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Magnitude 8.5 earthquake-tsunami scenario to test gov't, communities response By Priam Nepomuceno MANILA – The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) on Tuesday said the 4th quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) this Nov. 5 aims to test the government and the communities’ ability to immediately respond to a magnitude 8.5 earthquake-tsunami scenario. "The preparedness of government agencies, local government units (LGUs), emergency responders, and communities for major earthquakes and tsunamis will be put to the test through a simulated disaster scenario in Santa Ana, Cagayan, as the highlight of the 4th quarter NSED," it said in a news release. Aside from the OCD, agencies under the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) will also be joining the NSED, with the ceremonial pressing of the button set at 9 a.m. to signal the start of the "Duck, Cover, and Hold" procedure and evacuation drill. The scenario will involve a magnitude 8.5 earthquake with an epicenter located 180 kilometers southeast of Santa Ana, Cagayan, triggered by movement along the East Luzon Trough. The exercise aims to assess and strengthen Santa Ana, Cagayan's disaster preparedness and response mechanisms, particularly its contingency plan for earthquake and tsunami and the implementation of the Regional Disaster Response Plan of the Cagayan Valley Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the OCD emphasized. The simulation will test the capabilities of participating government agencies, emergency responders, and local government units in carrying out and coordinating with various emergency response operations such as: -- Early warning system activation -- Community evacuation -- Emergency telecommunications -- Incident Management Teams activation -- Alternate Emergency Operations Centers activation -- Logistics coordination and management -- Mass Casualty Incident management -- Search, Rescue and Retrieval -- Camp coordination and camp management -- Internally Displaced Persons protection -- Water Search and Rescue -- Management of the dead and missing -- Law and order -- Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Hazards and Oil Spill Response In addition to the main exercise in Santa Ana, Cagayan, earthquake drills and related exercises will also be conducted in various parts of the country, led by the OCD regional offices. The OCD said the 4th quarter NSED coincides with the observance of World Tsunami Awareness Day (WTAD) 2026, which carries the theme "Resilience Starts with You." As part of the NSED and WTAD observance, the OCD will also hold the "Over Coffee Dialogues: Earthquake and Tsunami Preparedness." The forum will bring together government experts and international disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) practitioners. "The OCD encourages the public to participate in the NSED, familiarize themselves with the safety measures to take before, during, and after an earthquake or tsunami, and practice these measures to strengthen individual and community preparedness," the agency concluded. (PNA)

NCRPO remains on alert as Undas observance winds down MANILA – As the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day (Undas) observance winds down Monday, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) assured the public that its personnel remain ready to respond to security threats and emergencies. As of Monday noon, the NCRPO reported that the observance of All Saints’ Day on Sunday was generally peaceful, orderly and safe across Metro Manila, as thousands of families visited cemeteries, memorial parks and columbaria to remember their departed loved ones. "As families continue their journey home after 'Undas,' the NCRPO assures the public that its personnel will remain ready to respond to emergencies, maintain peace and order, and provide assistance wherever needed," NCRPO officer-in-charge Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano said in a statement. He said police personnel will remain on full alert particularly in areas experiencing heavy traffic and large volumes of returning passengers. Abrahano urged the public to remain vigilant and immediately report suspicious activities or emergencies to the nearest police personnel or station. He warned cemetery visitors against individuals who might exploit the occasion through fraudulent activities, including those posing as religious ministers offering unauthorized prayers or blessings in exchange for money. Meanwhile, the Philippine Army (PA) has partnered with government agencies and other stakeholders in honoring fallen heroes through a wreath-laying, candle-lighting, and flag-setting ceremony at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, on Oct. 31. The synchronized candle-lighting and flaglet-setting ceremony paid tribute to soldiers, national heroes, artists and scientists, and former presidents buried at the cemetery, the Philippine Army said in a statement. Around 54,568 remains were interred at the Libingan ng mga Bayani as of Oct. 29. (Christopher Lloyd T. Caliwan and Priam F. Nepomuceno/PNA) PEACEFUL, ORDERLY. Security personnel inspect the bags of visitors entering the Manila North Cemetery in Sta. Cruz, Manila, on Sunday (Nov. 1, 2026), as part of security measures for the observance of All Saints’ Day. The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) on Monday (Nov. 2) reported a generally peaceful, orderly, and safe Undas observance across Metro Manila. (PNA photo by Avito Dalan)

OCD sets nat’l earthquake, tsunami awareness drills Nov. 5 By Priam F. Nepomuceno MANILA – The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) on Monday said it will conduct the 4th Quarter National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) in Sta. Ana, Cagayan on Nov. 5, with a magnitude 8.5 earthquake and tsunami as the disaster scenarios. Coinciding with World Tsunami Awareness Day, the drill aims to boost public awareness of tsunamis alongside standard earthquake preparedness. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) defines a tsunami as a series of sea waves, often exceeding five meters, “generated by a shallow, strong undersea earthquake that displaces the seabed and the water mass above it.” The OCD said the exercise will begin at 8 a.m. at the Country Inn in Sta. Ana, with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council participating. "The event will feature a ceremonial pressing of the button, followed by the 'Over Coffee Dialogue: Earthquake and Tsunami Preparedness' forum, where experts and government officials will discuss earthquake and tsunami risks and preparedness measures," it said. The full-scale simulation will simulate a major quake triggered by the movement of the East Luzon Trough. The exercise will bring together government agencies, emergency responders, local government units, and communities to test and strengthen disaster preparedness and response capabilities. "The public is encouraged to learn earthquake and tsunami hazards, identify evacuation routes and safe areas, and prepare family emergency plans to help protect lives during emergencies and disasters," the OCD said. (PNA) //Earthquake drill (File photo)

Top diplomats reaffirm commitment to intensify PH-Indonesia ties By Priam F. Nepomuceno MANILA – Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro formally received on Monday new Indonesian Minister for Foreign Affairs Arrmanatha “Tata” Christiawan Nasir, who is in Manila for an introductory visit after his appointment as Indonesia’s top diplomat last month. In their meeting, Lazaro and Nasir had productive discussions on the progress of bilateral relations, highlighting the close historical, cultural and geographical ties between the Philippines and Indonesia as maritime neighbors and founding members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Both foreign affairs chiefs recalled the key outcomes of the 8th Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) held last April 23 in Jakarta. They reaffirmed their commitment to intensify close collaboration across political, economic, maritime security and border management, boundary delimitation, legal and consular cooperation, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) development, and people-to-people relations. The two foreign ministers agreed to expedite work on the adoption of a new Philippines-Indonesia Plan of Action for the next five years, which will serve as the underlying framework in strengthening and deepening the bilateral partnership of the two countries, especially towards a shared aspiration for regional peace, stability, and prosperity. "They likewise exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual concern, particularly within ASEAN and the UN. They acknowledged the importance of continuing efforts to effectively address the issue of transboundary haze and the need to advance meaningful progress on the situation in Myanmar," the DFA said. At the upcoming 49th ASEAN Summit this November, Lazaro welcomed Indonesia’s continued support for the Philippines’ chairship and underscored their shared commitment to maintain ASEAN unity and centrality in addressing regional challenges. The Philippines and Indonesia established diplomatic relations on Nov. 24, 1949 and will mark 77 years of formal ties this month. (PNA) -------- TOP DIPLOMATS. Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro receives new Indonesian Minister for Foreign Affairs Arrmanatha “Tata” Christiawan Nasir in Manila on Monday (Nov. 2, 2026). They reaffirmed their commitment to intensify close collaboration across key areas between the two countries. (DFA photo)

No truth to claims ASEAN members questioned PH handling of China in ADMM-Plus By Priam Nepomuceno MANILA – Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Tuesday denied Chinese claims that several ASEAN members have questioned the Philippines' handling of China's participation in the just-concluded ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM)-Plus in Cebu. “No, that’s not true. If not, they would have told me directly in a letter addressed to me or a phone call addressed to me. That did not happen," he said in an interview over ANC. By making this statement allegedly on behalf of these ASEAN members, Teodoro said China violated the bloc's fundamental principles of solidarity, unity and centrality. "No external party can speak for and on behalf of any ASEAN member country. So China is arrogating unto itself a prerogative of ASEAN and a confidentiality or a process which belongs solely to ASEAN. So, is it now, by making such a statement, trying to subsume ASEAN under its thumb?" the DND chief questioned. If China has any concerns, it should address it to the ASEAN member states and the Plus countries, he stressed. Teodoro said other Plus member-countries, including Russia, were satisfied with the conduct of the ADMM-Plus. China earlier claimed that the Philippines deliberately tried to obstruct their participation in the ADMM-Plus and said that it allowed a "certain politician" to abuse its chairmanship of the event by setting up obstacles. "Now, to call my acts in any way obstructionism, I mean, what are they doing in Bajo de Masinloc and Mischief Reef? That is not only obstructionism, but that is also more than obstructing, that is already usurping," he pointed out. To further counter this accusation, Teodoro also cited the successful conduct of the ADMM and ADMM-Plus. "The success was touted by no less than ASEAN member countries, which are the important parts of this because they are the mechanism of the ADMM," he added. (PNA) Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. (Photo courtesy of the DND)

Frontline agencies on heightened alert for Undas 2026 MANILA – Frontline government agencies have been placed under “Blue Alert” status as Filipinos travel to their home provinces and visit cemeteries to remember their departed loved ones for Undas 2026. Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Administrator Undersecretary Harold Cabreros, in his capacity as executive director of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), has directed key government agencies and instrumentalities to intensify monitoring and ensure public safety during the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. Under the Blue Alert status, designated duty officers from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and Philippine National Police (PNP) are required to maintain continuous presence at the NDRRMC Operations Center, managed by the OCD Operations Service. A virtual Emergency Operations Center (EOC) has also been activated to facilitate coordination among member agencies and Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (RDRRMCs). Meanwhile, OCD regional offices, the NDRRMC, regional DRRMCs, and local DRRMCs are working together to implement preparedness and response measures throughout the observance. These include monitoring cemeteries, memorial parks, columbaria, and major transportation terminals to manage large crowds; ensuring the availability of emergency response arrangements and protocols; conducting necessary repairs on roads and bridges leading to cemeteries; and implementing traffic rerouting schemes to maintain smooth traffic flow. Government agencies are also continuously monitoring weather conditions and potential hazards while ensuring the timely dissemination of warnings, situational advisories, and other critical information. The OCD urged the public to remain vigilant, monitor official advisories, and observe safety protocols when visiting cemeteries and using public transportation during Undas. Ligtas Pinoy centers Meanwhile, the OCD recently opened a Ligtas Pinoy Center (LPC) in La Libertad, Zamboanga del Norte, as part of government efforts to establish disaster-resilient evacuation centers. The project is mandated under Republic Act No. 12076, or the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, which provides for the establishment of dedicated evacuation centers in every city and municipality nationwide. Cabreros led the ceremonial groundbreaking for the facility on Thursday, together with officials from various government agencies and local government units (LGUs). Under the program, priority is given to underserved and high-risk LGUs based on six indicators: hazard, exposure, vulnerability, coping capacity, disaster frequency and LGU readiness. (Darryl Esguerra and Priam F. Nepomuceno/PNA) (Photo courtesy of PNP)

PH sees more cooperation with other Squad members MANILA – The Philippines will have more cooperation with other member states of the Squad alliance to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said late Thursday. Squad is an informal defense and security alliance composed of the Philippines, United States, Japan and Australia. "We also held a Squad ministerial meeting yesterday afternoon (Oct. 28) where we affirmed the collective desire of the Philippines, Australia, Japan, and the United States to enhance our bilateral and four-way cooperation towards a safer and more prosperous Indo-Pacific," he said in an media briefing in Cebu shortly after the turnover ceremonies for the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus chairship to Singapore. Teodoro said the Philippines also chaired the ASEAN Plus One Defense Ministers informal meeting on Thursday, along with Secretary Pete Hegseth of the United States and Minister Koizumi Shinjiro of Japan. Teodoro said the meetings  "were open, candid, frank, and were very productive," with ASEAN members requesting Japan and the United States for greater and more robust engagement in the ASEAN region. (Priam Nepomuceno/PNA) Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.(Photo courtesy of DND)

NTF-ELCAC verifies reports NIR is new NPA training ground MANILA – The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) said Friday it is looking into reports alleging that the Negros Island Region (NIR) is the new training ground for new recruits of the New People's Army (NPA). Earlier, Noel Legaspi, president of Buklod Kapayapaan Federation, Inc. (BKFI), said remnants of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army - National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) are attempting to rebuild their depleted ranks by bringing recruits, including young people from Metro Manila and foreign nationals, to Negros amid declining community support. “Negros Island is now training ground for the future cadre,” he said, citing the April 19 Toboso encounter involving three individuals from Metro Manila and two Americans as evidence of recruitment extending beyond the island. Legaspi, a former CPP official, said the movement's continued recruitment reflects its rigid adherence to a protracted people's war despite changing social and political realities and repeated setbacks. In line with this, Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales, spokesperson of the Joint Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (JRTF-ELCAC) for Western Visayas, which previously included the Negros Island, warned that the recruitment activities coincide with expanding criminal investigations into NPA killings, particularly the execution of civilians accused of being government informants. Gonzales disclosed that affidavits executed by former rebels since 2019 are being reviewed by the Philippine Army's 3rd Infantry Division and police and intelligence authorities to identify perpetrators, locate witnesses, and revive previously unresolved cases. He said investigators are examining possible links between material support and violent activities. He noted that more than 500 individuals in Negros could potentially provide information against NPA operatives, including former rebels and people affected by intimidation. The continuing killings, he said, have generated resentment among victims' families and communities. As this developed, Gonzales said investigators are also examining possible terrorism-financing violations, while the Commission on Human Rights had begun investigating some civilian killings. (Priam Nepomuceno/PNA)

More Pinoys see US, Japan as important economic partners - survey By Priam Nepomuceno MANILA – Results of a recent survey, commissioned by Stratbase Group, showed more Filipinos looking to the United States and Japan as the country’s most important economic partners. The survey results were released as the Marcos administration advances the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC), a trilateral initiative with the US and Japan, aimed at driving investments in infrastructure, clean energy, semiconductor manufacturing, logistics, and digital connectivity. The LEC has also gained support from other partners, including Australia, South Korea, and the European Union, benefiting the Philippines’ diversification bid for supply chains and reducing vulnerabilities arising from excessive dependence on any single country. The survey, done by Pulse Asia from Sept. 17-23, asked the 2,400 respondents for their top three choices as the Philippines’ most important economic partners, and results showed that these are the US (73 percent), Japan (62 percent), and Canada (35 percent). Australia came in fourth, with 30 percent, and South Korea, fifth, with 21 percent, Stratbase Group said in a news release on Wednesday. Japan, in particular, enjoyed a 10-percentage-point increase in preference (from 52 percent in the July survey), while the US saw a 2-percentage-point increase (from 71 percent in July). Canada and South Korea also posted hikes of 7-percentage-point and 1-percentage-point increase from their July ratings, respectively, while Australia saw a 5-percentage-point decline. The next five countries on the list are the United Kingdom (20 percent, -6); European Union (14 percent, +1); China (14 percent, -3); Taiwan (11 percent, +3); and India (2 percent, zero change). Stratbase Group president and chief executive officer Prof. Victor Andres Manhit said the strong preference for the US and Japan “reflected growing public recognition of their role in strengthening the Philippines’ economic and strategic position.” “Filipinos increasingly recognize that our economic security is closely tied to the partnerships we build with trusted countries. The growing preference for the United States and Japan reflects confidence in partners that can help the Philippines expand investments, strengthen critical infrastructure, and secure our place in emerging technology supply chains,” he said. Manhit pointed out that the 11 percent preference rating for Taiwan, now “the world's leader in semiconductor production – could be higher given the country’s growing economic and technological relevance to the Philippines, particularly its important role in our technology and semiconductor supply chains.” He also noted the decline in China’s preference rating, which came amid continuing tensions in the West Philippine Sea, including reports of harassment by the Chinese Coast Guard, as well as Beijing’s continued claims over areas involving the Philippines and Taiwan. “China’s standing among Filipinos continues to be shaped by what they see and experience in the region. The preference rating could even be in the single digits were it not for Mindanao, the only region where China has consistently maintained a double-digit preference,” he added. (PNA)

ASEAN convergence needed in changing int’l environment – Teodoro By Priam Nepomuceno MANILA – Convergence among Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states is necessary as the region faces changes in the "international environment, which pose challenges to the rights of smaller and archipelagic states." Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.  stressed this in his speech during the 20th ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting (ADMM), which formally opened in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu Wednesday. "Against this backdrop, and in line with the Philippines' theme of navigating our future together, we humbly offer, in our capacity as Chair of the ADMM, three key messages to guide our discussions growing forward. First, in a fragmenting world, our internal stability and intra-ASEAN unity are vital, perhaps even in the future existential," he said. The DND chief pointed out that it is only when all member states are united that  they can effectively uphold ASEAN centrality, such as mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, peaceful settlement of disputes, and renunciation of the threat or use of force. He said the regional bloc was founded on the belief that the region's strength lies in diversity. "We must therefore not allow our differences to divide us from within. And where such differences exist, rather, including in the South China Sea, we shall settle them through peaceful and legal means," Teodoro said. Teodoro said they welcome "efforts of our kin" in Cambodia and Thailand to maintain the ceasefire agreement and seek a peaceful and enduring solution to the current situation. "For our part, the Philippines reaffirms its continued participation in the process settled by our leaders, the ASEAN Observer Team, with due regard for the sensitivities of all concerned,” he said. Another important message is the need for functional cooperation, which “is essential to enhancing trust, maintaining trust and confidence among our defense establishments and producing purposive outcomes for our peoples," he said. Through the ADMM and the ADMM Plus, Teodoro said significant strides are made in areas such as maritime security, the protection of critical underwater infrastructure. "Amid supply chain challenges from conflicts beyond our shores, we also see value in expanding our cooperation to secure food and energy security. This initiative gains in importance as Southeast Asia braces for a super El Niño, which will likewise affect food, water, electricity, and connectivity in our respective countries, thereby having serious potential security implications,” he said. And as defense and military practitioners, Teodoro said participants know what the existing threats are and how they affect the safety of all ASEAN citizens and the stability of the region. "Therefore, we hope to foster an environment that is conducive to frank and open exchanges of views throughout the week in the spirit of candor and ASEAN solidarity," he added. *Arbitral award* Meanwhile, Teodoro, during a meeting with Singaporean Defense Minister Chan Chun Sing a day prior to the ADMM opening in Cebu on Tuesday, highlighted the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal Award for its fundamental principles that will benefit ASEAN member states "The two met on Tuesday on the sidelines of the 20th ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting (ADMM) and 13th ADMM Plus, where they also tackled regional defense and security challenges, particularly malign foreign interference and coercions at sea as experienced by the Philippines,” the DND said in a statement Wednesday. Teodoro also promoted the Philippines' defense partnerships with Japan, Canada, South Korea, Australia, India and New Zealand and the possibilities for expanded practical cooperation, especially on developing capabilities and building supply chain resilience. The DND said the meeting fostered closer defense cooperation between the two countries as they seek to promote sustained regional stability and security. (PNA)

Over 1.3K Reds, supporters ‘neutralized’ in past 10 months – AFP By Priam Nepomuceno MANILA – Around 1,359 New People's Army (NPA) members and supporters were neutralized in various government operations from Jan. 1 to Oct. 22 this year, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, in an interview Tuesday, said 1,231 of these individuals surrendered, 49 were arrested and 79 were killed in military operations. During the same period, 827 assorted firearms were seized or surrendered by the communist insurgents, along with 314 anti-personnel mines and 63 encampments. "When we looked into the CTG (communist terrorist group) numbers, 1,231 are surrenderees and that is the largest component of the total. These figures reflect ongoing operations and the total number of individuals choosing to leave armed (captivity)," she added. In 2025, the military reported neutralizing 2,018 NPA and its supporters, 1,798 of whom surrendered, 93 arrested, and 127 killed. Some 1,134 firearms and 531 anti-personnel mines were either seized or surrendered and a total of 149 NPA encampments were captured. (PNA) Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla. (PNA photo by Priam F. Nepomuceno)

Teodoro lauds US for 'sustained engagement' with ASEAN MANILA – Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Wednesday cited the United States’ "sustained engagement" with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which he credits for peace and stability in the region. "We value the United States' sustained engagement with the defense establishments of ASEAN as a robust US presence is necessary for peace and stability in Southeast Asia and in the broader Indo-Pacific Region," he said during the ASEAN-United States Defence Ministers' Informal Meeting in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. US Department of War Secretary Pete Hegseth attended the meeting, held on the sidelines of the 20th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting. "We are delighted to host this important gathering this year as it coincides with the 80th anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic ties with the United States. In that spirit, we extend our appreciation to the Honorable Secretary Pete Hegseth and members of his team for joining us here in Cebu on this momentous occasion," Teodoro said. The defense chief also expressed appreciation for the United States’ steadfast support for ASEAN centrality and its participation in ASEAN-led mechanisms, including the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) and the second ASEAN-United States Maritime Exercise held in Indonesia in December 2025. He also expressed elation for the US’ support for the Philippines and Japan as co-chairs of the current cycle of the ADMM-Plus Experts Working Group on Maritime Security. "We particularly appreciate US participation through (their Navy) and their Air Force in the joint cooperative activity that we hosted in Subic last month," he added. Teodoro said these  initiatives offered meaningful opportunities to strengthen maritime partnerships and people-to-people ties in support of peace and stability in Southeast Asia and a free and open Indo-Pacific. "For our part, the Philippines hopes to build on these efforts in the years to come because all of us have relied and will continue to rely on freedom of navigation for the security, prosperity, and resilience of our people," he added. Hegseth, in turn, hailed the DND chief for his "clarity, leadership, and great work as chairman of the ADMM-Plus over the past year." "You've continued to showcase the kind of leadership we expect and have come to really appreciate from the Philippines, so thank you very much. And to all our other friends and partners here as members of ASEAN and the ADMM-Plus, we look forward to building on the great foundation that has existed for quite some time," he said. Earlier this year, Hegseth described a vision of  "a more stable, secure, and prosperous Pacific.” On Wednesday, he said this vision was “based on strength, built not on wishful thinking but on the backs of strong, self-reliant nations. Nations capable of defending their own sovereignty and contributing to the favorable balance of power that benefits us all.” (Priam F. Nepomuceno/PNA) ASEAN DEFENSE MEETING. Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. presides over the 20th ASEAN Defense Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, on Wednesday (Oct. 28, 2026). The Philippines' chairship coincides with the 50th Anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, as well as the 20th Anniversary of the ADMM. (Dept. of National Defense photo)

PH, Australia eyeing maritime domain awareness cooperation - DND By Priam Nepomuceno MANILA – The Philippines and Australia plan to enhance their cooperation in maritime domain awareness (MDA) and related matters as the two countries cite strong security ties. Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defense Richard Marles met on the sidelines of the 20th ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting (ADMM) and 13th ADMM-Plus in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu on Wednesday, the DND said in a news release. "The engagement focused on the regional security situation amid China's expansionist ambitions and coercive actions. The two officials also discussed enhancing defense cooperation, particularly in the areas of MDA, training and exercises, intelligence sharing, and defense infrastructure development," it said. The meeting was held weeks after the 3rd Defense Ministerial Meeting on Aug. 7, when the officials announced progress in the conclusion of the Defense Cooperation Arrangement (DCA), which sets the contemporary bilateral defense framework. The DCA is expected to be signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during the ASEAN Summit next month. "On training and exercises, the two discussed the possible inclusion of other Status of Visiting Forces Agreement partners and the development of Exercise Alon in scale and complexity with each iteration," the DND added. (PNA) ---------------- PACT. Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defense Richard Marles (left) and Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. during their meeting on the sidelines of the 20th ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting (ADMM) and 13th ADMM-Plus in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu on Wednesday (Oct. 28, 2026). The DND said Thursday (Oct. 29) the officials discussed a plan to strengthen maritime domain awareness cooperation. (Photo courtesy of DND)

PH hands over ADMM, ADMM-Plus chairship to Singapore By Priam F. Nepomuceno MANILA – Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Thursday formally handed over the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus chairship to his Singaporean counterpart, Chan Chun Sing, during short ceremonies in Cebu. "We are honored and humbled by the trust and confidence you have placed in us to steer our collective efforts to preserve peace and stability in Southeast Asia and in the broader Indo-Pacific region. On behalf of the DND, maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat (thank you very much)," Teodoro said. As the Philippines' chairship of the 20th ADMM and 13th ADMM Plus comes to a close, Teodoro said he would like to express his sincerest appreciation to all who contributed to the success of the engagements. "When we accepted the chairship from Malaysia last year, we committed to not only sustaining the progress we have made in our areas of practical cooperation but also tried to incorporate the changing elements of the security environment of the times,” Teodoro said. “And in doing so, we tried to share the vision of our ASEAN member states to do our part faster, quicker, and more inclusive to promote adherence to our shared principles and to give a vision to the future generations of a security architecture which they must manage." He also expressed confidence in the outcomes of this year's ADMM and ADMM Plus, which lay the groundwork for "principled and purposive action" in the coming years. "In light of current events in our region, we also thank our fellow ASEAN member states for supporting the process that was agreed upon by our leaders and the ASEAN Observer Team to monitor the ceasefire agreement between our kin in Cambodia and in Thailand," he said. Looking ahead, Teodoro said the Philippines is committed to closely coordinating with Singapore to ensure a smooth turnover “as part of our broader efforts to pursue peaceful and durable resolutions to current situations.” "Ultimately, in our ever-changing world, what must remain constant is unity, centrality, and solidarity of ASEAN. In that spirit, I am hopeful that the discussions we had during our formal engagements and in the sidelines will strengthen our resolve to navigate our future together," he added. Singapore looking to work with everyone For his part, Chan said he hopes to "work closely with everyone in this hall and beyond" and take the ASEAN and the ASEAN Plus framework forward. "A framework that is forward-looking, that maintains our relevance to the challenges of the times, not just the current challenges, but also the emerging challenges. A framework that is agile and adaptable, that will allow us to try new things," he added. Chan also reiterated that their job is not to look for yesterday's answer to yesterday's questions. "Our challenge is always to rise to the occasion and look for tomorrow's answer, for tomorrow's challenges, hopefully ahead of time. And hopefully, we will together build a community that is much more resilient to the challenges that are confronting us. From climate change, to cyber challenges, to conventional warfare, to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and you name it, we have our work set out for us," he stressed. No undermining As this developed, Teodoro denied Chinese claims that the Philippines has undermined China's rights as a member of the dialogue, prompting the latter to send only a defense attaché to attend the proceedings. "In so far as ASEAN is concerned, I do not believe our ASEAN member countries feel that way. If not, they would have let me know. So, it is China's position. It is not ASEAN's position. Anyway, they were given an opportunity to articulate their position, which is not any different from what they have been articulating before," he added Teodoro also added that no country has the right to characterize ASEAN processes except ASEAN member countries. "They are dialogue partners. So as much as we would want to accommodate them, it is subject to rules and limitations. The important fact is they were able to articulate their position on regional maritime securities with a little additions. Nonetheless, we allowed the exchange of views to be robust and I think that was the important thing: the opportunity to be heard. How they are going to be heard is for ASEAN proper to determine and not anybody else," the Filipino defense chief said. (PNA) NEXT ASEAN CHAIRSHIP. Philippine National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. (left) hands over the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus chairship to his Singaporean counterpart, Chan Chun Sing, during short ceremonies in Cebu on Thursday (Oct. 29, 2026). Teodoro expressed his sincerest appreciation to all who contributed to the success of the engagements. (Screengrab from ASEAN Philippines 2026 videostream)

Chinese carrier formation monitored constantly while in PH waters By Priam F. Nepomuceno MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday said its units constantly monitored the Liaoning carrier group and its escorts when it transited the country's waters last week. In a press briefing in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, retired Navy reservist Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, AFP spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea (WPS), said there is no cause for alarm regarding the passage of the Chinese carrier and its escorts when it was initially monitored northwest of Talulu Point, Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte last Oct. 22 It was later tracked southwest of Maitum, Sarangani as it continued southeastward towards the Celebes Sea. "It is no cause for alarm. It is not the first time that a carrier battle group of the PLA (People's Liberation Army) Navy has transited international and Philippine waters. What happened recently is part of an annual twice a year periodic aircraft carrier operation exercise," he said. For the carrier drills, Trinidad said the PLAN's usual route takes part "in the northern part of the country (the Philippines), passing through Bashi or Balintang Channel going down south to our eastern seaboard down south all the way as far as Australia coming back up to Sibutu Passage then to the WPS." "Sometimes it will pass on the eastern seaboard transit down to Sibutu Passage, Basilan Strait, (up to) Australian waters then up on our eastern seaboard," he said. And during all this time, he said all of the AFP's maritime domain awareness capabilities were "constant, active, and monitoring" the Chinese carrier formation. "Monitoring was constant the moment we first noticed them entering our maritime domain, monitoring by the Coast Guard, by the AFP, (and the) Philippine Air Force. This was a very good opportunity for us to be able to test our systems and procedures on how to track a high value asset navigating through our maritime domain," he pointed out. When asked of the Liaoning carrier group's composition, Trinidad said this consists of an aircraft carrier, air-defense destroyers, replenishment ships and a submarine. (PNA) Retired Navy reservist Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea (PNA photo by Priam F. Nepomuceno)

PH to beef up regional security cooperation during Cebu ASEAN meetings MANILA – The Philippines is eyeing to strengthen regional partnerships and practical defense cooperation for a peaceful and stable Indo-Pacific Region as the Department of National Defense spearheads the 20th ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) and the 13th ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu on Oct. 28 and 29. The meetings will coincide with the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, signed in 1976, which upholds respect for sovereignty, non-interference and a peaceful settlement of disputes. "As Chair of the ADMM and ADMM-Plus for 2026, Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. will lead discussions to advance regional defense dialogue and strengthen cooperation among ASEAN Member States and Plus Dialogue Partners," Defense Assistant Secretary spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said in a statement. The proposed outcome documents for this year’s meeting include joint statements, which are subject to finalization and the required consensus among the participating parties. Aside from the ADMM and ADMM-Plus, Andolong added that there will be two ASEAN-Plus One Defence Ministers’ Informal Meetings — one with Japan and the other with the United States. There will also be bilateral and minilateral engagements on the sidelines. On Oct. 29, the Philippines will formally turn over the Chairship of the ADMM and ADMM-Plus to Singapore. The ADMM was established in 2006 to serve as ASEAN’s highest defense consultative and cooperative mechanism, while the ADMM-Plus was launched in 2010, expanding regional defense dialogue and cooperation between ASEAN Member States and eight Plus Countries. The Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship prioritizes regional peace and security, practical defense cooperation, and collective action to address shared challenges, with peace and security anchors among the three strategic priorities. (Priam F. Nepomuceno/PNA)

PAF: SF-260 trainer aircraft involved in mishap not old MANILA – The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Tuesday disputed claims that its SIAI-Marchetti SF-260 trainer aircraft involved in a mid-air collision that killed four pilots in Lipa City, Batangas, last week were already old. PAF spokesperson Col. Alvin Jay Capinguian said during a press briefing at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City that the aircraft were acquired between 2010 and 2011 and remain within their prescribed airframe operating hours. “We'd like to dispel the notion of katandaan. Wala sa chronological age, hindi tinitingnan yung chronological age ng eroplano. Each aircraft has a number of operating hours associated with it (We’d like to dispel the notion of old age. It’s not about chronological age. What matters is not how old the aircraft is, but the number of operating hours it has accumulated," Capinguian said. He explained that an aircraft's operational capability is assessed based on its accumulated operating hours rather than its chronological age. “Depending on how often the aircraft is used, it may be decommissioned sooner or later. So hindi matanda yung aircraft. They are well within their airframe operating hours, and they still have several years of operation to go,” he said. The PAF acquired 18 SF-260 trainer aircraft for its pilot training program, with deliveries made between 2010 and 2011. Capinguian said the investigation into the accident was ongoing, with the investigating team gathering the necessary data. “Our investigating team has already started gathering all the needed data, and we will hopefully update you as soon as possible once they have verified information,” he said. The two SF-260 aircraft collided midair during a training flight at Fernando Air Base in Lipa City on Oct. 23, crashing within the base perimeter and killing all four pilots on board. Capinguian also said the SF-260 trainer aircraft are not equipped with ejection seats, but their crews are provided with parachutes they can use to escape the aircraft in an emergency. (Priam Nepomuceno/PNA) Philippine Air Force spokesperson Col. Alvin Jay Capinguian (PNA photo by Priam F. Nepomuceno)

LOOK: Philippine Air Force commander Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura and other ranking officials of the service visited the wakes of four pilots who perished in an aircraft mishap during a training flight at Fernando Air Base, Lipa City, Batangas on Sunday (Oct. 25, 2026) to personally extend their condolences and assure their families of the Air Force’s continuing support. I Priam Nepomuceno (Photo courtesy of the PAF)

Probe underway to determine cause of fatal Lipa air base crash MANILA – The Department of National Defense (DND) on Monday said an investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the fatal mishap involving two SF-260 trainer aircraft that also killed four Philippine Air Force (PAF) pilots in Lipa City, Batangas on Oct. 23. "An investigation is ongoing and will be conducted thoroughly and objectively to establish the facts, determine the causes, and identify any gaps that require corrective action and prevent similar tragedies," the DND said in a statement Monday. The DND said the four pilots' "service and sacrifice for the nation will not be forgotten." The mid-air collision happened around 3:51 p.m. during a routine training flight at Fernando Air Base. "Both aircraft went down within the base perimeter, with no other casualties reported," PAF spokesperson Col. Alvin Jay Capinguian said. The rest of the SF-260 fleet, composed of light aircraft marketed as an aerobatics plane and a military trainer, were ordered grounded as a precautionary measure. The PAF said it is coordinating assistance with the bereaved families of Capt. Raymart Cabangcala of Pangasinan, 1st Lt. Angeleo Adrian Peñaflor of Cagayan and Capt. Ma. Melvin Acebuque of Baguio City and Maj. David Joshua Rojo. (Priam Nepomuceno/PNA)