US Marine contingent arrives in Subic Bay ahead of the Balikatan exercises

A contingent of the US Marine Corps arrived at the Subic Bay International Airport in preparation for Balikatan 2022 to begin next week.

Approximately 8,900 members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the U.S. Military are teaming up for Balikatan 2022, one of the largest-ever iterations of the Philippine-led annual exercise taking place across Luzon from March 28 to April 8.

The 3,800 AFP members and 5,100 U.S. military personnel will train shoulder-to-shoulder focusing on maritime security, amphibious operations, live-fire training, urban operations, aviation operations, counterterrorism, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. 

“Balikatan is a critical opportunity to work shoulder-to-shoulder with our Philippine allies toward a ‘free and open Indo-Pacific that is more connected, prosperous, secure, and resilient,’ as our Indo-Pacific Strategy calls for.  The U.S. is proud to continue our participation in this long-standing exercise,” said U.S. Embassy in the Philippines Chargé d’Affaires ad interim Heather Variava. 

“During Balikatan, the U.S. military and AFP will train together to expand and advance shared tactics, techniques, and procedures that strengthen our response capabilities and readiness for real-world challenges,” said Maj. Gen. Jay Bargeron, 3rd Marine Division Commanding General.  “The friendship and trust between our forces will enable us to accomplish any mission across the spectrum of military operations.” 

The exercise also includes a command post exercise that tests the AFP and U.S. forces’ ability to plan, command, and communicate with each other in a simulated environment.  This training will bolster the collective security and defensive capabilities of the alliance. 

“Exercise Balikatan is a testament to the strength of the Philippines and United States’ security relationship,” said Maj. Gen. Charlton Sean Gaerlan, AFP Exercise Director for Balikatan 22.  “The experience gained in the exercise complements our security cooperation endeavors and will help to enhance existing mutual security efforts.” 

The AFP and U.S. military will also conduct multiple humanitarian and civic assistance projects during this year’s Balikatan, including the renovation of four elementary schools, multiple community health engagements, and the exchange of advanced emergency rescue and lifesaving techniques. 

These construction projects, health engagements and community relations events improve local infrastructure, facilitate the exchange of lifesaving medical skills, and strengthen ties between Philippine communities and Philippine and American military forces. 

COVID-19 mitigation remains a priority for both nations. U.S. forces will comply with all Philippine government COVID-19 travel regulations and will maintain social distancing and wear face masks during exercises as operationally feasible. 

“Balikatan” is a Tagalog term that means “shoulder-to-shoulder” or “sharing the load together,” which characterizes the spirit of the exercise and represents the alliance between the Philippines and the United States. 

“Balikatan 22 coincides with the 75th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine security cooperation and a shared commitment to promoting peace,” said Maj. Gen. Bargeron.  “Our alliance remains a key source of strength and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.” 

Exercises like Balikatan strengthen international partnerships and the participating militaries’ abilities to rapidly respond to crises throughout the Indo-Pacific region.  The United States is proud to participate in this Philippine-led exercise to improve both nations’ capabilities across a wide range of military operations.  (SNL)

https://ph.usembassy.gov/37th-iteration-of-balikatan-exercise-set-to-begin-in-the-philippines/

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US Marines, AFP begin "Kamandag 2" military exercises at Subic Bay

Subic Bay — The 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade (3d MEB) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) opened exercise KAMANDAG 2 with a ceremony at the Subic Bay International Airport on Monday (October 1).

KAMANDAG 2 will take place October 1 to 10, 2018, at multiple locations on the island of Luzon.

KAMANDAG 2 is an exercise between the Republic of the Philippines and the United States which also features participation from Japan.

The Philippine-led exercise will include military-to-military exchanges between the AFP and U.S. forces with a focus on counterterrorism and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief capabilities.

KAMANDAG 2 will enhance cooperation and interoperability between Philippine and U.S. forces as part of both countries’ commitments to support each other as friends, partners, and allies.

Service members will practice humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, an amphibious landing, live fire training, close air support, jungle survival training, urban operations training, and combat lifesaving during KAMANDAG 2.

“In its first iteration last year, KAMANDAG gave rise to many inaugural advancements between our militaries,” said Brig. Gen. Chris A. McPhillips, 3d MEB Commanding General. “I’m looking forward to all that we’re going to achieve together this year.”

The U.S. and Philippines will partner for a variety of community relations events during KAMANDAG 2. Engineering and construction projects are ongoing at a school and two daycare centers in Ternate, Cavite. While in Ternate, U.S. and Philippine military medical teams will teach hundreds of Ternate residents about lifesaving skills, disease prevention, and dental hygiene. 

Participants in exercises like KAMANDAG 2 develop lifelong friendships and connections that bring the U.S. and Philippines closer together as friends, partners, and allies.

KAMANDAG is an acronym for the Filipino phrase “Kaagapay Ng Mga Mandirigma Ng Dagat,” which translates to “Cooperation of Warriors of the Sea,” highlighting the partnership between the Philippine and United States militaries.

KAMANDAG 2 will increase overall U.S. and Philippine readiness, improve combined responsiveness to crises in the Indo-Pacific region, and strengthen both countries’ decades-long partnership. (US Embassy)

PHOTO:

Brigadier General Chris McPhillips, Commanding General of the 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade, Major General Nathaniel Casem, Inspector General of the Philippine Navy, and Brigadier General Melquiades Ordiales, Deputy Commandant of the Philippine Marine Corps, open exercise KAMANDAG 2 during a ceremony at Subic Bay International Airport. (https://www.dvidshub.net/feature/KAMANDAG)

https://ph.usembassy.gov/us-marines-and-armed-forces-of-the-philippines-launch-exercise-kamandag-2/

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More US warships in Subic Bay for PHIBLEX 33

More US warships arrived in Subic Bay Wednesday to take part in this year's Philippines Amphibious Landing Exercise, also known as PHIBLEX 33.

Additional U.S. units that docked in the Freeport are three ships of Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (BHR ARG).

BHR ARG consists of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD-6), the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock USS Green Bay (LPD-20), and the Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD-42).

PHIBLEX 33 opened Monday in ceremonies held at the headquarters of the Philippine Marine Corps in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

According to Cpt Ryan F Lacuesta, PN (M), Director, Marine Corps Public Affairs Office Public Affairs Office, the exercise will have different events that will enhance the interoperability and capability of the naval forces of both countries.

Some of the exercise activities are as follows:

- Amphibious Landing Exercise on October 7, 2016 at the Naval Education Training Command in San Antonio Zambales.

- Combined Live Fire exercise (CALFEX) on October 10, 2016 at the Crow Valley in Tarlac.

- Turn-over ceremony of Engineering project at the Palawig Elementary School and San Vicente Elem School on October 11, 2016 at Sta Ana, Cagayan, and,

- Closing Ceremony PHIBLEX33 on October 12, 2016 at the Acero Hall, Headquarters Philippine Marine Corps, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

PHIBLEX 33 includes approximately 1,400 U.S. service members based in Okinawa, Japan and 500 Philippine Armed Forces personnel working side-by- side to grow capabilities and better prepare to operate together during a natural disaster or armed conflict. (SNL)

PHOTOS:

[1] Sea Knight transport and Sea Stallion attack helicopters sit on the deck of the assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard, which will participate in the ongoing Phiblex war games between the Philippines and the United States. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[2] The dock landing ship USS Germantown (right) and the assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard occupy the length of the Alava Pier in the Subic Bay Freeport on Wednesday. The ships, along with USS Green Bay, are in port for replenishment before participating in the ongoing war maneuver between the Philippines and the United States. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)


http://dwdd.com.ph/2016/09/22/phiblex-33-phl-us-annual-naval-bilateral-exercise/

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More US ships dock in Subic Bay as Phl, US troops prepare for PHIBLEX 33

Three more US Navy ships are now docked in Subic Bay Freeport for a routine port call.

Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport USNS Millinocket (T-EPF-3) and two other US support ships, the USNS Bowditch (T-AGS 62) and USNS Washington Chambers (T-AKE 11) arrived at the port of Subic Monday morning (Sept. 26) for supply replenishment.

USNS Bowditch is an oceanographic survey vessel which is part of the Special Mission Ship program operating in South China Sea, while the USNS Washington Chambers is a Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ship. The three ships joined another US vessel, USS Frank Cable (AS-40), which arrived in this free port on Sept. 10.

These US ships are now in Subic Bay as Philippine and American troops prepare for the upcoming PHIBLEX exercises set on October 4 to 12 in multiple locations in Luzon and Palawan.

In a statement release by the US Embassy in Manila, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine Marine Corps have invited U.S. Marines and Sailors from the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade and Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group to participate in PHIBLEX 2016 which is the 33rd iteration of the Philippines Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX 33).

Humanitarian civic assistance efforts, an amphibious landing exercise and live- fire training featuring artillery are just a few of the many team building opportunities during PHIBLEX 33, all designed to advance cooperation, improve interoperability and assist in strengthening bilateral amphibious capabilities.

PHIBLEX 33 will include approximately 1,400 U.S. service members based in Okinawa, Japan and 500 Philippine Armed Forces personnel working side-by- side to grow capabilities and better prepare to operate together during a natural disaster or armed conflict.

The humanitarian and civic assistance portion of the exercise, beginning in September and concluding 12 October, includes engineering projects to improve local infrastructure and health engagements to exchange medical best practices and supplement the medical needs of Philippine citizens. Field training during the exercise includes small arms and artillery live-fire which will provide the and U.S. Marine units multiple opportunities to maintain and sharpen their skills while enhancing an already high level of interoperability.

Additional U.S. units participating include Amphibious Squadron 11, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and the three ships of Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (BHR ARG). The ARG consists of the USS BHR (LHD-6), the USS Green Bay (LPD-20), and the USS Germantown (LSD-48). Philippine units include the 3d Marine Brigade and the Philippine Navy’s new Strategic Sealift Vessel, the BRP Tarlac. (MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
The USS Frank Cable (AS-40), a submarine tender ship, gives a water salute to the passing USNS Millinocket (T-EPF-3), a Spearhead class expeditionary fast transport ship as the latter prepare to dock for a routine port stop at the Alava Pier in Subic Bay Freeport zone in Zambales Monday (Sept. 26). Two other US support ships, the USNS Bowditch (T-AGS 62), an oceanographic survey vessel which is part of the Special Mission Ship program operating in South China Sea, and the dry cargo ship USNS Washington Chambers (T-AKE 11) also docked in Subic Bay port for supply replenishment. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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22nd Annual CARAT Philippines begins in Subic Bay

SUBIC BAY, Philippines - The 22nd CARAT Philippines kicked off June 6 between the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, with exercises taking place in multiple locations across the country and in the waters near Subic Bay and Palawan.

The four-day CARAT (Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training) exercises will focus on combined operations at sea, amphibious landings, diving and salvage, maritime domain awareness, and community service events. Sailors and Marines will train with their AFP counterparts in a host of military engagements, professional exchanges and training seminars.

Civil action projects, community service events and combined military band concerts are also planned to foster relationships and bonds with the Filipino people.

“CARAT enables us to develop strong relationships with our Philippine Navy and Marine partners,” said Rear Adm. Charles Williams, Commander, Task Force 73. “Through 22 years of engagement in CARAT, we continue to make steady progress in increasing the complexity of our training and enhancing cooperation between our navies.”

CARAT Philippines is part of a broader exercise series the U.S. Navy conducts with nine partner nations in South and Southeast Asia to address shared maritime security priorities, strengthen maritime partnerships and enhance interoperability among participating forces. The Philippines has participated since the series began in 1995.

"CARAT strengthens the strong and enduring relationships between the U.S. and Philippine navies," said Rear Adm. Ronald Joseph S. Mercado AFP, commander, Philippine Fleet. "We're looking forward to working alongside our U.S. Navy and Marine partners during CARAT 2016.

U.S. Sailors and Marines participating in CARAT Philippines 2016 represent a host of ships, squadrons, and units from across the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. This year’s exercise features the guided missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63), the landing dock ship USS Ashland (LSD 48), and the diving and salvage ship USNS Salvor (T-ARS-52), along with a P-8 Poseidon aircraft, Navy expeditionary forces, Marines assigned to the III Marine Expeditionary Force - 3rd Marine Division, a platoon from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 5, staff from Commander, Task Force 73 (CTF 73) and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, and the 7th Fleet Band Orient Express.

The Philippine Navy assets and units will include the Minesweeper Frigate BRP Rizal (PS74), the Del Pilar Class Frigate BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PF-15), a Landing Craft Heavy vessel, an AW109 helicopter, an EOD Team, Diving Team, Construction platoon, a Marine Company and the Philippine Fleet Band.

“CARAT provides a great opportunity for our navies to operate together at sea and train during realistic scenarios that better prepare our forces for real-world operations,” said Capt. H. B. Le, commodore, Destroyer Squadron Seven. "With more than two decades of experience working together we are able to execute complex exercises that address shared maritime security priorities and improve interoperability between our navies.”

CARAT 2016 will be the most complex series to date. Its continuing relevance for more than two decades speaks to the high quality of exercise events and the enduring value of regional cooperation among allies and partners in South and Southeast Asia.

As U.S. 7th Fleet's executive agent for theater security cooperation in South and Southeast Asia, Commander, Task Force 73 conducts advanced planning, organizes resources and directly supports the execution of maritime exercises, such as the bilateral CARAT series, the Naval Engagement Activity (NEA) with Vietnam, and the multi-lateral Southeast Asia Cooperation and Training (SEACAT) with Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand.

PHOTO:
SOUTH CHINA SEA (June 28, 2014) U.S. and Philippine Navy ships operate together during exercise Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) in 2014. (from the top) The Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56), the Philippine navy frigate BRP Gregaorio del Pilar (PF-15) and the Philippine navy frigate BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF-16) steam in formation during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Philippines 2014. (U.S Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jay C. Pugh. http://www.cpf.navy.mil/news.aspx/110050)

http://www.c7f.navy.mil/Media/News/Display/Article/791542/22nd-annual-carat-philippines-exercise-begins-in-subic-bay

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US military vehicles arrive in Subic

Heavy machineries and military vehicles are parked at a portion of the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) as the Philippines and the United States gear up for the start of the Balikatan exercise 2016.

Balikatan 2016, an interoperability exercise between the Philippines and the US, is major event that highlights the longstanding alliance of the two countries and will be held from April 4 to 15.

The 32nd iteration of the annual US-PH Balikatan exercise (BK 16) will be held in Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Zambales, Panay, and Palawan.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) had said militaries from 11 other countries - Japan, India, South Korea, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Timor-Leste have been invited to observe this year’s Balikatan exercises. (Jonas Reyes, Manila Bulletin)


PHOTOS:
US military vehicles arrived in Subic. (Jonas Reyes)

http://www.mb.com.ph/photos-us-military-vehicles-arrive-in-subic/

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Filipino, US soldiers start preparing for war games

Filipino and American troops are now preparing for the 32nd iteration of the annual US-PH Balikatan (shoulder-to-shoulder) exercise to be held in Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Zambales, Panay, and Palawan.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said militaries from 11 other countries – Japan, India, South Korea, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Timor-Leste – have been invited to observe this year’s Balikatan exercises (BK 16).

The BK 16 opening ceremony is slated on April 4 and will run until April 15.

Filipino troops commenced preparatory works for the conduct of engineering activities and medical assistance programs in Panay and Palawan leading up to information exchanges and live training events over a 12-day period.

In the following weeks, US forces will join their Filipino counterparts as they work shoulder-to-shoulder during these engagements and throughout the exercise.

Balikatan is an annual Philippines-US military bilateral training focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance, maritime law enforcement, and environmental protection.

Military service members from both countries will also conduct combined simulation supported events and operational events in three main commands of the Armed Forces of the Philippines – Western Command (Wescom), Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom), and Southern Luzon Command (Solcom) – as well as in other major Philippine military facilities such as Crow Valley, Fort Magsaysay, Clark Air Field, and Subic Bay to improve their ability to work together, partnering in capabilities and plan follow-on operations.

One of the main operations for this year’s exercise will be the implementation of a joint rapid reaction force as part of the distributed operations in the vicinity of Panay, demonstrating the partnered capability in rapid response.

Forces from the Philippines, United States, and Australia will also participate in all major exercise events, including the simulation supported event (SSE), operational event (OE), and humanitarian civic assistance (HCA). (Elena L. Aben, Manila Bulletin)

PHOTO:

Amphibious assault vehicles launch from the amphibious transport dock Green Bay during Balikatan 2015 in Subic Bay. (MC3 Edward Guttierrez III/Navy)

http://www.mb.com.ph/filipino-us-soldiers-start-preparing-for-war-games/

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‘USS Green Bay’ docks in Subic

The ‘USS Green Bay,’ one of the most modern US naval ships to date, docks at the Alava Pier of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone yesterday. The USS Green Bay is a San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock that can deliver a fully equipped battalion of 800 Marines. (Jonas Reyes, Manila Bulletin)

http://www.mb.com.ph/uss-green-bay-docks-in-subic/

Children play along the breakwater of Waterfront Road as the USS Green Bay (LPD 20), an amphibious transport dock ship is moored at the Alava pier in Subic Bay Freeport Tuesday (April 14) to unload military equipment to be used in the annual military exercise dubbed “Balikatan 2015” slated to commence next week in several locations in the Philippines. (Jun Dumaguing)

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Cancelled port calls won’t affect US-Phl defense ties

Armed Forces chief Gen. Gregorio Catapang Jr. assured the nation yesterday the cancelled port calls of US warships to Subic Bay would not affect the defense ties between the Philippines and the US.

Speaking to reporters in Camp Aguinaldo, Catapang said no joint activities would be discontinued.

“Even if there’s a problem or something like that, we will continue with our military exercises with our US counterparts,” he said.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said yesterday the US has cancelled the visit of three warships to Subic Bay this month for operational reasons.

Speaking to reporters, DFA spokesman Charles Jose said the cancellation is not related to the murder case against US Marine Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton.

“We don’t see the ongoing case to be a reason,” he said. “We were just informed about the cancellation.”

The three are part of nine US warships scheduled to dock in the former US naval this month and to remain until December.

Jose said the reconsideration of port visits is normal occurrence as US warships are deployed in many areas of the Pacific and subject to changing operational requirements.

“The DFA was informed through normal diplomatic channels of the cancellation of the visits to Subic of three US Navy ships for operational reasons,” he said.

Jose said the ships are not part of a joint military training in the Philippines.

“Usually the purpose of port calls is for repairs, for operational reasons,” he said. “We can say they are not related to joint exercises. The exercises are not related to port calls.” (Alexis Romero, Pia Lee-Brago, The Philippine Star)

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/11/04/1387867/cancelled-port-calls-wont-affect-us-phl-defense-ties

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Let justice be done, says Aquino

COMMUNICATIONS Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. yesterday said President Aquino wants all government agencies concerned to make sure the killing of a transgender in Olongapo City is solved.

He assured the family of 26-year-old Jeffrey Laude there will be no whitewash.

Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton, a member of the US Marine Corps, has been identified s the killer, and is being detained at the USS Peleliu which is docked at Subic Bay.

Coloma acknowledged the concerns of Laude’s family, including their call for speedy investigations.

“Lahat naman po ng pamilya ng mga nagiging biktima ng mga krimen ay naghahangad ng agarang solusyon. Iyon din po ang hangad ng ating pamahalaan. Kalakip na po iyon doon sa pagsasabi that the ends of justice will be served, at hindi po ba may kasabihang ‘justice delayed is justice denied.’ Kaya dapat lamang na maging agaran ang paghahanap ng solusyon at paggawad ng katarungan dito,” he said.

Quoting Eduardo Oban, executive director of the Presidential Commission on the Visiting Forces Agreement, said the Philippine and US governments have agreed on the importance of a thorough investigation “so that the ends of justice will be served.”

Admiral Samuel Locklear, chief of the US Pacific Command, expressed “regrets” over the killing.

Locklear relayed the message to AFP chief Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang during the annual Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board meeting held in Camp Aguinaldo. Locklear and Catapang are the co-chairmen of the boards.

“He (Locklear) talked about it. In fact, personally he wants to say his regrets for what has happened, that unfortunate incident,” said Catapang.

“He said that he sympathizes with the family for what had happened, and he wants a full investigation to be conducted by the NCIS (Naval Criminal Investigation Service) together with the PNP,” said Catapang, quoting Locklear.

The defense department said the killing is an isolated and tragic incident and that should not undermine future military exercise with US troops and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement which was signed last April.

“This is an isolated incident, albeit a tragic one. We call on all concerned not to lose sight of the bigger picture and to look at these—PH-US exercises, EDCA and homicide–as different issues,” said DND spokesman Peter Paul Galvez.

Militant congressmen continued to pounce on the EDCA and the VFA, saying the case only proves that concerns over the one-sidedness of the agreements “are not imagined.”

Bayan Muna Rep. Neri Colmenares said the Aquino government should have immediately asserted authority over the custody of US Marine Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton. (Jocelyn Montemayor, Malaya)

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/let-justice-be-done-says-aquino

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US bars ships from leaving PHL after slay of transgender woman

US Pacific Commander Samuel Locklear has barred American military vessels from leaving the Philippines until the investigation on the alleged killing of a Filipino transgender woman by a US Marine is over, a senior Philippine official said Monday.

Transgender woman Jeffrey Laude was found dead in an Olongapo City inn over the weekend. She was reported to have been seen with a foreigner before her death.

“I’d like to tell you that the Pacific Commander ordered that no US ships will leave the Philippines until we are done with the investigation,” Commission on the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) Executive Director Eduardo Oban told reporters at the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

The US Embassy in a statement said a US Marine had been identified "as a possible suspect in the ongoing investigation."

"The United States will continue to fully cooperate with Philippine law enforcement authorities in every aspect of the investigation," it added.

According to a report on Marine Corps Times, citing an internal Navy memo, a US Marine has been placed in custody on board the Peleliu in connection with the incident.

Filipino and US officials in the Philippines, however, have yet to confirm this.

Chief Superintendent Raul Petrasanta, the regional director of the PNP in Central Luzon, said some of the members of the US Marines have been presented to witnesses in a police line-up.

"Police line-up pa lang. Pina-identify sa witness and all of them belong to the US Marines," Petrasanta said.

Jurisdiction

But Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario explained that under the VFA, the Philippines could take custody over a US serviceman if he is accused of committing a heinous crime in the country.

“The VFA is very clear that we have jurisdiction. In the normal course of events, the US would have custody, but they would have to produce the suspect for court cases. But in the case of heinous crimes, we could ask them to waive custody and so I suppose it could go in that direction,” he said in an interview.

In an event an American servicemen is involved in a crime in the country, the Philippines has the jurisdication over the case, according to the the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA).

However, the VFA also said that the custody of the suspect goes to the United States of America. But, the US authorities are mandated to present the suspect in all judicial proceedings.

"As embodied in the VFA--it's under article 5, paragraph 6--the custody of a US serviceman involved in a particular case resides in the US military authorities," Oban said.

The VFA governs the treatment of US servicemen in military units and defense personnel who are in the Philippine territory for short periods for joint military exercises approved by both the Philippine and US governments.

American soldiers regularly train with their Filipino counterparts as allowed by the VFA, which entered into force on May 27, 1999, eight years after the closure of US military bases in the Philippines in 1991. It was negotiated and signed during the time of President Fidel V. Ramos and ratified during President Joseph Estrada’s time.

Oban said the suspect was part of the more than 3,500 American troops who took part in joint military exercises in Zambales last month.

PHL-US relations

The incident came out in the media months after the Philippines and the US signed a new military pact that will expand the presence and role of American soldiers in the country.

The suspected American marine, who was not identified by US and Philippine officials, is the second US soldier to be involved in a criminal act in the country since 2005.

Nine years ago, Lance Corporal Daniel Smith was charged and later on convicted for the rape of a Filipino woman. The case, which sparked a diplomatic row between Manila and Washington, was dismissed after the victim reversed her testimony.

Laude, 26, was found dead inside the Celzone Lodge in Olongapo City. Initial reports said she was last seen with a foreigner.

The DFA said it is closely coordinating with the US government and concerned agencies on the issue.

“We have received an initial report on the incident and we note that investigations are ongoing and we are awaiting the results of the investigation,” DFA spokesman Charles Jose told a press briefing. “We are committed to do our part to ensure that justice is served.”

Del Rosario, for his part, described the incident as “tragic.”

“But we will work together in terms of being able to deliver what’s just,” he said. (KBK/NB, GMA News)

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/383336/news/nation/us-bars-ships-from-leaving-phl-after-slay-of-transgender-woman

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US naval ships in Subic Bay for PHIBLEX 15

[1] SBMA law enforcement officers raise the Philippine flag, with the US Navy’s amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA-5) in the background during the flag ceremony on Monday morning. Peleliu and the USS Germantown (LSD-42) arrived ​at​ the Subic Bay Freeport to participate in the Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015 (Phiblex 15). Around 3,500 US Marines and sailors from the 3rdMarine Expeditionary Force and Filipino soldiers will take part in the joint military training beginning today in Palawan.

[2] A landing craft air cushion (LCAC) from the USS Germantown (LSD-42) hovers on the waters of Subic Bay as it ferries heavy machineries to be used in the Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015 (Phiblex 15). Around 3,500 US Marines and sailors from the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Force, along with Filipino soldiers, will take part in a joint military training beginning today in Palawan.

[3] A US Marine passes by a landing craft air cushion (LCAC) from the USS Germantown (LSD-42) that was unloading heavy machineries at the Subic Bay Freeport on Monday. The equipment will be used in the Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015 (Phiblex 15) where around 3,500 US Marines and sailors from the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Force, along with Filipino soldiers, will take part in a joint military training beginning today in Palawan.

[4] A military truck disembarks from a landing craft air cushion (LCAC) from the USS Germantown (LSD-42) as heavy machineries are unloaded in the Subic Bay Freeport Monday morning for use in the Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015 (Phiblex 15). Around 3,500 US Marines and sailors from the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Force, along with Filipino soldiers, will take part in the joint military training beginning today in Palawan.

(Photos by Jun Dumaguing/MPD-SBMA)

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Four US warships now in Subic Bay with arrival of USS Halsey

USS Halsey (DDG 97), an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer arrives in Subic Bay today for a routine port call, bringing to four American navy ships now docked in this former US naval base now premier freeport.

The USS Peleliu and USS Germantown arrived in Subic Bay over the weekend carrying around 1,300 US sailors to take part in PHIBLEX 15, a bilateral annual military exercise. The USS Peleliu (LHA 5) is an amphibious assault ship while the USS Germantown (LSD 42) is an amphibious dock landing ship of the U.S. 7th Fleet.

The exercises commenced today and will run until October 10 throughout Luzon and Palawan.

The USS Frank Cable, a ship that provides repairs and support to submarines, is also docked at the freeport for its routine port call.

A press release from the US Embassy says the visit of USS Halsey will allow the ship to replenish supplies as well as give the crew an opportunity for rest and relaxation. While in Subic Bay, the sailors of USS Halsey are eager to enjoy Olongapo City and strengthen their understanding of a country with historical ties to the United States and the U.S. Navy.

The USS Halsey, named after Fleet Admiral William Frederick "Bull" Halsey Jr. (1882-1959), is part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet and is homeported at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. The USS Halsey is commanded by CDR Linda Seymour. (RBB/SNL)

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USS Peleliu and Germantown in Subic Bay for Amphibious Landing Exercise 15

The USS Peleliu (LHA 5), an amphibious assault ship, and the USS Germantown (LSD 42), an amphibious dock landing ship of the U.S. 7th Fleet, arrived in Subic Bay Freeport today (Sept. 27) to participate in this year’s Amphibious Landing Exercise 15.

PHIBLEX 15, a bilateral annual military exercise, will take place throughout Luzon and Palawan from September 29 to October 10. During the exercise, the Peleliu and Germantown will support Philippine and U.S. troops in amphibious-operations training designed to strengthen military responses to regional issues, humanitarian disasters, and maritime-security needs within the Asia-Pacific region.

The USS Peleliu, commanded by Capt. Paul Spedero, is manned by more than 1,100 sailors. The USS Germantown, commanded by Capt. Marvin Thompson, is manned by more than 350 sailors. Both ships have elements from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, which is commanded by Col. Romin Dasmalchi and based out of Okinawa, Japan, and can have up to 2,200 Marines. (US Embassy Public Affairs)




PHOTOS:
[1] The primary mission of the USS Peleliu is to embark and deploy combat-ready Marines, along with their equipment and supplies needed to conduct a variety of missions including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, and land them ashore by rotary-wing aircraft and amphibious craft. The USS Peleliu is named after the island in the Pacific where the historic World War II battle took place. The Battle of Peleliu was one of the bloodiest battles in the Pacific with eight Marine Corps Medal of Honor recipients.

[2] An MH-60S Seahawk approaches the flight deck of the dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42). The USS Germantown is the second ship to bear the name of the historical Pennsylvania district of Germantown, famous for being the site of an important battle of the American Revolution. The amphibious assault ship's mission is to project power ashore by transporting and launching amphibious craft and vehicles loaded with embarked Marines in support of amphibious operations.

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Joint Phl-US war games set in Palawan, Zambales

MANILA, Philippines - This year’s joint Philippine Bilateral Exercise (Phiblex) with the United States will be a bigger military exercise, and will be held in Palawan and Zambales, a military official said yesterday.

“Tentatively, it is scheduled on Sept. 29 to Oct. 10 with 700 Philippine Navy and more or less 2,000 from the US,” said Navy public affairs office chief, Lt. Cmdr. Marideth Domingo.

She said two US Navy ships will also be deployed in the yearly naval event.

Domingo said a series of exercises, including amphibious operations, tactical warfare simulation and maritime security planning will be held in Palawan; San Antonio, Zambales; Subic Bay in Olongapo City, and at the Marine base in Ternate, Cavite.

Troops from the Army and Air Force will train with their US counterparts at Crow Valley in Tarlac and Clark Air Field in Pampanga.

Domingo said Phiblex is a continuation of joint war games with the US similar to the Balikatan exercises and the Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training.

She said the war games have nothing to do with the maritime row in the West Philippine Sea.

“This is just for training purposes,” she said. “The general objective of Phiblex, like in any other exercises in the Navy, is to improve inter-operability and combat readiness of the participating forces as well as enhance security cooperation in the region.” (Jaime Laude, Philippine Star)

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/09/11/1367588/joint-phl-us-war-games-set-palawan-zambales

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U.S. PHL troops conclude CARAT with amphibious landing exercise

SUBIC BAY - Members of the United States and Philippine Marines concluded Monday the five-day Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) exercise with amphibious landing at the beach in San Antonio, Zambales.

The marines were on board USS Ashland and landed on the beach by hovercrafts or Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) of the U.S. Navy.

On the beach were amphibious assault vehicles, also of the American Navy.

They conducted combat exercise on the beach and surrounding terrain unmindful of the heavy rains.

“The training is okay. There are lots of information from the U.S. about combat,” PFC Almond Estrada of the Philippine Marines said.

Corporal Chris Cavey of the United States Marines enjoyed working with their Filipino counterparts.

“They are good guys, it is fun working with them, good experience,” he said.

Lance Corporal James Martinez and his companions said they learned a lot like in martial arts with the use of knife techniques.

“I have great time here, they are very professional, no language barrier,” he said.

“We’ve learned a lot in the training like the first aid, combat and the use of their new equipment,” said Philippine Marines Sgt. Ramil Escandor. (PNA)

PHOTOS:

[1] San Antonio, Zambales - An amphibious assault vehicle arrives during an amphibious assault exercise with U.S. Marines assigned to the 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, and Philippine marines held in support of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Philippines 2014. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jay C. Pugh/Released)

[2] San Antonio, Zambales – U.S. Marines, assigned 1st Battalion 8th Marine Regiment, Bravo Company, conduct joint amphibious landing exercises with Philippine Marines during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Philippines 2014.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Gilbert A. Bolibol/RELEASED)

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20th Annual CARAT Philippines Exercise Begins in Subic Bay

SUBIC Bay, Philippines - A U.S. Navy task group comprised of ships, aircraft, Sailors and Marines arrived in the Philippines to commence the 20th annual exercise Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT), June 26.

The guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) and the dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) arrived in Subic Bay, while the diving and salvage ship USNS Safeguard (T-ARS 50) arrived in Sangley Point. An opening ceremony was held on board the Philippine navy ship, BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF 16), one of two former Hamilton-class Coast Guard Cutters transferred to the Philippines navy in recent years.

CARAT Philippines is part of a broader bilateral exercise series the U.S. Navy conducts with nine partner navies in South and Southeast Asia to address shared maritime security priorities, strengthen maritime partnerships and enhance interoperability among participating forces. The Philippines has participated since the series began in 1995, and the past two decades CARAT are a clear example of the longstanding and close U.S.-Philippines navy-to-navy relationship.

"It's safe to say that after two decades, many of the senior officers and enlisted here today probably participated in a past CARAT Philippines, and this coming week, more than 1,000 U.S. Navy Sailors and Marines will join the ranks of CARAT alumni," said Rear Adm. Stuart Munsch, commander of Task Force 74 and 7th Fleet's Executive Agent for CARAT Philippines.

Munch noted that CARAT was part of a broader series of U.S.-Philippines navy-to-navy exercises, exchanges and staff talks that occurred throughout the year.

"These engagements share a common theme, that our security cooperation not only supports mutual interests, it contributes to regional stability and prosperity - a formula that is truly positive sum," said Munsch.

The CARAT series promotes regional maritime cooperation with many participating navies. Planning for each phase of CARAT begins a year in advance and exercise phases take place during the same general timeframe each year. CARAT 2014 began in late May and recently completed phases with Malaysia and Indonesia. Additional phases will continue through end of year with Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Singapore and Timor-Leste.

Continuing through July 1, this year's CARAT Philippines will focus on combined operations at sea, amphibious landings, diving and salvage, and maritime patrol and reconnaissance flights. Sailors and Marines will train with their Philippine Armed Forces counterparts during multiple drills, professional exchanges and seminars ashore. Civil action projects, community service events and band concerts will facilitate interaction with the local community.

2014 Exercise events will occur in several locations ashore and at sea including Subic Bay, San Antonio in Zambales, Sangley Point in Cavite City, and Ternate. Previous CARAT exercises were held in Mindanao (2012), Palawan (2011), Subic Bay (2010 and 2013), Cebu (2009) and other locations. As in years past, the sea phase will take place in international waters west of Subic Bay.

"We're very much looking forward to getting underway for the at-sea phase of CARAT," said Capt. Paul Schlise, commodore of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7 embarked on McCain. "These training opportunities are critical to enhancing our interoperability, safeguarding freedom of the seas and ensuring we're ready to respond in partnership with the Philippines in case of an HADR scenario or other crisis."

More than 1,000 Sailors and Marines are participating in CARAT Philippines 2014. Participating units include McCain, Ashland with embarked Marines from 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, Safeguard with embarked Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 1 and a P-3C maritime patrol aircraft. Also participating are Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 1, a platoon from Riverine Squadron (RIVRON) 1, a platoon from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 5, staff from Commander, Task Force 73 (CTF 73) and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, and the 7th Fleet Band Orient Express. (Task Force 73 Public Affairs)

PHOTO:
U.S. Marines aboard Whidbey Island-class amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) exhibit amphibious assault vehicles (AAVs) to embarked Philippine marines. Ashland is participating in exercise Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) 2014, a bilateral maritime exercise series between the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and the armed forces of Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand and Timor-Leste. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Raymond D. Diaz III/Released)

http://www.cpf.navy.mil/news.aspx/030433

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20th Annual CARAT Philippines 2014 starts, US ships to dock in Subic Bay

A U.S. Navy task group comprised of ships, aircraft, Sailors and Marines will commence today (June 26) the 20th annual exercise Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Philippines 2014.

Five warships, including a U.S. guided-missile destroyer, and about 1,000 troops will take part in week-long CARAT exercises. Exercises will occur in several locations ashore and at sea including Subic Bay, San Antonio in Zambales, Sangley Point in Cavite City, and Ternate. The sea phase will take place in international waters west of Subic Bay.

The USS Halsey, an Arleigh Burke-class missile-guided destroyer, will dock in Subic Bay Freeport for the exercises. It will be joined by the USNS Safeguard and the USS Ashland.

BRP Ramon Alcaraz, a former US coastguard cutter, and the BRP Emilio Jacinto, a former British Royal Navy Peacock-class ship, will likewise join for the drills, along with Polish-made helicopters.

CARAT Philippines is part of a broader bilateral exercise series the U.S. Navy conducts with nine partner navies in South and Southeast Asia to address shared maritime security priorities, strengthen maritime partnerships and enhance interoperability among participating navies. The Philippines has participated since the series began in 1995, and CARAT exercises over the past two decades are clear examples of the longstanding and close U.S.-Philippines navy-to-navy relationship.

As a long-standing exercise, CARAT promotes regional maritime cooperation with many participating navies; it is not in response to current events. The 2014 CARAT series began in late May, is taking place in Malaysia now, and continues through end of year with Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Singapore and Timor-Leste. Joint planning for each phase of CARAT begins a year in advance and exercise phases take place during the same general timeframe each year.

This year’s CARAT Philippines focuses on combined operations at sea, amphibious landings, diving and salvage, and maritime patrol and reconnaissance flights. Sailors and Marines will exchange best practices and share information with their Philippine Armed Forces counterparts during multiple professional exchanges and seminars ashore. Civil action projects, community service events and band concerts will facilitate interaction with the local community. (SNL/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
Photo File of USS Halsey, expected to dock today in Subic Bay Freeport.

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Philippines to offer renewed US military use of Subic

Manila (AFP) - The Philippines said Friday it plans to give the United States access to five military bases under a deal that could see US forces return to their giant former facility at Subic Bay.

An access deal signed last week would allow the US to rotate more aircraft, ships, equipment and troops over the next 10 years at unspecified bases in the territory of the Asian ally strategically facing the South China Sea.

The two countries are now in follow-up talks to select the Filipino bases, said defence undersecretary Pio Batino, the chief Filipino negotiator.

"Right now, the discussions would be ranging from three to five (Filipino military) bases," he told reporters.
"That's not the final, but that is the starting discussion point."

The Philippines is offering Fort Magsaysay, a sprawling army base about 100 kilometres (62 miles) north of Manila that regularly hosts annual large-scale US-Filipino military exercises, Batino said.

He added "limited portions of Subic" would also be offered, but declined to identify the three other bases under consideration.

The Philippines intends to conclude the discussions not later than September 30, Batino added.

The deal for increased US access is part of Philippine efforts to boost its weak military capabilities at a time of deep tensions with China over competing claims to parts of the South China Sea.

China claims most of the sea, even waters close to the Philippines and other countries in the region.

Subic, facing the South China Sea, was the former repair yard of the Japan-based US Pacific fleet.

American forces vacated it in 1992, along with nearby Clark Air Base, after the Philippine Senate refused to extend a bases treaty, ending nearly a century of major US military presence.

It is now a civilian free port, but maintains a US-era military runway and a deep harbour that is still used by American warships stopping over for military exercises or for regular provisioning.

Bound by a mutual defence pact, the US and the Philippines engage in regular war games that see thousands of US troops and state-of-the-art American military hardware brought to the Philippines.

The Philippines signed the bases access deal last week, hours ahead of a state visit to Manila by American President Barack Obama.

The deal also allows the US to build structures inside the bases for use by its forces, as well as to store supplies and equipment. (AFP News)

https://ph.news.yahoo.com/philippines-offer-renewed-us-military-subic-131859141.html

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Amb. Goldberg: EDCA will not reopen US bases in PH

Philippine Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, left,
shakes hands with U.S. Ambassador Philip Goldberg
after signing the Enhanced Defense Cooperation
Agreement at Camp Aguinaldo, Philippine military
headquarters in suburban Quezon city, north
of Manila, Philippines on Monday,  April 28, 2014.
AP/Aaron Favila

After eight months of negotiations, both countries inked the 10-year Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). Goldberg and Philippine Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin signed the deal hours before US President Barack Obama arrives in the Philippines for a two-day state visit.

US Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg clarified, the EDCA will not reopen United States military bases in the Philippines.

“It will not reopen US bases. It is an agreement to enhance our defense relationships,” Goldberg said.

EDCA is set to enhance both countries defense cooperation and increase the presence of US soldiers in the country. It is supposed to increase training opportunities for Filipino and US forces, plus greater ability to respond to humanitarian operations.

“The agreement we signed today will be an important part of the existing MDT (Mutual Defense Treaty) and VFA (Visiting Forces Agreement) frameworks. But it will also serve to update our security alliance to meet the increasingly complex challenges of the 21st century, whether it is terrorism, transnational crimes, or disasters like typhoon Haiyan,” he said.

Goldberg noted, the largest bilateral military exercise, Balikatan, will kick off next week.

Meanwhile, Gazmin said the Philippines will have better access to US military equipment, supplies and personnel because of the agreement.

"It enables us to do more by making necessary equipment and infrastructure available.Alliances evolve, partnerships develop, engagements mature, but all through out, it is the shared trust to move forward together that keeps what is in place such as the MDT and VFA. This is the essence of a maturing relationship," he said.

He added, "The document we signed only manifests the defense relationship between the Philippines and the United States but equally serves as a framework for furthering our alliance as encapsulated in the Enhanced Defense Cooperation. Underpinned by the common goal being able to meet the security challenges that both the Philippines and the United States share in common, our alliance has continued to evolve as both our countries continuously search for mechanisms that would enhance our individual and collective abilities to face such security challenges." (ANC/Yahoo News)

read more --> https://anc.yahoo.com/news/goldberg--edca-will-not-reopen-us-bases-in-ph-030909508.html

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