Joint Special Operations Task Force - Philippines (JSOTF-P)

Hickam Airman Supports Special Forces in Philippines

2011-12-13T11:21:00.001+08:00

Captain Darrick B. Lee, Joint SpecialOperations Task Force Philippines, Public Affairs

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines -- As U.S. Forces continue theirdrawdown from Iraq, the military is continuing to support counter-terrorismefforts elsewhere around the globe. While Afghanistan remains the morewidely-known theater of operations, there are other places where Airmen serve.

One such place is Zamboanga, located in the southern Philippines.Although the United States history in the Philippines dates back to more than acentury, the emergence of terrorist groups in the southern part of the countryplaced renewed emphasis on the region since 2001. A lot has changed sinceGeneral John “Blackjack” Pershing served as governor-general here at the turnof the century. Still, the U.S. military presence, while temporary, is afixture in Zamboanga.

Nestled in Camp Navarro, home of the Philippine military’sWestern Mindanao Command, is U.S. Joint Special Operations Task Force -Philippines. JSOTF-P is comprised of special operations forces from all fourservices, including U.S. Army Green Berets, Navy S.E.A.L.s, Marine SpecialOperations Forces and Air Force Commandos. Supported by a small staff, JSOTF-P’s mission is focused onproviding advice to the Philippine military and assisting them in their fightagainst terrorism. They are currently focused on pursuing the Abu Sayyaff Group(ASG) and Jemiah Islamiah (JI), two terrorist groups operating in the islandsof Mindanao, Basilan and Sulu.

This is not an easy task in a country comprised of more than7000 islands. Absent here are Hummers and mine-resistant ambush-protectedvehicles, as military airlift takes center stage. To ensure SOF are able to movefreely in the area, JSOTF-P maintains a small fleet of PC-12 and C-12 fixed-wingaircraft, complemented by Bell 214 helicopters for use in the jungle areaswhere U.S. and Philippine forces are collocated.

JSOTF-P relies on their Joint Special Operations AirDetachment (JSOAD) to fly and maintain the aircraft. JSOAD operates much likeAirmen do at any other flight line, scheduling flights and ensuring the safety ofair operations that support Special Forces. The unit shares the airfield with ZamboangaInternational Airport, which doubles as Edwin Andrews Air Base (EAAB), owned bythe Philippine Air Force (PAF).

U.S. Air Force Technical Sergeant Carrie Volpe, a weatherforecaster deployed with Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines,remotely monitors the status of a TMQ-53 weather sensor 30 Nov. Through hercomputer, Volpe can provide real-time weather forecasting in support of specialoperations in the southern Philippines. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Sgt. Matthew P. Troyer/released)

Sharing a runway means sharing the responsibility for flightsafety. U.S. Airmen are embedded with the PAF, living and working near the flightline. Shouldering the responsibility for U.S. weather reporting and forecastingis Technical Sergeant Carrie Volpe, JSOAD’s weather forecaster.

TSgt. Volpe’s home station is Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam,HI, where she serves as a forecast supervisor for 20 U.S. military bases in Koreaand Japan. There, Volpe performed the same job she performs in JSOAD; sheprovides detailed weather reports to help mission planners conduct safe flying andground operations.

In Hawaii, equipped with the latest meteorological tools atthe 17th Operational Weather Squadron, her biggest hurdle was simply keeping upwith the workload. With multiple airfield forecasts and weather warnings acrossa 113 million square-mile area of responsibility, the need for up-to-dateweather reporting is constant.

When Volpe arrived at Zamboanga in September, she found asimilar need. However, as guests of a host-nation airport, with limitedmeteorological equipment and a separate operating schedule, providing timelyand accurate weather forecasts became a challenge.

“We used to receive periodic weather observations fromEAAB,” said Volpe, who is originally from Epsom, NH. “But sometimes, when EAAB reports weren’t available, ortheir schedule didn’t synchronize up with our operations, we had to give pilotsthe weather based on our best estimate.”

That’s what she used to do.

When an Air Force Special Operations Command Safety Teampaid a visit to the JSOTF-P in October, Volpe saw it as a chance to let thebrass know how to improve air operations in the southern Philippines. Sherecommended the purchase of a weather sensor, capable of providing electronicforecasts and sharing it with aviators world-wide. Not only would the sensorhelp the U.S. forces operating out of Zamboanga, but it could assist thePhilippine Air Force and all aviators who need to know about local weather.

AFSOC liked the idea. However, the Air Force has an almostnever-ending list of good ideas … Many of them remain unfunded. With the costof an average weather sensor running more than $150,000, the current financial picturecast a shadow over the prospect of adding one to Volpe’s office.

Volpe’s boss, U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Doug Carroll, inresponse to AFSOC’s safety assessment, searched for solutions. Carroll servesas the JSOAD Commander, but at his home station, he leads the 353 SpecialOperations Support Squadron at Kadena Air Base, Japan.

“I knew the 353 SOSS had the equipment and capability,” saidCarroll. “With approval from Special Operations Command Pacific, the 353rd wasable to rapidly deploy the sensor to the Philippines.”

Shortly after Carroll’s call, a brand new TMQ-53 Automated ObservationSystem (TMOS) weather sensor arrived, escorted by MSgt. Scott Williams, the 353rdweather flight’s NCO in charge. Shortly after he landed, the sensor wasinstalled and working.

To Volpe, whose primary concern is providing the mostaccurate forecasts to pilots about to fly into austere conditions, it was theperfect gift, just in time for the holidays.

“The TMOS gives us a credible source of weather information,”explained Sgt. Volpe when describing the sensor. “We can generate our ownweather observations, and we can do it independently.”

A recently-installed TMQ-53 sensor collects weather datafrom the top of a building at Edwin Andrews Air Base, Philippines. U.S. AirForce Airmen support flight operations in the southern Philippines by sharingthe runway in Zamboanga, and providing weather forecasts in support of U.S.Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Matthew P. Troyer/released)

The TMOS collects data on current wind conditions, cloud heights,lightning, temperature, precipitation and more. In a joint special operationsenvironment, where weather can have a severe impact on success, Volpe is pleasedto have a little help.

The Philippine Air Force will be able to use the new sensoras they pursue the ASG and JI. Whether it’s a combat resupply mission, arequest for close-air support, or a casualty evacuation, their operations willbenefit from having the real-time forecasting Volpe provides.

“It feels good to know that I can confidently tell pilotsand aircrew what to expect prior to take-off,” Volpe added. “I hope it helpsbuild their trust in our support to them.”

U.S. Government employees with a CAC-enabled computer canview current weather conditions in Zamboanga by surfing to https://afweather.afwa.af.mil/weather/met/met_home.html.

Filipino, U.S. troops upgrade local library

2011-10-06T15:37:00.004+08:00

By U.S. Air Force Capt. Darrick B. Lee

Joint Special Operations Task Force Philippines Public Affairs

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines (Sept. 27, 2011) – Members of the Philippine Air Force gave a boost tothe Edwin Andrews Air Base Elementary School reading program Sept. 27 withthe installation of new bookshelves and the arrival of books donated from U.S.forces.

The Philippine Air Force’s 530th Air Base Wingworked with members of U.S. Joint Special Operations Task Force Philippines(JSOTF-P) to fill the school’s library with new books.

A sample of books donatedfrom around the world rest on shelves built by the Philippine Air Force’s 530thAir Base Wing at Edwin Andrews Air Base in Zamboanga. Engineers from the wing’sCivil-Military Operations Squadron built the bookcases for the students, withhelp from U.S. Navy Seabees assigned to JSOTF-P. (Official U.S. Air Force photoby Capt. Darrick B. Lee.) U.S. Air Force Capt. Kirsten Gipper, a member ofthe JSOTF-P, was one of the organizers of the book collection.

“We’ve done civil-military operations with the AFP(Armed Forces of the Philippines) before, but it’s usually in someplace moreremote,” said Gipper, who works at the elementary school (EAAB) with thePhilippine forces.

“We figured since we live at EAAB, we should try tofind a way to do something for the kids here,” she added. “We talked to the PAFand they told us about the school’s needs. Then we began collecting bookdonations.”

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt.Kathleen Garcia, a medical logistician with Joint Special Operations Task ForcePhilippines, reads to students of Edwin Andrews Air Base in Zamboanga Sept. 27.Members of JSOTF-P helped the Philippine Air Force upgrade the school’s libraryby providing lumber for new bookcases and filling them with an internationaldonation of new books. (Official U.S. Air Force Photo by Captain Darrick B.Lee)

Gipper and a friend, U.S. Army 1st Lt. EricaAnders, a flight nurse with JSOTF-P, created a personal Facebook page tosolicit donations. Shortly afterward, books began flowing in from all over theworld.

Some of the books came from as far away as theUnited States; others came from places in the Pacific, such as Japan. According to Gipper, many people ordered them online and had them shipped tothe volunteers directly.

A variety of titles arrived, ranging from picturebooks for kindergartners to more advanced storybooks for intermediate readers.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Kirsten Gipper, a member ofthe Joint Special Operations Task Force Philippines Liaison Control Element,reads to students of Edwin Andrews Air Base in Zamboanga Sept. 27. Gipper isone of several volunteers who helped the Philippine Air Force upgrade theschool’s library by collecting and donating books for children. (Official U.S.Air Force Photo by Captain Darrick B. Lee)

As the book collection grew, the school realized itneeded more space to display them. Engineers from the 530thAir BaseWing’s civil-military operations squadron at EAAB built new bookcases for thelibrary. U.S. Navy Seabees donated lumber to help the engineers make thebookshelves.

The volunteers joined Mrs. Victoria Mangeser, theschool’s principal, in an informal ceremony to present the new books to thestudents. Mangeser then invited Anders and other volunteers to read to some ofthe children.

When the children were asked to choose which bookshould be read, the majority of the students yelled “Dora” after seeing astorybook bearing a picture of the popular television character. According tothe school, many local libraries need books that promote leisure reading,instead of traditional schoolbooks. With more than 500 students at the school,the donations were well-received.

U.S. Army 1st Lt. Erica Anders, a flight nurse withJoint Special Operations Task Force Philippines, reads to students of EdwinAndrews Air Base in Zamboanga Sept. 27. Members of JSOTF-P helped the PhilippineAir Force upgrade the school’s library by providing lumber for new bookcasesand filling them with an international donation of new books. (Official U.S.Air Force Photo by Captain Darrick B. Lee)

“We are so blessed to receive these books andnew shelves,” said Principal Mangeser. “Usually, the private school librariesare regarded as the best. But, these books are unique because they are not justreference titles. They are books that make reading fun … So, now the EAABlibrary is the best in Zamboanga!”

2011-09-14T09:52:00.004+08:00

U.S. Special Forces,Philippine Service members honor the fallen during 9/11 observance

ZAMBOANGA CITY- Members ofJoint Special Operations Task Force -Philippines held a ceremony Sunday,observing the 10th anniversary of the events of 11 September 2001.

Members of the PhilippineSecurity Forces joined U.S. Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Airmen in recallingthe events that were instrumental in the creation of Operation EnduringFreedom.

“Ten years ago, our nationand the Western democratic way of life was attacked, blood was shed, nationsmobilized, battle lines drawn and our lives were changed forever,” said U.S.Navy Master Chief Petty Officer Shane McKenzie during the opening of theceremony.

Master Chief McKenzie andthe JSOTF-P Chaplain, U.S. Army Maj. David Lile, recalled the events as theyoccurred 10 years ago today.

“ Eight forty-six andtwenty-six seconds: Flight 11 crashes at roughly 466 miles per hour into thenorth face of One World Trade Center, between floors 93 and 99,” read ChaplainLile.

After the recollection ofevents, JSOTF-P members shared personal testimonies.

“Ten years ago, I was inhigh school and we were watching the events unfold on TV,” recalled one U.S.service member. “My Aunt was in the World Trade Center, that day … She wastaken away.”

People from many nationslost their lives that day. JSOTF-P leaders said the ceremony not only honorsthe fallen, but is a reminder to those who currently serve.

“September 11^thwas the worst of days, and we remember those fallen on that day, those whoserved on that day and every day since then,” said U.S. Army Colonel FranBeaudette, JSOTF-P Commander. “Today is the best of days. We get to do what wedo … To continue our nation’s bidding, and continue to help our partners whoare focused on the cause of freedom.”

U.S. Joint SpecialOperations Task Force – Philippines was established in 2002 to support theArmed Forces of the Philippines in their fight against trans-national terrorismin the southern Philippines.

AFP Awards Civic Action Medal to JSOTF-P Servicemembers

2011-08-22T17:53:00.001+08:00

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) honored 15 servicemembers from the U.S. Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) with the Philippine Military Civic Action Medal (CAM) at an awards ceremony held at Camp Navarro, Zamboanga City, Aug. 19.

The award highlights the combined training and humanitarian projects conducted by JSOTF-P members through partnership with the AFP.
According to the citation, these projects improve the lives of countless Filipinos, helping to reduce support for lawless groups and their safe havens in the southern Philippines. Col. Casiano C. Monilla Jr., Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Chief of Unified Command Staff, presented JSOTF-P’s servicemembers with the award for their contributions made to the Republic of the Philippines.

“We really appreciate the presence of the U.S. forces here and the assistance you have given us,” Monilla said.

Since January 2011, JSOTF-P has participated in various humanitarian and civil assistance programs, making four visits to the Talon-Talon Orphanage and three to the Women's and Children's shelter. Members have also raised over $1,400 USD for outreach programs and have donated over 1,000 pounds of clothing. WESTMINCOM recognized them as having earned honor not only for themselves, but for the AFP as well.

The awardees were also recognized for their dedication and hard work for assisting, training and advising units under WESTMINCOM that ultimately improved the capabilities of Filipino Soldiers and increased their chances of survival in combat.

“It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to be recognized by a foreign counterpart for your contributions to their country,” said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Shyla Consalo, the JSOTF-P paralegal. “I feel so blessed that I’ve had the opportunity to help some local families here. Every time I look at this medal it will remind me of those families and the opportunity I had to make a difference in their lives.”

Basilan’s leaders host a Civic Action Program in Tairan

2011-08-12T14:14:00.000+08:00

LANTAWAN, Philippines (July 28, 2011) – Approximately 1,200 residents of Tairan barangay, Lantawan province, Basilan, gathered July 28 for a combined medical, dental, and veterinary civic action program. The event was coordinated by Basilan’s provincial government, and was the first community outreach program of its kind, completely driven by key governmental organizations.

Numerous members represented the provincial offices of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, Department of Education, and Department of Agriculture; Philippine Medical Association, Philippine Dental Association, Philippine Business for Social Progress and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. By the end of the day, they had donated 300 meals to children through the feeding program, provided medical care to 300 patients, performed 117 dental extractions and vaccinated 113 livestock.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Special Operations Task Force Commander Col. Alexander Macario who attended the event as an observer, briefly helped the task force hand out comic books to children, and interacted with barangay leaders in the area.

The barangay also works as a cooperative to improve quality of life in the community, using proceeds from the barangay-owned rubber plantation to improve roads, schools, and homes.

Commanding General, III MEF and Commander, Marine Corps Bases Japan Visits JSOTF-P

2011-07-19T09:27:00.001+08:00

ZAMBOANGA, Republic of the Philippines (July, 14, 2011) – U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Kenneth Glueck, Jr., Commanding General, III Marine Expeditionary Force and Commander Marine Corps Bases Japan and Philippine Marine Brig. Gen. Celestino Pereyra, Western Mindanao Command Deputy for Peace Process, are met with honors upon arrival at Western Mindanao Command. During his visit to the Philippines, General Glueck met with members of the U.S. Embassy, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and U.S. Marines deployed to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC2 Ted Green.)

ZAMBOANGA, Republic of the Philippines (July, 14, 2011) – U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Kenneth Glueck, Jr., Commanding General, III Marine Expeditionary Force and Commander, Marine Corps Bases Japan meets with Marines assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines at Camp Navarro. During his visit to the Philippines, Glueck met with members of the U.S. Embassy, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and U.S. Marines deployed to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC2 Ted Green.)

JSOTF-P Service Members Participate in US Embassy’s “America in 3D” Event

2011-07-19T09:17:00.001+08:00

BAGUIO, Philippines (July 10, 2011) A service member from the Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines, speaks with a local resident during “America in 3D” at SM City Baguio from July 8-10. “America in 3D” is a US Embassy road show that features diplomacy, development, and defense and highlights American culture, values, and society. The three-day event included a full lineup of musical performances, free samplings of American food, cooking demonstrations, and information about U.S. visas and applying to study in the United States. The public also had the opportunity to meet and talk with representatives of various Embassy sections and U.S. agencies, including members of JSOTF-P. JSOTF-P is temporarily deployed in southern Philippines at the request of the Philippine government. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Ryan Valverde)

BAGUIO, Philippines (July 8, 2011) A local university journalism student films another student interviewing a member of Joint Special Operations Task Force - Philippines during “America in 3D” at SM City Baguio from July 8-10. “America in 3D” is a US Embassy road show that features diplomacy, development, and defense and highlights American culture, values, and society. The three-day event included a full lineup of musical performances, free samplings of American food, cooking demonstrations, and information about U.S. visas and applying to study in the United States. The public also had the opportunity to meet and talk with representatives of various Embassy sections and U.S. agencies, including members of JSOTF-P. JSOTF-P is temporarily deployed in southern Philippines at the request of the Philippine government. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Ryan Valverde)

BAGUIO, Philippines (July 10, 2011) Cadets from the Philippine Military Academy read over a Joint Special Operations Task Force - Philippines information display during “America in 3D” at SM City Baguio from July 8-10. “America in 3D” is a US Embassy road show that features diplomacy, development, and defense and highlights American culture, values, and society. The three-day event included a full lineup of musical performances, free samplings of American food, cooking demonstrations, and information about U.S. visas and applying to study in the United States. The public also had the opportunity to meet and talk with representatives of various Embassy sections and U.S. agencies, including members of JSOTF-P. JSOTF-P is temporarily deployed in southern Philippines at the request of the Philippine government. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Ryan Valverde.)

BAGUIO, Philippines (July 10, 2011) U.S. Ambassador Harry K. Thomas, Jr. speaks at the World War II Veterans Ceremony during “America in 3D” at SM City Baguio from July 8-10. “America in 3D” is a US Embassy road show that features diplomacy, development, and defense and highlights American culture, values, and society. The three-day event included a full lineup of musical performances, free samplings of American food, cooking demonstrations, and information about U.S. visas and applying to study in the United States. The public also had the opportunity to meet and talk with representatives of various Embassy sections and U.S. agencies, including members of JSOTF-P. JSOTF-P is temporarily deployed in southern Philippines at the request of the Philippine government. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Ryan Valverde)

BAGUIO, Philippines (July 10, 2011) Philippine World War II Veterans attend a World War II Veterans Ceremony during “America in 3D” at SM City Baguio from July 8-10. “America in 3D” is a US Embassy road show that features diplomacy, development, and defense and highlights American culture, values, and society. The three-day event included a full lineup of musical performances, free samplings of American food, cooking demonstrations, and information about U.S. visas and applying to study in the United States. The public also had the opportunity to meet and talk with representatives of various Embassy sections and U.S. agencies, including members of JSOTF-P. JSOTF-P is temporarily deployed in southern Philippines at the request of the Philippine government. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Ryan Valverde)

Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines Fact Sheet

2011-07-01T15:12:00.000+08:00

Mission

The JointSpecial Operations Task Force-Philippines mission is to support thecomprehensive approach of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in their fightagainst terrorism and lawless elements in the southern Philippines and preventingterrorists from establishing safe havens. At the request of the Philippinegovernment, JSOTF-P works alongside the AFP in a strictly non-combat role todefeat terrorists, eliminate safe havens and create the conditions necessary forpeace, stability and prosperity in the southern Philippines.

People

JSOTF-P is comprised of between500 and 600 personnel from all four military services, including Army Special OperationsForces, Navy Seals, Air Force special operators and a host of support personnelfrom all four U.S. military services.

Organization

JSOTF-Pis comprised of a headquarters element, located at Camp Navarro in ZamboangaCity and three subordinate regional task forces which operate throughout Mindanaoalongside the Armed Forces of the Philippines:

· TaskForce Archipelago: Based at Camp Navarro, Zamboanga del Sur Province

· TaskForce Mindanao: Based at Camp Siongco, Maguindanao Province

· TaskForce Sulu: Based at Camp Bautista, Jolo Island, Sulu Province

Ahandful of JSOTF-P personnel also work in Manila to coordinate activities withthe US Embassy Country Team and AFP General Headquarters.

Operations

Themembers of JSOTF-P operate “by, through and with” their Philippine Armed Forcescounterparts in a strictly non-combat role to:

Bring humanitarian assistance to conflict-affected communities

Medical and Dental Civic Action programs to deliver care where the need is great
Veterinary Civic Action Programs to provide farmers livelihood assistance
Engineering Civic Action Programs to provide local communities infrastructure improvements such as schools, water wells, roads, piers and medical centers

Share information with the Philippine Armed Forces

The U.S. shares intelligence data and other information to assist the AFP in planning future operations

Build AFP capacity through subject matter expert exchange programs (SMEEs) to exchange lessons learned on subjects such as:

Tactical Combat Casualty Care o Convoy Security
Marksmanship o Forward Air Control
Small Unit Tactics o Civil Military Operations Planning
Mission Planning o Maritime Operations
Explosive Ordnance Disposal o Casualty Evacuation

Facts

· BetweenOctober 2007 and June 2011, JSOTF-P committed more than $24 million to 220humanitarian assistance projects to improve the quality of life for communitiesin need in Mindanao.

· TheAFP and JSOTF-P, during more than 500 joint civic action projects, deliveredfree medical and dental care to more than 104,600 patientsfrom local communities from October 2007 to June 2011.

· Quitea few families also benefited as their farm animals received assistance during morethan 228 AFP-US veterinarian projects.

· TheAFP-US partnership completed more than 140 infrastructure projects – newschools, roads, piers, water wells, and medical centers benefiting the peopleof the southern Philippines.

http://jsotf-p.blogspot.com/2009/04/jsotf-p-fact-sheet.htmlhttp://jsotf-p.blogspot.com/2009/04/jsotf-p-fact-sheet.html

US and AFP Forces Welcome New JSOTF-P Commander

2011-06-30T15:53:00.000+08:00

By Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines Public Affairs Office

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – U.S. Army Col. Fran Beaudette assumed command of Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines (JSOTF-P) from U.S. Navy Capt. Robert Gusentine during a change of command ceremony held at Camp Navarro, Western Mindanao Command June 24.

Beaudette, a 1989 Citadel graduate and Commander of 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne), reaffirmed JSOTF-P’s commitment to continuing the partnership and collaboration with the Philippine Security Forces (PSF).

“Colonel Fran Beaudette comes to us as Commander of 1st Special Forces Group. He is a highly effective leader who specializes in teaming with allies and partners to achieve mutual objectives, especially in counterinsurgency environments,” said Commander, Special Operations Command Pacific, Maj. Gen. Norman Brozenick, the ceremony’s guest speaker.

During the ceremony Beaudette congratulated Gusentine on the progress he made while commander. Beaudette said he is ready to continue the success.

"It is a tremendous honor and privilege to be able to join the men and women of Joint Special Operations Task Force, Philippines, and to serve alongside our exceptional Filipino partners in the fight against terrorism,” said Beaudette during the ceremony.

The Honorable Harry K. Thomas, Jr., U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines presided over the ceremony and extended his congratulations to Beaudette. The ambassador also offered the embassy’s continued support to the Armed Forces of the Philippines and to JSOTF-P.

“You (Beaudette) and JSOTF-P will work side-by-side with our AFP colleagues here in Mindanao, and all through the southern parts of the Philippines, and most importantly with the citizens of the southern Philippines,” Thomas said. “You will be here to continue to demonstrate the United States’ full diplomatic commitment to our allies and our friendship and partnership with the AFP.”

During the ceremony, Maj. Gen. Renato Sanchez, Commander, 3rd Air Division, presented Gusentine with one of the highest AFP honors for JSOTF-P’s contributions by awarding him the AFP’s Chief of Staff Commendation Medal. Sanchez commented that while under Gusentine’s command, JSOTF-P supported more than 67 Philippine Special Forces operations targeting violent extremist organizations. The operations led to the Philippine Forces capturing 13 high-valued individuals throughout the southern Philippines.

“Gus, your leadership and council was pivotal to assisting the disruption of the Jemaah Islamiyah and Abu Sayyaf Group networks, denying sanctuaries, capturing high-valued targets and delivering essential goods and services to the people,” said Brozenick.

Additionally, Gusentine led the effort to improve the working relationship between JSOTF-P and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to deliver vital humanitarian assistance to the people of the Southern Philippines.

"Today is really my day to say thank you, for the past 12 months I held the best job in the Navy,” said Gusentine, “and I will never forget it.”

Beaudette said in closing, “It is with great pride that I am able to say that I have joined your ranks and I’m ready to stand shoulder to shoulder in supporting each of your efforts.”

Gen. North Visits the Southern Philippines

2011-06-30T15:01:00.002+08:00

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Republic of the Philippines (June 22, 2011) -- Commander, Pacific Air Forces, Gen. Gary North and Armed Forces of the Philippines, Brig. Gen. Eldon Luis G. Nemenzo, 3rd Air Division deputy commander are met with honors upon arrival at Edwin Andrews Air Base. During his visit to the Philippines, North met with members of the U.S. Embassy, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and U.S. Forces assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines to discuss the strategic Philippine/U.S. partnership. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Ryan Valverde.)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Republic of the Philippines (June 22, 2011) -- Commander, Pacific Air Forces, Gen. Gary North greets members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines at Western Mindanao Command. During his visit to the Philippines, North met with members of the U.S. Embassy, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and U.S. Forces assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines to discuss the strategic Philippine/U.S. partnership. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Cassandra Thompson.)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Republic of the Philippines (June 22, 2011) -- Commander, Pacific Air Forces, Gen. Gary North (right), speaks with Philippines Air Force, Maj. Gen. Renato Lorenzo Sanchez, 3rd Air Division Commander, during an office call at Western Mindanao Command. During his visit to the Philippines, North met with members of the U.S. Embassy, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and U.S. Forces assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines to discuss the strategic Philippine/U.S. partnership. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Ryan Valverde.)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Republic of the Philippines (June 22, 2011) -- Commander, Pacific Air Forces, Gen. Gary North addresses Airmen assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines at Edwin Andrews Air Base. During his visit to the Philippines, North met with members of the U.S. Embassy, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and U.S. Forces assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines to discuss the strategic Philippine/U.S. partnership. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Ryan Valverde.)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Republic of the Philippines (June 22, 2011) -- Commander, Pacific Air Forces, Gen. Gary North talks with an Airman assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines at Edwin Andrews Air Base. During his visit to the Philippines, North met with members of the U.S. Embassy, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and U.S. Forces assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines to discuss the strategic Philippine/U.S. partnership. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Ryan Valverde.)

U.S., Philippine Navies Join for 17th CARAT Exercise in Palawan

2011-06-30T13:16:00.000+08:00

U.S., Philippine Navies Join for 17th CARAT Exercise in Palawan

PUERTO PRINCESA, Philippines (NNS) -- Three U.S. Navy ships arrived in Puerto Princesa, Philippines, to launch the 17th Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Philippines, June 28. ... read about it here.

Operation Smile Brings Hope to ARMM Children

2011-06-25T14:56:00.002+08:00

AWANG, Maguindanao, Philippines, (June 11, 2011) Families of cleft lip patients wait outside the operating room at Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Camp Siongco Station in Maguindanao for their names to be called. The AFP's 6th Infantry Division in Maguindanao partnered with Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P), Knightsbridge International, Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Department of Health, ARMM Department of Social Welfare and Development and local volunteer nurses to bring the non-governmental organization Operation Smile into the ARMM for the first time, and conduct close to 100 surgeries in four days (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

AWANG, Maguindanao, Philippines (June 11, 2011) The family of a cleft lip patient, and their belongings, arrive at Camp Siongco Station in Maguindanao in the back of an Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) five-ton truck. The AFP's 6th Infantry Division in Maguindanao partnered with Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P), Knightsbridge International, Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Department of Health, ARMM Department of Social Welfare and Development and local volunteer nurses to bring the non-governmental organization Operation Smile into the ARMM for the first time, and conduct close to 100 reconstructive surgeries in four days (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Theodore Green/Released)

AWANG, Maguindanao, Philippines, (June 11, 2011) Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) nurses help with patient inprocessing of children waiting for cleft lip and cleft palate surgery at Camp Siongco Station in Maguindanao. The AFP's 6th Infantry Division in Maguindanao partnered with Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P), Knightsbridge International, Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Department of Health, ARMM Department of Social Welfare and Development and local volunteer nurses to bring the non-governmental organization Operation Smile into the ARMM for the first time, and conduct close to 100 surgeries in four days (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

AWANG, Maguindanao, Philippines, (June 11, 2011) Plastic surgeons, anesthesiologists and nurses from Operation Smile work through the night to perform reconstructive surgery on provincial children at Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Camp Siongco Station in Maguindanao. The AFP's 6th Infantry Division in Maguindanao partnered with Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P), Knightsbridge International, Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Department of Health, ARMM Department of Social Welfare and Development and local volunteer nurses to bring the non-governmental organization Operation Smile into the ARMM for the first time, and conduct close to 100 surgeries in four days (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

AWANG, Maguindanao, Philippines, (June 11, 2011) A team of plastic surgeons, anesthesiologists and nurses from Operation Smile perform one of the more challenging cases of the four-day event. The surgeries took place on provincial children at Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Camp Siongco Station in Maguindanao. The AFP's 6th Infantry Division in Maguindanao partnered with Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P), Knightsbridge International, Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Department of Health, ARMM Department of Social Welfare and Development and local volunteer nurses to bring the non-governmental organization Operation Smile into the ARMM for the first time, and conduct close to 100 surgeries in four days (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

Operation Smile Brings Hope to ARMM Children

(Feature Story)

MAGUINDANAO, Philippines (June 11, 2011) – For thousands of children in southern Mindanao with cleft lip or cleft palate deformities, life can be a struggle. In addition to the dental, nasal, and speech problems that may develop from their condition, these children may have little hope of attending school or enjoying a normal life.

Although cleft lip and cleft palate surgery is common in urban areas where access to medical facilities exists, it is an expensive procedure and uncommon opportunity for families living in remote areas. The possibility of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) volunteering their services in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is complicated by the area’s reputation for instability and difficult access to remote areas.

For this reason, the cooperative effort between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P), Knightsbridge International, ARMM Department of Health, and ARMM Department of Social Welfare and Development to bring a team of plastic surgeons from Operation Smile to Maguindanao and give nearly 100 patients this life-altering surgery free of charge is unprecedented.

From June 7-11, more than 100 families arrived, primarily by 6th Infantry Division trucks, and crowded the usually serene lawn on Camp Siongco Hospital transforming it into a triage and in-processing center for Operation Smile.

Because of ongoing construction of a new hospital facility, Col. Eric De Leon, AFP commanding officer of the Camp Siongco Hospital, explained that the base had no waiting room, recovery room, or operating room for the doctors to work in. But he remained undaunted in his pursuit to support Operation Smile. With a little ingenuity and hard work by combined AFP and US forces, a bare room was converted into the surgical area, and two barracks buildings were cleared out to make room for overnight and recovering patients. AFP nurses helped with the prescreening of patients, and AFP cooks provided hundreds of meals for their guests.

“In line with the Bayanihan spirit, AFP’s Internal Peace and Security Plan, we are assisting the Local Government Units (LGUs) and NGOs to provide medical services to the less fortunate in the areas of Maguindanao,” said De Leon. “This will make a big impact on the community, because when the families get back to their respective municipalities, they could tell their neighbors how effective the AFP is.”

Knightsbridge International, a Philippine-based NGO, procured the necessary medical equipment and supplies, and RN HEALS provided volunteer nurses to stay in the recovery wards overnight with patients.

“We’ve always talked about it, but we’ve hardly touched the ARMM areas,” explained Dr. Lawrence Loh, team leader for the incipient Operation Smile mission in Cotabato. “People are afraid to come into the ARMM area, they see it as a dangerous place. But we see a great need to take care of these kids. So many of them were registered and screened. We definitely have to come back.”

Operation Smile, a U.S. NGO that has been in service since 1982, arrived in Maguindanao June 7. After a slow start (only 7 patients on the first day), and with the help of local nurses and nursing students, the pace quickly increased on the last day. Plastic surgeons and staff worked into the night to perform a total of 96 surgeries.

“A lot of people say this is a war-torn area, but the doctors and nurses from Operation Smile came here with courage and scalpels. I am so glad that I got to participate here,” said Jade Demao, a newly certified nurse, who said she will remember this rewarding mission as her first real job.

“You can see the results after the surgery,” added De Leon. “A happy face and a happy family going back home, which leads to a better community.”

AFP, JSOTF-P and USDA Participate in Sulu Agricultural Seminar

2011-06-25T14:25:00.005+08:00

JOLO, Philippines (June 1, 2011) A U.S. Army soldier assigned to the Joint Service Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) thanks Mindanao State University Sulu faculty and students for attending a veterinary/agricultural seminar at the Sulu Area Coordination Center. The seminar, hosted by Sulu's provincial government, was the first of its kind in Sulu, and featured Philip Shull, a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service counselor. The seminar highlighted the USDA as a ready resource for agricultural advice and programs in conflict-affected areas. JSOTF-P is temporarily deployed in southern Philippines at the request of the Philippine government. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

JOLO, Philippines (June 1, 2011) Mindanao State University Sulu students listen to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Joint Service Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) representatives speak at a veterinary/agricultural seminar held at the Sulu Area Coordination Center. The seminar, hosted by Sulu's provincial government, was the first of its kind in Sulu, and featured Philip Shull, a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service counselor. The seminar highlighted the USDA as a ready resource for agricultural advice and programs in conflict-affected areas. JSOTF-P is temporarily deployed in southern Philippines at the request of the Philippine government. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

JOLO, Philippines (June 1, 2011) Philip Shull, a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) foreign service counselor, speaks to Mindanao State University Sulu faculty and students at a veterinary/agricultural seminar at the Sulu Area Coordination Center. Shull was the keynote speaker and said he hoped the seminar, conducted for the first time in Sulu and hosted by the provincial government, would draw attention to the USDA as a ready resource for agricultural advice and programs. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

JOLO, Philippines (June 1, 2011) Mindanao State University Sulu faculty and students pose for a photo during a veterinary/agricultural seminar held at the Sulu Area Coordination Center. The seminar, hosted by Sulu’s provincial government, was the first of its kind in Sulu and featured Philip Shull, a USDA Foreign Agricultural Service counselor. Shull said he hoped the seminar would draw attention to the USDA as a ready resource for agricultural advice and programs. JSOTF-P is temporarily deployed in southern Philippines at the request of the Philippine government. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

AFP, JSOTF-P and USDA Participate in Sulu Agricultural Seminar

(Press Release)

JOLO, Philippines (June 1, 2011) More than 100 faculty members and students from Mindanao State University, Sulu, participated on June 1 in a historic Veterinary/Agricultural Seminar at the Sulu Area Coordination Center.

Hosted by Sulu’s provincial government, the seminar, which was the first of its kind in conflict-affected Sulu province, featured Philip Shull, a foreign service agricultural counselor from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and veterinarians from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P).

Shull said he hopes the seminar will help Sulu barangays develop a closer relationship with the Philippine government and draw attention to the value of the resources at the U.S. Embassy for agricultural advice and support programs.

“We hope they see the U.S. as a positive partner with the Philippine government and a positive force in the lives and communities of the Filipino people,” Shull said. “And we are hopeful that in the future we will be able to do regular outreach seminars like this and bring in experts who can convey information that is critical and will have a quick and direct impact on their lives, their livelihood, and their families.”

Also in attendance were Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan and members of the Philippine Department of Agriculture, the Philippines Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and the Sulu Area Coordination Center (ACC).

The U.S. Army veterinarian assigned to JSOTF-P said the goal of the seminar was to engage the local government in partnership with the U.S. Embassy and the AFP and eventually help facilitate this kind of civic assistance with increasingly greater local government participation and sponsorship.

“The presence of the USDA team was critical because it helped marry provincial-level assets with their national-level counterparts,” said another JSOTF-P team member.

“These relationships will help Sulu coordinate future seminars and subject matter information exchanges, enhancing the knowledge and capacity of the local farmers of Sulu.”

In addition to giving practical advice on farming techniques, the speakers used samples, pamphlets, and handouts to increase awareness of common livestock diseases and toxic plants in southern Mindanao and introduce new uses for familiar agricultural products, including home remedies for common illnesses.

“We appreciate and welcome so many groups coming together sharing their thoughts, resources, and enthusiasm for agriculture,” said Fazlur Abdullah, Sulu ACC director.

“The mission of the governor is to enhance, develop, and improve our natural resources. Opening up to the outside world, floating ideas, doing community outreach will help us help ourselves and instill confidence in our people. Our goal is food sufficiency. We should be producing our own food.”

Abdullah said he hopes these seminars will be conducted in the future “soon and often.”

Secretary of the Army Visits JSOTF-P and WESMINCOM

2011-06-11T13:34:00.000+08:00

By MC1 Cassandra Thompson, JSOTF-P Public Affairs Office

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (June 7, 2011) - The Honorable John McHugh, U.S. Secretary of the Army, visited Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Mindanao Command (WESMINCOM) June 7, to discuss strategic Philippine/US partnerships, and the importance of the “3Ds approach” – diplomacy, development, and defense –to combating terrorism, and promoting peace and stability, in southern Mindanao.

McHugh began his two-day trip to the Philippines in Manila, where he met with Philippine Undersecretary of Defense Affairs Honorio Azcueta. In Zamboanga, he spoke with AFP senior officials including Maj. Gen. Renato Sanchez, Commander, AFP 3rd Air Division, and Lt. Gen. Raymundo Ferrer, WESMINCOM Commander. He commended the AFP’s internal peace and security plan “Bayanihan,” and assured the Philippine defense forces of the U.S. Army’s continued support.

“We in the United States Army are honored to help support this very important effort to combat terrorism and to make this region even safer and a better place for all the great people who live here and call this wonderful part of the world home,” said McHugh. “This partnership in combating terrorism is as critical to the U.S. as it is to the Filipino people. We fully intend to work with, partner and support this effort as we try to bring a stronger sense of security and stability here in Mindanao.”

Ferrer, who assumed command of WESMINCOM in Nov. 2010, highlighted the successes the combined effort between JSOTF-P and Philippine security forces has brought just in the last six months since the new internal peace and security plan was implemented.

“So far during my stay here, we have improved our coordination and partnership,” said Ferrer. “We have jointly developed strategies to address terrorism in this part of the world.”

The 3D strategy includes opportunities to synchronize security and development efforts to achieve transformative change, as expounded on by Gloria Steele, mission director for the U.S. Agency for International Development in the Philippines, who was also on hand to brief McHugh.

JSOTF-P is made up of approximately 600 Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, and Department of Defense civilians and contractors. At the invitation of the Government and Armed Forces of the Philippines, they are temporarily deployed to the Philippines in a strictly non-combat role to support and share information with the AFP to fight terrorism, develop the capacity of local citizens, and demonstrate good governance through humanitarian projects in southern Mindanao.

McHugh’s time with JSOTF-P staff was divided between Camp Navarro in Zamboanga, where he had lunch with a group of soldiers, and visits to AFP outstations on the island of Jolo that allowed him a comprehensive look at AFP operations that are supported by JSOTF-P.

“I was proud and honored that the Secretary of the Army chose to visit us in the Philippines,” said Staff Sgt. James Crabb, who interacted with McHugh during lunch. “He gave me a coin, and thanked me for my service. It was a memorable deployment experience.”

McHugh also addressed a gathering of JSOTF-P service members in Jolo, acknowledging the sacrifices they make every day for a good cause, and acting as promotion officer during an impromptu ceremony for an Army Special Forces Soldier who had recently been promoted.

US, Philippine soldiers partner with local veterinarians to immunize hundreds of animals

2011-06-09T14:04:00.000+08:00

SUMISIP, Philippines (May 26, 2011) Dozens of Armed Forces Philippines (AFP) soldiers partnered with provincial veterinarians and Joint Special Operations Task Force Philippines (JSOTF-P) personnel to host a veterinary civic action program (VETCAP) in Sumisip, in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao, May 26.

AFP soldiers helped local residents set up a staging area on the grounds of San Vicente Ferrer Church for the hundreds of domestic farm animals and pets assembled for the event.

Philippine Department of Agriculture veterinarians educated the crowds of farmers and AFP soldiers on preventive care and proper immunization techniques, while JSOTF-P Sailors and Marines including a U.S. Army veterinarian provided much of the deworming vaccines, vitamins and antiseptics used during the event.

In the Sumisip area of southern Basilan, professional animal care is virtually non-existent, despite the fact that livestock is a critical part of the local economy. William Jason, a local resident who owns three goats, explained that the nearest veterinarian is in Isabela City, almost 25 km away.

“I am very thankful to the AFP for bringing the vet here,” he said. “We are really behind in the animal industry, especially farmers like me, with only three goats, or one cattle, or one caribou. If one of my goats gets sick, I don’t know how to treat it, or what to give it. I would rather slaughter it and sell it than call the vet.”

The provincial veterinarians also walked through the town, searching for farmers who may not have heard about the event, or not had the opportunity to show up at the church.

“It’s personally fulfilling when you’re able to serve and help your own people,” said Dr. Zurhayda Tawasil-Aguisada, a Basilan provincial veterinarian. “It is our duty and responsibility as provincial veterinarians to show our farmers how to treat their animals themselves, and teach them steps they can take to have healthier, more productive livestock and pets, free from internal and external parasites, because we need the meat from these animals for local consumption.”

VETCAPS are also a significant opening for AFP soldiers, who are able to show rural residents a more comprehensive view of how the military can serve the Filipino people, and their willingness to help the barangay safeguard local incomes.

“This is very important to the AFP because it allows them to interact with the LGUs (local government units) in these communities that are under-served, conduct community service projects, talk to the people and find out what their concerns are,” explained the U.S. Army veterinarian.

“I am very proud and happy that the AFP brought the vets to our community,” said Alonto Bahitla, whose carabou experienced veterinary care for the first time during the event. “We can see the other face of the AFP now, that a soldier is not just for combat.”

The AFP soldiers led by 1LT Glendon Hubag, and JSOTF-P personnel, hope to eventually have a regular, six-week rotation of VETCAPs throughout the Mindanao province, in an effort to show residents that AFP and US forces are concerned about their health, welfare and livelihood, and degrade the influence of lawless groups.

JSOTF-P Commander speaks about honoring Philippine and US comrades

2011-06-02T09:41:00.000+08:00

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (May 28, 2011) Capt. Robert Gusentine, Commander of Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines (JSOTF-P), presides over a Memorial Day Ceremony held at the Armed Forces of the Philippines Memorial on Camp Navarro. More than 100 Soldiers, Airmen, Marines, and Sailors attended the event. Since 2002, more than 560 Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) service members and 17 JSOTF-P members have given their lives in the fight against terrorism in the Philippines. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (May 28, 2011) Armed Forces of the Philippines Lt. Gen. Raymundo Ferrer, commander of Western Mindanao Command, and Capt. Robert Gusentine, Commander officer of Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P), salute after laying a wreath in honor of the fallen during a Memorial Day Ceremony hosted by JSOTF-P on Camp Navarro. Since 2002, more than 560 Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) service members and 17 JSOTF-P members have given their lives in the fight against terrorism in the Philippines. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (May 28, 2011) Armed Forces of the Philippines Lt. Gen. Raymundo Ferrer, commander of Western Mindanao Command, salutes after laying a wreath in honor of the fallen during a Memorial Day Ceremony hosted by Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) on Camp Navarro. Since 2002, more than 560 Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) service members and 17 JSOTF-P members have given their lives in the fight against terrorism in the Philippines. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (May 28, 2011) Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines (JSOTF-P) service members remember fallen comrades during a Memorial Day Ceremony held at the Armed Forces of the Philippines Memorial on Camp Navarro. More than 100 Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Airmen attended the event. Since 2002, more than 560 Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) service members and 17 JSOTF-P members have given their lives in the fight against terrorism in the Philippines. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (May 28, 2011) Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines (JSOTF-P) service members salute as the names of fallen JSOTF-P members are read aloud in a Memorial Day Ceremony held on Camp Navarro. More than 100 Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Airmen attended the event. Since 2002, , more than 560 Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) service members and 17 JSOTF-P members have given their lives in the fight against terrorism in the Philippines. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (May 28, 2011) A Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines (JSOTF-P) service member pays homage to fallen comrades at a Memorial Day Ceremony held at Armed Forces of the Philippines, Camp Navarro. More than 100 Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Airmen attended the event. Since 2002, , more than 560 Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) service members and 17 JSOTF-P members have given their lives in the fight against terrorism in the Philippines. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (May 28, 2011) Filipino children examine a tribute to fallen comrades at a Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philipines Memorial Day ceremony held on Camp Navarro. More than 100 Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Airmen attended the event. Since 2002, , more than 560 Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) service members and 17 JSOTF-P members gave their lives in the fight against terrorism in the Philippines. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

ARMM Regional Government (ARG) Extends Health Support To Most Isolated Municipalities of PH through DOH-ARMM and IPHO-Tawi-tawi

2011-05-30T11:38:00.000+08:00

Courtesy of ARMM Regional Government

Root of ARMM health problems identified

Once of the most challenging reality in ARMM, aside from the very high maternal, under-five and infant mortality rates and the overwhelmingly poor state of health reflected on the National Demographic Health Survey (NDHS) 2008, is the lack of confidence to health workers, poor health seeking attitude and unresponsive population to various health programs. Of all possible reasons, it can be attributed on the lack of direct intervention in many difficult areas wherein specialized services are never offered, basically due to lack of specialist physicians serving the remote areas, lack of facilities, inadequate equipments, insufficient and overworked manpower, widespread poverty, geographic and security isolation of many communities, and the cost of intervention.

Outreach plan, reaching out activity.

ARMM’s DOH Secretary Sinolinding who is a practicing ophthalmologist proposed and spearheaded the “Kasama Mo si Sec (KMS) Project. A unique, perhaps the only one in the country that addresses the often neglected services that were long sought in many isolated and difficult areas. With a group of Physicians and Nurses, dared the rough seas of Tawi-tawi province just to reach out and serve the most isolated municipalities of the province, the Sibutu, South Ubian, Mapun and Turtle Islands (taganak). Armed with the marching orders of the Acting Regional Governor Ansaruddin Adiong to provide excellent services to the people of the region in response to President Aquino’s Universal Access to Health Care, physician volunteers from DOH-ARMM headed by Regional secretary Dr. Kadil Jojo Sinolinding in tandem with other volunteers headed by Tawi-tawi provincial Health officer Dr Sukarno Asri made the plan an reality.

Children’ First.

A US Army paediatrician assigned to the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines helped out in the provision of pediatric care among the residents. He is being supported by Dr. Falmi Usman, Dr Oliver Lee, Dr. George Lee, and Dr. Uribe. They have served at least 550 cases, provided with complete lines of medicines.

Measles Rubella Eradication Campaign.

One of the major agenda in the outreach activity is the campaign for the total eradication of Measles Rubella in the region, a preventable disease that accounts to a significant number of outbreak in the country. In the recent months, only Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur reported to have sporadic cases minus the island provinces. Thanks to the concerted effort of all health workers of ARMM.

Sight First.

World class eye surgery in the middle of nowhere, even in the most unsuited situation? Yes. Not because of any fancy reason but of the pressing need. With a resounding demand to perform eye surgeries to many blind people, Ophthalmologists Dr. Jojo Sinolinding and Dr. Elizabeth Chin performed a total of 15 major eye surgeries mostly cataracts and 5 minor procedures.

Other Health Programs Implemented

One of the most popular services here is the Oplan Tuli’s free circumcision and Oplan Ngipin’s dental services that served close to four hundred residents. Oplan Bukol that addresses removal of cysts and unwanted growths in the body served well too. Safe Motherhood Karavan that provided services for birth spacing and other reproductive health concerns received a high demand for the intervention.

USAID and US Forces collaborate on future projects

2011-05-27T10:27:00.000+08:00

Zamboanga City, Republic of the Philippines – Robert Burch, United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Office of Education Chief (Right), Michael Rossman, USAID Office of Regional Procurement Chief, and Navy Capt. Robert V. Gusentine, commander, Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) discuss collaboration opportunities during a meeting May 2. The meeting focused on opportunities for USAID and JSOTF-P to further the Philippine government’s “whole of government” Internal Peace and Security Plan with support by the U.S. Embassy’s “3-D” – diplomacy, development, and defense - approaches to combating terrorism in the Southern Philippines. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communications Specialist 2nd Class Ted Green)

Zamboanga City, Republic of the Philippines – Robert Burch, United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Office of Education Chief, (Right) talks with the commander of the Civil Affairs Company, Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P), during a meeting May 2. The meeting focused on opportunities for USAID and JSOTF-P to further the Philippine government’s “whole of government” Internal Peace and Security Plan with support by the U.S. Embassy’s “3-D” – diplomacy, development, and defense - approaches to combating terrorism in the Southern Philippines. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communications Specialist 2nd Class Ted Green)

Visual and musical expression

2011-05-17T09:31:00.000+08:00

ZAMBOANGA, Republic of the Philippines (May 6, 2010) – Attendees of Ateneo de Zamboanga University’s Art for Peace show listen to music by local Tausug musicians. Art work from local artists including the internationally acclaimed Rameer Tawasil and Philippine National Artist Abdulmari Imao was on display. Pieces by local City Councilor Gerky Velasco Jr. and on the left by Capt. Robert Gusentine, commander, Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines are backdrop for the musicians. Mindanao’s cultural appreciation for art and expression has become a venue for advancing a sense of peace and community. (Photo by Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines Public Affairs)

The spirit of the carabao

2011-05-17T09:27:00.000+08:00

ZAMBOANGA, Republic of the Philippines (May 6, 2010) – Zamboanga City Mayor, Celso L. Lobregat (front) and other attendees of Ateneo de Zamboanga University’s Art for Peace show discuss the significance of the carabao in Philippine culture. Here they are looking at a work by Commander, Joint Special Operation Task Force – Philippines, Capt. Robert Gusentine. Various local artists, to include Gusentine and the internationally acclaimed Rameer Tawasil, displayed their work for the public. Mindanao’s cultural appreciation for art and expression has become a venue for advancing a sense of peace and community. (Photo by Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines Public Affairs)

Congressional Representatives visit Philippines

2011-05-03T10:23:00.001+08:00

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Republic of the Philippines U.S. Rep. Todd Russell Platts from Pennsylvania meets with Armed Forces of the Philippines Lt. Gen Raymundo B. Ferrer, commander, Western Mindanao Command. Rep. Platts, Rep. Stephen Lynch from Massachusetts, Rep. Mike Kelly from Pennsylvania, and Rep. Ed Perlmutter from Colorado visited the Philippines on May 1, 2011 as part of a routine trip through the Asia-Pacific region. These members of the U.S. House of Representatives visited Manila, Zamboanga, and Basilan to consult with Philippine officials and conduct oversight of U.S. cooperation with the Armed Forces of the Philippines. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC2 (SW/AW) Ted Green.)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Republic of the Philippines – Armed Forces of the Philippines Lt. Gen Raymundo B. Ferrer, commander, Western Mindanao Command discusses the importance of the strategic partnership between U.S. Special Operations Forces and Armed Forces of the Philippines to counter terrorism in the southern Philippines with U.S. Rep. Todd Russell Platts from Pennsylvania. Rep. Platts, Rep. Stephen Lynch from Massachusetts, Rep. Mike Kelly from Pennsylvania, and Rep. Ed Perlmutter from Colorado visited the Philippines on May 1 as part of a routine trip through the Asia-Pacific region. These members of the U.S. House of Representatives visited Manila, Zamboanga, and Basilan to consult with Philippine officials and conduct oversight of U.S. cooperation with the Armed Forces of the Philippines. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC2 (SW/AW) Ted Green.)

BASILAN, Republic of the Philippines –A member of U.S. Special Operations Forces (SOF) who is embedded with Philippine Armed Forces in Basilan briefs U.S. Congressional members about U.S. support and assistance to Philippine security forces in the Southern Philippines, at the request of the Government and Armed Forces of the Philippines. U.S. Rep. Todd Russell Platts from Pennsylvania, Rep. Stephen Lynch from Massachusetts, Rep. Mike Kelly from Pennsylvania, and Rep. Ed Perlmutter from Colorado visited the Philippines on May 1 as part of a routine trip through the Asia-Pacific region. These members of the U.S. House of Representatives visited Manila, Zamboanga, and Basilan to consult with Philippine officials and conduct oversight of U.S. cooperation with the Armed Forces of the Philippines. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC2 (SW/AW) Ted Green.)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Republic of the Philippines – Mayor Celso L. Lobregat of Zamboanga City presents U.S. Rep. Todd Russell Platts from Pennsylvania and other congressional members with a token of appreciation for their visit to the area. Rep. Platts, Rep. Stephen Lynch from Massachusetts, Rep. Mike Kelly from Pennsylvania, and Rep. Ed Perlmutter from Colorado visited the Philippines on May 1as part of a routine trip through the Asia-Pacific region. These members of the U.S. House of Representatives visited Manila, Zamboanga, and Basilan to consult with Philippine officials and conduct oversight of U.S. cooperation with the Armed Forces of the Philippines. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC2 (SW/AW) Ted Green.)

U.S. Provides PNP With New Equipment

2011-05-01T14:46:00.000+08:00

By Philippine National Police Public Information Office

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Republic of the Philippines – The U.S. recently provided nearly 325,000 pesos (USD 7,500) worth of communications equipment to a local Philippine National Police (PNP) Special Action Battalion following its recent operations in Basilan.

The PNP’s 5th Special Action Battalion received portable radios, laptops, printers, and other communication equipment.

“This equipment will directly benefit Philippine forces on the ground combating terrorist elements in Basilan,” said a senior member of the PNP’s 5th Special Action Battalion. “This program highlights the importance of our partnership with the United States.”

The U.S. Rewards Program provides cash, goods, or services to reward individuals for information or assistance that is beneficial to military force protection or operations against international terrorism, specifically the Abu Sayyaf and Jemaah Islamiyah terrorist groups.

The general public is also encouraged to participate in the program. Individuals or whole communities can qualify for rewards for information or assistance they provide to aid security forces in operations.

Since January 2011, 12 individuals and communities have received rewards totaling more than 4.25 million pesos (nearly USD 100,000).

3rd Marine Division Commander visits the Southern Philippines

2011-04-26T15:27:00.000+08:00

ZAMBOANGA, Republic of the Philippines (April 16, 2011) – Commanding General, 3rd Marine Division, Maj. Gen. Mark A. Brilakis, center, meets with senior members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines during an office call with Western Mindanao Command at Camp Navarro. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Demetrius Munnerlyn)

ZAMBOANGA, Republic of the Philippines (April 16, 2011) – Commanding General, 3rd Marine Division, Maj. Gen. Mark A. Brilakis, left, meets with U.S. Marines assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force - Philippines while visiting Camp Navarro. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Demetrius Munnerlyn)

JSOTFP service members visit local orphanage

2011-04-19T09:42:00.002+08:00

Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines Public Affairs Office

ZAMOANGA CITY, Republic of the Philippines – On April 5, eleven service members from Joint Special Operations Task Force- Philippines, visited the “Reception and Study Center for Children,” a center for displaced children in Zamboanga City. They brought with them boxes of donated clothes, toiletries, and candy.

The Reception and Study Center for Children is home to 45 children ranging from infants to young teenagers. The center is part of the Philippine Department of Social Welfare and Development.

“Everyone around camp is always asking me when our next trip to the orphanage is, so I try to plan as many as I can,” explained Religious Program Specialist 2nd Class Andrew Price, the command chaplain assistant who helped coordinate the event.

In addition to the donations, members from JSOTF-P gave approximately P13,000 to the center.

“It’s good to see the kids,” said Master-at-Arms 3^rd Class Brendan Washock, who donated the money on behalf of the service members. “It puts a face to the mission we are doing down here” he added.

“(JSOTF-P’s) visit here makes the children happy,” said Josefina Reyes, the head of the center. “They are delighted when people come and play with them.”

U.S. forces are temporarily deployed to the Philippines in a strictly non-combat role at the invitation of the Philippine government to advise and assist the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to fight terrorism and deliver humanitarian assistance to the people of the Philippines.

"We are improving the local community by helping the less fortunate. It also presents a good image of American service members,” Price added.

COMSOCPAC Visits the Southern Philippines

2011-04-12T14:57:00.000+08:00

ZAMBOANGA, Republic of the Philippines (April 7, 2011) - Commander, Special Operations Command Pacific, Rear Adm. Sean A. Pybus, right, meets with Armed Forces of the Philippines Lt. Gen Raymundo B. Ferrer, commander, Western Mindanao Command during an office call while visiting Camp Navarro. Official U.S. Navy photo by MC1 (SW) Ryan Valverde.

ZAMBOANGA, Republic of the Philippines (April 7, 2011) - Members of Joint Special Operations Task Force - Philippines brief Commander, Special Operations Command Pacific, Rear Adm. Sean A. Pybus during his visit to Camp Navarro. Official U.S. Navy photo by MC1 (SW) Ryan Valverde.

PNP Bomb Squad Competition

2011-04-11T15:02:00.002+08:00

QUEZON CITY, Republic of the Philippines, (March 24, 2011) – A member of the Philippine National Police returns to the command post during a bomb squad countermeasures competition held at Camp Crame. Nine Philippine explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams took part in the competition and were graded on response procedures, execution and safety during an improvised explosive device scenario. Two explosive ordnance technicians from Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines served as judges during the event. (Official U.S. Navy photo by MC1 (SW) Ryan Valverde.)

QUEZON CITY, Republic of the Philippines, (March 24, 2011) – A member of the Philippine National Police (PNP) removes a bomb suit from another PNP member after successfully demolishing a simulated explosive device during a bomb squad countermeasures competition held at Camp Crame. Nine Philippine explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams took part in the competition and were graded on response procedures, execution and safety during an improvised explosive device scenario. Two explosive ordnance technicians from Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines served as judges during the event. (Official U.S. Navy photo by MC1 (SW) Ryan Valverde.)

QUEZON CITY, Republic of the Philippines, (March 24, 2011) – A simulated explosive device is demolished during a bomb squad countermeasures competition held at Camp Crame. Nine Philippine explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams took part in the competition and were graded on response procedures, execution and safety during an improvised explosive device scenario. Two explosive ordnance technicians from Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines served as judges during the event. (Official U.S. Navy photo by MC1 (SW) Ryan Valverde.)

In the news ...

2011-03-30T13:19:00.004+08:00

"The Philippine mission is a rarity in the U.S. war on terror: a largely successful counterinsurgency at minimal cost in lives and dollars.

...The number of Abu Sayyaf militants went from a peak of 1,200 in 2001 to about 400 today, according to the Philippine military.

Under an agreement with the Philippine government, the U.S. forces cannot engage in combat. However, with the help of U.S. intelligence, the Philippine military has killed or captured 28 Abu Sayyaf leaders, according to the Special Forces task force. Twenty-four remain at large.."

read the full story from USA Today: http://usat.ly/ihGz7W (rv)

Thank you for following us!

2011-03-30T12:47:00.002+08:00

Thank you to all the bloggers that follow us out there! Please tell us how we can make this blog more valuable to you? (rv)

U.S. Ambassador Visits JSOTF-P in Southern Philippines

2011-03-24T17:08:00.000+08:00

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Mindanao – Harry K. Thomas, Jr., U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines, and several officials from the U.S. and Philippine governments visited Camp Navarro in Zamboanga City and islands in the Southern Philippines Mar. 21-22 to meet and greet service members.

The U.S. Embassy in Manila is taking a “3D” approach to combating terrorism, employing diplomacy, development, and defense, with the latter coordinated through Joint Special Operations Task Force, Philippines (JSOTF-P). U.S. forces are temporarily deployed to the Philippines in a strictly non-combat role to advise and assist the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to fight terrorism and deliver humanitarian assistance to the people of the Philippines.

During the visit, the Ambassador also attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony with AFP Lt. Gen. Raymundo Ferrer and JSOTF-P Commander Capt. Robert Gusentine, USN, to open a Joint Fusion Cell at West Mindanao Command (WESMINCOM) headquarters.

The Joint Fusion Cell, a 600-square-foot refurbished space, will serve as an area for Philippine Security Forces to plan and implement future operations supported by JSOTF-P, to make the Southern Philippines an unwelcome place for violent extremist organizations to operate.

Later in the morning, the Ambassador addressed AFP and U.S. service members stationed at Camp Navarro.

“Today, we are celebrating a small example of how our two nations cooperate for the cause of peace,” said Thomas. “Without the assistance of JSOTF-P and its many dedicated members who support our friends in the Philippines Security Forces, I would not be able to do my job here in the South, so from the bottom of my heart, thank you,” he added.

United States Agency for International Development – Philippines Mission Director Gloria Steele and several other senior government officials joined Thomas during the visit. “JSOTF-P not only represents the “Defense” pillar of the U.S. Embassy’s 3D approach, it also serves as USAID’s key partner in implementing our development programs in conflict areas and in providing disaster assistance,” said Steele.

While in Mindanao, Thomas visited with senior officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines at WESMINCOM. The Ambassador also had tours at the Ateneo de Zambaonga University, a local university, and at the Visayan Forum Halfway House that provides refuge and rehabilitation for victims of human trafficking. On the second day of the trip, the ambassador visited some of JSOTF-P’s outstations on the Islands of Sulu and Basilan to get a first hand look at JSOTF-P support for AFP operations.

Philippine and U.S. Forces Conduct School Turn-over Ceremony at Bulol, Pikit, Cotabato Province

2011-03-24T16:58:00.000+08:00

The Philippine Army’s 7th Infantry Battalion, along with Civil Affairs Team 351 of the U.S. Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P), representatives of the Municipality of Pikit and Department of Education, and local leaders, conducted a ribbon-cutting and school-opening ceremony on March 15, 2011 in a rural community previously ravaged by conflict.

This project, initiated over a year ago by the Local Government Unit and JSOTF-P, resulted in a school building with three classrooms, a water tank, basketball court, comfort room, administrative building, and generator shed that will serve more than 200 students. The students also received a donation of two basketballs and a volleyball set. According to the school principal, the students previously walked up to 20 kilometers to go to the nearest school.

A 7th Infantry Battalion Civil-Military Operations Officer noted that there has been a positive change in the attitudes and disposition of the population in this conflict-affected area since the school was built.

Parent-Teacher Conference Association President Mr. Yaqob stated that he was very pleased to see the presence of U.S. forces. “It was necessary to have U.S. forces and Philippine Army working together as a united front to bring peace and order to Mindanao,” he said.

JSOTF-P supports and shares information with the Armed Forces of the Philippines and delivers humanitarian assistance to the people of Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago at the Philippine Government’s request and in support of the Philippine Government’s Internal Peace and Security Plan.

USAID-Philippines Mission Director Visits Mindanao Area

2011-03-10T18:17:00.000+08:00

A member of Joint Special Operations Task Force, Philippines, welcomes Mission Director, United States Agency for International Development - Philippines, Gloria Steele upon her arrival at Camp Luis Biel in Bgy. Tabiawan, Isabela City Feb. 24, 2011.

Commander of Joint Special Operations Task Force, Philippines, Capt. Gusentine discusses JSOTF-P activities in Basilan with Director Steele Feb. 24, 2011.

Philippine and U.S.Military "Bayanihan Drills" Save Local Family Adrift at Sea

2011-03-08T09:56:00.001+08:00

The Philippine Navy’s Task Force-62 together with the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines saved a family of five who had been floating for over twelve hours at sea near Tawi Tawi Island, located at the southwestern tip of the Sulu Archipelago in the Southern Philippines. The family had left for Sitangkai, an island to the southwest of Tawi Tawi, at four in the morning when their boat capsized due to rough seas.

The Philippine and US military personnel were completing their joint military drills they call "Bayanihan," a Tagalog expression for mutual assistance, that evening when they spotted a man in the sea clinging to floating debris. A US Special Boat Operator rushed outside and without hesitation jumped off into the water and swam for 300 meters without a life jacket to save the man, who was barely conscious from exhaustion.

Once the US sailor reached him, the father of two, unable to speak, and pointed to the general direction where the rest of his family was adrift. Only an hour of daylight remained to find the remaining survivors.

The Philippine-US Navy team quickly joined forces and dropped a rescue boat into the water to search for the remaining family members. The mother, two children, and their grandmother were floating, barely holding on to plastic containers and wood debris, when they were found.

“I am thankful to the sailor who risked his life to save my father,” stated the young boy who is recovering from second-degree burns from the boat's gas spill. The family thanked profusely the joint forces that provided them first aid, clothes, and food before they were brought back to Tawi Tawi, to Bongao City Mayor Jasper Que for custody and care.

“We felt so blessed and thankful to Almighty Allah who gave us this second chance in life,” the father said. The family members have fully recovered and were released from the Bongao Hospital on February 22 to return to their home in Sitangkai.

Philippine and U.S. Forces Support ‘Bayanihan’ Medical and Veterinary Outreach to Rural Communities in Sultan Kudarat Province

2011-03-04T10:47:00.000+08:00

The Armed Forces of the Philippines’ 33rd Infantry Battalion conducted a joint Medical/Veterinary Civic Action Program on February 23, 2011 in various Barangay Pimbalayan and other barangays in the Municipality of Lambayong, Province of Sultan Kudarat on the island of Mindanao, the Southern Philippines. The Medcap/Vetcap was supported by members of U.S. Task Force Mindanao and multiple local non-governmental organizations such as ACIM-Asia (spell out first time) and Notre Dame College. The area of Pimbalayan has a long history of being a conflict area, according to Mayor Florante L. Agduma, who as a young man fought against lawless elements and nearly lost his life in the same area where the Med/Vetcap took place.

According to Ronnie G. Dardo, the new Deputy Chief of Police for the municipality of Lambayong, the area has recently been peaceful - a very different experience than what he was used to in his previous assignment in Makilala, Cotabato. He said they’ve accomplished great things considering the 33 officers cover the municipality’s 26 barangays.

The Medical Civic Action Program treated more than two hundred residents from around Barangay Pimbalayan, with treatment ranging from common cold remedies to dental work requiring tooth extraction.

Concurrently, a Veterinary Civic Action Program was also taking place nearby in four separate locations; Barangays Bagumbayan, New Cebu, Caridad, and Zeniban. Civil Affairs Team 351 assisted the provincial veterinary officer, Nestor Casador in treating a total of 79 carabao, 33 cows, 14 goats, and 2 dogs.

Pimbalayan Barangay Captain Alex Pablo and Mayor Agduma greatly appreciated the program’s benefit in bringing health and veterinary care services to the families and farmers of his rural community. They were pleased to have the presence of U.S. Forces in their area, working as partners with the AFP.

The event exemplified the ‘Bayanihan’ spirit of helping each other and showed the commitment of the local government unit, Armed Forces of the Philippines, JSOTF members, Non-Profit Organizations, and the Philippine National Police to work to provide livelihood enhancement, peace, and security to the people of Lambayong. The 33rd Infantry Battalion’s mission continues to demonstrate within Mindanao that the ‘Bayanihan’ effort is best demonstrated through action, not just words.

U.S. Task Force Mindanao and its higher headquarters, Joint Special Operations Task Force Philippines (JSOTF-P) works by, with and through the Armed Forces of the Philippines in their mission to confront terrorism, support its Internal Peace and Security Plan, and deliver humanitarian assistance to the people of Mindanao.

U.S. Task Force Mindanao Meets the Mindanao River Basin Rehabilitation and Development Task Force

2011-02-14T10:04:00.000+08:00

By Lt. Col. Michelle Dietrich, JSOTF-P Public Affairs.

U.S. Task Force Mindanao (TFM) Commander Major Phillip Brown and TF Mindanao CAT-A personnel met the Presidential Task Force on Mindanao River Basin Rehabilitation and Development (PTF MRBRD) on 9 February 2011, 09:00 AM held at the Rio Grande de Mindanao Conference Hall, NEDA XII Building, ARMM Compound, Cotabato City.

Joining PTF MRBRD Chairperson, Cotabato Archbishop Orlando B. Quevedo, OMI, DD, were the 6^th Infantry Division Philippine Army Commanding General Anthony Alcantara, North Cotabato Provincial Governor Emmylou “Lala” Taliño Mendoza; DPWH Undersecretary for Mindanao Romeo S. Momo; and, Mr. Nathaniel Campo. Also in attendance were approximately 60 other stakeholders in the multi-faceted development project.

The Commander was accompanied by members of Task Force Mindanao, namely: Civil Affairs Team Leader Lieutenant Colonel Ed Oliveros; and Task Force Engineer Lieutenant Gabriel Miritello.

The PTF MRBRD is tasked to coordinate the implementation of the Rehabilitation and Long-Term Development Plan for the Mindanao River Basin. It was formed in 2008 after Typhoon Frank caused extensive flooding accounting for more than a billion pesos worth of damage to infrastructure, livestock, and agriculture. Attending the meeting provided Task Force Mindanao the opportunity to determine potential support relationships critical in completing a large scale development project. The potential positive impacts of completing the MRBRD are significant, and present a real opportunity to stabilize the physical infrastructure within Mindanao.

Task Force Mindanao and its higher headquarters, Joint Special Operations Task Force Philippines (JSOTF-P) works together with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to fight terrorism, support its Internal Peace and Security Plan, and deliver humanitarian assistance to the people of Mindanao at the request of the Philippine Government.

U.S. troops join rescue in flood-hit Philippines

2011-02-08T10:27:00.000+08:00

By Elena L. Aben and Associated Press

JOLO, Philippines -- U.S. troops on a training mission in the Philippines lent their rubber boats Friday to help thousands of villagers escape waist-deep floodwaters that have inundated a southern island, killing at least five people.

A weeklong downpour culminated in raging flash floods that surged through the streets of Jolo's coastal provincial capital Thursday night, sweeping away stilt houses and damaging hundreds of homes, officials and residents said. The floodwaters and sea surges reached 6 feet (1.8 meters) in some areas, the Red Cross reported.

At least five people were killed, including two children, Jolo Mayor Hussin Amin said.
"In my 13 years in politics, I have never experienced anything like what happened last night," Amin told The Associated Press. "We are calling on all good Samaritans to extend support to the people of Jolo."

U.S. troops stationed at Jolo airport, which remained open, joined Philippine marines and civilian volunteers in rubber boats to rescue some of those trapped. Hundreds of American troops have been training Filipino soldiers who battle Muslim militants hiding in the jungles of Jolo and on nearby islands.

"The water was too deep in some areas that even our trucks could not reach these areas so we had to deploy rubber boats," said Col. Remigio Valdez, a Philippine marine brigade commander on Jolo.

Jolo town, 610 miles (980 kilometers) south of Manila, "is like a catch basin surrounded by mountains so the water from the rains just surged down the slopes into town," Valdez said.

Amin said the floods have affected about 3,500 people in the town, which has a population of about 150,000. He said he ordered the distribution of rice porridge to those in need because shops were closed and the commercial center flooded.

Electricity was cut off and vessels stayed away from the island's port because of big waves.

Disaster officials said at least nine other people have died in floods elsewhere in the Philippines this week, adding to more than 70 lives lost in heavy rainfall between late December and the end of January.

President Benigno Aquino III on Thursday ordered a logging moratorium in the country, blaming the devastating floods on unmitigated logging and deforestation that experts say contribute to soil erosion and trigger mudslides.

Illegal logging is a recurring problem in the country. The U.S.-based environmental group Conservation International says that the Philippines is one of the world's 10 most threatened forest hotspots.

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/302515/us-troops-join-rescue-flood-victims-jolo

Phil-US military’s media center opens in Zamboanga City

2010-11-19T14:32:00.006+08:00

By Julie Alipala, Inquirer Mindanao

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – The Philippine and US militaries have set up a media center inside the Western Mindanao Command here.

Captain Robert Gusentine, commander of the Joint Special Operations Task Force Philippines (JSOTFP), said the center's immediate goal would be “to provide media a home inside the base,” and, in the future, establish connection with the “upcoming AFP [Armed Forces of the Philippines] national plan for peace and security.”

The media center is a one-room building inside the Wesmincom headquarters here.

“With the forthcoming AFP news approach to peace in Mindanao, you will see a lot more information provided proactively. It will also provide an outlet to meet together. (This center will serve as ) work center, work stations and for media to gain interviews,” he added.

Brigadier General Gerardo Layug, deputy commander of the Western Mindanao Command, attended the inauguration of the media center on Monday night, but could not say anything about the AFP's new national plan.

“I am not aware of it,” he said.

He said the media center was established to “keep the public informed through the media and make access to information easier for media.”

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/regions/view/20101117-303793/Phil-US-militarys-media-center-opens-in-Zamboanga-City

U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Leslie Bassett turns over school building in Basilan

2010-10-11T13:41:00.015+08:00

By Kates Allas, Zambo Times

Way back 11th of May 2010 during the heat of election campaign a group of unidentified fully armed men raided Basilan and burned 5 different schools that includes Caddayan Elementary School, at Brgy. Caddayan, Akbar. The effects to the community is traumatic, children were characterized by feelings of loss and helplessness.

After assessing the damages to the school buildings and the estimate and scope of works to be done, the Civil Military Operations of 1st Marine, 32nd Infantry (DAREDEVIL) Battalion, Brigade, Phil. Navy 1st Naval Construction Battalion and Civil Affairs
Team-732 of JSOTF(P), DECS-ARMM and Local Gov't of Akbar Officials joined forces to do the necessary undertakings in re-building the school.

Last October 8, 2010 the school that was onced burned was now newly constructed and turned-over to the local folks of Caddayan by no less than the US Chargé d’Affaires Ms.Leslie Bassett.
During the ceremony Ms. Bassett was accompanied by the Deputy Mission Director, USAID-GEM Mrs. Elzadia Washington and MinDa Chair-Sec. Luwalhati Antonino.
The school project costs P879,000.
The dignitaries and guest are welcomed by Mayor Hon. Alih Sali, together with the following:
Mun. Administrator, Engr. Tahir Latip Mrs. Nurhaya Abdurahim-Division Superintendent, DEPED-ARMM, BGEN. Eugenio Clemen, MGen. Benjamin Dolorfino, JSOTF Capt. Robert Gusentine.

http://www.zambotimes.com/archives/25319-U.S.-Charge-dAffaires-Leslie-Bassett-turns-over-school-building-in-Basilan.html

America's forgotten frontline: The Philippines

2010-10-04T10:56:00.002+08:00

By Adrienne Mong, NBC News Correspondent

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/39444744/ns/world_news-asiapacific/

Honoring the Fallen

2010-10-01T17:24:00.015+08:00

By Mass Communication Specialist 2^nd Class (AW) Joshua Scott, Joint Special Operations Task Force - Philippines Public Affairs

U.S. and Philippine servicemembers honored their fallen comrades-in-arms today during a memorial service held at the base chapel at Western Mindanao Command.

Since the beginning of Operation Enduring Freedom – Philippines (OEF-P), 566 servicemembers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and 17 servicemembers assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines (JSOTF-P) have given their lives in the fight against terrorism.

“This morning we honor the great men who made the ultimate sacrifice in the fight against terrorism,” said Lt. Gen. Benjamin Dolorfino, Commander, Western Mindanao Command. “These men died protecting, not only the interests of our respective countries, but the interests of all peace-loving people in the world. They died defending our way of life … families, morality, values, ideas, but most importantly, freedom from living in terror.”

The memorial concluded with a 21-gun salute, performed by a combined AFP and U.S. honor guard, as well as the presentation of the American and Philippine flags.

“We will never forget, and we will never let them down. I salute the fallen. I salute those of you who gathered here today, I salute the American and Filipino families who just as bravely, offered their sacrifices for freedom. You are all heroes to me,” said Capt. Robert V. Gusentine, reading a remark by Harry K. Thomas Jr., Ambassador to the Philippines.

“Our fallen comrades may be gone, but I am sure their legacy lives on, and they will never be forgotten,” said Dolorfino. “Their names will be forever etched in the history of this command. They are our heroes; they did not die in vain.”

Airdrop Operation

2010-09-21T15:36:00.015+08:00

The Philippine Air Force has a new capability that has been in the works for a very long time. On September 16 in a joint operation with a Philippine Navy aircraft at Jolo airfield, Philippine Air Force Forward Air Controllers controlled a lived drop zone where two bundles of humanitarian relief bundles were dropped in a Low Cost Low Altitude (LCLA) airdrop operation. Since June of 2009, the Philippine Air Force Liaison Coordination Element, an element of the Joint Special Operation Task Force-Philippines, has been advising the Philippine Navy in LCLA operations so that they would eventually have this ability to support their own ground troops as well as provide humanitarian relief to isolated locations. This operation was also the first inter-service (Philippine Navy and Philippine Air Force) airdrop operation of its kind at a forward deployed location.

New Chief Petty Officers

2010-09-20T10:28:00.021+08:00

Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines (JSOTF-P) welcomed four Sailors to the rank of Chief Petty Officer September 16 during a Chief Petty Officer pinning ceremony held at Western Mindanao Command Headquarters. The new Chiefs include a Navy SEAL, a Special Warfare Combatant Crewmember, and two Seabees.

Gifts for Muslims

2010-09-08T13:18:00.003+08:00

By Elena Aben, Manila Bulletin

As a message of partnership and caring to Muslim brothers who will be celebrating Eid al-Fitr or the end of fasting, US troops temporarily stationed in Mindanao together with Philippine soldiers jointly conducted a "Ramadan gift-giving" activity where they distributed food packages to residents from a remote village on the outskirts of Zamboanga City last Monday.

Lt. Cdr. David McKinney, Joint Special Operations Task Force - Philippines (JSOTF-P) deputy public affairs officer said some 200 families from Barangay Arena Blanco benefitted from the activity jointly conducted by the Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) led by its commander, Lt. Gen. Benjamin Dolorfino and the JSOTF-P headed by its commander, Capt. Robert Gusentine.

Arena Blanco is described as a poor community that does not have a good water source. More than 90 percent of its population are Muslim.

American and Philippine soldiers distributed packages that contain

basic items and some food stuff, which the residents can share with their family as Ramadan ends Friday.

US troops turn over new school buildings in Marawi

2010-08-27T22:56:00.005+08:00

By Apipa P. Bagumbaran, Philippine Information Agency

Islamic City of Marawi (25 August) -- Three (3) school buildings funded by the US government were formally turned over yesterday to the school administrators of Toros Primary School in brgy. Lumbaca Toros, this city.

The US Navy Seabees together with the soldiers from the 103rd Infantry Brigade based in Kampo Ranao here in the city reconstructed the buildings that took four (4) months to complete.

The school buildings contain nine (9) classrooms, principal's office, and a comfort room.

School and city officials are grateful to the US government for this project saying that the new classrooms will provide a more comfortable learning environment for their school children.

Our more than 300 school children who used to hold classes under depleted building structures are expected to benefit from the newly reconstructed school buildings, said Hedjara Marabur, the school principal.

In behalf of the city government, we expressed our heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to the US government and to the people who made this project a success, said councilor Anuar Khana Marabur Jr.

The construction of the school buildings means a lot to us and we hope we will have a continuing partnership with the local government and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, a US army officer in charge of the area said.

Colonel Felix Castro, deputy commander of the 103rdBde, meanwhile encourages the school administrators and teachers to maximize the utilization of the classrooms.

He said it is very significant that the US army took the initiative in constructing these buildings aimed to bring education closer to the people especially in areas where decent classrooms were unavailable.

http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=12&r=r10&y=&mo=&fi=p100825.htm&no=73

American, Filipino troops hold medical mission

2010-08-25T14:15:00.004+08:00

By Bong Garcia, Philippine Sun Star

TABUAN LASA, Basilan – Hundreds of residents has availed Monday of the joint American and Filipino troops' Medical Civic Action Program (Medcap).

The parents of children availing the program patiently fetched their children and other family members who need medical attention to Lanawan Elementary School, where the Medcap is being held, to avail of free medication.

Each of the patients was given free medicines corresponding to their needs following free medical consultations at the mobile clinic.

The mobile clinic was jointly manned by the municipal health personnel as well as American and Filipino troops where they rendered free medical consultations.

Free medicines were given to the patients as well and vitamins to the children.

“We are trying our best to address health related problems in remote areas,” Marine Battalion Landing Team-7 commander, Lieutenant Colonel Doroteo Jose Jalandoni, said of the Medcap.

Jalandoni said the holding of the Medcap is one tool of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the fight against insurgency and terrorism.

Jalandoni said it is aimed to win the hearts and minds of the civilian populace to support the government's anti-insurgency and anti-terror campaign and to bring the government closer to the people.

The American and Filipino troops have also distributed toothbrush and toothpaste and taught them the proper way of brushing their teeth.

Mayor Muctar Junaid has expressed his utmost gratitude to the American and Filipino troops for the holding of the Medcap in this town.

“This (Medcap) is a big help to our constituents,” Junaid said citing this town lacks health facilities and do not have its own hospital.

Junaid said the Medcap Monday is the first time of its kind in this town since the municipality was created in 2008.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/american-filipino-troops-hold-medical-mission

PCG and AFP cross-train on lifesaving and Maritime Law Enforcement

2010-08-25T09:05:00.027+08:00

By Philippine Coast Guard Public Affairs

In line with the directive of President Benigno C Aquino III for all government agencies to integrate their efforts and strengthen inter-agency cooperation, the Philippine Coast Guard has entered into an agreement with the Armed Forces of the Philippines through the 4th Special Forces Battalion and the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines for the conduct of joint training on Lifesaving and Maritime Law Enforcement in Zamboanga City.

The said training formally convened last August 9, 2010 involving fifteen (15) members of the Special Operations Group of the Philippine Coast Guard and fifteen (15) personnel of the Riverine Unit of the 4th Special Forces Battalion of the Philippine Army. To ensure interoperability and common understanding of the participants, the Philippine Coast Guard shared their personnel expertise in Basic Water Survival, Basic Navigation, Scuba Refresher Training, Recompression Chamber Operations, Boarding Procedures, Rules of Engagement and Legal Aspects of Maritime Law Enforcement. On the other hand, the AFP shared their expertise in Combat Life Saving Techniques, Small Unit Tactics, Marine Interdiction Operations and Basic Close Quarter Combat; while the US Contingent shared their knowledge and skills on Underwater Demolition and Post Blast Investigation.

To manifest commitment and sincerity of the Coast Guard on the said training, Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Wilfredo D Tamayo has directed the Search and Rescue Vessel (BRP EDSA-II) fitted with a recompression chamber and complemented with a Hyperbaric medical doctor onboard to participate and serve as a training platform in Zamboanga. Commander Artemio Abu PCG is the Commanding Officer of BRP EDSA II (SARV 002) which is presently under the operational control of Coast Guard District South Eastern Mindanao under the command of Commodore Rodolfo Isorena PCG. The training is scheduled to culminate tomorrow 24 August 2010. The PCG has embarked on aggressive cross-training programs with partner services and maritime nations in the areas of maritime safety, marine environmental protection, and maritime security.

(coast guard) http://www.coastguard.gov.ph/ (manila bulletin) http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/273786/pcg-afp-crosstraining-lifesaving-procedures

RP, US soldiers build training camp for Sulu youths

2010-08-09T22:09:00.006+08:00

By Elena Aben, Manila Bulletin

Philippine Marines and the United States Seabees have joined hands to give youth in the conflict-stricken island province of Sulu tools to give them reason to dream and build a better future, and at the same time, arm them against extremism, noting that “the only way to win [peace] is to empower the people themselves.”

Thus for the past weeks, elements of the Philippine Marine Battalion Landing Team 6 (MBLT 6) together with US Sailors from the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) endured the mud, heat, and rain to work side-by-side constructing a new facility on Camp Bud Datu – a barracks for some “very important trainees.”

JSOTF-P public affairs officers revealed the trainees are not soldiers and the training is not in military tactics. The new barracks, it was learned, is an addition to the Tausug Youth Training Camp, a project organized and carried out by the MBLT 6.

The trainees, for whom the facility is being built with the help of US Sailors from Seabee Squad Two, are young Filipino men and women from local municipalities in the island province of Sulu, while the training is seen to provide youth with tools that – in the hopes of Lt. Col. Robert Velasco, MBLT 6 commander – will help them build a better future.

According to Velasco, MBLT 6 has embarked on a youth development training program and the [barracks project for the existing] Tausug Youth Camp is a facility to increase the capacity to teach the youth how to be civic-minded persons and how to be good citizens.

This, as he pointed out only needs to look at simple statistics to ascertain the reason why he, his Marines, and US forces are willing to spend effort on programs to open the window of opportunities for the youth.

Based on a survey done by Social Weather Stations (SWS), Philippine youth – people aged between 15 to 30 – make up more than one-third of the nation’s population and therefore play an important role in the future of the Philippines.

Maj. Gen Juancho Sabban, Philippine Marine Corps Commandant, meanwhile, has said that extremist groups, like the Al Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf, are quick to exploit poverty, lack of education, and minimal government services throughout the Sulu archipelago.

“Education and opportunities for development are the keys to lasting solutions to end the terrorism problem,” said Sabban, a former field commander on the islands of Basilan and Sulu.

Sulu ranks among the bottom five provinces in the country in terms of civic needs such as education, according to a Philippine Human Development Report cited in the Asia Times in July. In the same article, Lt. Gen. Ben Dolorfino, Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) commander, compared groups like Abu Sayyaf to a diseased tree, claiming that “military force can only go as far as cutting the branches and removing the leaves, but unless you eliminate the roots, new branches and leaves will grow with time.”

Velasco and fellow Marine commander, Lt. Col. Elias Juson Jr. of the Marine Battalion Landing Team 4 (MBLT 4), attest that eliminating the roots of extremist ideologies starts with education.

“Through education, people will think differently, and instead of fighting, they will work to make their community better,” said Juson.

He added that while many of the civil military operations (CMO) that the Marines are conducting in Sulu include building new schools and renovating old ones, the Tausug Youth Training Camp strives to give young people a different kind of education.

“On the surface, it appears that the Marines of MBLT 6 are providing the same sort of skills that one would expect from any ordinary camp: outdoor skills such as hiking, rappelling, building rope bridges, and the like. A closer look shows that these activities are structured to impart vital tools for building a promising future. These tools include environmental stewardship, responsible citizenship, conflict resolution, tolerance, and cooperation,” said a JSOTF public affairs officer.

Through a partnership with the Confederation of Youth Organizations in Angono, which based in Rizal province, MBLT 6 has hosted school and student government organizations, the Sanguniang Kabataan and both the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts of the Philippines at the Tausug Youth Training Camp.

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/271300/rp-us-soldiers-build-training-camp-sulu-youths

Two Countries; One Marine

2010-08-06T23:41:00.005+08:00

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (AW) Joshua Scott, Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines Public Affairs

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Republic of the Philippines – Marines throughout the world hold a special bond of brotherhood. One Marine in the southern Philippines was able to honor this brotherhood through recognizing another’s achievement of gaining the highest enlisted rank in the Marine Corps.

Master Gunnery Sergeant Stephen P. Doherty was promoted August 2, by Philippine Marine Lt. Gen. Ben Dolorfino, Commander, Western Mindanao Command (WMC), along with JSOTF-P Commander, Capt. Robert Gusentine.

“It’s a great and unique honor,” said Doherty. “Not a lot of Marines can say they were promoted by a Philippine Marine General, the most senior Philippine Marine.”

“We share the same values as Marines,” said Dolorfino. “Although we’re from different countries, we share the same code of honor and traditions that transcend cultural differences.”

“This promotion is more than just a new title and additional pay,” said Dolorfino. “It is a reward for your demonstrated leadership and accomplishments. This promotion is about the new responsibility and authority the Marines have bestowed upon you.”

Doherty, a native of Minneapolis, Minn., enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1984, beginning his career as a Korean Cryptologic Linguist at the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, Calif. Over the next twenty-six years, he served across a broad spectrum of assignments, from deployments to South Korea with 1st and 2nd Radio Battalions, to recruiting duty in Austin, Texas.

Other assignments included Electronic Warfare Chief and Intelligence Chief at Tactical Training and Exercise Control Group in Twenty-nine Palms and a 13-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Prior to coming to JSOTF-P, Doherty served 4 years in Okinawa, Japan, as Signals Intelligence Electronic Warfare Chief.

“In twenty-six years, I’ve been a few places,” he said.

The recent promotion ceremony added a new milestone to his long list of accomplishments.

“It’s an interesting conclusion to a career,” he said. “And I’m pretty thrilled with that.”

Doherty has had the pleasure of meeting Dolorfino once before.

“I met General Dolorfino prior, when he was Commandant of the Philippine Marine Corps. His Sergeant Major is a mutual acquaintance of some of my very good friends here, so I’ve also had the opportunity to meet Sgt Maj. Edilberto Lustre, who is now the Sergeant Major of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.”

At the flag raising and promotion ceremony, Dolorfino expressed a higher meaning of the event.

“This ceremony signifies, not only our shared values in honoring our flag, but also the shared history of our governments working together.”

The promotion ceremony is a continuation of past award ceremonies conducted between WMC and JSOTF-P where more than 80 U.S. service members were presented the Philippine Military Civic Action Medal for their contribution to peace and stability in southern Mindanao.

After his six-month tour in the southern Philippines is concluded, Doherty plans to finish his career at Camp Lejune where a deployment to Afghanistan is on the horizon.

“It’s a great honor and privilege.”

Philippine Coast Guard and U.S. Navy make Coastal Areas Safer

2010-07-14T15:43:00.007+08:00

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (AW) Joshua Scott

SULU SEA, Republic of the Philippines – Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Sailors practiced Maritime Interdiction Operations (MIO) with U.S. Sailors in a shift towards increasing the safety and security of the waters of northern Mindanao.

Members of Philippine Coast Guard District Northern Mindanao and PCG Search and Rescue vessel BRP Romblon (SAR-3503) participated in the MIO training with Sailors from the guided-missile destroyer USS Chung-Hoon (DDG-93) in Macajalar Bay, just off the coast of Cagayan de Oro June 23-24.

“The training was very impressive and useful,” said Ensign Johnny Belarmino, engineering officer and boarding team leader of Romblon. “There’s a lot of new techniques and additional knowledge I can impart to my men.”

The training consisted of interdiction (day and night) of a training vessel. The PCG personnel learned boarding techniques, proper vessel searches, and questioning and handling of suspects. Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) team members from Chung-Hoon conducted training on hand-to-hand combat, tactical cover and movement, and room clearing with the PCG Special Operations Group.

“The PCG sailors have been extremely enthusiastic to learn new techniques and to discuss what they do and to show us their equipment and procedures. It’s been a fantastic opportunity to see what they can do,” said Fire Controlman 1st Class (SW) Robert Jennings, a VBSS team member aboard Chung-Hoon.

The goal of the training was to increase the capability of the PCG to help keep coastal areas safe and to prevent terrorist and lawless groups from trafficking people, supplies and weapons freely along coastal regions and the sea. This is a shift from the PCG’s traditional role of search and rescue, to maritime security and law enforcement.

“It’s a big challenge for us,” said Ensign Mary Lou Caoyonan, a PCG officer, “but with the unity and cooperation of different agencies, not just the Coast Guard, other government agencies such as the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), we can maintain the security of our maritime waters.”

.The Philippine archipelago is made up of 7,107 islands, creating more than 22,000 miles of coastline for the PCG and Philippine Navy to patrol.

“We are happy to support the Philippine Coast Guard’s evolution and efforts to expand its maritime law enforcement role into a multi-mission service,” said Cmdr. Stephen Erb, commanding officer of Chung-Hoon.

U.S. Army Special Forces assigned to the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) facilitated the training between the PCG and U.S. Navy. This level of coordination shows the combined nature of the Philippine and U.S. interaction in the southern Philippines.

The mission of the Philippine Coast Guard is to promote safety of life and property at sea; safeguard the marine environment and resources; enforce all applicable maritime laws; and undertake other activities in support of the mission of the Department of Transportation and Communications.

Chung-Hoon, home ported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, departed June 1 on its western Pacific deployment to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

Ton of defective ammunition detonated by Filipino, U.S. members

2010-07-12T10:05:00.007+08:00

By Roel Pareño,The Philippine Star

SIRAWAI, Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines – A huge mushroom cloud billowed in a logging concession in a mountainous village here as a combined team of Filipino and US ordnance disposal experts detonated about a ton of defaced and defective ammunition.

Lt. Gen. Ben Dolorfino, Western Mindanao Command chief, said the defaced and defective rifle grenades, mortars, and recoilless rockets had to be disposed of safely and away from civilians by the 9th Forward Service Support Unit (FSSU) as these were hazardous.

Dolorfino recalled the explosion in the 9th FSSU ammunition dump at Camp Enrile in Malagutay in 1995.

The combined team of ordnance experts from the Navy, Army and police and the US Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines piled up the estimated 5,000 pieces of defective and defaced rounds of ammunition in a pit in the logging concession in Dacon village.

C-4 explosives were then laid out to ensure that all the ammunition would be detonated. The blast was so powerful that it was felt as far as two kilometers away from the site.

Dolorfino said they also wanted to prevent the defaced and defective ammunition from falling into the hands of terrorists

http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=592391&publicationSubCategoryId=67

US army commander ends tour of duty in Mindanao

2010-07-04T00:43:00.003+08:00

By Elena Aben, Manila Bulletin

US Army Special Forces commander Col. William Coultrup, who headed American troops temporarily stationed in Mindanao, heads back home soon after a three-year tour of duty in Southern Philippines where his leadership left a lasting impact both on the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and on communities in conflict-stricken areas in the region.

Coultrup relinquished command of the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) to US Navy Capt. Robert Gusentine during a turnover ceremony last Friday at Camp Navarro of the AFP-Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) in Zamboanga City with US Ambassador Harry Thomas Jr. as the guest of honor.

Since 2002, some 500 to 600 US military personnel have been temporarily deployed in Mindanao “in a strictly non-combat role to advise and assist the AFP, share information, and to conduct joint civil-military operations.”

Their presence in the region is provided under the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), according to an AFP official while the US authorities say that the JSTOF-P is in Mindanao “upon the request of the Philippine government.

Gusentine, before his assignment to Mindanao, was director for operations at Special Operations Command Pacific (SOCPAC) in Honolulu, Hawaii. Senior AFP and U.S. leaders recognized the exemplary service of Coultrup who led America’s efforts to support the Philippine military in the fight against terrorism in Mindanao. Coutrup’s next assignment will be in Washington, D.C.

“Bill, you are a true hero. It is an honor to be here recognizing your leadership, courage, vision, and sheer tenacity,” Thomas told Coultrup, adding: “You are an extraordinary leader who has developed JSOTF-P into an enabling force for peace, for improvement, and for progress in Mindanao.” said Thomas.

Coultrup, who arrived in the South in September 2007, has overseen the completion of more than 151 developmental projects valued over $19 million.

Implementation of the projects, aimed to create the conditions necessary for socio-economic development, peace, and prosperity in the Mindanao region, were done in coordination with the AFP and local government units in the region.

Among the projects completed by joint JSOTF-P and AFP personnel are the construction of schools, new wells, roads, and bridges; implementation of civic action programs like providing medication for health aliments, vaccinations for animals, and distribution of school supplies to children.

Both Philippine and US authorities admit that newly built schools, new wells, repaired roads, bridges, medication for health aliments, vaccinations for animals, school supplies for the children, or basic education and information are all small steps that allow individuals and families to have hope for a better future.

“By doing so, we are gradually shrinking terrorist safe havens and hampering these groups’ ability to conduct operations in Southern Philippines,” they said.

Col. Jose Johriel Cenabre, Wesmincom chief of staff who has served and trained alongside JSOTF-P forces on the ground and at the headquarters level, praised Coultrup for enhancing the enduring partnership to defeat common enemies in Mindanao.

“Our war against terrorism and lawlessness in the Mindanao region has us (AFP) with the upper-hand,” said Cenabre. “Col. Coultrup’s focus on civic action programs has improved the quality of life for the people and specialized training has increased the capacity of the AFP,” he added.

According to Cenabre, Coultrup’s leadership helped build AFP and Philippine National Police (PNP) capacity through Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs) that provided training in marksmanship skills, small unit tactics and explosive ordinance disposal, forward air control, maritime operations and casualty evacuation.

“Assistance has also been provided to the AFP in special operations planning and the sharing of information. The AFP has been successful in conducting targeted surgical strikes, designed to minimize collateral damage while neutralizing the threats, these efforts have led to the execution or capture of 56 known terrorists,” said Cenabre.

“The citizens of the Philippines can be proud of the men and women of their Armed Forces. I know I am,” he said, further stating: “To the AFP, I challenge all of you to continue moving forward in this common cause leveraging the same innovation, ingenuity, and initiative that has brought us to this historic moment.”

Coultrup, for his part, said: “My service here has been one the most rewarding times of my career in the military and in special Operations. I have seen heartbreaking events and things that make me proud to be in the military doing this job.”

His implementation of the “by, through, and with” method of foreign internal defense was key to building operational capacity in the AFP. By integrating all aspects of national power to include military, political, and economic means into a cohesive strategy for engagement, a significant and lasting improvement in the counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency capacity in the southern Philippines has been made.

The US Ambassador extended his congratulations to Gusentine and told him the embassy offers their continued support to the AFP/U.S. partnership. “You inherit a thriving command and an excellent relationship with the AFP. You can count on us, and I know we can count on you,” Thomas told Gusentine.

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/265051/us-army-commander-ends-tour-duty-mindanao

US envoy says Abu Sayyaf, JI, RSM weaker today

2010-07-03T16:21:00.007+08:00

By Pia Lee-Brago, The Philippine Star

MANILA, Philippines - The United States’ top diplomat in the country said yesterday that rebel groups Abu Sayyaf, Jemaah Islamiyah and Rajah Solaiman Movement (RSM) have become much weaker.

“That’s an accomplishment we can all celebrate,” US Ambassador Harry Thomas Jr. said during the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) change of command ceremony.

Washington had designated these groups as foreign terrorist organizations.

Thomas lauded the joint task force for protecting Mindanao from threats and making sacrifices every day to ensure that the US partnership with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) remains strong in the face of terrorist threats.

“Your mission continues to have the interest and support at the highest levels of our government. Never doubt that the work you do contributes greatly to the security of our homeland and the common interests of our allies throughout the region,” he added

The ambassador noted not only the impressive record of the task force in relentlessly pursuing transnational terrorists but also its role in saving the lives of 91 critically injured soldiers and Marines through medical evacuations and the disposition of over 64,000 pounds of explosive materials.

The task force likewise implemented over 150 construction programs worth P900 million and treated thousands of medical and dental patients who may not have received care in the past. Moreover, it worked with the AFP in building partnerships with local communities through civil-military operations even in isolated areas once hostile to government forces.

“The partnerships make possible livelihood projects for rogue fighters willing to turn in their guns,” he said. These partnerships, he added, also make it possible for USAID to build infrastructure, train children, open businesses and create new futures.

Clearly, he said the task force has evolved to become an enabling force for peace, improvement, and progress in Mindanao.

Thomas said on Thursday that the Philippines is a partner in the campaign against terror and not a breeding ground for terrorists. He said he sees a continuing partnership against terrorism with the Aquino administration.

http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=589880&publicationSubCategoryId=63

U.S. commander leaves lasting impact in southern Philippines

2010-07-02T21:46:00.018+08:00

By Mass Communications Specialist 2nd Class (AW) Josh Scott, Joint Special Operations Task Force - Philippines

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Republic of the Philippines – Senior Philippine military and U.S. leaders recognized the exemplary service of a U.S. Army Special Forces commander who led U.S. efforts to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ fight against terrorism in the southern Philippines.

Col. William J. Coultrup, Commander, Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines (JSOTF-P) relinquished command to U.S. Navy Capt. Robert V. Gusentine during a change-of-command ceremony held at Camp Navarro, Western Mindanao Command Headquarters July 2.

“Bill, you are a true hero. It is an honor to be here recognizing your leadership, courage, vision and sheer tenacity,” said guest speaker, Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines, Harry K. Thomas, Jr. praising the accomplishments of Coultrup.

“You are an extraordinary leader who has developed JSOTF-P into an enabling force for peace, for improvement, and for progress in Mindanao,” said Thomas.

Since arriving in the Philippines, Coultrup has overseen the completion of more than 151 developmental projects valued over $19 million. These projects were coordinated with the AFP and Government of the Republic of the Philippines to create the conditions necessary for socio-economic development, peace and prosperity in the Mindanao region.

“Newly built schools, new wells, repaired roads, bridges, medication for health aliments, vaccinations for animals, school supplies for the children, or basic education and information are all small steps that allow individuals and families to have hope for a better future,” said Coultrup. “By doing so, we are gradually shrinking terrorist safe havens and hampering these groups’ ability to conduct operations in the southern Philippines.”

Improving the living conditions and livelihood of the people, helps separate them from the terrorist and lawless elements resulting in the steady erosion of popular support for the insurgents and increasing support for the Philippine government.

Coultrup’s implementation of the “by, through, and with” method of foreign internal defense was key to building operational capacity in the AFP. By integrating all aspects of national power to include military, political, and economic means into a cohesive strategy for engagement, a significant and lasting improvement in the counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency capacity in the southern Philippines has been made.

“In today’s world where terrorism is a global threat to national interests worldwide, the AFP / JSOTF-P partnership stands as an example for any future efforts in all regions,” he said. “Also, the efforts of USAID, Department of Justice, the Peace Corps and others have been complimentary and supportive of the overall goal of peace in Mindanao.”

Col. Jose Johriel M. Cenabre, Chief of Staff, Western Mindanao Command has served and trained alongside JSOTF-P forces on the ground and at the headquarters level. He praised Coultrup for enhancing the enduring partnership to defeat common enemies in Mindanao.

Coultrup’s leadership helped build AFP and PNP capacity through Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs) that provided training in marksmanship skills, small unit tactics and explosive ordnance disposal, forward air control, maritime operations and casualty evacuation. Assistance has also been provided to the AFP in special operations planning and the sharing of information. The AFP has been successful in conducting targeted surgical strikes, designed to minimize collateral damage while neutralizing the threats, these efforts have led to the execution or capture of 56 known terrorists.

“The citizens of the Philippines can be proud of the men and women of their Armed Forces. I know I am,” he said. “To the AFP, I challenge all of you to continue moving forward in this common cause leveraging the same innovation, ingenuity and initiative that has brought us to this historic moment.”

Coultrup, whose next assignment is in Washington D.C., said this command has been one of his most rewarding.

“My service here has been one the most rewarding times of my career in the military and in Special Operations. I have seen heartbreaking events and things that make me proud to be in the military doing this job,” said Coultrup.

“And through it all, the men and women of the JSOTF-P have been there, side by side with their AFP counterparts working to bring a better life to the people of Mindanao. It has been my distinct pleasure to serve with you,” he ended.

Gusentine, former Director for Operations at Special Operations Command Pacific in Hawaii, expressed his views on the relationship between the American and Filipino people.

“The relationship between the Filipino and American people is unique and strong,” said Gusentine. “I can say from my own 24 years of service that nearly every unit in the U.S. military has a bond with a Filipino family. It is within this unique nation-to-nation relationship – within this family-to-family bond that we will find the commitment, creativity and courage to succeed balikatan – shoulder to shoulder.”

Ambassador Thomas extended his congratulations to Gusentine and told him the embassy offers their continued support to the AFP/U.S. partnership.

“You inherit a thriving command and an excellent relationship with the AFP. You can count on us, and I know we can count on you,” concluded the Ambassador.

At the request of the Philippine Government, JSOTF-P supports the comprehensive approach of the AFP in their fight against terrorism in the southern Philippines. JSOTF-P works alongside the AFP to create the conditions necessary for peace, stability and prosperity.

Soldiers join Arbour Day in Zamboanga

2010-06-26T13:06:00.007+08:00

By Jewel Reyes, ABS-CBN Zamboanga

ZAMBOANGA CITY – A tree-planting activity was held Friday in celebration of Arbour Day in the city.

Participants planted over 2,000 tree seedlings in Sitio Abong-abong, Pasonanca village.

Among those who joined the event were government employees, the police and military.

The rain did not stop soldiers from the Joint Special Operations Task Force Philippines (JSOTFP) from planting their own set of trees.

Lt. Col. Bob Boone, Chief of Staff for JSOTFP said they support any program that promotes the environment.

Other than tree planting, the local government also tagged century-old trees around town.

This year they have labeled at least 16 trees. Among the oldest was a 155-year-old acacia tree located in Pettit Barracks, Zamboanga City

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/06/26/10/soldiers-join-arbour-day-zamboanga

APF, U.S. troops support Kapuso donations of school supplies to Basilan children

2010-06-26T12:46:00.003+08:00

Bong Garcia, Philippine Sun Star

Some 600 first grade pupils from the 10 villages in Hadji Muhtamad town in Basilan, Basilan province, have benefited in the outreach program of the GMA Kapuso Foundation Inc.

Hadji Muhtamad Mayor Anwar Abdulmajid said Friday the children have received school supplies during the outreach program dubbed as "Unang Hakbang Sa Kinabukasan 2010."

Abdulmajid said the children were very happy when each of them received a backpack full of school supplies.

The distribution of the school supplies in last Monday's outreach program in Barangay Tausan was spearheaded by GMA Kapuso Foundation Inc. Project Officer Tina G. Dungca, whose team traveled all the way from Manila to Hadji Muhtamad town.

Abdulmajid said that each backpack contains school supplies like pencils, ballpens, erasers, pad papers, notebooks, crayons and others.

"Noon napapanood lang nila sa TV (ang outreach program), pero ngayon sila ang beneficiaries," Abdumajid said citing the children as well as the parents were very happy and grateful to the GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc. for initiating the outreach program.

He said the outreach program was coupled by a feeding program initiated by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Provincial Officer Lilia Bucoy in coordination with Hadji Muhtamad municipal government.

He said a team from the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines led by Captain Bill Adam has also turned over science kits for all of the elementary school in Hadji Muhtamad town.

He said the science kits were donated by the United States Agency for International Development (USAid) which was facilitated by Adam.

Abdulmajid has also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) chief Rear Admiral Alexander Pama, First Marine Brigade chief Brig. Gen. Eugene Clemen and Department of Education (DepEd) provincial office headed by Supt. Nurhaya Abdurahim for their support to the realization of the outreach program.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/kapuso-donates-school-supplies-basilan-children

Classroom built through Bayanihan

2010-06-24T21:10:00.005+08:00

By Bong Garcia, The Philippine Sun Star

Through the Bayanihan spirit, Philippine Marines, US soldiers, parents and teachers have constructed a one-room classroom building in a town in Sulu, south of Zamboanga City.

The classroom building, which aims to provide a conducive learning environment to school children, was funded by the American government through the Task Force Sulu under the US Joint Special Operation Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P).

It was built for the Maharadja Abduraup Elementary School in the village of Buansa, Indanan where there are at least 400 enrollees for the school year 2010-2011.

The labor work, which is free of charge, was provided by the Filipino and US troops as well as the parents of students and the teachers of the school.

The classroom was turned over to the Maharadja Abduraup Elementary School principal last Thursday in time for the opening of classes, said Lieutenant Colonel Robert Velasco, commander of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-6 (MBLT-6) on Tuesday.

Velasco said the one-classroom building is “our way of showing to the people of Sulu that we are concern on their children’s education.”

The school’s principal, Garcia Paradji, on behalf of the teachers, parents and pupils, has expressed gratitude to the U.S. forces and MBLT-6 troops for their untiring support to the school.

Earlier, the U.S. and Filipino troops have repaired two classrooms in the same school in time for the opening of classes for school year 2010-2011.

Paradji said the newly-constructed one-classroom building will be used by the Grade 3 pupils.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/classroom-built-through-bayanihan

Medal of Recognition Awarded to JSOTF-P Commander

2010-06-21T01:14:00.007+08:00

By Lt. Steffani Cacho, Western Mindanao Command Public Affairs

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – Senior Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) leader presented a Philippine military medal June 18 to the commander of U.S. forces in the southern Philippines for his contributions that has brought stability and security to war torn areas of Basilan and Sulu.

The Western Mindanao Command (WMC) Commander, Lt. Gen. Ben D. Dolorfino, AFP, presented the “Gawad sa Kaunlaran” Medal to Col. William J. Coultrup, United States Army, as fitting recognition for his contributions to community development especially in war torn areas of Basilan and Sulu. The award recognized Coultrup’s efforts during his stint as the commander of Joint Special Operations Task Forces – Philippines (JSOTF-P) from September 2007 to July 2010, at a formal ceremony held at Camp Navarro.

For his part, Dolorfino reiterated his gratitude for the assistance extended by the JSOTF-P, through the leadership and command of Coultrup, to the mission of WMC to bring about conditions conducive to nation building and peace, progress, and prosperity in the western Mindanao provinces. He emphasized that the “Gawad sa Kaunlaran” is an award given for acts that are geared towards development which has been the cornerstone of the relationship of the two military commands.

“Col. Coultrup has earned the lasting admiration and gratitude not only from the Western Mindanao Command, but the Armed Forces of the Philippines as well,” Dolorfino emphasized.

During his term, JSOTF-P provided medical supplies, school supplies, and construction materials which made way for the success of numerous civic action projects such as medical, dental, and veterinarian assistance and outreach and engineering projects to include renovation and construction of classrooms and school buildings and establishment of farm-to-market roads, all amounting to more than $28 million dollars.

“The award of the Gawad sa Kaunlaran was given to Coultrup for his pursuits and infallible contributions to the socioeconomic and noncombat activities of the WMC, and the AFP as a whole,” said Dolorfino.

In his remarks, Coultrup shared the honor he received with the men and women that he worked with, and the personnel of the AFP. He acknowledged the effort and dedication of both armed forces to help bring about peace and prosperity in areas that have been embroiled with strife and allow individuals and families to hope for a better future, while recognizing that more still needs to be done. He also emphasized how the concept of “Kapit Bisig”, the framework of cooperation between the two nations, was a model for future efforts in all regions where terrorism exists.

“Confident in the relationships we [JSOTF-P and AFP] have forged and our collective achievements over the past three years, I challenge all of you to continue moving forward in this common cause leveraging the same innovation, ingenuity and initiative that has brought us to this historic moment. It has been my distinct pleasure to serve with you,” said Coultrup.

In the same ceremony, Coultrup was also presented a plaque of recognition and an “Agong” as a memento of his stay in Mindanao. Coultrup is set to be replaced on the first week of July 2010.

The occasion was witnessed by ranking commanders in the area of WMC to include the Rear Adm. Alexander Pama, Commander, Naval Forces Western Mindanao, APF, Brig. Gen. Gregorio E. Macapagal, Deputy Commander of the 3rd Air Div

Government agencies serve Sangbay Island folks

2010-06-13T11:09:00.002+08:00

By Bong Garcia, Philippine Sun Star

EIGHT-HUNDRED individuals including children benefited from the one-day Medical, Dental and Civic Action Program (Medcap) last Wednesday in Basilan.

The program was held by multi-government agencies including the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) at remote Sangbay Island (big), Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan province.

Hadji Muhtamad Mayor Anwar Abdulmajid said Friday that among the services rendered were free medical consultation, tooth extraction, circumcision, haircut, and others as well as free medicines were given to those who need medication.

Abdulmajid said the people warmly welcomed the multi-agency groups that also include the Philippine Marine troops and JSOTF-P personnel who conducted the outreach mission.

He said the beneficiaries also include the residents of nearby Sangbay Island (small).

"Dati kasi kapag makakita o mabalitaan ng mga tao na may maga sundalo pupunta sa lugar nila, nagtatago sila," Abdulmajid said.

He said the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provincial office led by Lilia Bucoy released P500 to each senior citizens’ through the "Katas ng VAT Para kay Lolo at Lola."

A feeding program was also held for the children by Bucoy's, Abdulmajid said.

He said the Department of Education (DepEd) provincial office headed by Nurhaya Abdurahim participated and readied the school classrooms for the opening of classes on Tuesday.

Officials of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Armm) Social Fund also joined them and inspected the different projects it implemented in Sangbay Island (big).

He said the Medcap was realized through the help of Western Mindanao Command, First Marine Brigade, Marine Battalion Landing Team-1, Provincial Health Office headed by Dr. Jarmila Ballaho, Naval Forces Western Mindanao Command, and Hadji Muhtamad municipal government.

Abdulmajid said the Medcap is all-in-one activity.

Joint US-Phil Army sails on ‘fish for peace’

2010-06-09T15:24:00.004+08:00

By Ferdinandh B. Cabrera, The Mindanao Cross

MIDSAYAP, North Cotabato – Hundreds of residents in a village of Barangay Nes of this town have benefitted the “Fish for Peace” program aimed to train local folks in propagating new species of fresh water fish “Pangasius”.

The effort was initiated by Eastern Mindanao Command Chief Lt. Gen. Raymundo Ferrer with his counterparts from the Joint Special Operations Task Force of the U.S. Army headed by Col. William Coultrup along with community partner Magungaya Center for PALMA, Inc.

A 300-square meter techno-demo farm pond with a start-up of 1,500 fingerlings of Pangasius will serve as a training ground to those who are interested in this aqua farming business.

The town of Midsayap and nearby localities here in Central Mindanao is a potential breeding and raising ground for Pangasius with its proximity to Ligausan Marsh and many fresh water sources.

“If we introduce development programs in the conflict areas, we can attain certain peace. When people have food for their family, they can think better, more so if they have money, then they can send their children to school; in effect, it would increase literacy in the community,” said Lt. Gen. Ferrrer.

He further stressed if the people could feel there is development working in their communities, they wouldn’t be easily duped from the ideals of lawless groups in engaging arm struggle against the government.

Based on a study on this fish species project, huge tones of the meat product awaits the markets which Ferrer said can open better opportunities for rural folk.

The meat of Pangasius, usually called as cream dory, is now an alternative recipe in some hotels and restaurants around the country following the depleting supply of tuna fish.

“We are providing them now with a different outlook in life. With this fish farming, they have something to turn to and will lead to more stability. In this case, we are expecting they will push out lawless elements that are trying to disrupt their area, especially when they are turning to development,” added Col. Coultrup.

Department of Trade and industry may help in marketing the products while the Department of Agriculture can provide technical knowledge and trainings along with the B-Meg Company, a huge aqua-marine feed producer in the country.

Junalyn Sumlay of the Magungaya Center for Palma Inc. was glad to work with the initiative of the joint forces. “This is really something in the hearts and minds of the people.”

She added that 43 members of the Magungaya quick response team will be the pilot individuals to be model farmers in their respective barangays in PALMA area.

Fort Lewis Medical Team assists Philippine Marines

2010-06-03T14:51:00.010+08:00

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joshua Scott

SULU, Philippines - A small team of doctors and dentists from Ft. Lewis, Wash. recently arrived in Sulu, an island-chain Province in the southwest Philippines, to assist the Philippine Marines in their new strategy to work closely with local communities.

The medical team, from 1st Special Forces Group (SFG), is temporarily assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) and spent four days conducting Medical and Dental Civic Action Projects (MEDCAPs) May 22-25. The MEDCAPs were coordinated and facilitated by Philippine Marines assigned to Marine Battalion Landing Teams (MBLT) 4, 5, and 6; as well as representatives from the Sulu provincial Departments of Agriculture and Health and the Sulu Integrated Provincial Health Office.

The MEDCAPs provided medical and dental assistance and hands-on health information to more than 750 people from more than 20 barangays (communities) within three municipalities of Sulu.

"We came down here to support the JSOTF-P mission through MEDCAPs," said Maj. Michael Brooks, Dentist with 1st SFG.

“Supporting the mission of the JSOTF-P, to assist the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in their fight against terrorism, aligns with the new approach the Marines in southern Mindanao and Sulu are taking to deny safe havens for lawless groups through projects such as these,” he added.

The Philippine Marines’ new strategy of helping local communities through medical assistance, road improvement projects, school renovations, and education is a change from their previous focus on primarily combat operations. These efforts are focused on providing long-term security and stability, which leads to development and prosperity, and is proving to be effective.

“This is a long process and we have changed our strategy to a more civil military operation (CMO) focus and not just of only going after the enemy,” said Lt. Col. Elias Jucen Jr., Commander, MBLT 4. “Through our CMO efforts, we create friends, not enemies.”

At a MEDCAP conducted at Parang District Hospital, Dr. Jubaira Isnain, Chief of the Hospital, commended the Marines on the paradigm shift from operations to their new strategy of incorporating other organizations into community outreach projects.

"The Marines have developed a triad; the Sulu Provincial Department of Health and local government working together. Today’s event is the glue that bonds this triad together," said Isnain, a native of Sulu.

Abdurahman Tungupun, Parang High School nurse and area religious leader president, volunteered his services during the MEDCAP. He felt the partnership between the government, local government, and military was very important to a longer-lasting peace in Sulu.

"This is a positive reaction from the past, especially with helping the children. People realize the Armed Forces of the Philippines are not advocates of war, but advocates for peace and health," he said.

During each MEDCAP, public health and hygiene classes were taught to the local families through educational and interactive means. Capt. Dennis Rufolo, SFG Environmental Science Officer, helped coordinate and teach these classes with local Ministry of Health personnel.

"We were able to provide valuable health services and health education to those who have limited access to healthcare," said Rufolo. "The AFP and MBLTs took the lead and were responsible for this success."

"Through Mercia Alia, Chief of Operations for the Sulu Provincial Department of Agriculture, I was able to teach a very basic but effective food safety class and during the presentation we tailored it to their specific living environments," said Rufolo. "When we had women actually asking us specific questions about their situations and how to protect their families, I knew we were making a difference because they were paying attention and cared."

Hja Lydra Hayudini, from a neighboring municipality, came to the MEDCAP to see a health care provider about the pain she is having in her back. Before seeing a doctor, she worked with Mercia Ali and Capt. Rufolo. Standing on stage, Hayudini provided her perspective on the importance of good health habits and sanitation when handling food to those attending the MEDCAP.

“They [Filipinos] come home and cook with dirty hands and someone in their family gets sick,” Hayudini said about the importance of providing hygiene and heath education. “They have no money to see a doctor, so this education is vital to the health of the overall family.”

Lt. Col. Jucen also supports the goal of long-term peace building through proper education.

"These events are more than providing services to the people," he said. "It is also about providing information to help them over time. Medicine may last for a few days, but information and education last a lifetime."

Despite this being the second deployment to the Philippines for a couple of the team members, they are still amazed at the local hospitality.

"They're [local community] so grateful for what you do for them and they treat you well." said Staff Sgt. Rosa Duran, a dental technician.

Through these cooperative projects, the medical team is certain that the local government and AFP will continue to work together and promote these goodwill efforts.

"There was a great turnout of AFP forces and local volunteers who came out and helped the community," said Maj. Mark Anderson, JSOTF-P Command Surgeon.

Contributing to the civil operations mission of the Marines is a long-lasting endeavor that the medical team is glad to be a part of.

"I think it’s great we were working beside our Filipino counterparts," said Anderson.

"The mission of the JSOTF-P is to support the efforts of the AFP, and that’s exactly what we were able to do."

With the assistance of the 1st Special Forces Group medical team, the Philippine Marines were able to take one more step forward in their efforts to help the community receive needed information and medical care. The team from Washington State continues their efforts in upcoming projects in central Mindanao this week.

U.S., Filipino bomb experts dispose unused ordnance

2010-05-18T21:58:00.006+08:00

By Bong Garcia, Sun Star

THE anti-explosive experts from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) joined forces to dispose the more than 2,000 pounds of unexploded ordnance that reached potentially hazardous levels, U.S. and Filipino military officials said Monday.

The Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians from the 3rd EOD detachment from Camp General Arturo Enrile worked earlier this month with the Naval Special Operations Unit (NAVSOU) sixth EOD technicians from Zamboanga in the Sirawai, Zamboanga del Norte and disposed the unexploded ordnance.

During the day-long event, Sailors from Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) provided technical support and subject matter expertise.

"We have a good working relationship with our counterparts in NAVSOU EOD," Major Michael Duquez, commanding officer of 3rd EOD Detachment, said.

"When we conduct an operation near the area of water, we coordinate with them and if they have an activity on the ground they coordinate with us to accomplish the mission safely," Duquez added.

The disposal operation removed a significant portion of potentially hazardous ordnance items that had been stockpiled.

The total amount of ordnance destroyed included more than 1,500 60-mm mortars, 81-mm mortars and 105-mm projectiles.

An additional large number of miscellaneous items including fuses and grenades were also destroyed.

"Basically, the longer they keep the ordnance stored inside their magazines, the more hazardous it becomes," said Lieutenant Joe Morgan, JSOTF-P EOD team leader.

"It's our job to help them destroy this ordnance," Morgan added.

He said the unexploded ordnances are common parts of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) that have been used throughout the Mindanao and Sulu Archipelago.

This year alone, he noted that the AFP has recovered more than 30 IEDs throughout Mindanao.

Most recently, Abu-Sayyaf Group militants used IEDs during the attacks in Basilan on April 13.

The destruction of the unexploded ordnance and ammunitions prevent terrorists from getting the resources necessary for building IEDs.

"We now have the equipment to effectively address any IED threat on the island," Duquez said.

He said the disposal range site was specifically chosen because nearby village use the pulverized rock to repair the roads in the area.

He said a large amount of gravel created after the disposal the operation is now usable and immediately for road repairs during the upcoming wet season.

For the AFP and U.S. forces partnership, the training provided an opportunity for the EOD units.

http://bit.ly/aFFpOT

Seabees receive Philippine Humanitarian Award for efforts in Southern Philippines

2010-05-18T21:45:00.007+08:00

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joshua Scott, Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines Public Affairs

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – Armed with hammers and hard-hats, a group of U.S. Sailors have been working with the Philippine military and local communities to help battle terrorism by building peace and ensuring prosperity.

Honoring their work over the past 10 months, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Lt. Gen. Ben Dolorfino, commander, Western Mindanao Command, presented the Philippine Military Civic Action Medal to the Sailors of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 1 detachment Philippines during an award ceremony May 13.

Dolorfino believes the military has more than a combat role, and that the military can be a key factor in the peace process in Mindanao.

“Today’s soldier should be someone who is not only a warrior but a peace builder; conflict manager; an environmentalist; diplomat; information and economic development expert, rolled into one,” he said.

The award highlights the combined humanitarian projects conducted by the Sailors, through a partnership with the AFP and skilled local workers. These projects improve the lives of hundreds of Filipinos, helping to reduce support for lawless groups and their safe havens in the southern Philippines.

“These Sailors have worked hard for 10 months,” said Capt. Nathan Knowles, NMCB 1 officer-in-charge. “Helping to accomplish the JSOTF-P mission of reducing strongholds, by improving the local communities through civil military operations and humanitarian assistance construction projects increase the opportunities and the livelihoods of the local community.”

Their projects, ranging from the construction of elementary schools and colleges, to the building of water distribution systems throughout Sulu Archipelago and Mindanao, have received a universally positive response from the communities they’ve helped.

“Everywhere we worked, the locals were very appreciative and would always offer us fresh fruit and something to drink.” said Utilitiesman 1st Class Luis Alarcon, Jr.

One of the highlights during this time was the construction of the Lanao Agricultural College in Lumbatan barangay, Lanao Del Sur. The project turned a previously condemned area into a place that can provide a college education to more than 800 students. During the six months of construction, the Seabees lived on site, working extensively with locals and the AFP to make the project a success.

“It was a little more difficult living at the work site,” said Builder Constructionman John Mariano, one of the Seabee’s who received a medal at the event. “But it was well worth it.”

Another aspect of the Seabees role is providing training for local communities. During multiple projects, the Sailors of NMCB 1 had the opportunity to train local workers on advanced construction methods, while working alongside them on civil action projects. Training classes were also conducted for the Philippine Seabees of the 3rd General Construction Company of the 1st Naval Construction Brigade. These classes helped increase their capacity and capabilities in performing their job.

“Training the Philippine Seabees was one of the more rewarding experiences we had,” said Knowles. “We were able to introduce them to equipment and some simplified techniques to increase their ability to do general construction.”

By facilitating joint construction projects to build and improve roads, schools, wells, bridges and medical assistance projects, the Philippine and U.S. military provide tangible actions that help assist the local population and lead toward a more peaceful Mindanao.

“I feel very honored,” said Mariano. “It was a complete surprise and I am still in amazement.”

The Seabees receiving the Philippine Military Civic Action Medal:
Capt. Nathan Knowles
Chief Steelworker Jeffrey Wright
Construction Electrician 1st Class Jason Hayes
Construction Electrician 1rd Class Michael Kelly
Utilitiesman 1st Class Luis Alarcon, Jr.
Builder 2nd Class Jody Brommer
Builder 2nd Class Jason Gant
Builder 2nd Class Joshua Geddis
Builder 2nd Class Randall Kuemerle
Builder 2nd Class Mathew Rowley
Intelligence Specialist 2nd Class Christina Vest
Steelworker 2nd Class Carisa Baker
Builder 3nd Class Joshua Dibble
Builder 3nd Class Jason Hourtienne
Builder 3nd Class Patrick Lipski
Builder 3nd Class Clinton Monpas
Builder 3nd Class Steven Rozecki
Construction Electrician 3rd Class Matthew Hoard
Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Kirby Jones
Steelworker 3rd Class Christopher Jones
Constructionman Michael Gramm
Constructionman John Mariano
Constructionman Alex Pisa
Constructionman Daren Trombley
Constructionman Cleve Waiwaio
Constructionman Brandon Wood
Constructionman Nicolas Mitchell
Constructionman Nicholas Moore
Constructionman Daras Flaherty

Peace and Development: One Animal at a Time

2010-05-12T16:00:00.008+08:00

By Western Mindanao Command and Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippine Public Affairs

LANAO DEL SUR, Philippines – In the rolling valleys and rugged terrain along the base of the Butig Mountains in the southern Philippines, a small Philippine and U.S. medical team, in conjunction with students from Mindanao State University, improves the lives of residents by providing herd health treatments to their animals.

The small joint medical team uses a unique method to decrease safe havens for terrorist and lawless groups: one animal at a time.

Over a four day period, the Philippine and American soldiers and college student volunteers would treat more than 450 farm animals. The effect is the improved health of the animals. The healthier the animal, the more they produce and are capable of work. Healthy and productive animals improve the lives of each family in this area.

“In order for economic prosperity to occur, there needs to be a secure environment for which development projects can mature,” said Lt. Gen. Ben Dolorfino, Western Mindanao Commander, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Since 2002, 15 of 24 names of the Philippine most-wanted in Mindanao have been either been captured or killed by Philippine Forces. Philippine forces have partnered with American forces to conduct training and aid projects. The training assist the Philippine military efforts in combat and the aid projects help to decrease local support of lawless groups.

“The Philippine and U.S. forces employ a comprehensive approach to secure an environment that encourages development. This approach, coupled with security and development, establish the dynamic to eliminate enemy safe havens and areas for recruitment,” said Dolorfino, the joint commander of Philippine forces in Western Mindanao.

The four-day veterinarian civic action programs (VETCAP) were held April 11 – 14 in five different barangays (neighborhood) in Lanao Del Sur: Kapatagan, Mananayo, Matling, Picong, and Masui.

“The Philippine Department of Agriculture, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines are doing a campaign of agricultural education,” said Lt. Col. Stephen Goldsmith, JSOTF-P veterinarian. “In this situation we provide livestock with basic animal treatment for parasite problems, which are severe in the Philippines, and vitamins that help with then vitamin deficiencies, which are related to nutritional deficiencies,” he said.

Many residents of the barangay watched as the military veterinary team and students treated farm animals with medications for parasite control and provided vitamin treatments. “On behalf of the barangay, we are thankful that the Philippine and U.S. Armies are here and treating our animals,” said Acmad Malawai, spokesperson for the Mananayo barangay.

“It is important to have healthy animals because these animals help the farmers do all the work.”

Malawai said.With no local private veterinarians and few department of agricultural personnel, professional animal care is virtually non-existent in southern Mindanao, making the need for these services vital for the livelihood of the animals and success of the farmers, but also the community. The veterinarian team emphasized the importance of farmers learning to treat animals themselves, and steps they can take to have healthier, more productive livestock.

The AFP and U.S. vets, SF medics, and students treated 473 farm animals over four days, including 116 goats, 125 pigs, 26 cows, 22 chickens, 17 caribou, five horses, and 149 dogs, improving the health of the livestock for farmers who depend on animals for their livelihood.

“We are giving two different parasite medications to treat intestinal worms and liver flukes that are common in the Philippines, as well as, external parasites like ticks, lice and mites,” stated Goldsmith. “These parasites suck a lot of blood and nutrients out of the animals, which prevent them from developing properly, affect their reproductive health, their growth, and productivity of their livestock.”

Typical Filipino farmers have three to four animals and they can’t afford the medications. For these farmers, they would have to form a co-operative and pool their resources.

“The people are happy to have a veterinarian here today because most of the animals have not been treated by a veterinarian.” said Paterno Gonzales Jr. Assistance Vice President for Agriculture Operations for Matling Industry. Gonzales has lived in Matling for 26 years.

While the VETCAP focus is on livestock, the Philippine and U.S. Army teams and students provide anti-rabies vaccinations to dogs and cats. For the Matling barangay, rabies impacted the residents directly. Gonzales mentioned that Matling suffered two fatalities last years. “Two small children were bitten by dogs that had rabies and died,” he said.

Dr. Francisco Alivio, rabies coordinator of the Philippine Department of Health, said rabies continues to be a public problem in the Philippines. There are between 200 and 300 deaths per year from rabies and dogs remain the principal carrier of rabies. Majority of rabies victim are children less than 15 years old.

“Cases of rabies in children increased compared to last years,” Alivio said. “Children are most vulnerable to rabies,” he added.

Whenever the AFP and JSOTF-P are out in the community, they also attempt to vaccinate dogs with anti-rabies vaccinations.

“We are trying to improve the contact with the AFP, MSU and Department of Agriculture with the farmers at the lowest level; the ones that need it the most,” noted Goldsmith. “It is not our mission to do all these things, the infrastructure is here, we are just facilitating getting everybody to work toward the same goal.”

These efforts, with the support and assistance from the AFP and MSU, are part of the long-term strategy to develop viable socioeconomic atmospheres in communities throughout the islands of Mindanao.

“We are helping the health of the animals which helps the economic status of the people who own the animals,” Goldsmith explained while injecting medicines into cows. “We also try to educate farmers to understand this is something they need to do on a regular basics for the overall health of their animals, and that they can do a lot of this themselves with the help of the Government of the Philippines Department of Agriculture and MSU College of Agriculture.”

Once security is provided, the next step is helping individuals and local communities improve socioeconomic opportunities, which limit the terrorist and lawless groups influence among the residents.

“As part of a synchronized strategy to erode safe havens in Mindanao, the Philippine army works with government and nongovernment organizations to support education, medical, and construction projects,” said Philippine Army Col. Demy Tejares, Western Mindanao Command Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations.

“Insurgency starts where good roads end,” he continued. Tejares, who has served in the Philippine Army for 27 years and led troops in Basilan and Sulu, mentioned that where there are good roads, there is development, and development brings peace and harmony. In this case, healthy and productive farm animals metaphorically represent the road.

The secondary impacts of VETCAPs are more stability and less of a reason for the people to feel like they don’t have any other options than to fight. The projects help give farmers an opportunity to make a living in own area without having to move to another area to support themselves and their family. This provides them with an investment in their area and they feel part of the community.

“Overall, this program will help their economic stability as a family. If you have stable families, then you have stable communities,” Goldsmith stated.

For the Philippine Marine Corps Commandant Maj. Gen. Juancho Sabban, the Philippine Marines and their American counterparts must continue to engage the local communities in order to win the overall campaign against terrorism. In an interview with the Washington Times, Sabban stated that poverty needs to be replaced by opportunity for economic development for sustained eradication of terrorist groups.

“The campaign against terror is ongoing and can’t be resolved by military action,” said Sabban. Sabban has been a field commander on the islands of Basilan and Sulu, where combat operations against terrorism have occurred.

“Education and opportunities for development are the keys to lasting solutions to end the terrorism problem,” he said.

VETCAPs are only one small, yet very important, part of AFP and JSOTF-P’s integrated mission in the Philippines. AFP and JSOTF-P have combined efforts to assist with 40 construction projects, provide medical care to more over 4,000 Mindanao residents, and conduct more than 91 training events in 2010 alone.

The two military forces participate in joint humanitarian projects to improve the lives of the people. These activities, when combined together, help to shrink terrorist groups and eliminate the safe havens in which they are free to operate.
Dolorfino believes the military has more than a combat role, and that the military can be a key factor in peace process in Mindanao. In February, Dolorfino was one of two senior military leaders to receive a special award from the Ateneo Peace and Cultural Institute for his contributions to peace in the southern Philippines.

By facilitating joint construction projects to build and improve roads, schools, wells, bridges and medical assistance project, the Philippine and U.S. military provide tangible actions that help assist the local population and lead toward a more peaceful Mindanao.

Combat marksmanship skills on target at Task-Force Philippines

2010-04-22T22:09:00.008+08:00

By Lt. Col. Tracey Saiki, Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines Public Affairs

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – Twenty-five senior non-commissioned officers, NCOs, and junior enlisted members from Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) sharpened their combat marksmanship skills at a firing range at Edwin Andrews Air Base, Philippines last month.

“I wanted to get the section NCOIC’s (non-commissioned officers in charge) together as a group and do some pistol shooting” said, U.S. Army Command Sgt. Major Dave Randall. “I believe Senior NCO’s should always lead by example and never ask their service members to do something they themselves wouldn’t do. We also had many of our Marine Security Element detachment members out there as well to take part in the training.”

An International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC)-type course, designed by Information Operations Specialist, Sgt. First Class Michael C. Wiley, provided the service members a safe and well-controlled combat shooting environment.

“Not everyone was at the same shooting skill-level,” said Wiley, Wash. Army National Guard and Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) officer from Lakewood, Wash. Our IPSC course had a combination of 18 steel and paper targets, varying in size and distance, with obstacles and barriers,”

“Each shooter fired an M-9 with 32 rounds and went through the course at least three times. Every course completion was timed, scored, and displayed,” he added.

“Several shooters’ first time through took between 80-100 seconds to complete the course,” said Randall. “By the time they had gone through the second or third time, their times dropped to 50-60 seconds. That was a huge improvement and a welcomed morale booster!”

As the day’s activity was winding down, there were enough rounds left for two shooters to go through the course one final time. Wiley asked for any takers. Without any hesitation, two Marines, the most junior in rank, quickly raised their hands.

Enhancing the spirit of competition, Randall decided to have the two Marines compete against each other. Sergeant Jose Castellonlopez from combat camera won the coin toss and elected to have Lance Cpl. Amaranta Khosravi-Sanchez from the MSE detachment shoot first.

“This was my third time through the range course and my time and score kept improving,” said Khosravi-Sanchez from Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minn., and a supply warehouseman at 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. “This time, I zoned out everyone and everything. I didn’t want to be over-confident because I might do worse,” she added.

She took her time, concentrating and focusing on each target and remembered what her instructor at basic training told her, “Make black your best friend and shoot.” And shoot she did, resulting in another improved time and score, and the advantage. Castellonlopez, a pistol and rifle marksmanship coach, came close to her time and score, but he didn’t beat it.

Overall, Khosravi-Sanchez was the top female shooter with the fastest time and the fourth fastest time amongst her peers and senior non-commissioned officers. She earned their respect and admiration for improving her marksmanship skills.

“She is a warrior and I’m extremely proud that she is a member of the JSOTF-P MSE Detachment,” said Randall. “Marines like her are proof that the current generation of Marines are better than ever. She now has ‘bragging rights’ among her peers until the next time we do one of these training events.”

Randall gave her a JSOTF-P coin for her impressive achievement. “When her tour of duty is complete, her unit will get back a Marine who is better trained at this type of shooting skills than when she came here,” he added.

Khosravi-Sanchez, 20-years old, arrived here at JSOTF-P in December 2009. She didn’t know what to expect, but now she sees this deployment as a ‘stepping-stone’ preparing her for future deployments. When asked what does she want to be when she ‘grows up’? “A warden at a prison,” she assertively replied.

At the request of the Philippine Government, JSOTF-P works together with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to fight terrorism and deliver humanitarian assistance to the people of Mindanao.  U.S. forces are temporarily deployed to the Philippines in a strictly non-combat role to advise and assist the AFP, share information, and to conduct joint civil military operations. JSOTF-P is made up of Special Operations Forces and support personnel from all four branches of the U.S. military. 

Seabees renovate southern Philippine school

2010-04-21T21:01:00.008+08:00

By Lt. Cmdr. John Perkins, Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines

MARAWI, Philippines – Navy builders assigned to the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) have begun renovations to a Muslim elementary school in Marawi, a city located in the southern Philippines.

Navy Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 1 Detachment Philippines began the renovation project April 11 by removing decrepitated roofs, windows and doors at the Tores Elementary School.

“The children had bowls on their desk because the roofs leaked when it rained,” said Builder 2nd Class Jody Brommer, the team leader for the project.

Following the demolition, the construction detachment started fabricating parts for the king post trusses that will support one of the school’s roofs. The Seabees will build and install new roofs, glass windows with screens, new internal walls, and doors to all three buildings of the school and will construct the school’s first ever restroom.

“We weren’t fortunate enough to have a bathroom,” said Noraniah Usman, the Toros barangay (neighborhood) Chairwomen. “Whenever students need to use the bathroom, they have to go home.”

“We are very fortunate to have the Seabees here; this is very big for us,” she emphasized.

Once the entire project is complete, the school will be able to educate more children.

“We teach kindergarten through the fourth grade,” said Monalica Ali, the school’s kindergarten teacher. “We hope to add grades five and six when the renovations are done.”

The Seabees plan to complete the first building by May 14 before the detachment returns to their homeport in Mississippi. For Brommer, this is a rewarding project to wrap up their time in the Philippines.

“The kids got excited when the construction began,” Brommer said. “We get to see the good things we are doing. This makes us feel good to do something for the people.”

Brommer is more than happy to continue to bare the Seabee reputation in the Pacific Fleet.

“We [Seabees] have built quite a reputation, and people are excited when they see the Seabees,” she said.

For the Toros neighborhood leader, the renovations are about the future of the children and stated this is something the community will not forget.

“They [children] will be very appreciative of what the American government has given them.”Usman said.

“We are very thankful for the work of the U.S. Seabees and for many generations to come this gift will be passed on.”

Zamboanga families receive generous clothing donation from U.S. service members

2010-04-19T21:47:00.005+08:00

By Lt. Col. Tracey Saiki, Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines Public Affairs

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines – Soon after losing their homes from a fire, five Zamboanga families received two large boxes of generosity from the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines chaplain’s office on April 13, 2010.

Within hours, the chaplain’s assistant, Staff Sgt. David Buell, packed infant to adult-sized clothing, toiletries and hygiene products, toys, and school supplies ready for pick-up.

“Doing things like this makes me feel so happy and gratified because this is part of my job - to help people,” said Buell, deployed here since January from Yokota Air Base, Japan. “We get donations from churches and our families back home who want to help families like these in need.”

“These families lost everything, which was very little,” said the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office representative from Zamboanga City. “We are very grateful for the JSOTF-P’s donation and to the people in the United States to help our Zamboanga families during such a difficult time,” she added.

The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office was established in 1935 to assist the underprivileged Filipino population through government funded or charitable health and human services programs, and to assist in times of natural disasters or crises. PCSO has regional offices in major cities throughout the Republic of Philippines.

“Since I’ve been here, we’ve donated over 600 pounds of clothing and toys to local orphanages,” said Buell. “It was so gratifying seeing the children’s faces light up when you give them a ‘new’ shirt or something the play with.

The JSOTF-P command chaplain’s office frequently partners with the Armed Forces of the Philippines chaplain representatives and accompanies them at orphanages, schools, and places of worship in local communities.

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Philippine and U.S. forces complete road project that supports Partners in Peace

2010-04-12T09:43:00.003+08:00

By Sulu Province Information Office, Marine Battalion Landing Team 4 and Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines Public Affairs.

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines – Armed Forces of the Philippine (AFP) Marines and U.S. Special Forces turned over a resurfaced road to the Sulu Provincial Government April 1.

Joint Task Force Comet (TF Comet) and Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) worked together to facilitate the improvements to the four kilometers road project that connects the Maimbung and Parang Municipalities.

“The Maimbung-Parang Road turnover ceremony marks another significant accomplishment by the Partners in Peace to bring peace and development to the region,” said U.S. Army Maj. Joel Thomas, Task Force Sulu (TF Sulu) Commander. TF Sulu is one of three task forces that is part of JSOTF-P and works with TF Comet to conduct a variety of humanitarian and engineering projects. TF Sulu force works side-by-side with military forces and local government agencies to bring peace and prosperity to the Sulu Province.

JSOTF-P funded the road project and Marine Battalion Landing Team 4 (MBLT-4) provided security to the local contractors conducting the road improvements.

“This project would not have been possible without the close cooperation between the local barangay [neighborhood] officials, residents and MBLT-4 ensuring the security of the construction workers,” said Thomas. “The completion of this road project demonstrates the resolve of the people who have chosen peace and development for their municipality.”

Residents now enjoy smooth and faster travel because of the wide and well-paved road. Local farmers can now easily transport their harvested farm products to the market at a lower cost. Gone are the days of travel over the rough and rugged road.

During the turn-over ceremony, Gov. Abdusakur M. Tan praised TF Comet and JSOTF-P for the initiative in repairing the Maimbung-Parang Road. He appreciated the new strategy of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in combating terrorism through socio-economic projects that lead to progress and development.

“We prefer to provide assistance to development projects rather than engage in armed conflicts,” said Philippine Marine Lt. Col. Elias C. Juson Jr., Commanding Officer of MBLT-4. Juson also expressed his gratitude to the Barangay officials for their cooperation and to the civilian contractors for their courageous effort in making this project possible.

TF Comet and TF-Sulu have several projects underway and are continuously conducting surveys for future projects. The TF Sulu commander noted that there has been a significant decrease in lawless activity in the area since the beginning of the project.

“TF Comet and TF Sulu continue to work closely with the Provincial Government to bring projects to Sulu to improve the lives of the population and foster a long-lasting peace,” concluded Thomas.

Philippines Air Force commander recognizes U.S. efforts in Southern Philippines

2010-04-09T22:21:00.006+08:00

By Lt. Cmdr. John Perkins, Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines Public Affairs

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Republic of the Philippines – The commanding general of the Philippine Air Force recognized the humanitarian efforts of U.S. military members serving in the southern Philippines during a celebration at Edwin Andrews Air Base (EAAB) April 7.

Lt. Gen. Oscar Rabena, Commanding General, Philippine Air Force (PAF), presented an award to the U.S. military representative, Lt. Cmdr. Kent Tranter, during the PAF’s 3rd Air Division (AD) 26th Founding Anniversary held on the parade grounds at EAAB.

“Your contribution to the security and people of Mindanao cannot be underestimated,” said Rabena, as he addressed the four representatives who received an appreciation plaque during the ceremony.

“You have helped bring us closer and win the hearts of our local residents,” added General Rabena. The other three plaques were given to the Philippine Medical Association, Office of the City Environment and Natural Resources and a reporter from national broadcast network ABS-CBN.

Rabena presented Tranter a plaque to recognize the efforts of Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) during a Health Fair hosted March 16 on EAAB. Teaming up with community leaders and local and PAF medical providers, JSOTF-P helped the 3rd AD provide free medical treatment and medication to more than 700 local residents and PAF families.

“It is an honor and a privilege to receive recognition from the top commander of the Philippine Air Force,” said Tranter, a Navy helicopter pilot and deputy commander of Joint Special Operations Air Division who led JSOTF-P planning for the health fair.

“This plaque is not for me, it is for everyone who had a small part in making the health fair a success,” said Tranter, who is on a temporary six-month tour in the Philippines. The Jackson, Mo. native helped coordinate the contribution of two doctors, one physician’s assistant, one nurse, three hospital corpsmen, and more than 30 volunteers from JSOTF-P.

The health fair was a method for the PAF 3rd AD and JSOTF-P to reach out to local barangays (neighborhoods) and further the Philippine and United States mission of providing safe communities in Mindanao.

“It is nice to see those who need medical assistance get help. Even though we only provided minor health care, this care made a big difference in their lives and hopefully improved their perception of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” Tranter said. “It was also great to hand out backpacks and school supplies to the kids and see the smiles on their faces,” he added.

“We provide community service in terms of reassuring the community of our dedication to bring peace and prosperity to all of Philippines,” said Edwin Andrews Air Base Hospital Commanding Officer, Lt. Col. Edgar Ventura.

As with many regions in Mindanao, local residents do not have easy access to many medical services. The 3rd AD leaders and medical staff, teaming up with ten barangays and the U.S. military, identified airman families and residents to receive a variety of medical services.

Medical missions such as the health fair are a key component of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) establishing a long-standing bond with the communities it serves, with JSOTF-P support.

“The health fair is a wonderful example of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and United States working side by side to improve the welfare and quality of life for people here,” said Army Col. William Coultrup, Commander, JSOTF-P.

“The plaque symbolizes the appreciation for the two countries’ partnership and desire to provide a lasting peace in Mindanao,” said Coultrup.

U.S., Filipino doctors hold health fair in Zambo

2010-03-24T11:31:00.013+08:00

By the Philippine News Agency

ZAMBOANGA CITY, March 19 - Combined U.S. and Filipino military doctors have treated more than 700 residents as well as dependents of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) in a one-day health fair in this southern port city recently, U.S. and Filipino military officials said.

Lieutenant Commander John Perkins, deputy public affairs officer of the U.S. Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P), said the one-day health fair was part of the series of events in line with the 3rd Air Division 26th founding anniversary on April 7.

The health fair was also aimed at reaching out the barangays and a way to further the PAF's mission of providing a safe community here in Mindanao."It is in-line with the mission of the Philippine Air Force's peace efforts," Lt. Col. Edgar Ventura, Edwin Andrews Air Base (EAAB) Hospital Commanding Officer, said.

"We provide community service in terms of reassuring the community of our dedication to bring peace and prosperity to all parts of the Philippines," Ventura added.

The 3rd AD leaders and medical staff, teaming up with 10 barangays and the U.S. military, identified airmen families to receive a multitude of medical services.

"The outreach was intended for our military families, the EAAB elementary school and the barangays that surround the base," Maj. Edgardo Lorenzo, the activity's over-all coordinator, said.

"The outreach was one way we can help our government deliver basic health services to our community here in Zamboanga City," Lorenzo added.

Perkins said health fairs bring residents together with family members of those who serve their country and for many it may be the only chance for them to seek medical treatment.

Throughout the day, Perkins said PAF, U.S. military, local doctors and health care staff performed medical check-ups and treated minor ailments such as joint pain, tooth aches, colds, skin rashes, and blurry vision.

He said the variety of medical services was extensive and ranged from basic procedures to specialties.(PNA)

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Hundreds Celebrate New School Buildings Built by Filipino Contractors and U.S. Navy Seabees

2010-03-05T16:18:00.006+08:00

By Lt.j.g. Theresa Donnelly, Joint Special Operations Task Force—Philippines Public Affairs

LANAO DEL SUR, Philippines- Symbolizing a new beginning and the commitment to provide quality facilities for undergraduates in Lanao Del Sur, more than 500 educators, local residents and the U.S. and Philippine forces celebrated the dedication of two reconstructed school facilities at Lanao Agricultural College March 1.

More than 800 students attend the high school and college on campus and many of the facilities are in need of renovations. Due to limited funding at the college, facilities are run down and often in need of repairs, according to School Assistant Superintendent Paino C. Alib.

“We are so grateful for this project and all those who came together to build this for us. The children here just love it. The AFP, the PNP [Philippine National Police] and U.S. forces, we just thank all of you for this building,” said Mamintal G. Razuman, mayor of Lumbatan City.

A U.S. Navy Construction Electrician 1st Class led a team of 15 U.S. Navy Seabees, assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines, which partnered with the Armed Forces of the Philippines and school officials to build the classrooms.

The project took six months to complete and was made possible through the cooperative efforts of the U.S. Navy Seabees, School Superintendent Arimao S. Asum, soldiers from the Philippines 103rd Infantry Army Brigade that provided convoy security and local contractors who put up the roofing.

The seven-million-peso project includes the college's main 5,800 square-foot building and a 1,000 square-foot science building. The buildings contain eight white-and-brown classrooms already in use since December.

The structures include a septic system, electrical power distribution, lighting, fans and a generator. There is also a separate comfort room (bathroom) and prayer room, as many of the students are Muslim and wanted a room for daily prayers.

“This ceremony is an example of what can happen when individuals from all of these different groups and organizations come together with one final purpose; it is truly an amazing happening. It is exciting for all of us involved. This really means that anything is possible,” said a U.S. Army Special Forces officer in charge for the Marawi area.

Science posters of different plants now hang on the walls, with newly-stained brown desks and freshly-scrubbed chalkboards. A posted schedule on each classroom designates certain students responsible for the upkeep of the classrooms, which includes sweeping each room and the gardening around the outside of the buildings.

As humanitarian projects with the Armed Forces of the Philippines are a cornerstone of the JSOTF-P mission, the school was a way both militaries could help the people in the community and provide them with better facilities for their growth and education.

Officials from the college, officers with the AFP’s 103rd Infantry Brigade, and members of Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines cut the ribbon in front of the school, officially turning the school over to college administers.

At the ribbon-cutting, several prominent community leaders spoke, including Brig. Gen. Rey Ardo, commander of the 103rd Infantry Brigade, who took a moment to reflect on what the construction of the school meant to him and the community.

“This is the third largest construction project in Lanao Del Sur. These are important ties that we have with the Philippine and U.S. government. This project is an example of the progress we want to make here, and we are grateful for the military forces that helped make this progress happen,” he said.

After the ceremony, members of the 103rdt Brigade led a book donation drop off, which resulted in 1,200 science and other textbooks for the school.

“What we have accomplished here is truly something worth celebrating. The potential for something even greater cannot be ignored,” said a U.S. Army Special Forces officer.

U.S. Forces Train Philippine Special Forces Group

2010-02-27T14:36:00.008+08:00

By Lt.j.g. Theresa Donnelly, Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines Public Affairs

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – Thirty members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines 4th Special Forces (SF) Battalion (Riverine) are receiving specialized training from members of the U.S. Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) in Barangay (community) Recodo, Philippines over the next three months.

Recently reactivated in the Zamboanga region, the Filipino SF Battalion has embarked on a comprehensive training program designed to improve operational efficiency and mission effectiveness. The training aims to promote the battalion’s unit cohesiveness and enhance relationships between JSOTF-P members and Filipino forces.

“The class that I liked the most was the photography class because it was very interesting and it’s something I like to do,” said the Filipino battalion commander.The commander also said that on their missions, they sometimes are required to document evidence. Understanding exactly how to take photos after operations greatly increases their capabilities, he said.

Some examples of training Filipino troops are receiving are classes on radio operation, assault craft training, night navigation, combat camera operations, explosive ordnance disposal, combat medic techniques and civil military operations.

“Our counterparts were really motivated about the training. They asked really good questions and it was a wonderful experience working with them,” said a Marine Sergeant who taught a class on photography.

Additionally, the Philippine forces are learning ways to better utilize their boat assets for conducting maritime interdiction operations, which enables teams to monitor lawless activity in the waters surrounding the Mindanao region.

Each seminar consists of a short classroom presentation, followed by a more in-depth interactive portion. The demonstrations offered throughout the training can be the most valuable, as the students have the opportunity to apply what they learn during the classroom instruction

“The Philippine Special Forces are some of the most knowledgeable, skilled troops I have ever worked with. I really enjoyed sharing my knowledge about hand held and fixed radios. The classes were a lot of fun,” said a JSOTF-P Air Force Senior Airman.

The battalion signed an administrative procedure agreement with JSOTF-P on Feb. 19 outlining the different types of training Filipino troops will be receiving. One important aspect of the seminars is to apply the train-the-trainer concept to each class. This procedure identifies select students who are designated as the future teachers of the class and will then instruct other units in the battalion.

A primary mission capability of JSOTF-P is to conduct these types of trainings, called subject-matter-expert exchanges. Through these classes, the Filipino and JSOTF-P members share their experience from each other throughout the courses. In many of these sessions, Filipino instructors teach large portions of the class and are the experts in their given field.

The Filipino SF members know the terrain and often can share their first-hand operational experience. It is the sharing of information that makes Filipino and American forces better prepared to execute their missions.

“I enjoyed the class very much. Some of the things I learned from the class were how to input channel frequencies and set up a patrol antenna,” said a Philippine Army Sergeant who attended a class with JSOTF-P radio operators.

U.S. Forces Assist in Treating 1,000 Patients During Zamboanga MEDCAP

2010-02-26T13:06:00.008+08:00

By Lt.j.g. Theresa Donnelly, Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines Public Affairs

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines - Numerous governmental organizations, educational intuitions, non-profit organizations and military doctors from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines teamed up to treat more than 1,000 patients at a Medical Civic Action Project in Barangay (community) Taluksangay Feb. 24.

As with many regions in Mindanao, local residents here cannot afford medical services. Missions such as these may be the only opportunity in the year they will have to seek medical treatment.

The organizations that came together to conduct this mission consider it an honor to support the residents in Talulsangay and give back to the community.

“This is so wonderful to see what we can do here. It is a great feeling to help our people in need,” said Doy Heredia, co-founder of Lingkod Timog, a U.S. based Filipino charity group.

Drawing upon established relationships within the Filipino community, Lingkod Timog spearheaded the MEDCAP. Founded in 2004, the group conducts yearly medical campaigns aimed at the Philippines most underprivileged and impoverished residents. They also strive to strengthen relations between the United States and the Philippines.

More than 30 volunteers from all over the world came to Mindanao, coordinating with more than 25 agencies to conduct not only this MEDCAP, but a three-day medical mission in Southern Mindanao visiting the Barangays of Sangali (Aplaya) and Bato in Lamitan, Basilan.

Other agencies that participated included the Philippine National Police, Philippine Medical Association, Ciudid Medical Hospital, Philippine Women’s Medical Women’s Association and Mindanao Central Sanitarium.

Held at the Hadjii Abdulla Nuno Memorial High School, the patients received a variety of services, such as 50 circumcisions, 150 tooth extractions, numerous check-ups and vaccinations, and 25 minor surgeries such a cyst removals.

Lingkod Timog volunteers also enlisted the help of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines. The AFP provided several nurses, doctors, and Marines from Naval Forces Western Mindanao Command provided convoy security. In addition, JSOTF-P donated medications and two U.S. Navy Corpsmen assisted with dental extractions and minor surgeries.

“Working with so many organizations that have just been so instrumental in making this happen has been such a wonderful experience,” said U.S. Army Capt. Luis Rivera-Fonseca, a member of Civil Affairs Team 716 from the 97th Civil Affairs Battalion, Alpha Company with headquarters in Fort Bragg, N.C.

“This is just effective, well-integrated Civil Military Operations (CMO). It is humbling to witness this group of ordinary people doing such extraordinary things for their own people. Look around; here is the military, the government, and the non-government sectors working together to achieve a common goal,” he said.

Medical missions such as this are a cornerstone of the Armed Forces of the Philippines CMO. Run completely by the AFP, the military in Mindanao is demonstrating their devotion to the people and enlisting the help of other agencies that are also donating their time.

For example, Ateneo de Zamboanga University College of Nursing had several students conducting the registration of the patients, greatly aiding in the success of the mission.

“We are so very happy and so very blessed to have this medical mission today. This is a great help to us, for not only our students, but for those in the community as well,” said Elena F. Balan, principal of the high school.

“Most of our people cannot afford doctors or medications, so now we have a chance to give them free check-ups,” she said.

Successes such as these are a testament to the Filipino's commitment to serving the community. While hospital care and other medical services may be too expensive for many of the locals, organizations do what they can here to bridge the gap and provide for the populace.

“We are so grateful and thankful to have so much help in putting together this mission. We have such a big opportunity to help the people here,” said Saida L. Abdurasid, a social studies teacher at the school.

AFP, Local Government and JSOTF-P Treat 450 Patients at Medical and Dental Project

2010-02-17T18:50:00.005+08:00

By Lt.j.g. Theresa Donnelly, Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines Public Affairs

JOLO, Philippines-Sulu Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Joint Task Force Comet and the Joint Special Operation Task Force-Philippines teamed up with staff from Notre Dame of Jolo College to hold a Medical and Dental Civic Action Project in Jolo municipality Feb. 16.

The one-day event treated more than 450 residents of the Bajau community, an indigenous ethnic group and underserved population living in the Barangays (communities) of Bus Bus and Takut Takut.

As medical services are rare in these areas, the opportunity to provide treatment to their children was appreciated by many of the residents who attended.

“I came here today to receive medication for my children. My twins have had terrible coughs and fever, and I had nothing to give them but now they can become healthy. We are so happy to be here and I hope this event happens again,” said Dinen Nursan, a local villager.

Many organizations came together to make this day a reality. As part of the college’s “Community Extension Service Day,” the event signified the dedication the people of Jolo have to helping others in need.

Throughout the day, residents received check-ups, antibiotics and hygiene products. A Philippines-based dental company also assisted with the efforts by donating more than 300 toothbrushes and toothpastes to celebrate “Oral Health Awareness Month.” IPHO officials also passed out the supplies, along with performing free dental health screenings.

Representatives from JTF Comet’s Jolo Internal Defense Force, Marine Battalion Landing Team-Six (MBLT-6), staff of the university and the Sulu IPHO worked closely together making sure the community was served through this project.

Additionally, 16 AFP Nurses from Camp Asturias in Jolo municipality treated patients for minor ailments and passed out medications..

Civil affairs representatives from JSOTF-P from Civil Affairs Team 715 from the 97th Civil Affairs Battalion, Alpha Company headquarters in Fort Bragg, N.C. also attended the MEDCAP, and brought donated medications, helping with some elements of the project

However, U.S. Army Capt. Daniel Mayeda, Task Force Sulu civil affairs planner, was quick to point out that although JSOTF-P was there to help, it was the AFP, school and government officials who deserve the credit for planning and executing the event.

“This was a real joint effort between the AFP and the local officials here. It is great to see the citizens of Sulu come together to plan these events. We may have provided a little assistance, but they really took the lead in making this day happen,” said Mayeda.

Notre Dame College also played a large role in the medical mission, with nursing students registering patients, criminology undergraduates who helped pass out eight large sacks of donated clothes from MBLT-6, and the college staff who attended, showing their support in giving the Bajau people medical care.

“The event today was very important to us. As medical check-ups are very expensive, we were able to give this care to the people for free. Additionally, we are giving training to our nursing students who are learning how to take blood pressure and other vital signs,” said Precilla D. Chang, college director for community extension services.

JSOTF-P Selected for Civil Affairs Evaluation Test Program

2010-02-17T18:39:00.002+08:00

By Lt.j.g. Theresa Donnelly, Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines Public Affairs

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines- U.S. service members and supporting contractors from the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) Joint Test and Evaluation (JT&E) Program selected the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) as the location for a 30-day field test of newly developed civil information management procedures Jan. 15-Feb. 15.

The Joint Test (JT) began at Camp Navarro in Zamboanga, Philippines. As with all of the OSD’s JT&E projects, the driving force of this JT was finding ways to improve joint mission capabilities for the war fighter.

The Joint Civil Information Management (J-CIM) JT project was established in Aug. 2008 with sponsorship by the U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM).

The project is largely driven by the Army civil affairs community’s recognition of the need to standardize civil information collection, consolidation and sharing among military agencies, inter-agency organizations, international groups and Non-Government Organizations (NGO).

The J-CIM JT test developed Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTP) for civil information management will help achieve unity of effort and a whole-of-government approach to challenges teams face while performing their duties.

“This program is about elements on the ground collecting physical data about the civil domain meaning infrastructure or economic development. This is the first step in trying to standardize how we collect assessment data, so the right people can get the right information at the right time,” said Army Col. Donald Jackson, J-CIM JT director.

“Additionally this program is not just a military-centric operation. For example, here it is about empowering and supporting the Philippines and the Philippine government and working with non-military agencies that are supporting this theater,” he said.

Jackson also said that for military commanders to understand the ground operation they need to be able to paint a picture of the environment and civil information helps them to do that. He also explained that this is not just limited to the Army Civil Affairs Teams, but that all branches of service, U.S. government agencies and NGOs can use civil information to make decisions about the needs of a particular area.

Other examples of the data teams may want to gather include demographics of a particular region, the number of elementary schools, key community leaders or how many engineering projects have been completed in a particular barangay (community).

The eventual outcome is to develop standardized data-collection, consolidation and sharing procedures which can be accessed via an unclassified database. Currently, civil information is stored in several locations, varying formats and often cannot be shared with different government agencies. Additionally, much of this open-source information is only available on government secret computers.

Creating a centralized mechanism for all key stakeholders to obtain agreed-upon information can help commanders plan infrastructure projects, medical and veterinarian missions and examine best practices.

The J-CIM JT team was accompanied by six Army Soldiers from the 95th Civil Affairs Brigade, headquartered at Fort Bragg, N.C. The team traveled to Basilan, Cotabato, Marawi and Sulu, collecting data on how the JSOTF-P forces executed their missions using the J-CIM developed TTPs.

Although JSOTF-P was the platform for the J-CIM program, the TTPs used in this program will be used by all services and government agencies such as United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and others that are operating within a joint military environment.

In fact, USAID signed an Administrative and Procedural Agreement on Dec. 15, signifying the partnership to develop best practices in recording information on humanitarian construction projects. Additionally, this is the first time an inter-agency has been on a charter for a joint test.

For the teams on the ground here, going through the evaluation process gives the civil affairs team encouragement that this way of consolidating agreed-upon information will greatly enhance their capabilities to effectively carry out the mission.

“This has been a great way for us to develop a way forward for all the agencies that we work with,” said Army Staff Sgt. Jason Duffield. “Having a hand in that process was actually kind of cool, and I can really see how this will enhance what we do here.”

AFP and JSOTF-P Teach Combat Medic Lifesaving Course

2010-02-09T13:20:00.009+08:00

By Lt.j.g. Theresa Donnelly, Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines Public Affairs

CAVITE, Philippines- Twenty Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Navy SEALs participated in a month-long lifesaving course taught by three U.S. Navy SEAL Medics assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) at Naval Station Cavite from Jan. 11-Feb. 5.

The purpose of the course was to train one to two AFP Navy SEALs from each Naval Special Operations Unit (NAVSOU) as combat medics. The hope is that through this training, they will know what immediate steps to take to save victim’s lives if they experience casualties during combat operations.

“In the past, we have had to treat many casualties so this training is so important to us. We can save our comrades with what we have learned here. This will really help us on the battlefield,” said a NAVSOU team leader.

During the course, students learned basic and advanced first aid and life support, as well as treatments such as applying a tourniquet to stop bleeding, ways to open a patient’s airway, treatment for a collapsed lung and how to treat patients for shock.

“Our intent for the course is to give these few SOF [Special Operations Force] operators advanced medical training and a more in- depth understanding; this will lead to these students passing along these skills to others,” said a U.S. Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Medic teaching the course.

The course was divided into four sections. During the first week, teams learned about basic body anatomy, and then learned how to administer first-responder care to wounded patients.

The conclusion of the class ended with a final field exercise where teams were divided into two to put their newly-acquired skills to the test. The exercise consisted of a simulated operation where troops were injured and the students had to provide traumatic causality care

“The students performed really well during the course. I think they can handle a multiple-systems traumatic patient. They are well capable and well prepared to go to their respective units and handle causalities,” said a U.S. Navy Special Warfare Operator 1st Class (SEAL) Medic teaching the course.

Additionally, teams learned how to perform minor, immediate surgeries and how to properly diagnosis combat injuries. They also learned how to apply an IV to a patient, in order to quickly restore fluid to an injured team member.

Students in the course were also given the opportunity to receive training from the AFP Medical Center in Quezon City by shadowing doctors and nurses in several of the hospital’s departments.

For two days, students learned many aspects of hospital care, including additional IV training and how to check for vital signs. At the end of the visit, they were given an open invitation to return to do more hands-on training

JSOTF-P teams here strive to take their knowledge gained from training and experience in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other regions to train others. Often, during these subject matter expert exchanges, the AFP and JSOTF-P learn new skills by working closely with one another. The AFP Navy SEALs are experts on the jungle environment and often instruct portions of the course, enhancing the class by students learning from each other and not just from the JSOTF-P teams.

The course was the most comprehensive medical training given to NAVSOU from JSOTF-P to date. JSOTF-P medics also plan to teach additional classes at the NAVSOU unit headquarters in Zamboanga to others who were unable to attend the course.

The course was also greatly enhanced by the AFP’s Naval Special Operations Group, which outfitted each student with a “Medpack,” a large backpack filled with lifesaving medical supplies.

Items such as tourniquet bandages, gauze, and I.V. kits were among many items in each backpack. At the graduation ceremony, each student was given the supplies along with a certificate recognizing them as official combat medics.

Through the cooperation and coordination of the AFP and JSOTF-P, enlisted Sailors assigned to NAVSOU will return to their units with an increased understanding of tactical combat causality care and an increased confidence that when called upon, they can save the lives of their comrades.

“This training is very important to me because if my teammate gets hurt, I can save his life. I want this special skill to save my brothers," said a 3rd Class Petty Officer with NAVSOU 6.