Philippine Defense Forces [Archive] - Page 3

TheAvenger

March 23rd, 2007, 11:51 PM

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s307/jaime_makabayan_2007/mercenary.jpg

Some of them were former body guards of Cory Aquino, some former scout rangers, marines, policemen, and maybe a security guard.

They are employed by DynCorp, a smaller and lesser known private military/security provider in Iraq, Afghanistan, Bosnia and other hotspots around the world.

an article about DynCorp:

CEO: Van Honeycutt
Military contracts 2005: $2.8 billion

The U.S. State Department awarded DynCorp a multimillion-dollar contract to advise the Iraqi government on setting up effective law enforcement, judicial and correctional agencies. DynCorp will arrange for up to 1,000 U.S. civilian law enforcement experts to travel to Iraq to help locals "assess threats to public order" and mentor personnel at the municipal, provincial and national levels. The company will also provide any logistical or technical support necessary for this peacekeeping project. DynCorp estimates it could recoup up to $50 million for the first year of the contract.

Already armed DynCorp employees make up the core of the police force in Bosnia. DynCorp troops protect Afghan president Hamid Karzai, while DynCorp planes and pilots fly the defoliation missions over the coca crops in Colombia. Back home in the United States Dyncorp is in charge of the border posts between the US and Mexico, many of the Pentagon's weapons-testing ranges and the entire Air Force One fleet of presidential planes and helicopters. The company also reviews security clearance applications of military and civilian personnel for the Navy.

DynCorp began in 1946 as a project of a small group of returning World War II pilots seeking to use their military contacts to make a living in the air cargo business. Named California Eastern Airways the original company was soon airlifting supplies to Asia used in the Korean War. By 2002 Dyncorp, headquartered in Reston, Virginia, was the nation's 13th largest military contractor with $2.3 billion in revenue until it merged with Computer Sciences Corporation, an El Segundo, California-based technology services company, in an acquisition worth nearly $1 billion.

The company is not short on controversy. Under the Plan Colombia contract, the company has 88 aircraft and 307 employees - 139 of them American - flying missions to eradicate coca fields in Colombia. Soldier of Fortune magazine once ran a cover story on DynCorp, proclaiming it "Colombia's Coke-Bustin' Broncos."

US Rep. Janice Schakowsky, an Illinois Democrat, told Wired magazine that hiring a private company to fly what amounts to combat missions is asking for trouble. DynCorp's employees have a history of behaving like cowboys," Schakowsky noted. "Is the US military privatizing its missions to avoid public controversy or to avoid embarrassment - to hide body bags from the media and shield the military from public opinion?" she asked.

Indeed a group of Ecuadoran peasants filed a class action against the company in September 2001. The suit alleges that herbicides spread by DynCorp in Colombia were drifting across the border, withering legitimate crops, causing human and livestock illness, and, in several cases, killing children. Assistant Secretary of State Rand Beers intervened in the case right away telling the judge the lawsuit posed "a grave risk to US national security and foreign policy objectives."

What's more, Kathryn Bolkovac, a U.N. International Police Force monitor filed a lawsuit in Britain in 2001 against DynCorp for firing her after she reported that Dyncorp police trainers in Bosnia were paying for prostitutes and participating in sex trafficking. Many of the Dyncorp employees were forced to resign under suspicion of illegal activity. But none were prosecuted, since they enjoy immunity from prosecution in Bosnia.

Earlier that year Ben Johnston, a DynCorp aircraft mechanic for Apache and Blackhawk helicopters in Kosovo, filed a lawsuit against his employer. The suit alleged that that in the latter part of 1999 Johnson "learned that employees and supervisors from DynCorp were engaging in perverse, illegal and inhumane behavior [and] were purchasing illegal weapons, women, forged passports and [participating in] other immoral acts."

The suit charges that "Johnston witnessed coworkers and supervisors literally buying and selling women for their own personal enjoyment, and employees would brag about the various ages and talents of the individual slaves they had purchased." "DynCorp is just as immoral and elite as possible, and any rule they can break they do," Johnston told Insight magazine. He charged that the company also billed the Army for unnecessary repairs and padded the payroll. "What they say in Bosnia is that DynCorp just needs a warm body -- that's the DynCorp slogan. Even if you don't do an eight-hour day, they'll sign you in for it because that's how they bill the government. http://www.corpwatch.org/article.php?list=type&type=18

demented_pigeon

March 24th, 2007, 01:15 AM

paalisin na dapat yung mga pinoy sa iraq. tingnan mo nga lang battle gear nila, parang walang paikialam yang dyncorp kung mamatay sila o hindi. lalo lang pinaiigting ng dyncorp at ng US ang iringan sa pagitan ng Kanluran at Islam.

Rajah_Soliman

March 24th, 2007, 03:25 AM

^^ hindi ba delicado dyan sa iraq.... paano sila nakapasok dyan, akala ko ba ban ang deployment of pinoy workers dyan :dunno:

bitoy

March 24th, 2007, 04:00 AM

^^ most of DynCorp International trainers are hired from the mainland, they do aviation services, contingency operations that include base and area securities. How the Filipinos get there is called "abilidad" ng mga Pinoy to get a better paying but risky job. It could be that most Filipino employees were hired in the US and from some countries where there are lots of overseas PInoy workers near Iraq.

It could be a sister corporation of "Air America". :lol:

kiretoce

March 24th, 2007, 06:55 AM

Formerly called "The Philippine Defense" thread.

Post away folks! :colgate:

Lili

March 24th, 2007, 07:47 AM

^ you meant "Philippines Defence" :D

(That was the first and most unforgettable war of words I read here.)

ryanr

March 24th, 2007, 08:05 AM

Its Defence!:rant: :D

Sinjin P.

March 24th, 2007, 08:06 AM

Defense or Defence? Is there a difference, definition wise? :D

Lili

March 24th, 2007, 08:07 AM

Here we go again. :lol:

Sinjin P.

March 24th, 2007, 08:15 AM

I mean, I thought this "c" and "s" issue was just a spelling issue for different versions of the English language especially those in OZ, UK, Canada. :dunno:

kiretoce

March 24th, 2007, 08:26 AM

Well, since I'm here in the US, I use the American way of spelling. :colgate:

US + UK = USUK! :baeh3:
( :rofl: )

diz

March 24th, 2007, 08:28 AM

I thought it was defense. If it wasn't defense, then I've been spelling it wrong all my life and all my teachers must have not seen all those spelling mistakes.

ryanr

March 24th, 2007, 08:30 AM

^^ Both are correct
Defense - US spelling
Defence - UK/Australia spelling

Sinjin P.

March 24th, 2007, 08:31 AM

Alright, since it's all on spelling, this isn't a big issue after all. Now back to topic please (edit: oops, we'll go back on nothing since we started the thread with this :lol: )

kiretoce

March 24th, 2007, 08:40 AM

bitoy

March 24th, 2007, 03:15 PM

http://img109.imageshack.us/img109/9466/wacha3.jpg

Philippine Women Army Corps

Are these ladies really tall or what? The M-14s they are carrying look really small as compared to the photo down below.
(maybe, those are M1A Carbines)

http://img250.imageshack.us/img250/5086/npaub8.jpg

The other Philippine Army. :)

demented_pigeon

March 24th, 2007, 03:25 PM

^^ havaianas pa ata yung tsinelas ahh. este havana pala... hehe

bitoy

March 24th, 2007, 03:26 PM

http://www.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/web/060308-F-2034C-006.JPG

Philippine first

Staff Sgt. Noel Alarcon from the Philippine Air Force stands at attention for an open ranks inspection during Airman Leadership School class Wednesday, March 8, 2006, at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii. Sergeant Alarcon and four other Philippine Air Force students are the first Airmen from their service to attend the class. They will take back the lessons learned and develop their own leadership course within their air force. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Shane A. Cuomo)

http://www.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/web/060307-F-2034C-007.JPG

Pacific Air Forces Command Chief Master Sgt. Rodney McKinley talks with Command Sgt. Maj. of the Philippine Air Force Cesar Soloria and other Philippine Air Force students after their Airman Leadership School class Tuesday, March 7, 2006, at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii. They are the first Philippine Air Force students to attend the class. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Shane A. Cuomo)

bitoy

March 24th, 2007, 03:58 PM

Just curious, do we only have one military academy (the PMA in Baguio) in the Philippines? And that all officers of the different armed services graduates from there regardless whether they be in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard?

All PMA graduates will be commisioned as officers in the Armed Forces of the Philippines into different services that they choose.

The ADVANCE ROTC graduates( if they still exist) would be reservists but can be in active duty as officers also. (someone, please correct me if I'm wrong)

And other schools?

Philippine Air Force Flying School (PAFFS), the PAF Officers Candidate School (OCS) and the PAF Technical School.

kiretoce

March 24th, 2007, 06:21 PM

bitoy

March 25th, 2007, 12:14 AM

^^ So there aren't separate academies for the different branches of the service like what they have here in the US?

US Military Academy in West Point, NY
US Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD
US Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO
US Merchant Marine Academy in King's Point, NY
US Coast Guard Academy in New London, CT

or The Virginia Military Institute and co-educational college preparatory military high school and junior college.

I think the PMA cadets are being trained to their choice of service while still in the Academy because of their tri~service curriculum (Army, Navy, and the Air Force). And because of that, the clamor to establish separate academies for the Navy and the Air Force have died down in congress. ( or some solons are trying to pass a new bill again.)

Except for the height and built, our PMA cadet is a Class Of Its Own..

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/6/61/Pma05.jpg
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ hoy! ano na balita kay Kris?

jgacis

March 25th, 2007, 12:40 AM

jrevalde

March 25th, 2007, 02:45 AM

no one knows war better than the americans, so they make great teachers when it comes to these things

Askal82

March 25th, 2007, 03:49 AM

Defense or Defence? Is there a difference, definition wise? :D

Maybe The Fence.

jgacis

March 25th, 2007, 09:13 AM

no one knows war better than the americans, so they make great teachers when it comes to these things

Yes, because we value our freedom..... :)

AH-7Raja

March 25th, 2007, 02:42 PM

AH-7Raja

March 25th, 2007, 03:00 PM

Para sa mga gustong maaliw muna...

Here are my videos of My tribute for our soldiers I, II, III, IV
unVnu3jaWhg
NA0FfqwETIc
ecAm_1eY6XE
tRDqCceri6I

Actual AFP combat video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sgKP4sfxyWs&mode=related&search=

Enjoy. :D

TheAvenger

March 26th, 2007, 08:02 AM

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/0412phil002-h-1.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/jetanimation.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/heli11.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/heli10.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/heli8.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/heli7.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/heli2.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/heli1.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/334394tb4.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/041208photo-h.jpg

.

TheAvenger

March 26th, 2007, 08:30 AM

RP made concepts of APC/Light Armoured Vehicle for further research & development.

MX-1 KALAKIAN (formerly known as Hari-Digma)
http://www.geocities.com/mx8armor/IMG_0549.jpg
http://www.wing21.rtaf.mi.th/webboard/photo/64956495.jpg
http://tsikot.yehey.com/gallery/showphoto.php/photo/10147/cat/504/page/10
HARI-DIGMA
http://www.timawa.net/images/armor/haridigma.jpg

MX-7 GAGAMBA
http://www.geocities.com/mx8armor/MX7-1.jpg
http://www.geocities.com/mx8armor/MX7-2.jpg
http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/rids/20070322/i/r3701429192.jpg?x=380&y=266&sig=IILKFTIfoP394qVhXr7ljg--

MX-8 BARAKO
http://www.geocities.com/mx8armor/Steelcraft5.jpg
http://www.geocities.com/mx8armor/IMG_1743.jpg

More updates to come.

looks the same tanks I have seen at Clark Air Base during the Hot-Air Balloon Festival last Feb. 2007

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p273/emmanuelkristofer/25-1.jpg

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p273/emmanuelkristofer/24-1.jpg

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p273/emmanuelkristofer/26-1.jpg

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p273/emmanuelkristofer/22-3.jpg

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p273/emmanuelkristofer/21-2.jpg

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p273/emmanuelkristofer/20-2.jpg

queetz@home

March 26th, 2007, 08:38 AM

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/heli10.jpg

This is so cool! A military version of the Augusta 109 (aka the Jurrasic Park helicopter). I think this would be a good addition for the Philippine Air Force since these helicopters are very fast and quiet. I wouldn't mind having one of these for myself. ;)

jgacis

March 26th, 2007, 08:39 AM

^^ Interesting pics! Thanks for sharing.. :)

AH-7Raja

March 26th, 2007, 01:57 PM

looks the same tanks I have seen at Clark Air Base during the Hot-Air Balloon Festival last Feb. 2007

Hey u were there too? Nice eh?

BTW, thanks for sharing those pix... That recovery tank is something new to me, first time i saw it meron pala tayong ganyan...

V150
http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p273/emmanuelkristofer/25-1.jpg

SIMBA
http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p273/emmanuelkristofer/24-1.jpg

M113 RECOVERY TANK
http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p273/emmanuelkristofer/22-3.jpg

SCORPION
http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p273/emmanuelkristofer/21-2.jpg

queetz@home

March 26th, 2007, 02:36 PM

^^ That scorpion tank is so small!!!! Just compare it to the guy that is squatting at its front! I think a well armed humvee can do the job better with better overall performance.

AH-7Raja

March 26th, 2007, 03:09 PM

^^ That scorpion tank is so small!!!! Just compare it to the guy that is squatting at its front! I think a well armed humvee can do the job better with better overall performance.

believe it or not, this small scorpion has a better chance to survive an IED explosion better than a fully armored humvee. why? the scorpion is designed as a scout armoured tank and its engine is powerful enough to carry heavy armors compared to a humvee, and when we say tank, it means it is protected with multi-layer steel plates from top to bottom. while a fully armoured humvee is classified as a light armoured jeep, indeed a no tank, means less protection it has to offer. :)

TheAvenger

March 27th, 2007, 07:53 PM

[QUOTE=AH-7Raja;12357539]Hey u were there too? Nice eh?

yes I was there too .... pls see the other photos in the below web link:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=420155&page=15

TheAvenger

March 27th, 2007, 08:50 PM

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/ffa18_r.gif

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/photo-208.gif

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/191120action3.gif

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/Greeceanimaiton.gif

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
with thanks and compliments to PDFF

QUOTE (israeli @ Mar 9 2007, 01:09 AM)
with this latest unconfirmed information about the PAF acquiring Harbin Z-9G modified attack helicopters, could this open the possibility of the Armed Forces of the Philippines slowly opening itself up to the purchase of Chinese-made weapons and equipment? are we going to see ourselves using stuff such as F-7 Airguard and JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft; WZ523 APCs; K-8 Karakorum trainers; Norinco CQ assault rifles; and Naresuan-type frigates?

why not? i think we should buy more chinese made weapons, from their HJ-8 anti -tank missile, to JF series fighter jets.

HJ-8 Anti-Tank missile:
http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/wor...a/hj-8-pics.htm

imagine that our pilots will be flying these:

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/su27a.jpg

SU 27

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/fc-1super7.jpg

FC1 Super 7

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/jh-7.jpg

JH-7

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/j11-su27.jpg

J11-SU27

Mar 9 2007, 11:29 PM

Ito ba ang gusto ng gobyerno natin ngayon? Totoo bang Night-Capable ito?

Shiit ayoko na kay Z-9G! Mukha syang baluga na isdang lumilipad! Kamukha nya si Nemo na naka-camouflage lang! Siguradong easy target ito!

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/Z-9_72006.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/Z-9_12406c.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/WZ-9_31006.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/Z-9_22306A.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/Z-9_12406.jpg

Wala man syang remote forward gun-turret... Bahala na nga ang gobyerno natin, mas mabuti na ganito kesa sa wala.

This post has been edited by spearhead on Mar 9 2007, 11:35 PM

----------------------------------------------------------------

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/wz10a.jpg

WZ-10

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/WZ-10_62506A.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/WZ-10_62306F.jpg

the WZ-10 is still under development, with the Z-9 "modified" attack helicopter being the stop-gap measure prior to the launch of the WZ-10.

in short, should the PAF does buy Z-9Gs, we will be used by the Chinese as their crash test dummies to determine what modifications should be made to the WZ-10.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted: Mar 10 2007, 10:59 AM

Fellows,

If there's no chance that we can get the Cobras, then i believe we should get the WZ-10 instead. It seems like it is a copy of the Cobra frame design.

The nose-mounted canon is still not as good as that of the Cobra though.

I believe we should opt for the WZ-10.

As for the MRFs, forget about the JF-17. It's AN OBSOLETE FRAME DESIGN. Aim for the J-10 instead.

Nonetheless, i hope our planners will never forget that China remains a part of our external threat. I suggest we go for the JAS39. It's a proven design and the design has gone through a lot of modifications already to fix the disadvanatges of the earlier frames.

As for the Americans, they must now re-darft their strategy. They can offer the Apaches to rich countries. But for developing countries like us, they should offer the Super Cobra variant instead.

I hope the PAF will make a second bidding and the Americans will offer their Super Cobras at a much more acceptable payment scheme.

My goodness! I cant seem to believe the Americans are losing out their Super Cobras to the Chinese copycat.

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/ah-1w-11.jpg

SuperCobra

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/supercobra.jpg

SuperCobra

would you want to buy your weapons and equipment from a country that threatens your existence as a sovereign country?
taken from a Canadian forum:

mikelogics

March 29th, 2007, 05:16 AM

http://img250.imageshack.us/img250/5086/npaub8.jpg

The other Philippine Army. :)

Those are CAFGUS. Not exactly the Philippine Army

jgacis

March 29th, 2007, 06:00 AM

^^ What is the CAFGUS?

mikelogics

March 29th, 2007, 06:40 AM

Civilian
Armed
Forces
Geographical
Unit

They are classified as active auxiliary in support to Philippine Army operations.

AH-7Raja

March 29th, 2007, 02:41 PM

AH-7Raja

March 29th, 2007, 02:56 PM

TheAvenger

March 29th, 2007, 07:33 PM

preng Avenger, ang gaganda ng mga kuha mo dito uh: http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=420155&page=16 at astig ang dating ng mga sundalo sa mga displays... sumakay ka ba sa hotair baloon? magkano ba kasi ang bayad dun? Sayang di man ako nakasay... =D

no hindi ako sumakay, first thing too expensive about 100 dollars yata and I am stingy. saka hindi ako makakauwi ng maaga dahil the wind may blow the balloon to far places.

may libre yaong Total balloon, they said to just present any receipt of Total products pero first come first serve. since I expected long lines because it is free.

TheAvenger

March 29th, 2007, 08:09 PM

jcb

March 30th, 2007, 09:58 AM

TheAvenger

April 3rd, 2007, 02:29 AM

Chinese made BMP-3 for PMC.. if we go choose chinese made military equipment.

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/chineseBMP.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/chineseBMP2.jpg

TheAvenger

April 3rd, 2007, 02:38 AM

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/PERS_Zalkovsky_Iraq_lg.jpg

American military chikka babes on duty in Iraq. She can be an actress here in Pinas.

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/Malaysian-1.jpg

Malaysian military chikka babes on training.

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/Malaysian2.jpg

Malaysian chikka babes.

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/Malaysian3.jpg

Malaysian chikka babes.

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/Japanchikka.jpg

Japanese chikka babes

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/Israel-modern.jpg

Israeli military chiika babes

.

mikelogics

April 3rd, 2007, 03:06 AM

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/Malaysian3.jpg

Judging from their red namecloths, I'd say they're taking up the Young Officer's Course

TheAvenger

April 3rd, 2007, 12:55 PM

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/RilesPatrol.jpg

Patrol on da riles

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/jointops.jpg

Underway to an island in Laguna de Bay on military operations against some Abu Sayaff operatives in Luzon.

Navy SOG at Cebu before the Asean Summit

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/NavySOG.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/NavySOG2.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/cellphone.jpg

Exercises

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/exercises.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/Scout_Ranger_group.jpg

Phil Army Scout Ranger

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/Scout_Rangers_1986.jpg

Scout Ranger

Military Exercises with the US forces.

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/phil_army_9ne101204MW.jpg

Philippine soldiers laugh as they practice carrying wounded comrades to safety at Camp Malagutay, near Zamboanga City. Their Green Beret trainers marvel at their ability to laugh even during stressful situations like this one.

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/_38829587_soldiers300ap.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/phil_army_36ne101204MW.jpg

Down time in this simulated terrorist camp means hammocks and cigarettes, but later the "mock terrorists" will go on supply runs and ambush patrols before being hunted down by U.S.-trained Philippine soldiers.

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/phil_army_31ne101204MW.jpg

An American Green Beret inspects a line of camouflaged Philippine soldiers learning the basics at a U.S. boot camp training exercise at Camp Malagutay, near Zamboanga City.

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/phil_army_20ne101204MW.jpg

As a local man hired to portray a terrorist rests in a hammock behind him, Green Beret Staff Sgt. Cecil Manuel surveys the jungle around a secret mock-terrorist camp near Zamboanga City, Philippines. Local men simulate terrorist tactics while being hunted by U.S.- trained Philippine soldiers. Such exercises continue to be key to the U.S. government’s global war on terror.

TheAvenger

April 3rd, 2007, 01:07 PM

TheAvenger

April 4th, 2007, 07:59 PM

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/femalepilot.jpg

Philippine Air force (PAF) female pilots of 15th Strike Wings walk past fighter planes inside a military base in Sangley point in Cavite city, south of Manila April 3, 2007. The three are fighter pilots and belong to the 40 female pilots of the PAF in a profession dominated by men. L to R: Captain Joycelyn Patrimonio, 30, Captain Maureen Nazario, 31 and 1Lt Sharon Lowe Carvajal, 27. REUTERS/Romeo Ranoco (PHILIPPINES

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/fempilot.jpg

Philippine Air Force (PAF) pilot 1LT Sharon Lowe Carvajal, 27, buckles her seatbelt onboard a MG-520 helicopter during a photo opportunity at the military airbase in Sangley Point, Cavite city, south of Manila April 3, 2007. Carvajal is one of 40 female pilots of the PAF in a profession dominated by men. REUTERS/Romeo Ranoco (PHILIPPINES)

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/fempilot2.jpg

Philippine Air Force (PAF) Captain Maureen Nazario, 31, boards a OV-10 Broncho fighter plane during a photo opportunity at a military airbase in Sangley Point, Cavite city, south of Manila April 3, 2007. Nazario is one of the 40 female pilots of the PAFin a profession dominated by men. REUTERS/Romeo Ranoco (PHILIPPINES)

http://news.yahoo.com/photo/070403/ids_photos_wl/r2968590470.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/fempilot3.jpg

Philippine Air Force (PAF) Captain Maureen Nazario, 31, onboard a OV-10 Broncho fighter plane during a photo opportunity at a military airbase in Sangley Point, Cavite city, south of Manila April 3, 2007. Nazario is one of the 40 female pilots of the PAF, where women are gaining prominence in the armed forces. REUTERS/Romeo Ranoco (PHILIPPINES)

(It seems it is not an OV-10 Bronco and the photo-journalist makes a mistake in aircraft identification)

.

bitoy

April 4th, 2007, 08:23 PM

^^ That's an OV-10 Bronco, but aren't they all grounded?

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/rids/20070403/i/r4138302850.jpg?

AH-7Raja

April 6th, 2007, 12:52 AM

astig ang mga babae yan uh.

maraming salamat sa mga pix... hmmm pamilyar yung mga military babes sa ibang defense forum nakita ko na sila doon...

i particularly like the porma of this soldier the one at the rightside, mukha syang pinoy, pinoy nga ba?
http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/cellphone.jpg

AH-7Raja

April 6th, 2007, 12:54 AM

Quality and performance of Harbin Z-9 must be scrutinize if PAF is interested in Chinese made attack helicopter

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/chineseheli.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/chinesearmsfactory.jpg

PRC military industry.

It seems the final stage of assembly for Z-9 is on the process including quality inspection before delivery.

malamang done deal na yan... ayan na ang makukuha natin instead na cobra, sayang pagkakataon na sana natin magkaroon ng cobra gunships... hay sana mag-change ang isip ng afp sale team personnel natin...

AH-7Raja

April 6th, 2007, 01:00 AM

These china made machines we should replicate.

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/AAVchina.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/AAVchina.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/AACchinese.jpg

astig ang mga porma pero di ba mga russian made yan?

i agree, dapat siguro gumawa din nga tayo ng similar amphibious apc tanks...

no hindi ako sumakay, first thing too expensive about 100 dollars yata and I am stingy. saka hindi ako makakauwi ng maaga dahil the wind may blow the balloon to far places.

may libre yaong Total balloon, they said to just present any receipt of Total products pero first come first serve. since I expected long lines because it is free.

hehehehe takot karin pala sa heights ano? :lol:

kiretoce

April 12th, 2007, 01:38 AM

TheAvenger

April 22nd, 2007, 09:17 AM

TheAvenger

April 22nd, 2007, 09:27 AM

SouthEast Asia Cooperation Againts Terrorism (SEACAT)

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/060523-N-4104L-006view.jpg

060523-N-4104L-006 South China Sea (May 23, 2006) - U.S. Coast Guard law enforcement trainer Ensign Tom Osborn briefs Philippine Navy visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team members on search techniques during a boarding exercise aboard USS Tortuga (LSD 46). The boarding exercise was part of exercise Southeast Asia Cooperation Against Terrorism (SEACAT). SEACAT is a weeklong at-sea exercise designed to highlight the value of information sharing and multi-national coordination within a scenario that gives participating navies practical maritime interception training opportunities. U.S. Navy photo by Senior Chief Journalist Melinda Larson

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/060523-N-9851B-009view.jpg

060523-N-9851B-009 South China Sea (May 23, 2006) - Philippine Navy visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team leader Lt. Cmdr. Carlos Garcia, right, listens as U.S. Coast Guard Ensign Tom Osborn explains the objectives of the boarding of amphibious dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46). The boarding was a part of exercise Southeast Asia Cooperation against Terrorism (SEACAT), a week long at-sea exercise designed to highlight the value of information sharing and multi-national coordination within a scenario that gives participating navies practical maritime interception training opportunities. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class John L. Beeman (RELEASED)

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/060523-N-9851B-011view.jpg

060523-N-9851B-011 South China Sea (May 23, 2006) - A Philippine Navy visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team makes their way across the deck of amphibious dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46) during a boarding. The boarding was part of exercise Southeast Asia Cooperation against Terrorism (SEACAT), a week long at-sea exercise designed to highlight the value of information sharing and multi-national coordination within a scenario that gives participating navies practical maritime interception training opportunities. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class John L. Beeman (RELEASED)

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/060523-N-9851B-012view.jpg

South China Sea (May 23, 2006) - A Philippine Navy visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team prepares to enter the bridge of amphibious dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46) during a boarding. The boarding was part of exercise Southeast Asia Cooperation against Terrorism (SEACAT), a week long at-sea exercise designed to highlight the value of information sharing and multi-national coordination within a scenario that gives participating navies practical maritime interception training opportunities. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class John L. Beeman (RELEASED)

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/060523-N-9851B-006view.jpg

060523-N-9851B-006 South China Sea (May 23, 2006) - A visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team of the Philippine Navy approaches USS Tortuga (LSD 46) in a rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) in preparation for carrying out a boarding of the ship. The boarding is a part of exercise Southeast Asia Cooperation Against Terrorism (SEACAT). SEACAT is a week long at-sea exercise designed to highlight the value of information sharing and multi-national coordination within a scenario that gives participating navies practical maritime interception training opportunities. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class John L. Beeman (RELEASED)

IsaRic

April 23rd, 2007, 04:48 AM

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/haiti_mr_suave_011.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/haiti_mr_suave_008.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/haiti_1043.jpg

.

this is quite old... i wonder if all em are pulled out there by now

TheAvenger

April 23rd, 2007, 04:15 PM

this is quite old... i wonder if all em are pulled out there by now

not old... my nephew who was with the ground troops of PAF just arrived from Haiti a month ago.

while the photos was a new posting in the Phil Defense Forces Forum.

pls see this link :

http://pdff.sytes.net/index.php?showtopic=3470&st=60

TheAvenger

April 23rd, 2007, 04:40 PM

South Korea donates trucks, engineering equipment to RP military (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/net/2007/04/11/south.korea.donates.trucks.engineering.equipment.to.rp.military.(8.15.p.m.).html)
Wednesday, April 11, 2007

MANILA -- South Korea donated engineering equipment and 134 trucks to the Philippine military Wednesday, acknowledging Filipino soldiers' help during the Korean War and calling for closer ties.

"Filipino soldiers helped with their blood and sweat in our most difficult times. We Koreans never forgot all the help the Filipinos have given us," said South Korean Ambassador Hong Jongki during ceremonies for the hand-over of the trucks and equipment at the military's Camp Aguinaldo headquarters.

Philippine Armed Forces chief Hermogenes Esperon said the vehicles would be put to good use "in the furtherance of peace and stability in our country."

"Let us continue in strengthening our friendly ties and pledge alliance to each other in preserving freedom and democracy in the world," the South Korean ambassador said.

Esperon said the vehicles would be distributed to the army, air force and navy, while some would be used at the headquarters.

The Philippine government paid US$100 (euro74) as a token fee for all the vehicles, and spent at least US$72,000 (euro53,627) to transport them from Korea, Esperon told reporters.

The Philippine military, which is battling communist and Muslim insurgencies, is one of the most ill-equipped in Asia.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
some photos, courtesy of 40niner_com and Opus of the Philippine Defense Forum:

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/2u5qt0l.jpg

-- Filipino soldiers stand beside some of the 134 military ground mobility and engineering equipment donated by the South Korean government to the Armed Forces of the Philippines during a ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo in Manila April 11, 2007. REUTERS/Cheryl Ravelo (PHILIPPINES)

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/2j4998m.jpg

-- Filipino soldiers wave onboard on some of the 134 military ground mobility and engineering equipment donated by the South Korean government to the Armed Forces of the Philippines during a ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo in Manila April 11, 2007. REUTERS/Cheryl Ravelo (PHILIPPINES)

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/4btl5is.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/4hvekg2.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/2po9jyq.jpg

.

jgacis

April 23rd, 2007, 10:39 PM

rage@cebu

April 24th, 2007, 12:15 PM

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/haiti_mr_suave_011.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/haiti_mr_suave_008.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/haiti_1043.jpg

.

my father just got home last November from Haiti... i now use his uniform sa wargames namin... hehehehe!

airsoft....

TheAvenger

April 24th, 2007, 02:22 PM

^^ The priest should only be blessing the troops, not the vehicles. I know it's the Philippines, but seems awkward in an idolistic sense. If the soldiers do their jobs right in maintaining those vehicles, those pieces of machinery will take care of the troops. No need for God except for the troops. It's up to the responsibility of the soldiers themselves to maintain those vehicles. This is just my opinion....

I think that's great the South Korean government has donated vehicles to the Philippine military.

in Pinas catholic belief, the priest blessed not only the persons but also the object to exorcise bad spirit or spirit of the dead who may be haunting those places. also to ward-off bad spirit. I think it has nothing to do with mechanical matters or to prevent vehicles from breaking down.

about spirit matter though previously I am a devout catholic, then became an agnostic catholic, later became Atheist, then became a free-lancer catholic; in order to play safe i don't mind a Priest, a Pastor, a Buddhist monk or an Islam Imam to bless anything.

sigurista ako in term of spritual matters : lol: :lol:

jgacis

April 24th, 2007, 06:50 PM

in Pinas catholic belief, the priest blessed not only the persons but also the object to exorcise bad spirit or spirit of the dead who may be haunting those places. also to ward-off bad spirit. I think it has nothing to do with mechanical matters or to prevent vehicles from breaking down.

about spirit matter though previously I am a devout catholic, then became an agnostic catholic, later became Atheist, then became a free-lancer catholic; in order to play safe i don't mind a Priest, a Pastor, a Buddhist monk or an Islam Imam to bless anything.

sigurista ako in term of spritual matters : lol: :lol:

Yes, I have seen priests bless many things also when I was a younger kid living with my lola in La Union. It's just that when it comes time to war, the troops should be seeking the courage from God and not from the fear of bad or dead spirits. These are just my thoughts.. :)

kiretoce

April 25th, 2007, 01:15 AM

Want to help RP take to the air? (http://www.asianjournal.com/?c=186&a=19746)

MANILA, Philippines -- Make that bright idea fly, literally.

The Philippine Air Force has called on the country's budding aviators to share their ideas with the multi-agency research and development team recently assembled to create original Filipino aviation technology.

Lieutenant Colonel Ferdinand Macasaet, one of the organizers of the Filipino Aviation Research and Development Summit, on Monday called on individuals and organizations to participate in the three-year endeavor aimed at creating the Philippines' own technology for both military and commercial aviation.

"We are reaching out to anyone who has a bright idea because in the project, the more, the merrier. What is important is that they have the right idea," said Macasaet, a director at the PAF 410th Maintenance Wing based at Clark Air Base in Pampanga.

Touted as the biggest government-private sector cooperation effort, the research and development team came together early this month and set out to plan viable and innovative aviation projects, including Filipino-made aircraft and munitions.

Currently involved in this fresh attempt to revive research and development in the country are the PAF, the Philippine Army, Navy and Coast Guard, aviation firms, and aeronautical and technical schools.

To help hasten the project, the summit's PAF-based secretariat has written De La Salle University and Ateneo de Manila University asking the schools to lend their engineering and physics experts to the team, Macasaet said.

"We have sent them letters where we told them that we recently set up this organization, what our goals are, and we asked them to help us," Macasaet said.

The organization has put up an online group to facilitate e-mail correspondence with participating individuals and agencies. A second meeting has been tentatively set for July, when the team would decide which projects to pursue.

The resulting technology is envisioned to be sold commercially and used for the military's defense requirements.

Those interested in taking part in the project may send a message to Macasaet's email address at ferdinandmacasaet@yahoo.com.

Sinjin P.

May 1st, 2007, 04:38 AM

P5-B AFP outlay not enough for upgrade
(http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/05012007/headlines011.html)
THE P5-billion annual allocation drawn from the P1.126-trillion 2007 national budget for the Armed Forces Modernization Fund is not enough to supply the equipment requirements of the Army, Navy and the Air Force, says reelectionist Sen. Ralph Recto who noted that current spending level for arms purchases was inadequate.

Recto said the amount “cannot even buy a squadron of second-hand F-16s,” referring to the US-made fighter-jet preferred by many air forces around the world.

In a statement, Recto recommended that Budget officials immediately release the fund so that “shoot, move and communicate” equipment can be bought soon.

“As a durable solution to equipment woes,” Recto suggested, “the government should look at the possibility of increasing by a minimum 50 percent, or P2.5 billion a year, beginning next year the Armed Forces modernization outlay and increase this in the years to come.”

“Defense should be a recipient of our tax dividends. As we get back our fiscal footing, we should begin to reclaim our skies. This nosedive by the Air Force due to equipment lack should be stopped immediately,” Recto said, adding that defense spending is an investment worth making.

He estimated that from illegal fishing alone, “we are said to lose at least P25 billion a year because poachers do their thing with impunity inside our waters which we cannot patrol by air or sea.”

According to Recto, “a farmer would buy a paltik to protect his one carabao. Should we not buy some planes so we can guard the tuna highway which passes near Mindanao, which earns for us billions of pesos a year?”

He noted that the Air Force cannot rely on its budget alone to refurbish planes much less acquire new ones, even those “previously -owned” by other governments.

He explained that P4.8 billion of the Air Force’s P8-billion budget for 2007 is eaten up by the salaries of its 17,000 men. “There’s P3 billion for operating expenses. What’s left for capital outlays, or for new equipment, believe it or not, is a measly P28 million,” Recto added. --B. Fernandez

queetz@home

May 1st, 2007, 04:43 AM

demented_pigeon

May 1st, 2007, 07:33 AM

TheAvenger

May 1st, 2007, 12:52 PM

does anyone here have info regarding the private contractors used by the US defense department to guard american business interests in Iraq? apparently, undetermined number of filipinos in Iraq are serving as employees of these "defense contractors" (more like mercenaries) and they might not be included in the troop pull-out demanded by the Democrats from bush in exchange for extra war funding. we can't just let thousands of Filipinos be left behind just because of an unjust war.

They were Blackwater, DynCorp, and Triple Canopy

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
from the Philippine Defense Force Forum

http://pdff.sytes.net/index.php?showtopic=3368&st=75

Posted: Apr 30 2007, 04:45 PM

Teniente Primero

Group: Rangers
Posts: 154
Member No.: 412
Joined: 26-March 05

More Filipino mercenaries fighting in Iraq

MANILA – Filipino ex-cops and soldiers are among the growing number of "mercenaries" recruited to provide security in Iraq, a UN report said. The UN report, which will be presented next month, warned that methods used by private western security companies do not prepare recruits for the conflict. The strain, the report warned, could place recruits "in a situation where they can violate human rights because they are armed."

Private security guards employed by western companies make up the second highest number of armed forces currently posted in Iraq, after the US military but ahead of the British troops, according to Jose Luis Gomez del Prado, the head of a UN workgroup on the use of mercenaries.

Many of the recruits stem from former police and military forces in the Philippines, Peru and Equador, according to the workgroup, which recently conducted missions to the latter two countries.

“They are trained quickly but not prepared for armed conflict situations," Gomez del Prado said.

“They are sent there, they receive M16 [assault rifles] and are placed in very dangerous areas like the Green Zone [in Baghdad], convoys and embassies," he added.

While the recruits sometimes carry out important and honorable tasks like protecting humanitarian organization convoys, they are also “in a situation where they can violate human rights because they are armed," according to the UN expert.

“At least 160 companies are operating in Iraq. They probably employ 35,000 to 40,000 people," Gomez del Prado said on the sidelines of a second workgroup session in Geneva last week.

More than 400 of these private employees have died in Iraq since 2003, putting their casualties below the number suffered by US armed forces but ahead of British military deaths, he said. “And a lot more have been injured.’

The workgroup is scheduled to deliver a report to the UN Commission for Human Rights next month emphasizing concerns over mercenary recruitment methods used by US companies like Triple Canopy and Blackwater.

While Americans and Europeans working in war zones for private security companies often make as much as $10,000 (7,600 euros) a month, Peruvians doing the same job seldom make more than $1,000, and their working rights are often violated, Gomez del Prado said.

“The contracts they sign often hide things that aren’t clear. The original is in English, which most of them do not speak," he said.

The recruits are entitled to the labor rights applied in the country where the company hiring them is headquartered, but the UN expert pointed out that it is hard to imagine “a poor Peruvian filing suit in an American court."

The number of private security companies working in war zones like Iraq has exploded in recent years, with one private security employee for every four US soldiers currently stationed in Iraq.

That number is up from one private security guard for every 50 US soldiers who took part in the first Gulf war in 1990/91, Gomez del Prado said.

He is alarmed at the legal vacuum in which these companies operate, pointing out that their activities are not actually covered by the strict definition of mercenaries given in the 1989 International Convention against the Use, Recruitment, Financing and Training of Mercenaries, signed by 28 countries.

http://manilamaildc.net/modules.php?name=N...rticle&sid=1817

compared to American and european counterparts, Filipino mercs are grossly underpaid! its exploitation in the highest order

Duminus Posted: Apr 30 2007, 05:03 PM

moonlighting ∞ taxi driver

Group: PDFF HQ
Posts: 658
Member No.: 2
Joined: 9-July 04

But $1000 is still upwards of 45,000 in Philippine currency.

Private security guards here are just paid from 5,000 to 10,000 pesos per month, its no wonder many would want to work in Iraq despite the grave risks.

About time the POEA and DOLE and DFA take a look at the burgeoning number of Filipino security contractors in Iraq and negotiate for better, more equitable working rights and compensation for them.

--------------------

caterwaul Posted: Apr 30 2007, 06:30 PM

Capitan

Group: Rangers
Posts: 204
Member No.: 51
Joined: 30-July 04

why do the media keep on calling these people mercenaries when in fact they're not?

these are just highly paid security guards tasked to guard private persons and offices in Iraq.

mercenaries are those who really go out and seek combat, fighting for a faction against another faction.

--------------------

I heard Malacanang is changing the presidential seal. It's gonna be a condom. A condom because it more accurately reflects the administration's political stance. A condom allows for inflation, halts production, destroys the next generation, protects a bunch of pricks and gives you a sense of security while you're actually being screwed.

-Pendejo

As posted here

Numbers Posted: May 1 2007, 12:45 PM

Gial de Brigada

Group: Snipers
Posts: 1,126
Member No.: 9
Joined: 9-July 04

Its understandable that the European and American PMCs get much higher pay - they're former SF, SAS, SBS and SEAL.

Ours are just former SR and SF. Apparently, their abilities are not too well regarded by the employers.

--------------------

One little two little three little four little

demented_pigeon

May 1st, 2007, 04:45 PM

^^ talk about outsourcing.

TheAvenger

May 2nd, 2007, 04:26 AM

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/IMG_1743.jpg

Armor Level : Equivalent to Simba APC
Mobility : Equivalent to Humvee (with shorter turning radius), 4X4
Maintenance : Commercially available parts, low cost (no foreign dependence on parts)
Design & Manufacture : 100% Filippino (same guys who made the kalakian)
Cost : 1/3 compared to imported

Engine : Mitsubishi 130hp Diesel
Top speed : 100-120 kph
Armor : Resistant to 7.62mm, and .50 caliber (depending on angle)
Hull : Monocoque
Power to weight ratio : 30:1 minimum (w/ full combat weight)
Personnel : 4 (including driver & gunner)
Main armament : 7.62mm (current version)

Future configurations will be water-resistant versions, double .5 caliber versions, armored troop carrier, TOW version. It all depends on the needs & budget of the military.

No word on the price yet. but i think its just a little expensive than a non-armored humvee.

Main duty will be as escort vehicle for our troops on 6x6.

Maintenance cost will only be like maintaining a delivery truck. This baby will save us a lot of money in the long run.

TheAvenger

May 2nd, 2007, 04:32 AM

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/article07312003002.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/4_1458938.jpg

.

ravenhawk

May 21st, 2007, 05:27 PM

I hears that La Presidentita was going to Japan, I was hoping that since the AFP cadres were interested in reviving aerospace industry here..why don't just she persuade the Japanese Goverment to allow us to License produce this things since Japan are not allowed to sell them anyway

Kawasaki T-4
http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb20/atraqxis/KawasakiT-4.jpg
This could replace both S211 and OV-10. It can work well as an advanced jet trainer,and with its twin engine configuration it can carry heavier loads thus allowing it to have a better performance than OV-10 in counter insurgency missions. My only request is modififcation of its landing gears to make it STOL capable on most of our airstrips similar to that of Alenia/Embraer AMX.

Kawasaki OH-1
http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb20/atraqxis/kawasali0h-1.jpg
Buit by the Japanese as replacement for older Oh-6J(licensed produced MD500) It was specifically meant for scouting role. Though not basically as an attack helicopter this can easily be modified with guns and extra rocket pods to be used in counter insurgency missions. This will be a good replacement or at least augment our depleting MG520 fleet. The aircraft is lightweight by the use of composite,maneuverable and was made for easy maintenance

ravenhawk

May 21st, 2007, 05:40 PM

My dream for the Air Force is to have at least 70 operational T-4,30 for training and around 40 for attack. For OH-1's It would relly be nice if we could have at least a between 50 to 60 of them.....

Sinjin P.

May 29th, 2007, 06:43 AM

New Zealand offers police training to RP (http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN2007052994859.html)
Accords on trade, security & environment OK’d

By GENALYN D. KABILING

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (via PLDT) — New Zealand offered yesterday to train Philippine police and military on the observance and protection of human rights amid concerns about the spate of political killings in the country.

New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark told President Arroyo that her government is ready to allocate portion of its "development assistance budget" for the human rights education initiated by the NZ Human Rights Commission for Philippine security forces.

The two women leaders met for nearly an hour behind closed doors at the Parliament House that included discussions on the need to strengthen human rights institutions in the Philippines.

In other developments:

1. The Philippines and New Zealand sealed two bilateral accords on fighting terrorism and transnational crimes as well as protecting natural resources and wildlife areas.

2. The two countries agreed to explore new avenues of trade such as a possible air services agreement and the development of the Philippine dairy industry.

The start of President Arroyo’s three-day state visit has been marked by protest at parliament over alleged human right abuses in the Philippines.

Around a dozen protesters gathered outside New Zealand’s parliament to demonstrate against the political violence as Clark hosted a lunch for the visiting President. They were also calling for the release of Anakpawis Rep. Crispin Beltran who has been jailed for 16 months on charges of sedition.

"I am pleased to note that our respective Human Rights Commissions have begun a dialogue, and are exploring ways in which New Zealand might share its experience and support the work of its Philippines counterpart," Clark said in a joint press conference with President Arroyo here.

"An initial area of cooperation is likely to be in support of human rights- based training for the Philippine police and defense forces," she pointed out.

Clark said the New Zealand Human Rights Commission has already met the Commission on Human Rights Chairwoman Purificacion Quisumbing in Geneva, Switzerland about the technical assistance package.

She said New Zealand’s initiative was in response to President Arroyo’s invitation to foreign governments for help in resolving the political killings through cooperation between their respective human rights commissions

President Arroyo was not able to see the protest on human rights abuses in the Philippines since she was having lunch at the Parliament building but she was open to questions about it during the press conference.

Mrs. Arroyo said she shares the same devotion of Clark in upholding human rights as she reiterated her commitment to put an end to wave of political killings in the country.

"We are in a fight to turn around our history of political violence and retribution like our economic turnaround, we are slowly surely steadily breaking down the cycle of violence," she said.

In the course of her visit in New Zealand, the President will speak today before the 3rd Asia-Pacific Interfaith Dialogue at the northern town of Waitangi.

Arroyo will join Clark, Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer and Indonesian Foreign Minister Hassan Wirajuda, in the annual dialogue seeking to find ways to reduce religious conflict following the 2002 Bali bombings.

RP, New Zealand seal 2 bilateral agreements

By GENALYN D. KABILING

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (via PLDT) —— The Philippines and New Zealand yesterday sealed two bilateral accords on fighting terrorism and transnational crimes as well as protecting natural resources and wildlife areas.

President Arroyo and New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark witnessed the signing of the two agreements on law enforcement cooperation and enviromental protection after their bilateral meeting at the Parliament House here.

The two leaders held a closed-door meeting early in the day that centered on enhancing cooperation on trade, environment, protection of human rights, indigenous peoples’ welfare, and interfaith dialogue.

Mrs. Arroyo arrived here yesterday morning for a three-day state visit where she received a military salute from Maori warriors and their Pakeha counterparts but was also met with protests denouncing the spate of political killings back home.

The first bilateral agreement signed by Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Oscar Calderon and New Zealand Police Commissioner Howard Broad calls for cooperation between the two law enforcement agencies in the prevention and investigation of cross border crimes.

The bilateral pact allows the two law enforcement agencies to exchange information, intelligence, evidence; coordinate activities with respect to investigations, including in the search of persons who are reported missing; and hold capacity-building and exchange relevant knowledge and expertise.

Another bilateral agreement on environmental research, management and protection was signed between the New Zealand ‘s Department of Conservation Minister Chris Carter and Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Angelo Reyes.

Clark said the bilateral accord "will provide for respective departments to be exchanging information and expertise for the mutual benefit of our environments."

Under the agreement, two countries would also hold seminars and workshops as well as conduct survey and research on the natural resources and ecosystems of protected wild areas in their respective territories.

The President also expressed appreciation to New Zealand for its assistance to the country’s environmental program, particularly in forestry.

"We are proud of the success of the Bukidnon. We look forward to continuing assistance from New Zealand in the Caraga forest plantation project," she said.

Arroyo said she also welcomes any help from New Zealand in the implementation of her government’s Green Philippines initiative. "Every tree grants a sustained livelihood, eases global warming and saves lives," she added,

Upon arrival in the chilly capital of New Zealand, the Presiden paid her respects and laid a wreath at the National War Memorial and the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior at the Buckle Street here.

After the wreathlaying ceremony, the President went to the Government House where she received full military honors and traditional Powhiri welcome ceremony.

Governor General Anand Satyanand and his spouse, Susan, welcomed the President and her party and held a private meeting at the Government House afterwards.

Clark later hosted a state lucheon for President Arroyo and her delegation at the Banquet Hall, Parliament House. New Zealand top legislators, diplomats and cabinet ministers attended the affair.

From Wellington , the President flew to nearby Auckland where she attended an official dinner hosted by PM Clark at the Partington’s Restaurant in Langham Hotel.

Travelling with the President to New Zealand and Australia are Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago, Foreign Affairs Alberto Romulo, Philippine Ambassador to New Zealand Bienvenido Tejano, Environment Secretary Angelo Reyes, Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap, and Trade Secretary Peter Favila.

Meanwhile, the two countries yesterday agreed to explore new avenues of trade such as a possible air services agreement and the development of the Philippine dairy industry.

President Arroyo and New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark reaffirmed their commitment to expand economic relations.

The two leaders agreed to hasten the negotiations towards an air linkages pact between the Philippines and New Zealand to spur trade and tourism between the two countries.

"There are new avenues to follow toward an air services agreement," Clark said.

"Any agreement would be better than nothing, which is what we have now," she said, citing the Philippines as the only Asia-Pacific Economic Conference (APEC) economy which does not have direct travel links with New Zealand.

An air services agreement would allow Air New Zealand Ltd. and Philippine Airlines to fly directly between the two nations.

Clark lamented that negotiations on an agreement faltered 10 years ago over fifth-freedom rights, or the ability for airlines to pick up passengers and take them to a third destination.

"That still appears, for now, to be something of an obstacle," she said.

An air services agreement would make it easier for airlines to operate between each country, according to Prime Minister Clark.

At present, Clark admitted that travelling to New Zealand from Manila has become a "marathon," where passengers ride a number of airplanes and endure many hours of flight reaching their destination.

Apart from planned air links, President Arroyo suggested to Clark to consider the Philippines as one of New Zealand’s sites for processing dairy products.

Mrs. Arroyo noted that the Philippines is the fourth dairy product market for New Zealand, after the United States, China, and China, and the second biggest market for milk alone.

jgacis

May 29th, 2007, 08:25 PM

P5-B AFP outlay not enough for upgrade
(http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/05012007/headlines011.html)
...He explained that P4.8 billion of the Air Force’s P8-billion budget for 2007 is eaten up by the salaries of its 17,000 men. “There’s P3 billion for operating expenses. What’s left for capital outlays, or for new equipment, believe it or not, is a measly P28 million,” Recto added. --B. Fernandez

They should streamline payroll and the operating expenses. As for the capital outlay, NEW equipment should be invested and training improved from the streamlines.

New equipment reduces maintenance manhours and provides current (up-to-date) training in today's technology-driven world.

Of course more people might be unemployed temporarily, but we need to promote highly motivated people for the job and the best trained.

Just my opinion...

TheAvenger

May 30th, 2007, 11:12 PM

AFP ACQUIRES ARMORED RECOVERY VEHICLE (ARV)

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/ARV.jpg

The AFP Vice Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Rodolfo C Garcia formally received from Anthony Michael Prebble, FNSS Representative, the latest addition to the armor assets inventory of the AFP, the Armored Recovery Vehicle (ARV), during a turnover ceremony held at the GHQ, AFP Grandstand, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on 04 February 2004. The acquisition of the ARV is part of the capability building initiatives of the Armed Forces as outlined in its Modernization Program.

The Armored Recovery Vehicle is an armored, all terrain, amphibious, air transportable and highly maneuverable vehicle. It is fitted with a hydraulic crane mounted to the vehicle top plate and a recovery winch mounted inside the vehicle that facilitates the recovery and towing of both armored and transport vehicles during actual combat and under enemy fire. It is equipped with a pintle-mounted .50 caliber heavy machine gun and a bank of electrically operated smoke grenade launchers for its self-protection. In addition to these features, the ARV has air conditioning and Nuclear, Biological and Chemical (NBC) protection system.

This vehicle will greatly enhance the maintenance capability of the Light Armor Brigade of the Philippine Army. The ARV has a crane that has the ability to lift a variety of loads such as replacement power pack assemblies, turrets and ammunition pallets.

Aside from the battlefield, the vehicle can be used in disaster relief operations in times of calamities. Since it can carry and lift heavy equipment, it can be also used in lifting damage electrical posts, towing of damaged transport vehicle and even lifting of collapsed houses or part of collapsed building during rescue operations.

The acquisition of this vehicle will surely boost the morale of the soldiers in the field. It will hasten repairs of damaged armored vehicles, which are considered force multipliers in combat. The lesser repair time of damaged armored assets the greater the edge our government soldiers shall have over the enemies of the state.

The ARV contract was initiated in 2002 between the AFP and FNSS, when the latter won the bid for this Php 55,757,968 project. FNSS is a Turkish based joint venture company between Nurol Group of Turkey and the USA based United Defense LP, which is a leading manufacturer and supplier of armored combat vehicles and weapons systems for the Turkish and Allied Forces like United Arab Emirates and Malaysia to name a few.

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/ChieftainTank-17.jpg

The turnover rites in Camp Aguinaldo were also witnessed by His Excellency Tanju Sumer, Turkish Ambassador to the Philippines and other high ranking officials of the AFP. The ceremony is the culmination of the second modernization project of the AFP. It can be recalled that last March 2003, a total of 402 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW), worth Php 117,432,000 were delivered to the Philippine Army and the Philippine Marines as the first major breakthrough of the AFP Modernization Program.

http://www.afp.mil.ph/afpmpmo/PROJECTS/pm2.html

More of the acquisitions here;

http://www.afp.mil.ph/afpmpmo/PROJECTS/milestones

gen1

May 31st, 2007, 04:47 AM

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u157/jibrael_2007/Malaysian3.jpg

Judging from their red namecloths, I'd say they're taking up the Young Officer's Course

Malaysian Babes ! ! !

Tulo laway ko . . .

sa baril nila :)

ravenhawk

May 31st, 2007, 07:01 AM

^^ tsk tsk sa baril nga lang tutulo laway mo, Kahit kapareho natin silang Malay mas maganda pa rin ang Pinay! kahit nga NPA na Amazona magaganda rin eh! naging cover girl pa ng Time....

smokingunmanila

May 31st, 2007, 07:34 AM

My dream for the Air Force is to have at least 70 operational T-4,30 for training and around 40 for attack. For OH-1's It would relly be nice if we could have at least a between 50 to 60 of them.....

raven..talagang split personality..from mercenaries to ramp models ha...hahahahaha..joke lang poh...

smokingunmanila

May 31st, 2007, 07:36 AM

TheAvenger

May 31st, 2007, 08:41 AM

Well talking about Filipinos being recruited in Iraq by private corporation ...is

kapit sa patalim!

Right now, our government is not allowing anyone to fly to Iraq for any reason.
What they do is..fly to turkey..and road travel to Iraq...

it is not a new phenomenum, during the Vietnam War many Pinoy were also employed by either MACV or the CIA.

During the Iran-Iraqi war, some Pinoys transport bombs and ammo from Europe and North Korea to Iraq, while the other Pinoys transport bombs, chemicals, and war materiale from Bulgaria - Russian war materiale, Greece - in a small island south of Greece mainland - US war materiale were loaded, and Italy - (Genoa, Napoli, Marguera near Venice), to Iran.

tuwing may guerra ang mga Kano marami ding Pinoy ang nagkakapera. :)

TheAvenger

May 31st, 2007, 08:49 AM

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/marinesyw3.jpg

Members of the Marines Assistance Reserve Unit stand at attention during a troop inspection at the military headquarters in Manila April 24, 2007. The Philippine military tested the level of preparedness of their soldiers to respond to natural disasters, a month before rainy season starts in the tropical country. REUTERS/Romeo Ranoco (PHILIPPINES)

MARU - Marine Amphibious Ready Unit

it is part of the PMRF -(Marine Ready Force ) - MBLT6 is the Commander of the unit

part of the unit involves rescue and disaster response, part is for direct action in any aggression. MBLT6 can further relate on this.

If you remember ASEAN Summit in CEBU, its a MARU thats been sent to the area.

TheAvenger

May 31st, 2007, 09:06 AM

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/front.jpg

A Philippine Navy patrol boat passes the US Navy frigate USS Jarrett anchored near the Philippine Navy base in Zamboanga City yesterday 30th May. - Photo by CHARLIE SACEDA

About the U.S. Embassy
May 24, 2007
U.S. Embassy Press Release

Philippines-U.S. Amphibious Military Exercise “CARAT 2007”
to Open in Zamboanga

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/wwwjw442.jpg

The Philippine and U.S. Navies will conduct the 13th annual bilateral training exercise “Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training,” known as CARAT, in the Zamboanga and Basilan area starting on May 31.

CARAT 2007 is a combined naval tactical operations exercise involving fleet forces of both the Philippine and United States Navies. The United States participates in CARAT exercises with six Southeast Asian nations: Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand.

CARAT is a model of how navies can cooperate and work together to address issues of shared concern in each other’s countries. Each exercise is designed to enhance the ability of our nations to work together in maritime situations that range from natural disasters to maritime interception of criminals and terrorists. The exercises include a tactical scenario where the U.S. and Philippine Navies will operate together in teams, focusing on improving communication and information sharing. Examples of other skill areas that the navies will practice are amphibious operations, diving, and salvage. The exercise also focuses on relationship building through social and community service events such as providing free medical, dental, and veterinary care in host communities. The U.S. and Philippine armed forces will also visit schools and community centers to donate school supplies, food, books, sporting equipment, and toys. The U.S. Navy’s CARAT group includes the USS Harpers Ferry from Sasebo, Japan; the USS Ford from Everett, Washington; and the USS Jarrett from San Diego, California. Approximately 1,400 U.S. personnel will take part in the CARAT exercises, including personnel such as U.S. Navy Seabees, U.S. Navy and Army doctors, and U.S. Army veterinarians who will participate in humanitarian projects. As multinational responses to regional emergencies such as the December 2004 tsunami become increasingly common, it is mutually beneficial for friends and allies to train together to improve interoperability and build friendly, cooperative relations.

You can also contact the U.S. Embassy Press Office at 02-528-6300 x2363 for information regarding the CARAT exercises.

Last Update :: 05/25/2007

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/USEmbassy.jpg

------------------------------------------------------------------------
http://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwhs175.html

Arkdriver

May 31st, 2007, 10:19 AM

Philippine Navy boat looks like a fisherman boat with gun.

Arkdriver

May 31st, 2007, 10:38 AM

Australia and Philippines sign defence pact
By Rob Taylor

CANBERRA (Reuters) - The Philippines and Australia on Thursday signed a defence pact which will see elite Australian commandos and soldiers train Philippines troops to step up the fight against insurgents in the troubled south.

Philippines President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and Australian Prime Minister John Howard signed an agreement which will also see Canberra supply 28 high-speed gunboats to help security forces fight Islamic militants and communist rebels.

Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo (L) shakes hands with Australian Prime Minister John Howard in Canberra May 31, 2007. (REUTERS/Greg Wood/Pool)
"Our allies help us root out and destroy these vicious killers who ply their dislocated and evil ideology on the innocent," Arroyo told reporters in the Australian capital.

The pact will clear the way for Australian troops, including elite Special Air Services soldiers, to train and exercise with Philippines forces, but would not lead to Australian bases in the country, the Philippines government said.

"Only training, education and development," Philippines Defense Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane told Reuters.

The Philippines' constitution bars foreign troops on its soil unless their presence is covered by a treaty.

Ebdane said Australian security forces could also help with forensic work and disaster relief, and cooperate in the hunt for militants based in the Philippines but linked to the Jemaah Islamiah extremist group.

Arroyo said the pact would help "modernise and professionalise" the Philippines armed forces, like a similar agreement between her country and close ally the United States, which already donates millions of dollars in military aid.

Howard, whose country has never suffered a terrorist attack on home soil, said there was no room for complacency in the war against extremists.

"The greater cooperation -- particularly training exercises involving counter-terrorism that will come out of the status of forces agreement -- is to be widely welcomed," he said.

The Australian-donated patrol boats will be used by Philippines army commandos to patrol shallow marshlands in the south, where suspected Muslim militants are hiding.

The boats, worth $4 million, would be delivered late in 2007 and could also be used in shallow rivers in other parts of the country, where communist rebels have a strong presence.

Australia will also fund Filipino soldiers attending advanced training and education at Australian war colleges.

Australia's Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said aid would also be increased by almost A$32 million ($26 million) to the Philippines to help tackle poverty and boost infrastructure, with overall aid to reach A$100 million over the next year.

Arroyo was visiting Australia to try and boost trade and investment ties currently worth A$1.7 billion.

Australia has been trying to build security ties with Southeast Asian nations to crackdown on Jemaah Islamiah, blamed for bombings in Indonesia which have killed 92 Australians.

el_dasik_oo1

May 31st, 2007, 10:58 AM

yey! Me Defense Forces thread na pala dito.. hehehe..

Ewan ko kung nadiscuss or napost na ito dito..

http://www.geocities.com/mx8armor/IMG_1743.jpg
*Taken from Philippine Defense Forces Forum (http://pdff.sytes.net/)*

MX-8 "Barako", Philippine-Made Armored Vehicle.

Armor Level : Equivalent to Simba APC
Mobility : Equivalent to Humvee (with shorter turning radius), 4X4
Maintenance : Commercially available parts, low cost (no foreign dependence on parts)
Design & Manufacture : 100% Filipino (same guys who made the kalakian)
Cost : 1/3 compared to imported

Current Status: AFP testing *daw*

gen1

May 31st, 2007, 11:46 AM

Wind Shear

May 31st, 2007, 06:01 PM

^^ I will take an exception of Talisman gun truck. It's battle tested.

gen1

June 1st, 2007, 01:57 AM

IMO, instead of buying bakal the AFP should upgrade the armaments of our Light Infantry and Marine Batallions.

The current threat are insurgents. The best force to deal with these threats are well-trained light infantry and small unit special forces.

Instead of spending 55M for the two ARV's, maybe they could have instead bought Bushmasters with the money. It could have been enough to upgrade the small arms of one or two brigades (kung matino ang procurement agency).

gen1

June 1st, 2007, 02:10 AM

^^ I will take an exception of Talisman gun truck. It's battle tested.

Isn't that an M35 6x6 military truck up-armored by the marines and armed with a couple of saws ?

TheAvenger

June 1st, 2007, 03:10 AM

Philippine Navy boat looks like a fisherman boat with gun.

that is only used for pirates and terrorist. we have a bigger Navy ... the
US Navy, for external threats .......... :)

Arkdriver

June 1st, 2007, 01:28 PM

that is only used for pirates and terrorist. we have a bigger Navy ... the
US Navy, for external threats .......... :)

hahaha yeah everyone would love to have US Navy protecting their waters. But once again, overdependent on foreign power.

seems like Philippines never capable of doing the really basic job on its own...we build airport, loan from japan or adb, to look after our sovereignty, we turned to US.

Imagine vietnam era helicopter still being used and its donated!!!

where're all money gone??

TheAvenger

June 1st, 2007, 02:30 PM

hahaha yeah everyone would love to have US Navy protecting their waters. But once again, overdependent on foreign power.

seems like Philippines never capable of doing the really basic job on its own...we build airport, loan from japan or adb, to look after our sovereignty, we turned to US.

Imagine vietnam era helicopter still being used and its donated!!!

where're all money gone??

you know where !!!!

In the pockets of politicians and high position government bureaucrats : in their pork barrels, in their percentages and commissions in multi-million dollars projects, and they stashed it in foreign bank accounts.

el_dasik_oo1

June 2nd, 2007, 08:52 AM

We only have one Light Armor Division composed of what, maybe three tank and 2 mechanized infantry battalions.

Even if we replace all the APCs of this division, there is no volume to justify the development cost of a home grown APC.

And you cannot just put off-the-shelf commecial transmissions and engines to assemble a "sarao" type APC. It's likely to fail in the stresses of battle.

in the type of insurgency war the AFP is facing, we're better off with additional orders or the upgrading of our existing simbas (aren't these assembled in the Phil under license) and maybe up-armormed humvees.

I think this is part of Self-Reliance Development Program (SRDP). Mas maganda na yung me dinedevelop tayo na sariling atin kesa naman magrely tayo lagi sa mga gawa ng ibang bansa.. In the future, ang AFP rin naman makikinabang.. I won't question the capabilities of our developers and engineers. I believe kayang kaya nila tapatan ang mga gawa ng ibang bansa.

Teka, Nakita mo na ba yung mga dinedevelop ng mga Marines (example, yung MSSR)?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqaOgt7JS7g

gen1

June 2nd, 2007, 09:48 AM

MSSR - iyon ba ang modified na M16A1?

sa mga branches, ok talaga ang marines. disiplinado. tindi ng brotherhood nila. kahit npa na kalaban nila, may respeto sa kanila.

el_dasik_oo1

June 2nd, 2007, 10:03 AM

yep yun nga.. Ginagamit na ng Marines sa anti-insurgency campaign nila sa Mindanao. Actually meron pang mga baril na minodify ng pinoy pero private firm(FERFRANS ata yun) ang gumawa nun. I think most of their guns eh ginagamit na ng PNP-Cebu.. I think mga pang-CQB *tama ba yun? Close Quarters Battle*..

el_dasik_oo1

June 2nd, 2007, 10:09 AM

Air Force to phase out Hueys
By Anthony Vargas, Reporter
The Manila Times (http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/may/28/yehey/metro/20070528met1.html)
Monday May 28, 2007

THE Philippine Air Force (PAF) plans to retire its Vietnam Warera UH-1H, or Huey helicopters, in the next six years as part of the modernization plan of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

The PAF chief, Lt. Gen. Horacio Tolentino, said Sunday that the Huey would be phased out slowly in the coming years as the military acquires new aircraft and helicopters.

“Maybe in 2013 [Huey helicopters] would have been phased out. What we’re eyeing is a gradual phaseout,” Tolentino told defense reporters in a recent interview.

The replacement for the Hueys which had saw many actions, fighting leftist and Moro secessionist rebels, will be procured under the AFP’s ongoing multibillion modernization program.

“They will be replaced by new ones… what is definite [here] is that we are buying new ones. Helicopters and aircraft,” Tolentino said.

While waiting for the arrival of the new helicopters, the Air Force chief, who himself was a Huey pilot during his younger years in the military, said the Air Force will have to maximize the use of the Hueys.

“As of now, what we need to do now is to maximize its use. We are going to utilize them till the last drop,” Tolentino said while recalling his missions while flying the Huey.

“It’s a dependable aircraft and I can attest to that… I have flown it in many missions and I was once hit by gunfire, but it still managed to fly us back to base,” Tolentino said.

He said they have already submitted with the defense department almost two months ago the specifications of the Hueys replacement that they are eyeing for.

“There are many options out there… they could be for transport of attack or even a combination of both,” said Tolentino adding that the defense department is initiating a bidding process for the new aircraft.

The defense department has already organized a single bids and awards committee that would be oversees the acquisition of the new aircraft under the AFP’s modernization program.

The series of acquisition for the new helicopters have been lined in the next years, one of which was under the P5 billion that was ordered released by President Arroyo last January.

At present, the Air Force has some 40 Huey’s in its inventory and being used for troop transport or insertion to battlefields, close air support, medical evacuation, search and rescue and transports of VIPs.

The number is apart from the 11 Hueys the Air Force is set to receive in the next few months. The incoming Hueys were President George Bush’s pledged during his state visit several years ago.

Late last month, a Huey helicopter crashed in Lapu-lapu City in Cebu, its main rotor blade got entangled with nylon strings used in flying kites, killing seven civilians and two Air Force personnel.

Early last week, another Huey helicopter had crashed in Liloan town, some 12 kilometers from its base. No one was reported hurt in the crash, which was traced to pilot’s miscalculation.

-------------------------

*Medyo late na napost ito.. * It's about time.. Pero do the AFP have the money to buy new ones? :dunno:

gen1

June 2nd, 2007, 10:15 AM

pag small arms, marami tayong magaling na gunsmith. mga taga- danao:)

proceed na ba sa pag-gawa ng MSSR?

may mga nagsasabing pangit kasi ang 5.56 round pang sniper. madaling madeflect ng mga sanga-sanga sa gubat ang 5.56. M14 pa rin daw ang paborito nila.

el_dasik_oo1

June 2nd, 2007, 10:35 AM

As far as I know (and according dun sa mga nababasa ko sa PDFF), Third Gen na ng MSSR.. :D

Yun nga rin iniisip ko eh.. Pero sabi nga nung iba, depende na rin yan sa gumagamit.. Tsaka I think pang-close range sniping or parang immediate lang ata ito. Medyo ideal siya sa environment natin dito since puro gubat-gubat dito..

gen1

June 2nd, 2007, 12:48 PM

ah, oo. depende talaga yan sa gumagamit. kahit gaano kaganda gamit ang sundalo, kung mahina naman ang loob, eh wala rin :)

kung marines at scout ranger, kahit tirador lang bigay mo dyan, sabog ihi ng kalaban :lol:

(uy, exageration lang yan ha. bihira naman silang iharap sa mahinang kalaban :lol: :lol: )

pero logistics wise, ok yan. isang klaseng bala lang ang kailangan mong i-stock para sa assault, sniping, and automatic weapon mo.

el_dasik_oo1

June 4th, 2007, 10:45 AM

yan nga kelangan ng Armed Forces ngayon.. Yung tipong all-around at flexible para kasya sa budget..

Ang maganda sa kanila ngayon eh nagsisimula na sila magdevelop ng sariling atin.. Sana lang magtuloy tuloy na mga ito at hindi mapunta sa basurahan.. :)

bitoy

June 11th, 2007, 08:37 PM

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20070609/capt.mla10106090527.philippines__us_helicopters_mla101.jpg
Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo 3rd right, listens to U.S. Ambassador Kristie Kenney, 2nd right, beside the helicopter during its turn-over ceremony Saturday, June 9, 2007 at the Philippine Air Force headquarters in suburban Paranaque, south of Manila. Arroyo received the first 9 of 20 refurbished UH-1H helicopters donated by the United States to help defeat the 38-year-old communists insurgency and terror group. Others are Navy Chief Vice Admiral Rogelio Calunsag, left, Chief of Staff Hermogenes Esperon, 2nd left, Defense Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane, 3rd left, and Air Force Chief Lt. Gen. Horacio Tolentino right. (AP Photo/Pat Roque)

GMA: Are they safe?

Kenney: Nah! you'll find out. :nuts:

Another Huey figures in accident

By Tarra Quismundo
Inquirer
Last updated 09:44pm (Mla time) 06/11/2007

MANILA, Philippines -- A day after the military received 10 restored helicopters from the United States, the Philippine Air Force grounded its fleet of UH-1H choppers as another unit made a troubled landing at an elevation of 7,600 feet in Mt. Province on Sunday.

smokingunmanila

June 11th, 2007, 09:19 PM

Yan ang mga donations ni Uncle Sam..yung babagsak nalang...tapos sasabihin nila malaki utang na loob natin sa US? duh!

jgacis

June 11th, 2007, 09:24 PM

^^ Filipinos need to learn that it is not how new the equipment is, it's also about the training and maintenance.

How "new" and "modern" an equipment is plays an important part, but the AFP needs to also emphasize on better training.

All I hear about are the donations and new equipment the AFP are receiving, but what about the management and training programs??? That plays a big part as well, and until that gets overhauled no amount of new or refurbished equipment is going to help the Philippine military....

gen1

June 11th, 2007, 09:52 PM

jgacis

June 11th, 2007, 10:01 PM

^^ Well, that's good to hear if the Philippine Air Force mechanics are superb. I know that filipinos are very industrious and I don't doubt that. Btw, I'm an aircraft mechanic myself in the USAF and I'm very well aware how maintenance and training affects the safety of aircraft. That goes not only for the mechanics but for the aircrew as well. Budget allocations in the AFP are published for new equipment, but I also want to see transparency in the allocations on the human resources side.

How much is allocated for training and overhaul of better management/leaders?

gen1

June 11th, 2007, 10:15 PM

^^ our boys combat rations consist of sardines, instant noodles, and rice. money for training ? we can't even afford to provide our troops with sufficient protein in the field :ohno:

Intelligence funds, there's were the money is allocated. :nuts:

bariQ

June 11th, 2007, 11:23 PM

HAPPY 109th PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE DAY!!!:banana: :banana:

gen1

June 12th, 2007, 01:36 AM

Hueys are very maintenance intensive. If I remember right, rule of thumb is 5 manhours of maintenance for every hour in the air. And an overhaul every 1000 hours.

Forego maintenance and the choppers start falling from the sky.

I have no doubt our air force mechanics are superb. It's the availability of the necessary spares that I doubt.

Oops. Remembered wrong. It's the new blackhawks with the 5 manhour per flighthour maintenance requirement.

The older hueys require a whopping 38 maintenance manhours per flight hour.

Askal82

June 12th, 2007, 01:38 AM

Yan ang mga donations ni Uncle Sam..yung babagsak nalang...tapos sasabihin nila malaki utang na loob natin sa US? duh!

May naalala akong nakita sa diyaryo ng Inquirer nun, mga kabaong lumilipad na may elisi ang caricature. Title ata eh Flying Coffins :lol:

Askal82

June 12th, 2007, 01:46 AM

-dp-

bitoy

June 12th, 2007, 01:59 AM

Yan ang mga donations ni Uncle Sam..yung babagsak nalang...tapos sasabihin nila malaki utang na loob natin sa US? duh!

Ang bumagsak ay yung lumang HUEY, training and maintenance is really a must on any equipments. Gamitin ba namang pang-pamilyang pamamasyal pa ng iba yung hindi dapat gamitin.

our boys combat rations consist of sardines, instant noodles, and rice. money for training ? we can't even afford to provide our troops with sufficient protein in the field

Intelligence funds, there's were the money is allocated.

Only the senior officers avail of all those funds. Kawawa ang mga nasa lower ranks. If not for the resourcefulness of the Pinoys in the military, most of them might have join the politics. :lol:
On the R & D side, the Philippine military once developed their own field rations for the troops, I just wondered what happened to that project.

gen1

June 12th, 2007, 02:36 AM

the backbone of our "fighting" air force are the 40 or so hueys, the dozen or so mg520 gunships and the OV10 broncos.

in the USAF the combat readiness of Hueys is around 70% (which means 3 of of 10 choppers are in various stages of maintenance and not available). It's safe to bet that the combat readiness of our hueys is much lower :)

so at the rate the choppers are dropping out of the sky, we won't have any airworthy fighting birds left in our air force (unless you send in the big birds they say in the other thread are in the senate :lol: )

but I'd rather have those reconditioned hueys than the brand new italian aircraft certain politicians love to push for. remember the brand new italian S211 whose sale brokered by joe deV a few years back ? how many are still flying ? none, a big fat zero.

In the kind of war the AFP is currently fighting, we would've been better off with reconditioned OV-10s or hueys.

Wind Shear

June 12th, 2007, 04:04 AM

gen1, you forgot to mention of Skyflakes biscuits. :lol:

Besides, protein is not necessary for Combat Rations. Most of Combat Rations contains carbohydrates.

MilkyXplosion

June 12th, 2007, 04:33 PM

________________________

MilkyXplosion

June 12th, 2007, 04:55 PM

__________________________________________________

MilkyXplosion

June 12th, 2007, 05:02 PM

___________________________________________________

MilkyXplosion

June 12th, 2007, 05:11 PM

______________________________________________

bitoy

June 12th, 2007, 06:21 PM

^^ Kakatawa yung comments mo about the presidential plane and the C-130 bottoming..:lol:

I will always remember the Blue Diamonds F-86 Sabres performance/show when I was a kid. I was always impressed by our military until in the 70's ~poof! what happened? parang biglang nabulok lahat.

In acquiring military equipments especially vehicles or planes, the maintenance and training expenses are almost the same cost of each unit( as I was told) maybe more.
A well kept Huey is comparable to a B-52 on its lifespan. Some military observers are amazed that those Hueys left behind in Vietnam still fly occasionally. (Where do they get the spare parts?) guess where..:lol:

el_dasik_oo1

June 13th, 2007, 05:10 AM

^sayang yung mga crusaders.. As far as I know, mga ilang years lang siya nagamit.. Maselan daw kasi yung eroplano at parang hindi "hiyang" sa environment natin dito..

Kung natuloy lang yung mga Layang at Hummingbird projects ni Col. Villaruel (teka tama ba? yung tauhan ni Ramos na pinatay sa NAIA Control Tower), eh di sana me sarili na tayong mga eroplano at helicopter.. Regarding sa Hummingbird, sana nakakuha tayo ng license sa Eurocopter(?). I think yun naman isyu dun kesyo pinirata daw.

Meron pang isa eh.. pero di ko masyado tanda.. Yung "Cali Pinto" project.. Better check PDFF for details.. hehe

Marami rin nasayang na project ang AFP.. Yung Layang, Cali at Hummingbird.. Yung Bongbong missile ba yun?, MX-1 Kalakian, etc.. Sana naman yung mga current katulad nung mga project ng marines, MX-8, yung MX-7(?), hindi masayang..

bitoy

June 13th, 2007, 06:12 AM

^sayang yung mga crusaders.. As far as I know, mga ilang years lang siya nagamit.. Maselan daw kasi yung eroplano at parang hindi "hiyang" sa environment natin dito..

Correct me if I'm wrong, those crusaders were used by the USN as their carrier based fighters, kaya siguradong hihina ang mainframe nito sa catch during carrier landings. And last I heard was most were damaged by the Pinatubo explosion.

Kung natuloy lang yung mga Layang at Hummingbird projects ni Col. Villaruel (teka tama ba? yung tauhan ni Ramos na pinatay sa NAIA Control Tower), eh di sana me sarili na tayong mga eroplano at helicopter.. Regarding sa Hummingbird, sana nakakuha tayo ng license sa Eurocopter(?). I think yun naman isyu dun kesyo pinirata daw.

Meron pang isa eh.. pero di ko masyado tanda.. Yung "Cali Pinto" project.. Better check PDFF for details.. hehe

Marami rin nasayang na project ang AFP.. Yung Layang, Cali at Hummingbird.. Yung Bongbong missile ba yun?, MX-1 Kalakian, etc.. Sana naman yung mga current katulad nung mga project ng marines, MX-8, yung MX-7(?), hindi masayang..

There are many projects of the military in R & D, pera($$$) lang talaga ang kailangan, kung meron budget man, we don't know where it is going.
Housing for military personnels and families is one of their main problem before.

el_dasik_oo1

June 13th, 2007, 06:24 AM

Correct me if I'm wrong, those crusaders were used by the USN as their carrier based fighters, kaya siguradong hihina ang mainframe nito sa catch during carrier landings. And last I heard was most were damaged by the Pinatubo explosion.

I think they were.. Yung iba dun parang kita pa yung markings ng US (Di ko lang sure kung ng airforce o ng Navy.. Pero baka nga Navy).

There are many projects of the military in R & D, pera($$$) lang talaga ang kailangan, kung meron budget man, we don't know where it is going.
Housing for military personnels and families is one of their main problem before.

Isama mo na rin dyan ang politics.. I think hindi problema yung pera kung hindi lang dahil sa pulitika, di ba? That makes me wonder.. Bakit nga ba hilig ng mga ito sa pulitika? hmmm..

TheAvenger

June 13th, 2007, 07:02 AM

Yan ang mga donations ni Uncle Sam..yung babagsak nalang...tapos sasabihin nila malaki utang na loob natin sa US? duh!

nagbago ang ihip ng hangin... now you are a leftist troll ... he he he

or very soon the retired mod will brand you a leftist troll ... :)

jonno

June 13th, 2007, 07:17 AM

nagbago ang ihip ng hangin... now you are a leftist troll ... he he he

or very soon the retired mod will brand you a leftist troll ... :)

hehehe, nah we don't blame people for what they give or don't give... the wise thing for the Philippines to do is to engage with other countries in terms of security and like..this is what GMA is doing right now with AUSTRALIa thou the defence pact has to be approved by the Senate...I actually have a feeling that the US is kind of pressured (by themselves) into delivering their promise of giving us choppers/helicopters because Australia have promised I think 10 to 20 new boats. This may sound radical but I think we should also consider (just a feasibility study), some sort of joint training/exercise/relationship/etc. with China in terms of military or defence. China of course is poised to be one of the world's superpowers and economically speaking we are developing a very substantial relationship with them. We don't blame US but US should not also blame us for doing that. We are of course independent of the US and our foremost interest would be our national interest - whether we sleep with the US, Australia, China or Russia or all of them is up to us as long as it serves our interests.

el_dasik_oo1

June 13th, 2007, 10:11 AM

^mas maganda nga yan na hindi na tayo nagiging dependent sa US.. Anyway, ano nga ba nagawa nila sa atin?..

bariQ

June 13th, 2007, 10:18 AM

^^mas maganda kung dedepende tayo sa sarili natin, mayroon naman tayong shipyards, mayroon tayong gunmakers na world class, marunong naman tayo sa pagkontrol ng terorismo! kaya natin yan. WILL lang talaga kelangan!

gen1

June 13th, 2007, 11:05 AM

Actually sir our S211 are flying perfectly and was kept in pristine condition albeit its usage is now contrained on the "proper handling envelope" and was prevented to do unusual combat maneuvers to prevent accidents and further loss of assets.

I also doubt whether JDV brokered the sale but If ever I'm sure there was never a monetary exchange on this because the payments for these aircrafts were made by trading in So-En panties (no joke) and Del Monte Pineapples among other fruits like mangoes and stuffs.

That's good to know :) I was under the impression that they had been grounded. Are the remaining S211 still configured as attack aircraft or has it reverted to its original purspose as a trainer.

I just did a quick google and scrounged up some info regarding the S211. Turns out that only 60 S211 worldwide has been built and we have 28 of the 60 (?) And that today we only have 5 remaining airworthy S211.

But if we got the planes in exchange for panties OK na iyan, bargain :)

Ano kaya kung may kasamang mga japayuki iyong mga panty, bigyan kaya tayo ng Raptor ? :lol:

ravenhawk

June 13th, 2007, 11:16 AM

^^ goodness!! ano bang nangyayari sa atin? are we really that poor that were paying underwears and fruits in exchange for arms!! :lol:

el_dasik_oo1

June 13th, 2007, 11:26 AM

^^ goodness!! ano bang nangyayari sa atin? are we really that poor that were paying underwears and fruits in exchange for arms!! :lol:

um, what's so funny with underwears and fruits? Isa yan sa mga bumubuhay sa pinas.. Exports pare.. Exports :)

BariQ: me will naman pare.. wala lang money.. ergh.. and syempre politics..

Gen1: ang alam ko din na meron pang lumilipad na PAF S211 pero di nga lang masyado ginagamit.. Minsanan na lang.. Siguro for air superiority kuno na lang..

Regarding sa Raptor.. malabo yan.. baka Cobra pwede pa. :lol:

Arkdriver

June 13th, 2007, 11:32 AM

el_dasik_oo1

June 13th, 2007, 11:38 AM

^^ Never underestimate the power of Banana. Sama mo na rin siguro yung lambanog.. :banana:

Well kung magboom yung alternative fuels.. baka pwede magexport ng BioDiesel..
o yan Gen1 baka jan kumagat ang US sa Raptor.. :lol:

ravenhawk

June 13th, 2007, 11:50 AM

Malaysia bought 28 (or 40) Main Battle Tank (MBT) from Poland and they paid by fruits. Hehehehe. I mean they trade it with palm oil with no cash at all...and considering palm oil price soar lately, the Polish got more than they bargain and Malaysian got their stuff....

Maybe GMA should consider paying the Japs or American with banana...:lol:

^^ Never underestimate the power of Banana. Sama mo na rin siguro yung lambanog.. :banana:

Well kung magboom yung alternative fuels.. baka pwede magexport ng BioDiesel..
o yan Gen1 baka jan kumagat ang US sa Raptor.. :lol:

haha! :lol Pero I've heard nga na prevalent ang trading in sa mga major defence deals. I just wasnt aware that ours used panties!(anubayan!:ohno: :lol:) Akala ko bigas at copra lang. I remeber Saudi used their oils in the massive Al Yamama defence deals and the recent Eurofighters deals. Sana nga next time we could trade in biofuels to the Americans. Pero kung gusto nila ng "grahero type" panties pwede namin silang suplayan:lol: :lol:

@gen1 parang malabo yung Raptor,besides alam naman natin if you buy something from states maraming If's and buts. Even the British had a hardtime getting proper codes for the JSF. I prefer the long range Su-34IB or the Su-30MKI with helmet mounted displays. pero kahit kahit upgraded F-16 or F-18 pwede na

gen1

June 13th, 2007, 12:00 PM

@ravenhawk - joke lang yung sa raptor :)

kapag airforce, mas kailangan natin dito ang close support aircraft; A10s (mura na siguro ito), scout helicopters or even better, attack helicopters; utility choppers.

wala pa naman tayong external threats sa ngayon, kaya hindi pa natin kailangan ang high performance, air superiority aircraft.

el_dasik_oo1

June 13th, 2007, 12:01 PM

^^ baka kaya panties kasi madami tayo supply ng mga ganyan. Punta ka lang sa mga palengke, sa mga tiangge, surplus at sa divisoria marami kang makikitang nagtitinda ng mga ganyan. makukulay pa at me mga message pa. :lol:

Gen1: Malabo pa yung mga A10s.. Ginagamit pa nila yun eh.. Kung scout Helis.. How about OH-*something* Kiowa warrior? Sayang talaga yung cobra..

gradually retire na nila yung mga UH-1.. kalahati pa lang ng taon dami na agad aksidente.. :(

ravenhawk

June 13th, 2007, 12:06 PM

TheAvenger

June 13th, 2007, 02:08 PM

Photos of the military contingent in the Rizal Park celebrations of the
June 12th Independence Day.

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/132chiefstaff.jpg

The Chief of Staffs of the Armed Forces of the Philippines or the commander of the Major services
of AFP.

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/134chiefstaff.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/135.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/136PMA.jpg

Cadets of the Philippine Military Academy.

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/137pma.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/138pma.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/139paf.jpg

Philippine Air Force contingent ( I guess since their uniform were blue )

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/140XX.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/141.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/142.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/143.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/144.jpg

Officers and men of the Philippine Navy.

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/145.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/146.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/147.jpg

Not sure of this contingent where they belong (perhaps the Coast Guard)

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/148.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/149.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/150.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/152females.jpg

Looks they were all females in the Armed Forces.

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/153.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/154females.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/176x.jpg

The Officers and men of the Philippine Army.

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/178marines.jpg

The Officers and men of the Philippine Marine Corp.

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/179.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/180.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/181.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/182.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/183.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/184.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/185.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/186.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/187.jpg

The Philippine's United Nation Contingent ( our Foreign Legion )

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/188.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/189.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/191.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/190.jpg

The Philippine Army

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/177.jpg

The Officers and men of the Philippine Army

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t218/jibrael_2008/155.jpg

You may see also the about 150 photos of the Independence Day at the
thread :

Luzon MANILA, My MANILA - Tradition and Modernity - T10

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?p=13696990#post13696990

Rasputin

June 15th, 2007, 06:42 AM

bariQ

June 15th, 2007, 07:40 AM

Wah! ang hi tech naman! pano kaya nila ginagawa yun?

zeejay

June 15th, 2007, 08:17 AM

We are indeed very good in Parades... Parades Only...

I envy Thailand's Military Power... (To think we are economically even almost in all aspect...)

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=412142&highlight=military

To naman. Hindi lang naman sa parades magaling ang mga sundalo natin. Mahirap din ang pagparada sa araw, lalo na yung silent drill exhibition ng mga kadete. Sobrang training din yan. Hehe. Naghihirap yang mga yan tuwing naaassign sa malalayong lugar na sobrang layo sa pamilya. Halimbawa, taga Tarlac ka sa Sulu ka i-aassign, pag taga Nueva Ecija ka sa Samar ka naman. Anyways, it seems na mahina ang military natin kumpara sa ibang bansa siguro sa aspeto ng mga kagamitan at training. May mga pinapadala naman tayo sa ibang bansa para magtrain at bumalik dito para i-share sa iba pang sundalo ang natutunan.

el_dasik_oo1

June 15th, 2007, 08:17 AM

Lol hahaha! ano namang messages ilalagay dun? "Hands off"? or "Mind your head" ? :lol: wahahahahaa!

Ano na pala nangyari dun sa pag-bili ng Pinas ng Z-9G Helicopters sa China? Sa tingin ko mas okey yun kesa Huey since that was a licenced produced version the French designed Eurocopter AS365. tapos may mga provisions pa for rockets and gun pods

hahahaha! Pwede! :lol:

Kung pamalit sa mga Huey ok lang siguro.. pero kung gawin pang-attack chopper.. teka lang.. medyo skeptical ako dyan pagdating dyan eh.. Baka mya pumalya.. Kung hindi sila makakabili ng mga katulad ng Cobra, eh magdagdag or upgrade na lang yung mga MG520 . FLIR, dagdag ng rocket pads, armor protection. Basta gawin night capable ang mga ibong ito, pwede na. :)

Sino nakakapanood ng Discovery Channel sa inyo? Me magandang series dun ngayon. "Future Weapons" ang name nung program. Grabe astig ang mga finefeature nilang mga under development na mga weapons. :cheers:

el_dasik_oo1

June 15th, 2007, 08:20 AM

We are indeed very good in Parades... Parades Only...

I envy Thailand's Military Power... (To think we are economically even almost in all aspect...)

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=412142&highlight=military

Eh wala tayo magagawa.. ganyan talga. :ohno:

pero para sa akin, yung mga weaponry pa rin ng Singapore ang pinakaastig sa akin.. Grabe Hay-tek! :lol:

gen1

June 15th, 2007, 10:24 AM

OtAkAw

June 15th, 2007, 04:51 PM

^^Ganyan ba yun???

le Reine

June 15th, 2007, 05:39 PM

nakakaloka ang aircraft carrier ng Thailand. Meron rin ba tayo nun?

bitoy

June 15th, 2007, 08:25 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/58/RTN_911_1.jpg

Ito ba yung Air-Carrier ng Thailand?

Naku marami tayo niyan! --- Just like any Pinoy ships, naka parada rin yan dahil walang pondo. :lol:

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/46/RTN_Aircraft_on_OPHC_911_-13-.jpg/407px-RTN_Aircraft_on_OPHC_911_-13-.jpg

Eto, wala rin tayo nitong VTOL at brand new choppers.

In short, kawawa.... hehehe!

bariQ

June 15th, 2007, 10:22 PM

gen1

June 16th, 2007, 02:45 AM

nakakaloka ang aircraft carrier ng Thailand. Meron rin ba tayo nun?

eto, baka mas magustuhan mo. 21 inches ang kanyon niyan :)

matindi pumutok, ano? :lol:

http://img507.imageshack.us/img507/5160/200pxbb61ussiowabb61bronn4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Wind Shear

June 16th, 2007, 03:30 AM

^^ USS Missouri.

Isang Navy SEAL frogman lang ang katapat sa barko (kahit anong barko). Boom!

portludlow

June 16th, 2007, 07:09 AM

Military assured of P5b to buy modern choppers
http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/?page=politics3_june16_2007
The Department of Budget and Management has released P5 billion to buy new, night-vision capable helicopters as the Armed Forces has set a five-year phaseout of the decades-old UH-IH (Hueys) choppers, which have been dubbed as “flying coffins.”

Budget Secretary Rolando Andaya Jr. said the purchase of new choppers is part of the Armed Forces Modernization Program which is aimed at upgrading the capability of the military to combat terrorism and transnational crimes.

“This is a very important project, and the government is keeping its commitment to release P5 billion every year for the modernization program,” Andaya said.

According to Armed Forces Chief Hermogenes Esperon Jr., the military will no longer buy second-hand helicopters.

But he declined to give the exact model that the Armed Forces has in mind, saying a public bidding will first be conducted to match the needs of the military with the prices of brand-new helicopters in the market.

The Air Force said it would be retiring Hueys, whose average age is 60 years, in the next six years.

The crash-prone choppers were mostly donated by the United States government which used them extensively during the Vietnam War.

But the Air Force will retain a few attack choppers such as the MG-520s out of the 41 units currently being used by the military in internal security operations and in relief operations.

The Philippines has one of the region’s most poorly equipped Armed Forces, with no available fighter jets and with Navy vessels dating back to World War II.

This year, at least two Hueys have crashed, killing seven civilians and two Air Force personnel in the Cebu incident. Joyce Pangco Pañares

sana ito na lang ang bilhin nila. :nuts: :lol:

http://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/mi28/images/havoc1.jpg

el_dasik_oo1

June 17th, 2007, 09:18 AM

Hindi mo masyado kailangan ng high tech na armanents para maging isang winning na army. lakas at tibay ng loob ng sundalo ang kailangan.

tingnan mo ang North Vietnamese Army (NVA). walang navy and air force to speak of pero tinalo nila France, United States, at China. haba nga lang ng giyera, pero panalo pa rin.

Isabong mo ang vietnamese army sa thai army, pihadong butata ang mga thai. pustahan pa tayo :lol:

Pero malaking factor pa rin yung me maganda kang armaments. Tignan mo nangyari sa Iraq nung first gulf war. Andami nilang mga tanke pero napulbos sila. :lol:

Tsaka isa pa.. Hindi lang lakas at tibay ng loob, isa pa yung training ng sundalo at knowledge niya ng battlefield.. Kung wala nyan, kahit ano pa tibay mo ng loob at lakas, tatalo ka pa din.. Teka hindi ba kaya natalo yung "Allied" forces eh wala sila experience sa Jungle warfare? kaya tamo sila ngayon nakikipag-war exercise sila sa atin kasi para matrain sila pagdating sa mga ganyan. :D

el_dasik_oo1

June 17th, 2007, 09:20 AM

^^ USS Missouri.

Isang Navy SEAL frogman lang ang katapat sa barko (kahit anong barko). Boom!

Kapag nakahuli ng JI o ng Abu, yan ang ipadala sa barkong yan. tamo isang bomba lang yan wala na yan. :lol:

bitoy

June 18th, 2007, 03:26 AM

http://www.israeli-weapons.com/weapons/small_arms/corner_shot/corner_shot_7.jpg

We need these weapons. :lol:

http://www.army-technology.com/contractor_images/corner_shot/Corner-Shot-5.jpg

smokingunmanila

June 18th, 2007, 04:06 AM

Siguro masarap maging sundalo dyan..sarap ng pagkain sa bapor nila...like tom yang, pad thai noodles with oyster, etc..

beads_strawberries

June 18th, 2007, 05:20 AM

^^ Indeed, life of our soldiers is not that easy. They have to risk their lives for the country. They have to be away from their families just to protect the state and the people from greater harm. They are not even fully compensated, considering that their very life is at stake.

But we cannot deny the fact that our soldiers will really do everything to defend the State to stop those terrorist threats.

gen1

June 18th, 2007, 07:22 AM

http://www.israeli-weapons.com/weapons/small_arms/corner_shot/corner_shot_7.jpg

We need these weapons. :lol:

Looks like a silenced pistol (45?) with a special trigger housing to allow it to shoot at an angle.

Pam-perya lang yan :). It takes a pretty good marksman to be consistently lethal at ranges over 10meters with a pistol. A 45 cal round is also very easily stopped by body armor.

bitoy

June 18th, 2007, 07:34 AM

Looks like a silenced pistol (45?) with a special trigger housing to allow it to shoot at an angle.

Pam-perya lang yan :). It takes a pretty good marksman to be consistently lethal at ranges over 10meters with a pistol. A 45 cal round is also very easily stopped by body armor.

You can attached any short sub-machine-gun also on that device.

:lol: pang perya ba?, you don't want to be at the receiving end of a 45 or a 9mm bullet even with a body armor on you.

gen1

June 18th, 2007, 07:50 AM

Eto ang next generation warrior - think of the marines in the movie Aliens.

Their assault rifle has an add-on targeting system that lets the soldier see where the rifle is aimed at all times. Each dismounted soldier also has a computer, sensors, GPS, and communication systems that lets the platoon leader know where his boys are at all times. that info can also be relayed to a higher level, if needed.

Now if only the system could lose the connecting wires and start using bluetooth tech :) . . .

http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/9516/landwarriorlwb1pl0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img467.imageshack.us/img467/8479/landwarrior11xz2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

gen1

June 18th, 2007, 07:56 AM

You can attached any short sub-machine-gun also on that device.

:lol: pang perya ba?, you don't want to be at the receiving end of a 45 or a 9mm bullet even with a body armor on you.

:lol: kahit 22rimfire lang, ayokong maging nasa receiving end. :lol:

el_dasik_oo1

June 18th, 2007, 11:12 AM

http://www.sg.hu/kep/2005_03/sg9_12.jpg

metal storm handgun. Walang mechanical parts pwera lang yung bala. :D

rage@cebu

June 24th, 2007, 10:57 AM

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20070609/capt.mla10106090527.philippines__us_helicopters_mla101.jpg

spot the hueys.... hehehehe

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/IMG_2301.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/IMG_2302.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/IMG_2303.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/IMG_2306.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/IMG_2307.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/IMG_2308.jpg

Skyblade

June 24th, 2007, 11:34 AM

Didn't notice that we are in Mk. II until I finally decided to venture off from lurking in the Transport and Infrastructure forum. ;)

Thanks for sharing the Independence Day parade photos, TheAvenger as well as shots of a recently delivered batch of Hueys, rage@cebu! Malaysia bought 28 (or 40) Main Battle Tank (MBT) from Poland and they paid by fruits. Hehehehe. I mean they trade it with palm oil with no cash at all...and considering palm oil price soar lately, the Polish got more than they bargain and Malaysian got their stuff....

Maybe GMA should consider paying the Japs or American with banana...:lol:

If ever I'm sure there was never a monetary exchange on this because the payments for these aircrafts were made by trading in So-En panties (no joke) and Del Monte Pineapples among other fruits like mangoes and stuffs.

Indeed the Philippines counter-trade agreement with Italy which included lingerie but I'm I've heard conflicting reports that it was either exchanged fully or as a partial payment for the trainers. Thailand also had some sort of similar barter w/ Sweden three years ago which included agricultural products if it were to order the JAS39.

jgacis

June 25th, 2007, 07:59 AM

Indeed the Philippines counter-trade agreement with Italy which included lingerie but I'm I've heard conflicting reports that it was either exchanged fully or as a partial payment for the trainers. Thailand also had some sort of similar barter w/ Sweden three years ago which included agricultural products if it were to order the JAS39.

It's a shame that military equipment has to be traded for commodities like those mentioned...

That only shows the kind of quality military equipment other countries are willing to trade to asian countries like the Philippines... :ohno:

gen1

June 25th, 2007, 03:23 PM

It's a shame that military equipment has to be traded for commodities like those mentioned...

That only shows the kind of quality military equipment other countries are willing to trade to asian countries like the Philippines... :ohno:

On the contrary I think it's rather astute horsetrading :)

jgacis

June 25th, 2007, 07:22 PM

On the contrary I think it's rather astute horsetrading :)

Perhaps, but one man's junk is another man's treasure.

Philippine military should focus on its human resources side more diligently and weed out the corruption among its ranks.

Also, emphasis should be placed on training not only with soldiers, but the leadership among the officers.

With lesser corruption and improved leadership/training, the Philippine military will have better use of its upgraded military equipment.

Lucentino

June 26th, 2007, 02:44 AM

^Most officers were graduates of PMA... is it the place where they learn the culture of corruption?... or were these people changed by time... and/or opportunity?...
When a cadet/student graduates from PMA, they and their relatives are full of pride --- is it pride that emanates from the thinking that down the road, these graduates would become high ranking officials with large houses and top of the line SUV's --- or even become famous politicians and influential people of the society...

In the late 80's (and perhaps until now), some soldiers sell their service fire arms and munition to the "elements" (communist, et al.)... they reason poverty... some even say "What will you do with pride and medals? You can't feed your family with those..."

So has this become a widely accepted reason at present? That we cannot feed the populace with mighty weapons, jets and ships...?

beads_strawberries

June 26th, 2007, 03:06 AM

^^ It's like blaming UP for having graduates who turned out to be on the bad side of the fence.

If you happen to know cadets from that school, you would know how they take pride and loyalty to the school and the military, and how they were taught of patriotism. Yes, they are proud, but being future leaders of this country is just an incident to it. I'd rather say they are more proud because of the fact that they will be able to serve the people and the country.

Imagine leaving their families just so as they will be deployed in Visayas and Mindanao. They will be facing terrorist and rebels in the mountains. They will do such, not in the name of those material things, but because it is their duty to do so.

I don't even understand why they have to do such with a meager compensation. After all, their lives will not be compensated by any material thing.

Lucentino

June 26th, 2007, 03:47 AM

^^ Well I was not accusing PMA, I was merely asking questions... where does the culture of corruption start? It could be anywhere in between...

I don't even understand why they have to do such with a meager compensation. After all, their lives will not be compensated by any material thing.

Well, this could validate my question on what their real motives are... are they doing it for country/for promotion/for self interests? Its a sacrifice, but it sure is a good investment for their future (if they don't die in battle)... I believe most, if not all of them, do it for country... and then things could change once they get promoted...

If you happen to know cadets from that school, you would know how they take pride and loyalty to the school and the military, and how they were taught of patriotism. Yes, they are proud, but being future leaders of this country is just an incident to it. I'd rather say they are more proud because of the fact that they will be able to serve the people and the country.

Not all but some families (most are relatives to a certain degree) view PMA graduates that way... sad to say but reality bites sometimes...

rage@cebu

June 26th, 2007, 05:11 AM

^^ buti pa manood kayo ng Maria Flordeluna... hehehehe!

rage@cebu

June 26th, 2007, 05:15 AM

just recieved a new copy of Asia Pacific Defense Forum Magazine...

the recent turnover of military vehicles and aircraft to the Philippine Govt. was featured in the magazine...

check this site guyz: www.janes.com, it features the latest purchases in Military hardware and whats new and up 4 sale... you can also subscribe to their weekly, monthly and quarterly magazine... try also the special issues which features the latest hardware... also fetures news around what is happening in the world's military. :)

el_dasik_oo1

June 26th, 2007, 08:27 AM

^^ buti pa manood kayo ng Maria Flordeluna... hehehehe!

Wala na sila maabutan. Tapos na eh.. :lol:

According to PDFF.com, the AFP is reportedly buying 8 Utility Choppers and 5 Attack Helis for approximately P5 Billion. Ano ba pwede nila mabili dun?..

rage@cebu

June 26th, 2007, 11:28 AM

mga lumang barko ng Phil. Navy... the Typhoon Class Ships are out for patrol in the Visayas Sea...
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/IMG_2531.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/IMG_2524.jpg

i love these fast attack patrol craft...
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/IMG_2523.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/IMG_2521.jpg

Lucentino

June 26th, 2007, 12:06 PM

^^ Do you know what type of ships are those large ones? Are they all RP Government property or are they foreign and are just visiting Cebu?

^^ buti pa manood kayo ng Maria Flordeluna... hehehehe!

Sad but true... :lol:

According to PDFF.com, the AFP is reportedly buying 8 Utility Choppers and 5 Attack Helis for approximately P5 Billion. Ano ba pwede nila mabili dun?..

How much does a second hand or refurbished helo cost? The five (5) helos you mentioned, are these in addition to the three (3) planned earlier in the year? I remember reading in a newspaper that the Air Force will buy three (3) attack helo's and that bidding was in-process that time... did it fall through?

rage@cebu

June 26th, 2007, 12:12 PM

^^ Do you know what type of ships are those large ones? Are they all RP Government property or are they foreign and are just visiting Cebu?

those ships have been stationed there for a long time already... around 2 years! they are specialized vessels used by the SWG of the Phil. Navy same with the vessels used by the U.S. Navy...

Arkdriver

June 26th, 2007, 04:22 PM

looks like a tuna fishing boats. seriously and honestly

Wind Shear

June 26th, 2007, 05:09 PM

^^ If it does, very useful for maritime intelligence. Hehehehehe :P

Skyblade

June 26th, 2007, 09:04 PM

^^ Do you know what type of ships are those large ones?

Off the bat, the one in the right in the first picture is a Cyclone Class Patrol Craft, the BRP General Mariano Alvarez (PS-38). Originally the PN was due to get more of those Cyclones but after 9/11, the US Navy saw use for these and postponed indefinitely the decommissioning of these patrol boats.

The ship behind the Alvarez looks like a auxiliary vessel but unfortunately I've came up short in finding which one it is.

el_dasik_oo1

June 27th, 2007, 12:14 PM

How much does a second hand or refurbished helo cost? The five (5) helos you mentioned, are these in addition to the three (3) planned earlier in the year? I remember reading in a newspaper that the Air Force will buy three (3) attack helo's and that bidding was in-process that time... did it fall through?

I think they are the same attack helos.. Parang nadagdagan lang ata ng 2.. um, I don't think they are acquiring second hand or refurbished helos.. I think they already said that they are buying brand new helos.. :)

kiretoce

June 27th, 2007, 08:02 PM

Philippines to buy new helicopters (http://www.upi.com/Security_Terrorism/Briefing/2007/06/26/philippines_to_buy_new_helicopters/3251/)

The Philippine Air Force plans to purchase a new fleet of helicopters to replace some of its aging UH-1H Huey aircraft.

The impending acquisition of 13 aircraft was announced by Brig. Gen. Eduardo Oban, commander of the PAF Defense Wing.

According to the Manila Bulletin Tuesday, Oban said five of the new helicopters would be utility aircraft and five would be attack helicopters.

"They will definitely be a big boost to our air defense capability," he told reporters.

The Philippines, a former U.S. commonwealth, is fighting a nationwide communist insurgency as well as Muslim separatists in the south of the country and al-Qaida-linked terror groups.

It recently received a number of updated Huey helicopters from the United States.

The PAF currently fields 41 UH-1H helicopters for search-and-rescue and combat operations.

The opening date for contract bids to supply the helicopters has not yet been announced.

Lucentino

June 28th, 2007, 03:53 AM

Thanks for all the infos...

Since the US postponed the transfer of those Cyclone ships, is it possible for AFP to build its own ships based on that design?... I also like the design of those Coast Guard ships from Australia --- can the Navy buy the same and use it as patrol ships? What type/tonnage of ships do we need to patrol our vast EEC? I think most of our EEC is situated on harsh seas...

I also believe most of the Navy assets (especially the large ships) are as old as the 1935 Constitution... Saw some of those docked near PICC/CCP complex several years ago... Are these ships still capable? I wonder how old is BRP Gen. Mariano Alvarez...

Reposted from Seaports of the Philippines Thread:

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/12/photos/43/500x500/74/P1130170.JPG?et=UYI0eauz%2CjW%2CCE9h8HbZsA
BRP Heneral Antonio Luna

Raven83

June 28th, 2007, 06:09 AM

Thanks for all the infos...

Since the US postponed the transfer of those Cyclone ships, is it possible for AFP to build its own ships based on that design?... I also like the design of those Coast Guard ships from Australia --- can the Navy buy the same and use it as patrol ships? What type/tonnage of ships do we need to patrol our vast EEC? I think most of our EEC is situated on harsh seas...

I also believe most of the Navy assets (especially the large ships) are as old as the 1935 Constitution... Saw some of those docked near PICC/CCP complex several years ago... Are these ships still capable? I wonder how old is BRP Gen. Mariano Alvarez...

Reposted from Seaports of the Philippines Thread:

If ever we will build our own P.Boat I would not like it to be based on the design of cyclone ships. For one the design of the ship is strictly for patrols only ang lacks heavy punch in actual sea warfare. Instead I would prefer Israeli designed Sa'ar 4.5 Class patrol ships equipped with heavy rockets and missiles or some those patrol boats designs of Sweden

el_dasik_oo1

June 28th, 2007, 09:52 AM

Thanks for all the infos...

Since the US postponed the transfer of those Cyclone ships, is it possible for AFP to build its own ships based on that design?... I also like the design of those Coast Guard ships from Australia --- can the Navy buy the same and use it as patrol ships? What type/tonnage of ships do we need to patrol our vast EEC? I think most of our EEC is situated on harsh seas...

I also believe most of the Navy assets (especially the large ships) are as old as the 1935 Constitution... Saw some of those docked near PICC/CCP complex several years ago... Are these ships still capable? I wonder how old is BRP Gen. Mariano Alvarez...

Reposted from Seaports of the Philippines Thread:

Well, hopefully, the navy will open its eyes in developing their own naval assets.. Gayahin nila ginagawa ng army at marines.. :)

As far as I know, some of the naval assets ng ibang countries eh ginagawa sa Cebu.. Most of them modern at hi-tech.. :D

Lucentino

June 28th, 2007, 11:37 AM

Well in my opinion, the current need of the Navy are ships for defense and off-shore surveillance... We don't need offensive hardware at the moment... What ships do you think would fit in this type of service?

gen1

June 28th, 2007, 11:42 AM

we need fast craft that will not be out run and out gunned by the abu sayaf.

would you believe that those guys have faster seacraft than our navy ?

And I don't know why our flyboys can't chase those bandits with their mg-520's ang hueys ? Are they afraid of the cal 50's the abu sayaf have in their vessels ?

Lucentino

June 28th, 2007, 11:48 AM

^^ Why not station these boats in Basilan instead of Cebu (as posted earlier by rage@cebu)
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/IMG_2523.jpg

How about for patrolling our EEC? I think we need bigger ships... the ones that could stay out at sea for about 20-30 days and wont easily succumb to the unforgiving waters of South China Sea, Luzon Straight, Celebes Sea or Philippine Sea...

bitoy

June 28th, 2007, 07:18 PM

jgacis

June 28th, 2007, 09:31 PM

‘Even without US aid, we’ll beat NPA’ -- AFP
By Joel Guinto
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 08:59pm (Mla time) 06/28/2007

MANILA, Philippines -- Even without the help of the United States, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) can defeat the communist New People's Army, a military spokesman said Thursday.

The military is also on track to meet President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's 2010 deadline to cripple the NPA, AFP public information officer Lieutenant Colonel Bartolome Bacarro said.

Bacarro was reacting to the pronouncement of US Pacific Command chief Admiral Timothy Keating that his troops were ready to help the AFP fight the NPA upon the request of the Philippine government.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=73702

Yes! That's the spirit. :okay: Let's keep those foreign Armed Forces visiting the Philippines on their humanitarian services only.

US Navy in Bicol for 18-day humanitarian mission (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/regions/view_article.php?article_id=73752)

.... pero, mahirap ang puro daldal lang, dapat me gawa. A big salute for the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

"Even without US aid, we’ll beat NPA" :ohno:

I find that comment off mark.

The AFP still hasn't defeated the insurgents BEFORE and AFTER the Balikitan exercises began. I thank GMA more for her economic skills, allowing U.S. military help, and by giving a deadline as a goal in wiping out the insurgents.

The United States pours MILLIONS of U.S. dollars into the US-RP Balikitan exercises as well as other humanitarian aid, such as that 18 day mission in Bicol from the link posted above. That money also helps the Philippine military pay-roll.

A developing nation such as the Philippines shouldn't say "Even without..aid" :ohno: To me, that is typical FILIPINO PRIDE that will get the Philippines NOWHERE!!!! Perhaps past American colonialism is still ingrained in the AFP. The AFP needs to revamp it's thinking if it wants to move ahead and stop clinging to the past.

Lt. Col. Bacarro should be better trained as a spokesperson when talking to the public international media. Some people might construe his comments undiplomatic. What would the Australian military now think about this? Some might now feel the Philippines also doesn't need Austrailian help. :ohno:

Skyblade

June 28th, 2007, 11:31 PM

Since the US postponed the transfer of those Cyclone ships, is it possible for AFP to build its own ships based on that design?... I also like the design of those Coast Guard ships from Australia --- can the Navy buy the same and use it as patrol ships? What type/tonnage of ships do we need to patrol our vast EEC? I think most of our EEC is situated on harsh seas...

Unfortunately the Philippines does not have rights to build a Cyclone class ship which in itself is based of the Province/Ramadan class missile craft and is related to Australia's Fremantle Class. It however can build the Peacock/Jacinto Class corvette as it acquired the license from the UK. A major downside is that it can't really be used effectively in the EEZ.

As RavenCute mentioned, its a patrol boat and doesn't really have much to counter other surface combatants. It was originally designed for the US Navy SEALs which would use it as an in-shore transport for it's teams. By the time they were built, it considered too big for the job which led to the original pre-9/11 decommissioning which had the Coast Guard pick up a few while the original USS Cyclone was donated to the PN. The Mariano Alvarez is 16 years old and is definitely one of the youngest warships in the fleet.

s from Australia --- can the Navy buy the same and use it as patrol ships? What type/tonnage of ships do we need to patrol our vast EEC? I think most of our EEC is situated on harsh seas...

If anything, at least a frigate which is why we see/hear the BRP Rajah Humabon almost always deployed to the western fringes of the country.

Askal82

June 29th, 2007, 12:05 AM

‘Even without US aid, we’ll beat NPA’ -- AFP
By Joel Guinto
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 08:59pm (Mla time) 06/28/2007

MANILA, Philippines -- Even without the help of the United States, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) can defeat the communist New People's Army, a military spokesman said Thursday.

The military is also on track to meet President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's 2010 deadline to cripple the NPA, AFP public information officer Lieutenant Colonel Bartolome Bacarro said.

Bacarro was reacting to the pronouncement of US Pacific Command chief Admiral Timothy Keating that his troops were ready to help the AFP fight the NPA upon the request of the Philippine government.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=73702

Yes! That's the spirit. :okay: Let's keep those foreign Armed Forces visiting the Philippines on their humanitarian services only.

US Navy in Bicol for 18-day humanitarian mission (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/regions/view_article.php?article_id=73752)

.... pero, mahirap ang puro daldal lang, dapat me gawa. A big salute for the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Nice to hear, at least the Philippine government is determined to take them down or are they? In order for the campaign to be successful, they needed to deprive them of pork barrel funds serving as their life support systems. Take that away and you can seriously cripple their financial capabilities to recruit and buy weapons. Thanks to Tita Cory for her own version of sectoral representation in the Constitution, its gaping loophole allowed it to be abused by these so-called Party Lists (Gabriela, Anak Pawis, etc...) who are nothing more than the political arm of the NPA itself.

jgacis

June 29th, 2007, 01:15 AM

Nice to hear, at least the Philippine government is determined to take them down or are they? In order for the campaign to be successful, they needed to deprive them of pork barrel funds serving as their life support systems. Take that away and you can seriously cripple their financial capabilities to recruit and buy weapons. Thanks to Tita Cory for her own version of sectoral representation in the Constitution, its gaping loophole allowed it to be abused by these so-called Party Lists (Gabriela, Anak Pawis, etc...) who are nothing more than the political arm of the NPA itself.

That's the problem. Lt. Col. Bacarro needs to see the "inner" picture and also look at the insurgency problem as an internal war within the political framework instead of looking at it "outwards", hence "Even without U.S. aid.." :ohno:

Philippine government needs to revamp its internal issues if it ever wants to significantly end the insurgency problem. It's unfortunate that there are alot of clowns in the government who don't know what they are doing...

Askal82

June 29th, 2007, 01:27 AM

That's the problem. Lt. Col. Bacarro needs to see the "inner" picture and also look at the insurgency problem as an internal war within the political framework instead of looking at it "outwards", hence "Even without U.S. aid.." :ohno:

Philippine government needs to revamp its internal issues if it ever wants to significantly end the insurgency problem. It's unfortunate that there are alot of clowns in the government who don't know what they are doing...

It really doesn't need any aid of some sort, not even a penny. Most of the war is fought in the political front anyway. Political will is the elixir.

jgacis

June 29th, 2007, 01:44 AM

It really doesn't need any aid of some sort, not even a penny. Most of the war is fought in the political front anyway. Political will is the elixir.

Be careful what you say because what I said earlier about the U.S. sending MILLIONS of dollars to help the Philippines plays an IMPORTANT part in helping fight the war.

Do you really pay attention to the news when the AFP captures insurgent rebels? Who helped them? What training and techniques where utilized to aid in their capture?

Those details are easily forgotten because you don't see them in the Philippine media (especially the liberal ones)...

Like what I said, the U.S. military aid pours maraming pera into the Philippine military pay-roll as well. That's over 100 MILLION U.S. DOLLARS each year for the last several years. Its added (appropriated) into the Philippine National Defense budget...

http://www.mongabay.com/reference/new_profiles/384.html

It's sad that many filipinos don't see this and all they do is complain about foreigners doing this and that do them when the real problem still continues in their own backyard... :ohno:

I don't mean to seriously offend you Askal82, but please do a little more research when you make comments like "it ..doesn't need any aid...not even a penny."

gen1

June 29th, 2007, 02:02 AM

It really doesn't need any aid of some sort, not even a penny. Most of the war is fought in the political front anyway. Political will is the elixir.

I agree. There are only two ways to resolve an insurgency.

Deal with it in a Gen Jake "Howling" Smith ruthlessness and commit genocide.

Or if you don't have the stomach for the blood, do it on the negotiating table, address the grievances.

jgacis

June 29th, 2007, 02:06 AM

I agree. There are only two ways to resolve an insurgency.

Deal with it in a Gen Jake "Howling" Smith ruthlessness and commit genocide.

Or if you don't have the stomach for the blood, do it on the negotiating table, address the grievances.

Good for you that you agree with Askal82.

Let's hope now that filipinos can finally address and resolve the insurgency issues that has been going on for decades....

Askal82

June 29th, 2007, 02:57 AM

jgacis

June 29th, 2007, 03:07 AM

Seriously, it will take less effort (and less money) to finish them off if the roots of all these problems are attacked rather than a band aid solution that keeps on failing over time.

Tama yan. That's correct. But you're still seeing only half the picture.

What are these "roots" and how can we resolve them?

The AFP's efforts in stopping the communist and islamic insurgents goes far beyond the tanks and helicoptors we keep seeing in this thread.

The establishment of the A.R.M.M. and their quest for Sharia Law, along with poverty, is a boiling pot of dynamite that can only be extinguished through development, the abolishment of sharia (A.R.M.M.), and the strong fist of the Philippine military (with foreign help as needed) to provide the protection of economic/political growth from our national and local leaders.

This requires teamwork, dedication, and communication. This also requires military equipment, leadership training, and MONEY!!!

You cannot convince me that we can accomplish this with less effort/money until filipinos themselves strive for better self-governance, less corruption, and achieve a better quality of life from what they have now.

TheAvenger

June 29th, 2007, 03:37 AM

I agree. There are only two ways to resolve an insurgency.

Deal with it in a Gen Jake "Howling" Smith ruthlessness and commit genocide.

Or if you don't have the stomach for the blood, do it on the negotiating table, address the grievances.

NPA and the insurgency in the south cannot be solved by military solution. Remove corruption, injustices, and the present corrupt political system, then you have solved almost the problems of insurgency. NPA and other rebels will just fade away.

Introduce the policy of genocides and Gen Jake " Howling" murderous bands and it will make the Philippines open to United Nation intervention and I predict the Philippines will collapse and splintered to many small squabling republics. :)

Askal82

June 29th, 2007, 03:48 AM

You cannot convince me that we can accomplish this with less effort/money until filipinos themselves strive for better self-governance, less corruption, and achieve a better quality of life from what they have now.

I've been emphasizing those if you actually read my posts. Efficiency means lesser spending that translates to greater productivity. Lesser spending because of efficiency becomes savings, which in turn can be use to upgrade the capabilities of the army and police to finish them off. It doesn't necessarily follow that they needed foreign help right away.

Fusaichi

June 29th, 2007, 05:50 AM

"Even without US aid, we’ll beat NPA" :ohno:

I find that comment off mark.

The AFP still hasn't defeated the insurgents BEFORE and AFTER the Balikitan exercises began. I thank GMA more for her economic skills, allowing U.S. military help, and by giving a deadline as a goal in wiping out the insurgents.

The United States pours MILLIONS of U.S. dollars into the US-RP Balikitan exercises as well as other humanitarian aid, such as that 18 day mission in Bicol from the link posted above. That money also helps the Philippine military pay-roll.

A developing nation such as the Philippines shouldn't say "Even without..aid" :ohno: To me, that is typical FILIPINO PRIDE that will get the Philippines NOWHERE!!!! Perhaps past American colonialism is still ingrained in the AFP. The AFP needs to revamp it's thinking if it wants to move ahead and stop clinging to the past.

Lt. Col. Bacarro should be better trained as a spokesperson when talking to the public international media. Some people might construe his comments undiplomatic. What would the Australian military now think about this? Some might now feel the Philippines also doesn't need Austrailian help. :ohno:

Politics play a great game between these factions. There was a time that some Military men were in the payroll of some Muslim terrorists or kidnappers. If that was really the case, what more with some of them under the payroll of the NPA.
Maybe I'm just insinuating. But it is really nice to hear some gutsy calls of the Philippine military.

gen1

June 29th, 2007, 06:08 AM

Politics play a great game between these factions. There was a time that some Military men were in the payroll of some Muslim terrorists or kidnappers.

I think it's the other way around :lol:

Fusaichi

June 29th, 2007, 06:42 AM

I think it's the other way around :lol:

:) I remember the time when there was some accusation that certain a General was paid so that some kidnappers can run away in thto the woods. O' well, they really need to keep the military clean to get the moral way up.

gen1

June 29th, 2007, 06:51 AM

i think i know what incident you're talking about. Is that where they lost a few soldiers, including a very green lieutenant who thought an APC was RPG-Proof :ohno: ?

jrevalde

June 29th, 2007, 12:23 PM

Arkdriver

June 29th, 2007, 12:59 PM

Thais and Indonesians doesnt have to depend on foreign aid to fight insurgency so why dont us? Do we have money and equipment? No!! and that's the actual problem...

gen1

June 29th, 2007, 09:32 PM

^^poor guy found out the hard way huh, pero i was able to get inside one of those APCs at centcom in cebu and the armour looks pretty thick to me. pero i guess RPGs really have that much penetrating power since the americans are afraid of them

rule of thumb is the diameter of an anti-tank device equals its penerating power. Thus a 4 inch diameter RPG can penetrate 4 inches of ordinary armor.

since APC's typically have 1/2 - 1 inch of armor, other ways of defeating RPGS and other anti tank devices are used. typical of these is the use of sloping armor, enhanced composite armor, blow-out panel (israeli innovation, reactive armor), applique armor, slats (used in the US stryker), and my favorite low tech method - installation of rolled cyclone wire as applique armor.

generally however APC armor is only good enough to protect soldiers from most small arms fire and shrapnel.

jgacis

June 29th, 2007, 11:10 PM

I've been emphasizing those if you actually read my posts. Efficiency means lesser spending that translates to greater productivity. Lesser spending because of efficiency becomes savings, which in turn can be use to upgrade the capabilities of the army and police to finish them off. It doesn't necessarily follow that they needed foreign help right away.

Yes, you are right. Efficiency does mean those things you mention.

But years and years of neglect cannot be ammended (fixed) unless the big issues are corrected first (which will initially require getting rid of corruption, raising living standards, and educating the people). All of this will unfortunately require lots of money, which includes the military equipment we see in this thread. Don't forget also the big problem of Philippine military leadership. While most men/women in uniform are great, the few sour apples always make the headline news that ruin it for everyone else. That needs to stop....

I understand what you are saying, but past mistakes still have their prices... We just need to correct the root problems, which has a price tag to it that we are paying for now. It's easy for us to understand, but not for the insurgents who want islamic law imposed in our beloved country....

Askal82

June 30th, 2007, 02:02 AM

OtAkAw

June 30th, 2007, 07:52 AM

^^I agree. But I highly doubt that our nation's military could be upgraded within the next few years. There's so many areas of immediate concern like education, healthcare and the like. So the same goal should be attained again, which is to have a robust and globally competitive economy.

jgacis

June 30th, 2007, 11:05 AM

If other countries in the SEA are able to do it simply because their government becomes more efficient over the years, then why not Philippines? It still doesn't justify any foreign aid in money or in kind. Efficiencies alone can provide the funding. We're talking about billions of pesos lost to corruption and thats quite sufficient to upgrade the military capabilities of the country.

True, but don't you also know the difference of the Philippines from the rest of Asia?

We are the only democracy and nationally recognized christian country in SEA.

True, Indonesia/Singapore/Malaysia, etc . etc. have their own efficiencies, but we also have our own unique differences.

Singapore had long western influences with Britain, and Indonesia...well we all know about the Bali bombings and now it wants to become a true Islamic state with Sharia. The Philippines is like a country stuck between these two countries.

Corruption indeed has taken away our financial resources, so that's why it needs to stop. You will never see filipinos stop asking for foreign assistance until they themselves learn to stop their own corruption.

I look for the day when my own relatives in the Philippines stop asking me for "foreign assistance" (ie. asking for my continuous financial help). Until I see that happen, don't expect improved efficiences to miraculously lessen our current corruption.

The Philippines needs all the support and internal teamwork it can get to fix it's root problems (like otakaw says, it's more than just the military). Filipinos need to work better together from the current situation they are in now...

le Reine

June 30th, 2007, 12:09 PM

jgacis

June 30th, 2007, 12:50 PM

^Very true. I also have the same theory about our economic malaise. And I have come to realize that one of the factors that hinders us to progress is dependency and close family ties. I know that being close to the family is a unique culture, but too much of that is already bad. Just imagine several families living in one house and all of them are relying on just one or two relatives who has a job. Not to mention that the normal size of the family in this country is 5. This culture reflects our country as a whole. No wonder the Philippines, which is composed of 85M people, is relying on its OFWs, who are composed of merely 10% of the pop, for "financial help" every year.

Oo, tama yan.

I love and respect my relatives in the Philippines, but sometimes I also feel burdened when I go there that I am obligated to help everybody. Usually, as a visitor, I am the guest and they are the host. But when money is involved, or any other help, I feel like I am the host. Dependency and close family ties is what I have experienced all my life with my parents and certain relatives.

To keep this topic in track with the thread, it's true...dependency and close family ties also prevails in the Philippine AFP.

Here are some factors:

1. LOCAL NETWORKS
2. INSTITUTIONAL KINSHIP
3. COMPADRE SYSTEM OF YOU HELP ME & I HELP YOU

Even in the United States we have that here...but to a lesser extent.

The importance of any military force is DISCIPLINE and ADHERENCE to the rules. Of course we all have the right to object unlawful orders and follow our consciousness if necessary...but that is where LEADERSHIP also comes in.

I wish the Philippine AFP would revamp from A to Z and become a real efficient fighting force, something even the rebels would have to run away from.

Instead, we keep having negotiating talks, Lt. Col. Bacarro saying U.S. aid isn't really important, the Italian priest still missing, the continued existence of the A.R.M.M, continued fighting in Basilan, etc. etc.

I say enough is enough, I have been watching these events for years...

IMO, here is what I would like to see.....

1. A national decree to dissolve/remove the A.R.M.M (the institutional platform for Islamic Sharia). If anyone disagrees, just take a look at Indonesia and their current Islamic political state. This country provides the political extension for our current southern insurgency problems.

2. The establishment of a temporary U.S. base in Basilan or Zamboanga to train Philippine AFP forces.

3. Re-ammend the VFA with joint US/RP combat operations to weed out hotspot insurgency areas.

4. Continue humanitarian/development in local areas with both countries conducting missions in patrol and training.

Filipinos can complain that another Daniel Smith case will happen, or that the Americans are once again infiltrating as occupiers, but I say enough is enough. Bickering and whining is already what we have been doing, and our current state is getting us nowhere.

We need to start again from scratch, even if it means losing someone's pride...

gen1

June 30th, 2007, 12:59 PM

jgacis

June 30th, 2007, 01:25 PM

if you're an OFW regularly sending money back home to your spouse and school age kids, that's not "financial help", that's parental responsibility. you'll later feel good sending it.

if you're an OFW regularly sending money back home to your adult nephews, siblings, inlaws, cousins, uncles, aunties, kumpares, kumares (uyyy!) that's not "financial help", that's _______. You'll later feel like a sucker for sending it :lol:

I'm not a parent (at least not yet).

I don't send money REGULARLY to the Philippines. They are the ones who mildly imply (walang hiya) that they need help. I don't freely initiate donations unless it is an extreme emergency and they really do need help.

Btw, I'm not OFW. I am american born but I have family members and my own personal residence there (my parents are retired there now).

You can judge me as a fil-am, but that doesn't mean I don't know the hardship there. I was born in a filipino family just like you, so I know what's up......

Askal82

June 30th, 2007, 05:41 PM

Arkdriver

July 1st, 2007, 06:04 AM

yeahh charity begins at home but what about monthly 'charity'? it's the OFW who works their ass off..their relatives back home are just enjoying their 'donation'

gen1 is right. my advice is dont send back money regularly unless it's very important or in emergency, or else you'll have nothing in the end of your contract. supporting family is essential and compulsory, but giving away money for the 'others' is just sick and stupid, not to the 'donor', but to the 'receiver', which clearly until now i still cannot understand their mentality of 'sit back, relax and txt abroad for money'.

Magdiwang

July 1st, 2007, 06:51 AM

http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view_article.php?article_id=74158

REBEL WITHOUT A CLUE
Officers and gentlemen

By Patricia Evangelista
Inquirer
Last updated 07:19am (Mla time) 07/01/2007

MANILA, Philippines—On June 26, 2006, at two in the morning a little more than a year ago, Sherlyn Cadapan and Karen Empeño were abducted from a farmer’s home in San Miguel, Hagonoy, Bulacan. Armed men bundled the women into a stainless steel jeep with plate number RTF 597. A farmer named Manuel Merino, who had run out in response to the women’s cries, was also bound and blindfolded. The three were driven away towards the direction of Iba, Hagonoy, Bulacan.

When the abduction was reported, human rights volunteers, led by Mildred Benitez, went to the 56th Infantry Battalion headquarters at Iba. A stainless steel jeep with plate number RTF was found parked inside the compound.

The military denies its existence.

Two days after the abduction, on June 28, farmer Alberto Martinez was roused from sleep by Manuel Merino, accompanied by men in bonnets. He was boarded on a stainless steel jeep with plate number RTF 597, and was brought inside a military detachment located in Mercado, Hagonoy, Bulacan.

Inside the detachment, he was interrogated by a man who introduced himself as Arnel Enriquez, who asked him if he knew persons known as Tanya, Vincent and Lisa. Arnel Enriquez described those persons. The descriptions fitted those of the missing women.

One witness, Oscar Leuterio, recounted that he was also abducted by armed men who brought him to two camps where he was detained and tortured for five months. During his detention, he noticed two women fitting the description of those abducted. He later heard of a man tortured and brought to his detention area. The man was Em-Em—his friend, Manuel Merino.

The military statement, in a letter to the editor of this paper, complains that Leuterio’s testimony was “despicably inaccurate and farcical.”

The disappearances of Karen and Sherlyn made it to both local and national newspapers, especially since both were students from the University of the Philippines. Newspapers in Bulacan carried the story. In spite of this, the story seems different from the perspective of the military. Three of the military respondents made it to the witness stand.

Lt. Francis Mirabelle Samson, section leader of the Mercado detachment, claimed she had heard nothing about the disappearances.

Lt. Col. Rogelio Boac, her immediate superior, claimed he had received no word from his men about any sort of abduction or alleged arrest in Hagonoy, Bulacan. He had heard about it from a reporter.

Maj. Gen. Jovito Palparan (now retired) conceded that he was aware of the abductions. He ordered that Lieutenant Colonel Boac conduct an investigation on Karen and Sherlyn’s disappearances.

Boac stressed that he did not receive any order from Major General Palparan or any higher authority to investigate the disappearance of Sherlyn, Karen, or Manuel, or even that of Ka Lisa or Ka Tanya.

Palparan said that because of that order for investigation to Boac, he received a report that “there was indeed an incident who, according to them, one Ka Tanya and Ka Lisa and another person have been abducted from that area.”

Boac said that he had made inquiries, on his own initiative, and nothing came out of them.

Palparan confirmed an admission he had already made in a local talk show. The interview had him admitting that two women, Tanya and Lisa, allegedly revolutionary tax collectors, were in military custody after their arrest in Hagonoy.

He had heard, however, that the women were “not students anymore.”

And Lt. Francis Mirabelle Samson, with the panache of an amateur actor in a high school production, swore under oath that she knew nothing, saw nothing, heard nothing, and was simply “operating on instinct.”

According to the court’s findings, “From all indications, Karen Empeño and Sherlyn Cadapan appear to be Ka Tanya and Ka Lisa. Karen Empeño and Sherlyn Cadapan were the only women abducted in that part of Bulacan on that day, June 26, 2006.”

The military denied having any hand in their abduction and disappearance.

Just recently, Sherlyn Cadapan, who was two months pregnant when she was abducted, was reported to have made an appearance in her mother-in-law’s Bulacan home. Three women and two men accompanied her. The women stayed by her side at all times while she gathered pieces of clothing. She said nothing. She did not say a word to her in-law. She was pale and afraid.

The next day, the same two men from the night before appeared at the house with two uniformed military men, and asked the mother about a reported incident the day before. They claimed she had been visited by members of the New People’s Army. The mother denied it, but the men insisted, and asked her to “help them.” She was warned that they would return.

Members of the NPA gather support from the grass roots. Their members are volunteers who have become dissatisfied with the current social structure. They are not, for example, dragged into stainless steel jeeps while screaming for help. Neither are they forced to go on supervised visits with relatives. Irrelevant of the illegality of their carrying arms against the government, they do it of their own free will.

As of two months ago, Sherlyn Cadapan was alive. It is both cause for celebration and fear. There are some things, after all, that are infinitely less preferable to death, as the numerous testimonies of torture at the hands of the military prove.

The CA Special Former 11th Division dismissed a petition for habeas corpus, filed by the family of students Sherlyn Cadapan and Karen Empeño and farmer Manuel Merino, on the ground that it was not the proper remedy in the case. It ruled that “the main function of the habeas petition is to inquire into the legality of one’s detention which presupposes that respondents have actual custody of the persons subject of the petition.” It recommended the filing of criminal complaints against those the families believed were responsible for the disappearance of the three. It also asked for further investigation by the Commission on Human rights, the National Bureau of Investigation and the Philippine National Police.

The military, up to today, denies all knowledge of Karen Empeño, Sherlyn Cadapan and Manuel Merino.

To conclude, this is the Court of Appeals’ final evaluation and assessment of the case:

“The respondents were not telling the whole truth as they appeared to be evasive in their declarations. They were persistent in their denials but their assertions contradict each other. Almost always, their responses were denial or lack of knowledge on matters they were supposed to know in their respective areas of responsibility. Worse, their testimonies do not appear to jibe with one another.”

The military has no comment.

* * *

For comments, just text: PM REBEL name, age, location, message then send to 2948 for Globe/Sun and 3940 for Smart. E-mail at rebel.inquirer@gmail.com

More Inquirer columns

Previous columns:
Daddy’s girls - 06/17/07
Art of fear - 6/10/07
His father’s son - 06/03/07
Rhinestone kid on a freeway star - 5/20/07
When guns speak - 5/13/07
Into the dark - 05/06/07

TheAvenger

July 1st, 2007, 02:34 PM

no real simulators so they play..er..train using desktop computers instead

By PERSEUS ECHEMINADA
The Philippine Star

For an air force with an acute lack of aircraft, personal computers may be good enough to hone the skills of its pilots.

Maj. Gen. Michael Mendoza, chief of air staff, told The STAR that with the lack of fighter jets and training equipment such as flight simulators, Philippine Air Force (PAF) pilots have to make do with office computers at Basa Air Base in Pampanga for their training needs.

"It’s compulsory training for pilots," Mendoza said.

He lamented that PAF, which turns 60 on July 7, has no combat capability and that in the event of an attack it has to depend on its few trainer jets reconfigured for combat purposes and on its aging Vietnam War era Huey choppers.

Mendoza said PAF’s last true blue fighter aircraft – F-5 Freedom Fighter – had already been decommissioned and that the air force will have to wait for two more years to get new fighter planes.

He said PAF is trying to figure out which type of aircraft to buy with its P5 billion budget. Many PAF pilots had left the service to work for commercial airlines where "they can hone their skills and at the same time earn more," an air force official said.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/storypage.aspx?StoryId=82348

http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z82/jewel_087/f8escramble.jpg

computer games na lang muna ........ ala pa pera

TheAvenger

July 1st, 2007, 02:41 PM

[/IMG]http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z82/jewel_087/070628photo-s.jpg

MANILA, Philippines -- Admiral Timothy J. Keating, Commander, U.S. Pacific Command, met with Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in the Presidential Palace Thursday morning. Admiral Keating, who assumed the U.S. Pacific Command post last March, was accompanied to the meeting by U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Kristie Kenney. During the visit to the Philippines, Admiral Keating met with senior military and civilian leaders to discuss issues of mutual interest. (American Embassy, Manila photo by Ben Baguyo)

[IMG]http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z82/jewel_087/r62069860.jpg

Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo (L) reviews an honour guard with visiting Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe ® during his courtesy call at the presidential palace in Manila December 9, 2006. Abe, who arrived in the capital on Friday, has called off a trip to the central island of Cebu after the annual Association of Southeast Asian nations (ASEAN) was cancelled due to concerns an incoming tropical storm could wreak havoc at the venue this weekend. REUTERS/Romeo Ranoco (PHILIPPINES)

TheAvenger

July 1st, 2007, 03:03 PM

http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z82/jewel_087/pacific.gif

U.S. Ambassador and Pacific Commander recognize Pacific Partnership
By USS Peleliu Public Affairs
Posted: 06/29/2007

USS PELELIU, At sea -- U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines Kristie A. Kenney and Commander, U.S. Pacific Command, Adm. Timothy J. Keating visited USS Peleliu off the coast of the Bicol region, Philippines, June 28.

http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z82/jewel_087/usambassador.jpg

Above, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines, The Honorable Kristie A. Kenney, presents a stuffed bunny to a Filipino child as his mother holds him in the medical ward of USS Peleliu (LHA 5). Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Bryan M. Ilyankoff

http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z82/jewel_087/usamb.jpg

Below, Commander, U.S. Pacific Command, Adm. Timothy J. Keating; Armed Forces of the Philippines Lt. Gen. Alexander Yano; and Kenney, pose during a visit to the Bicol region. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Patrick D. House

During the visit, they toured the ship’s medical spaces and held an all hands call to commend the crew on the progress of their Pacific Partnership mission.

"It's great to have you all here in the Philippines," said Kenney. "I wanted to thank you personally for the vital work you're doing here.”

Pacific Partnership spotlights the strong ties between the U.S. and the Philippines, and is designed to build upon the relationships established during recent humanitarian relief efforts after years of natural catastrophes in the region. Peleliu is scheduled to spend several weeks in the areas of Mindanao, Bicol, and the Sulu Archipelago.

While touring the ship, Kenney and Keating met with doctors, nurses and hospital corpsmen, along with partner nation representatives and volunteers from non-governmental organizations.

After learning that 15 Filipino patients a day were flown to the ship for treatment, and how more than 800 patients were treated in the past several days, Keating pointed out the numbers were improving on the already impressive accomplishments USNS Mercy made last year.

"It's a real privilege to be aboard and see these young men and women help these people," Keating said. "To see first-hand how they prepare and provide the assistance their patients need is remarkable."

Keating also recognized three Sailors for their outstanding contributions and support of a reception held in Manila recently where hundreds of dignitaries turned out to help kick off the Philippines segment of the four-month humanitarian deployment.

Keating added that although the efforts of these three Sailors were the only ones recognized individually today, the dedication to the mission that the entire Pacific Partnership team has shown to date had not gone unnoticed.

"I just met the president of the Philippines today (Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo), and she told me directly that you have her sincere thanks for what you are doing for the people of the Philippines," he said.

The recognized Sailors -- Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class (AW) Charles R. Vaughn, Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Julius J. Solidum, Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Hector J. Gutierrez -- each received Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals (NAM) for their efforts.

"It was pretty crazy,” said Gutierrez. “You just don't hear every day about an admiral coming to give you a NAM."

Gutierrez' work as bake shop supervisor earned him his medal, but he said the biggest reward is the mission Peleliu is on currently.

"(Pacific Partnership) is a good thing,” he said. “We are helping a lot of people in need, and not many people get to do it the way we are able to."

http://www.c7f.navy.mil/news/2007/june/32.htm

jgacis

July 1st, 2007, 11:27 PM

^^ Great story and wonderful humanitarian efforts for all those involved!!!

Now, if only Lt. Col. Bacarro would eat his words... "Even without U.S. aid...we'll beat NPA" :ohno:

It's because of pain/suffering and lack of help that helps the NPA flourish and thrive. The U.S. is definitely helping out (whether directly or indirectly) in combating the things that the NPA feeds on....

With this humanitarian mission, the U.S. is significantly helping and doing the things it can do to help out....unfortunately, it is only HELPING OUT...

To solve the real root problems, the PHILIPPINE GOVERNMENT needs to do that. No one can really solve the ROOT PROBLEMS except FILIPINOS THEMSELVES...

Lucentino

July 3rd, 2007, 08:13 AM

TheAvenger

July 3rd, 2007, 09:55 AM

I read somewhere that the priority of the Navy should be to acquire some Off-shore patrol vessels... does anyone here know which type is affordable or if in case we will produce it locally, what should be the basis? And how many do we need considering our vast territory...

How about maritime patrol aircrafts, are these feasible in consideration of purchasing and operating budget of the AFP?

Our neighbors officially operate submarines (Taiwan, China, Indonesia), does the Philippines have deterrence capabilities for this? It would be a pleasant sight to see one of our neighbor's subs on Tayabas bay! :lol:

Our Navy needed more low draft vessels for the shallow waters of our archipelago, Visayas, Mindanao, Sulu archipelago and the KIG in South China Sea.

Submarines is only okey in the deep water of Luzon (west and east coast) and east coast of Leyte and Mindanao (except Hinatuan Passage in Surigao). Also okey to use south of Mindanao where the Celebes Sea is quite deep.

TheAvenger

July 3rd, 2007, 10:00 AM

this is a late posting of mentioned events.

Free Public Concerts with U.S. Marine Corps Band on June 30 & July 1

http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z82/jewel_087/wwwjw570.jpg

Music lovers are invited to four free public concerts being given on June 30 and July 1 by a U.S. Marine Corps band visiting the Philippines with the USS Peleliu on a regional goodwill tour.

The U.S. Marine Forces Pacific Band’s talented professional musicians have toured internationally and performed for millions throughout the Western Pacific, playing for audiences of all ages and fulfilling their duties as musical ambassadors for the Marine Corps. The 10-member, high-energy ensemble coming to Manila specializes in everything from entertaining Dixieland sounds to jazz to contemporary brass band music.

The free concerts are being given on the following dates and times. The public is invited to attend these great family events, and media are welcome to attend and cover the concerts as well. Interviews can be arranged with the band members after each concert:

Saturday, June 30: 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm, Market Market!, Fort Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City

Saturday, June 30: 7:30 pm – 8:30 pm, Fuente Circle, Eastwood City, Libis, Pasig City

Sunday, July 1: 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm, SM Manila, Arroceros St., corner San Marcelino St.

Sunday, July 1: 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm, The Music Hall, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City

Officially created in 1918, the U.S. Marine Forces Pacific Band operates from Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii and is one of 12 “field bands” throughout the Marine Corps. Today, as in the past, the band is a versatile group composed of Marines with a wide range of musical talents.

The U.S. Embassy and the U.S. Marine Forces Pacific Band would like to thank co-sponsors Ayala Malls, Eastwood Citywalk, SM Supermalls, and Magic 89.9-Radio Partners, Inc. for their support and assistance in arranging these free public concerts.

The USS Peleliu is visiting the Philippines as part of a regional goodwill tour where, in partnership with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, they will provide free health clinics for citizens in poor or remote communities; build and repair houses, schools and public buildings; and donate goods such as clothes, toys, food, and medical supplies.

The ship will visit the Bicol Region, Cotabato, and the Sulu Archipelago in the Philippines, reflecting longstanding ties between our two countries as well as our continued commitment to work together to assist people in need of humanitarian outreach.

The USS Peleliu conducts many community service projects throughout the region on a regular basis as a show of good will and partnership from the U.S. Navy.

smokingunmanila

July 3rd, 2007, 10:50 AM

Napanood nyo ba yung anniversary ng air force kanina sa channel 4...kami gumawa ng malaking tarpaulin ni GMA na gift ng airforce sa kanya

rage@cebu

July 3rd, 2007, 11:24 AM

[QUOTE=Lucentino;13983264]^^ Why not station these boats in Basilan instead of Cebu (as posted earlier by rage@cebu)
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/IMG_2523.jpg

these boats are not babies... they can reach speeds up to 60 knots. they are MK. II vessels used by Navy Seals... they are effective in river and coastal patrols and special Counter Insurgency measures...

gen1

July 3rd, 2007, 12:48 PM

^^ It's unlkely those boats can go that fast. Even the latest Mark V Sealions can only go a bit over 40knots. (60knots = 111kph)

baka you mean 60kph?

Askal82

July 3rd, 2007, 02:19 PM

TheAvenger

July 3rd, 2007, 05:26 PM

Napanood nyo ba yung anniversary ng air force kanina sa channel 4...kami gumawa ng malaking tarpaulin ni GMA na gift ng airforce sa kanya

baka naman sobra ang pag charge / billing nyo sa government. :)

smokingunmanila

July 3rd, 2007, 05:30 PM

I'm not rich avenger..actually break even lang kami...we just want to contribute something for the air force..and sobra ang demand nila...puros dagdag kami..actually may plan b pa yun sa covered court just in case umulan..and we have also a big presentation for GMA sa loob...

TheAvenger

July 3rd, 2007, 05:38 PM

Lucentino

July 4th, 2007, 04:08 AM

Our Navy needed more low draft vessels for the shallow waters of our archipelago, Visayas, Mindanao, Sulu archipelago and the KIG in South China Sea.

Submarines is only okey in the deep water of Luzon (west and east coast) and east coast of Leyte and Mindanao (except Hinatuan Passage in Surigao). Also okey to use south of Mindanao where the Celebes Sea is quite deep.

@TheAvenger
Can you please provide examples of existing OPVs operated by other Navies which could be well suited for operation in our EEZ? And how many types does our Navy need?

When you say that the waters around our archipelago are shallow, does it mean submarines cannot be operated around these waters, and thus making the subs of our neighbors useless for spying/attack? Does the Navy have contingencies to deter such an encroachment?

Thanks!

jgacis

July 4th, 2007, 05:21 AM

MANILA TIMES
Wednesday, July 04, 2007

GMA ups soldiers’ hazard bonus

President Arroyo announced Tuesday that her administration will increase the hazard pay and subsistence allowance of government troops beginning this month.

The President made the announcement during the celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Philippine Air Force at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.

Mrs. Arroyo said the adjustments are part of her administration’s efforts to improve the benefits of Armed Forces personnel.

She added that the government will also provide scholarships and livelihood opportunities to the families of the soldiers. She added that “on-base and off-base housing facilities” will also be built for government troops. ABS-CBN/DZMM

This is good news for the Philippine troops!

It's another small step to provide better moral and lessen corruption in the AFP.

Skyblade

July 4th, 2007, 07:55 AM

^^Any word on how much they'll be increasing the pay?

Here's a GMA news segment on of the PMC in action. (http://www.gmanews.tv/video/5970/AFP-secures-MNLF's-Camp-Bitan-Ag-in-Sulu)

beads_strawberries

July 4th, 2007, 09:16 AM

jgacis

July 4th, 2007, 10:49 PM

TheAvenger

July 5th, 2007, 12:51 AM

^^ I definitely agree.

But what if the State is corrupt? Like the Marcos regime.

That would be difficult for everyone. I think that's why our country's leadership and the military's human resources are more important right now than tanks, ships, and planes (although it's important we still have them, upgrade, and train on them).

then the military establishment should follow the constitutional mandate re
1986 Constitution.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines is the Protector of the People and the State

The Philippine Constitution enshrines, under Article II, the following as its declared national principles,

Section 3

“Civilian authority is, at all times, supreme over the military. The Armed Forces of the Philippines is the protector of the people and the State. Its goal is to secure the sovereignty of the State and the integrity of the national territory.”

Section 4

‘The prime duty of the Government is to serve and protect the people. xxx”

gen1

July 5th, 2007, 01:10 AM

Increased hazard pay will really be another motivation to the soldiers, I suppose. I think their allowance is not really that big and the increase is not that high. Nonetheless, such will help them and their respective families.

If such could help so that these soldiers will not involve themselves in military adventurism, then the government should do this more often, especially now that there's a newly- elected senator who just wanted to destabilize the government. I hope no one will follow his footsteps. What we need is a military that will defend the State and its people.

It's hard to lay your life on the line whilst seeing the senior officers living the good life.

Sa tate ang pinag-aagawan na posisyon ng opisyal ay iyong sa mga combat batallions. Mabilis ang promotions kasi duon.

Sa 'pinas ang pinag-aagawan na posisyon ay sa logistics, mabilis kasi ang pera duon :nuts:

tisoycuba

July 5th, 2007, 02:23 AM

:cheers: tama ka dyan iba talaga ang kano hehehehe.kahit saan bansa naiiba talaga ang u.s military...

jgacis

July 5th, 2007, 04:25 AM

then the military establishment should follow the constitutional mandate re
1986 Constitution.

Intervene and save the Filipino people from abusive and corrupt civilian government. :)

Your key words are "SHOULD FOLLOW"....

What if they don't follow, like what history has repeatedly shown in the Philippines?......

beads_strawberries

July 5th, 2007, 06:58 AM

Well, we can only hope for less corruption in the higher ranks. It's a sad fact that there exists corruption in the long gray line where a man of honor and dignity should be present. Yet we see some men in uniform who are in their highest ranks as generals being involved in corrupt practices.

Maybe the case of Gen. Garcia can be an example that the government wants to erase those corrupt high ranking generals in service. After all, their subordinates are sacrificing themselves in the mountains just so as to follow their sacred duty to the people and the State.

heathcliff

July 5th, 2007, 07:45 AM

PGMA has just ordered the bidding and acquisition of brand new helicopters worth P5 billion. At last, after secondhand helicopters from the U.S., our soldiers will be able to fly new ones.

The government is also increasing the hazard pay and subsistence allowance of soldiers.

Apart from higher stipend for the soldiers, the President also said the government would provide scholarships and livelihood opportunities to the families of the soldiers.

"On-base and off-base housing facilities will also be built for government troops," Mrs. Arroyo said.

The President explained: "We will not only improve the equipment, we will also improve the benefits of the men and women who put their lives on the line for the security of the Filipino people."

In the same speech, the President also vowed to provide modern equipment to the military, particularly the PAF to enhance their capabilities in dealing with terrorism, insurgency and other security threats.

In the last two years, Mrs. Arroyo said she has authorized the allocation of P17.5 billion for the "capability upgrade plan" of the military.

Of the amount, P5 billion has been set aside for the acquisition of brand new helicopters to replace the aging fleet of PAF.

Arroyo said she has directed the military leadership to bid for brand-new helicopters first before buying more second-hand vehicles. "I hope that our young men and women in the Air Force will feel safer and braver when they fly these new helicopters."

In the first phase of the PAF modernization, the President said the government has already acquired 20 refurbished UH-1H helicopters from the United States as well as 10 OV10s light attack aircraft from Thailand.

Mrs. Arroyo also dispelled criticisms about "over-militarization" in connection with the multiyear defense reform program.

She clarified that what she had allocated for the military was "much less than what we have allocated for agricultural modernization" over the last two years at P30 billion.

The President said the agricultural and military modernization programs were a clear message of proving the value of a new paradigm for peace in Mindanao.

Mrs. Arroyo said she is counting on a stronger and more equipped military to wipe out terrorism and insurgency before she steps downs in office in 2010.link (http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN2007070497080.html)

jgacis

July 5th, 2007, 09:55 PM

Askal82

July 6th, 2007, 02:00 AM

^^ That's great Arroyo is working on helping our Philippine troops.

I'm sort of concerned though about the on-base off-base housing issue.

Remember the problems with the Base Development agency in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig and the retired officers who didn't want to move/relocate last year?. They claimed the properties were rightfully their own but there were accusations that the titles were fraudulent...

Hope this time the facts and paperwork are done correctly!!!

Btw, the second-hand helicopters the U.S. gave to the Philippines was what our country could only afford at the time. If the Philippines wanted better U.S. military equipment, then IMO the U.S. bases should have never closed. There would be state-of-the-art U.S. equipment in the Philippines today patrolling the entire archipelago if the bases were still open.

Instead, the Philippines wants to do it their way but still want the icing on the cake. We have a VFA that allows U.S. forces to participate with R.P troops via the Balikitan excercises, yet the U.S. is constrained in only helping out in non-combat operations, while the fighting with insurgents continue year after year, after year, after year, after year, after year..... :ohno:

I think its a blessing that the bases was closed. The area is now brimming with multi-billion dollar investments especially when Hanjin of Korea decided to put their ship building factory there (and is making the world's largest tanker) and Texas Instruments put up their facilities in Subic employing hundreds of thousands in that area. It's also becoming a major tourist site as well. Infrastructure upgrades are all that is needed for its development.

Well, its Philippine's own internal problems. The Thais have the same insurgency problems but they never asked any help from outside and still managed it their own. Isn't it disturbing enough that sovereignty was repeatedly violated and abused? What the Philippines needed is a 'can do' attitude that is severely lacking because 'unity' is not in the vocabulary that means sacrificing their self interests.

jgacis

July 6th, 2007, 03:07 AM

I think its a blessing that the bases was closed. The area is now brimming with multi-billion dollar investments especially when Hanjin of Korea decided to put their ship building factory there (and is making the world's largest tanker) and Texas Instruments put up their facilities in Subic employing hundreds of thousands in that area. It's also becoming a major tourist site as well. Infrastructure upgrades are all that is needed for its development.

Well, its Philippine's own internal problems. The Thais have the same insurgency problems but they never asked any help from outside and still managed it their own. Isn't it disturbing enough that sovereignty was repeatedly violated and abused? What the Philippines needed is a 'can do' attitude that is severely lacking because 'unity' is not in the vocabulary that means sacrificing their self interests.

Ok. Good point.

But I think the real blessing has been good management from the current administration who have the foresight in developing them to what they are today. Not necessarily just because they closed. A closed base just sits there, doing nothing.

It's the leadership and manage of people that makes the real difference, whether the base closes or not..

Remember, those multi-billion pesos bases (Clark & Subic) would not have been possible without American financial support and engineering during the Cold War. It was just unfortunate that Marcos mismanaged alot of the funds and kickbacks he received. Instead of helping the filipinos, he helped himself first.

I hardly doubt that the Philippines today would be able to build and duplicate those bases today, on their own. Other pressing needs would always be in the way, IMO.

And if Marcos didn't misappropriate all that money he received, the economic infrastructure we have today would be rivaling that of Singapore or Malaysia