth.
Honest Public Service – Committed to serving the community with integrity and transparency.
Strengthening Community-Based Projects – Supporting initiatives to enhance development in every barangay.
Economic Growth and Livelihood – Prioritizing programs to improve the economy and uplift local livelihoods.
Promotion of Culture, Sports, and Tourism – Encouraging cultural preservation, sports activities, and tourism growth.
Aspirations

Position: Sangguniang Bayan (Municipal Councilor)
Election: Midterm Local/National Elections, May 2025

(Paid Advertisement sponsored by Donald-Diamond and Family)

04/12/2024

WPS NEWS Updates:

Hostile Encounters: Philippine Coast Guard Reports Chinese Aggression in Bajo de Masinloc

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) conducted a routine maritime patrol near Bajo de Masinloc to support Filipino fishermen actively operating in the area. However, the operation was marred by aggressive actions from Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) and People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels.

Aggressive Actions Reported

At approximately 6:30 AM, CCG vessel 3302 fired a water cannon at the BRP Datu Pagbuaya (MMOV 3003), targeting its navigational antennas while the Philippine vessel was 16 nautical miles south of Bajo de Masinloc.

This was followed by a deliberate sideswiping maneuver by CCG 3302 on the starboard side of the BRP Datu Pagbuaya.
later, at 6:55 AM, the same Chinese vessel launched a second water cannon attack against the Philippine ship.

Other vessels in the area also experienced hostile maneuvers. PLAN vessel 500 and CCG 503 engaged in blocking, shadowing, and performing dangerous maneuvers against the BRP Teresa Magbanua, while BRP Cabra faced reckless actions by CCG vessel 3104, which came within 300 yards of the Philippine vessel.

Commitment to Safeguarding National Interests
The PCG and BFAR strongly condemn these hostile actions, reaffirming their commitment to protecting the rights and safety of Filipino fishermen within the country’s maritime jurisdiction.

In a statement, the agencies emphasized their determination to remain vigilant in safeguarding the national interests of the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea.

PLA-Linked Uniform, Undocumented Chinese Nationals Found on Dredger Vessel in MarivelesBataan -- The Philippine Coast Gu...
01/12/2024

PLA-Linked Uniform, Undocumented Chinese Nationals Found on Dredger Vessel in Mariveles

Bataan -- The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) uncovered 13 undocumented Chinese nationals aboard the dredger vessel Harvest 89 during an operation conducted in Mariveles, Bataan.

The discovery came after the vessel's agent notified the PCG of its intended departure to San Felipe, Zambales, for dredging operations. However, when PCG personnel sought to board the ship for a routine Pre-Departure Inspection and to secure the Master's Declaration of Safe Departure (MDSD), the agent denied access, insisting all documents were complete.

This denial prompted the PCG’s Limay Substation team to initiate a more thorough inspection. Upon boarding, the composite team found nine Chinese crew members without proper documentation. A subsequent search revealed four additional undocumented individuals hiding aboard, bringing the total to 13.

Identified Undocumented Crew:
LUO XIAN MING (b. June 30, 1968, Age 56)
JIANG HAI GNG (b. July 8, 1976, Age 48)
CHEN YU (b. May 6, 1984, Age 40)
ZHU ZHENGLI (b. June 11, 1965, Age 59)
ZHOU ZHI (b. December 13, 1976, Age 48)
ZHOU CHAN GGUI (b. December 27, 1973, Age 51)
LI CHUN LIANG (b. July 14, 1979, Age 45)
GONG QING SHAN (b. January 24, 1976, Age 48)
WANG YU MAN (b. April 8, 1973, Age 51)
WEI XUE YU (b. July 7, 1975, Age 49)
ZHOU JIB IN (b. December 8, 1975, Age 49)
CHENG QING YU (b. May 12, 1976, Age 48)
HUA MING QING (b. April 13, 1974, Age 50)

Adding to the concerns, authorities discovered a uniform resembling those worn by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on the vessel, raising suspicions about the nature of the undocumented individuals' activities and intentions.

The PCG is now coordinating with relevant government agencies to investigate the situation further, identify potential violations, and pursue legal action against those responsible.

"This operation highlights the Philippine Coast Guard's unwavering commitment to protecting our maritime borders," the PCG stated. "We remain vigilant in enforcing maritime laws and ensuring the security of our waters."

Investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the violations and the potential implications for national security.

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