From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21): PA annual parade and review rescheduled for April 4
The Philippine Army (PA)'s annual parade and review was moved to April 4 due to conflict in schedules of some of the visiting dignitaries which include President Rodrigo Duterte and Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
The event, which is supposed to be held Wednesday and in-line with the PA's 120th anniversary, was rescheduled due to this and occurrence of some international events, Army spokesperson Col. Benjamin Hao said.
During the said event, troops and brand-new assets are usually paraded before the dignitaries.
Guest-of-honors usually inspect troops and chat with them a few minutes before going on the next formation.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=973480
Monday, March 20, 2017
Marine killed, 8 others hurt in Sultan Kudarat NPA ambush
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21): Marine killed, 8 others hurt in Sultan Kudarat NPA ambush
A Marine trooper was killed while eight of his companions were wounded when elements of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-2 (MBLT-2) were ambushed by New People's Army (NPA) insurgents in Kalamansig town, Sultan Kudarat Monday morning.
Capt. Arvin Encinas, 6th Infantry Division spokesperson, in an interview with the Philippine News Agency, said the 20-minute ambush took place in Sitio Pinagdaanan, Barangay Hinalaan, of the said locality at 10:40a.m.
He added that a platoon from the MBLT-2 were conducting security patrols in the area in the wake of NPA recruiting reports, when ambushed by an estimated 10 rebels, triggering a 20-minute firefight.
The NPAs quickly retreated after sustaining an undetermined number of casualties. Pursuit operations are still ongoing.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=973444
A Marine trooper was killed while eight of his companions were wounded when elements of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-2 (MBLT-2) were ambushed by New People's Army (NPA) insurgents in Kalamansig town, Sultan Kudarat Monday morning.
Capt. Arvin Encinas, 6th Infantry Division spokesperson, in an interview with the Philippine News Agency, said the 20-minute ambush took place in Sitio Pinagdaanan, Barangay Hinalaan, of the said locality at 10:40a.m.
He added that a platoon from the MBLT-2 were conducting security patrols in the area in the wake of NPA recruiting reports, when ambushed by an estimated 10 rebels, triggering a 20-minute firefight.
The NPAs quickly retreated after sustaining an undetermined number of casualties. Pursuit operations are still ongoing.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=973444
Military pursuing rebel group behind Misamis Occidental camp
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21): Military pursuing rebel group behind Misamis Occidental camp
Western Mindanao Command (WMC) units are still conducting pursuit operations against a New People's Army (NPA) band whose camp was captured in Tudela, Misamis Occidental last March 18.
Capt. Jo-ann Petinglay, WMC spokesperson in a statement Tuesday, said the rebel lair was seized following encounters with 55th Infantry Battalion troops and members of the NPA's Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee around 3 p.m.
Fighting took place at Barangay Gala, of the said town and province.
Troops were able to recover two claymore mines; a grenade rifle; three rolls of wires for landmine; a M-203 munition; and several subversive documents.
No soldiers were killed nor hurt in the fighting.
Also seized were an NPA flag with a logo of the National Democratic Front; 11 NPA bull caps; a bandoleer; and several subversive documents belonging to the rebels.
Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN units under Brig. Gen. Rolando Bautista are still conducting pursuit operations as of this posting.
"We will not give these rebels some time to rest and recuperate," WMC head Major Gen. Carlito G Galvez, Jr., said.
"Our troops will continue to track them as communities who suffer from their atrocities and abuses for the longest time are already tipping to us their locations and whereabouts," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=973415
Western Mindanao Command (WMC) units are still conducting pursuit operations against a New People's Army (NPA) band whose camp was captured in Tudela, Misamis Occidental last March 18.
Capt. Jo-ann Petinglay, WMC spokesperson in a statement Tuesday, said the rebel lair was seized following encounters with 55th Infantry Battalion troops and members of the NPA's Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee around 3 p.m.
Fighting took place at Barangay Gala, of the said town and province.
Troops were able to recover two claymore mines; a grenade rifle; three rolls of wires for landmine; a M-203 munition; and several subversive documents.
No soldiers were killed nor hurt in the fighting.
Also seized were an NPA flag with a logo of the National Democratic Front; 11 NPA bull caps; a bandoleer; and several subversive documents belonging to the rebels.
Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN units under Brig. Gen. Rolando Bautista are still conducting pursuit operations as of this posting.
"We will not give these rebels some time to rest and recuperate," WMC head Major Gen. Carlito G Galvez, Jr., said.
"Our troops will continue to track them as communities who suffer from their atrocities and abuses for the longest time are already tipping to us their locations and whereabouts," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=973415
PNP confirms Maute Group terror cell in Metro Manila
From Rappler (Mar 21): PNP confirms Maute Group terror cell in Metro Manila
(UPDATED) 'This discovery leads us to believe that the Maute Group has already established a presence in Metro Manila,' says PNP chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa
Top officials of the Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday, March 21, confirmed the presence of the "ISIS-inspired" Maute Group in Metro Manila.
Speaking at a press conference, PNP chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa said police from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) were able to intercept an improvised explosive device (IED) that would have been used for a terror attack.
"We are yet to uncover the circumstances surrounding this incident involving the Lanao-based Maute Group, but this discovery leads us to believe that the Maute Group has already established a presence in Metro Manila. As to what extent, that is the subject of our follow-up investigation and operations," said Dela Rosa.
Chief Superintendent Oscar Albayalde, NCRPO chief, added: "Meron nga silang cell dito na nag-e-exist (They do have a cell that exists here)."
Dela Rosa said he does not want the public to panic but urged Metro Manila residents to be "vigilant."
"I therefore urge our people to remain calm yet alert and vigilant of the presence of threat groups in our midst," he said.
Suspect nabbed
Police presented to media Nasip Ibrahim, a 35-year-old owner of a sari-sari store in Salaam Compound, Baragay Culiat, Quezon City. Ibrahim allegedly coddled suspects, "facilitating" their accommodations in Quezon City, for the foiled attempt against the United States embassy in November 2016.
Ibrahim has been living in Culiat since 1992.
He also allegedly served as the driver of the vehicle used to transport the suspects, one of them Nasip's uncle.
Ibrahim was arrested the evening of Monday, March 20, when police and the military were trying to serve a search warrant against a certain Jamil Baja Tawil for illegal possession of firearms. Tawil, according to the Quezon City Police District, was a "suspected ally" of the Maute Group and was living in Ibrahim's home.
Police were not able to find Tawil but supposedly saw a .45 caliber pistol "in plain view under Nasip's table."
Following a search of Ibrahim's store, police found a 9mm machine pistol, an IED inside a black sling bag with a detonation system, another .45 caliber pistol, and 7 heat-sealed plastic sachets of the illegal drug shabu (methampetamine).
Ibrahim faces charges of illegal possession of firearms, unlawful possession of explosives, possession of illegal drugs, and obstruction of justice for allegedly concealing a wanted person.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/164788-pnp-confirms-maute-terror-cell-metro-manila
(UPDATED) 'This discovery leads us to believe that the Maute Group has already established a presence in Metro Manila,' says PNP chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa
TERROR ALERT. Philippine National Police officials led by Director General Ronald dela Rosa (3rd from left) give a press conference on the arrest of a Maute Group member on March 21, 2017. Photo by Bea Cupin/Rappler
Top officials of the Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday, March 21, confirmed the presence of the "ISIS-inspired" Maute Group in Metro Manila.
Speaking at a press conference, PNP chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa said police from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) were able to intercept an improvised explosive device (IED) that would have been used for a terror attack.
"We are yet to uncover the circumstances surrounding this incident involving the Lanao-based Maute Group, but this discovery leads us to believe that the Maute Group has already established a presence in Metro Manila. As to what extent, that is the subject of our follow-up investigation and operations," said Dela Rosa.
Chief Superintendent Oscar Albayalde, NCRPO chief, added: "Meron nga silang cell dito na nag-e-exist (They do have a cell that exists here)."
Dela Rosa said he does not want the public to panic but urged Metro Manila residents to be "vigilant."
"I therefore urge our people to remain calm yet alert and vigilant of the presence of threat groups in our midst," he said.
Suspect nabbed
Police presented to media Nasip Ibrahim, a 35-year-old owner of a sari-sari store in Salaam Compound, Baragay Culiat, Quezon City. Ibrahim allegedly coddled suspects, "facilitating" their accommodations in Quezon City, for the foiled attempt against the United States embassy in November 2016.
Ibrahim has been living in Culiat since 1992.
He also allegedly served as the driver of the vehicle used to transport the suspects, one of them Nasip's uncle.
Ibrahim was arrested the evening of Monday, March 20, when police and the military were trying to serve a search warrant against a certain Jamil Baja Tawil for illegal possession of firearms. Tawil, according to the Quezon City Police District, was a "suspected ally" of the Maute Group and was living in Ibrahim's home.
Police were not able to find Tawil but supposedly saw a .45 caliber pistol "in plain view under Nasip's table."
Following a search of Ibrahim's store, police found a 9mm machine pistol, an IED inside a black sling bag with a detonation system, another .45 caliber pistol, and 7 heat-sealed plastic sachets of the illegal drug shabu (methampetamine).
Ibrahim faces charges of illegal possession of firearms, unlawful possession of explosives, possession of illegal drugs, and obstruction of justice for allegedly concealing a wanted person.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/164788-pnp-confirms-maute-terror-cell-metro-manila
Military claims capture of NPA camp in Misamis Occidental
From InterAksyon (Mar 20): Military claims capture of NPA camp in Misamis Occidental
Items seized from the NPA camp in Misamis Occidental. (55th IB photo)
The military claimed to have captured over the weekend what it described as a major camp of the New People’s Army in Mindanao.
Captain Jo-Ann Petinglay, spokesperson of the Western Mindanao Command, said the camp was found Saturday afternoon by troops of the 55th infantry Battalion in Barangay Gala, Tudela, Misamis Occidental after an encounter.
Seized from the rebel camp were a pair of claymore mines, a rifle grenade, three rolls of wire for detonating land mines, unexploded M203 ammunition, subversive documents, an NPA flag, caps and a bandoleer.
http://interaksyon.com/article/137881/military-claims-capture-of-npa-camp-in-misamis-occidental
Items seized from the NPA camp in Misamis Occidental. (55th IB photo)
The military claimed to have captured over the weekend what it described as a major camp of the New People’s Army in Mindanao.
Captain Jo-Ann Petinglay, spokesperson of the Western Mindanao Command, said the camp was found Saturday afternoon by troops of the 55th infantry Battalion in Barangay Gala, Tudela, Misamis Occidental after an encounter.
Seized from the rebel camp were a pair of claymore mines, a rifle grenade, three rolls of wire for detonating land mines, unexploded M203 ammunition, subversive documents, an NPA flag, caps and a bandoleer.
http://interaksyon.com/article/137881/military-claims-capture-of-npa-camp-in-misamis-occidental
4th round of GRP-NDFP talks in The Netherlands April 2-6 - Norway
From InterAksyon (Mar 21): 4th round of GRP-NDFP talks in The Netherlands April 2-6 - Norway
Chief peace negotiators Fidel Agcaoili of the NDFP and Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III of the government shake hands during an earlier round of talks. (file photo by Kodao Productions)
Government and communist rebel negotiators will meet in The Netherlands from April 2 to 6 for the fourth round of formal peace negotiations, the Norwegian embassy in Manila said Tuesday.
The talks will be held in the town of Noordwijk, the embassy said in a statement. Norway has been the third-party facilitator of the negotiations to seek a peaceful settlement the close to 50-year old communist armed struggle since 2001.
The decision to resume the talks, which President Rodrigo Duterte had ordered terminated following the lifting of both parties’ respective unilateral ceasefires in early February, was arrived at during informal talks in Utrecht earlier this month.
Since then, fighting between government forces and the New People’s Army has escalated.
“I am pleased that representatives of the Philippine Government and the NDFP will meet for a new round of talks. Despite challenges along the way, the parties continue to show their commitment to peace. Norway will continue to assist the parties as the third party facilitator of the peace process,” Norwegian Ambassador to the Philippines Erik Førner said in the statement.
Aside from tackling social and economic reforms, the second substantive agenda of the negotiations, the negotiating panels are also expected to try to forge a bilateral ceasefire agreement.
http://interaksyon.com/article/137887/4th-round-of-grp-ndfp-talks-in-the-netherlands-april-2-6---norway
Chief peace negotiators Fidel Agcaoili of the NDFP and Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III of the government shake hands during an earlier round of talks. (file photo by Kodao Productions)
Government and communist rebel negotiators will meet in The Netherlands from April 2 to 6 for the fourth round of formal peace negotiations, the Norwegian embassy in Manila said Tuesday.
The talks will be held in the town of Noordwijk, the embassy said in a statement. Norway has been the third-party facilitator of the negotiations to seek a peaceful settlement the close to 50-year old communist armed struggle since 2001.
The decision to resume the talks, which President Rodrigo Duterte had ordered terminated following the lifting of both parties’ respective unilateral ceasefires in early February, was arrived at during informal talks in Utrecht earlier this month.
Since then, fighting between government forces and the New People’s Army has escalated.
“I am pleased that representatives of the Philippine Government and the NDFP will meet for a new round of talks. Despite challenges along the way, the parties continue to show their commitment to peace. Norway will continue to assist the parties as the third party facilitator of the peace process,” Norwegian Ambassador to the Philippines Erik Førner said in the statement.
Aside from tackling social and economic reforms, the second substantive agenda of the negotiations, the negotiating panels are also expected to try to forge a bilateral ceasefire agreement.
http://interaksyon.com/article/137887/4th-round-of-grp-ndfp-talks-in-the-netherlands-april-2-6---norway
Maute group may have established presence in Metro Manila - PNP
From InterAksyon (Mar 21): Maute group may have established presence in Metro Manila - PNP
PNP chief Ronald dela Rosa presents alleged Maute group member Nasir Ibrahim at a press briefing in Camp Crame. (photo by Gary de Leon, News5)
MANILA, Philippines -- (UPDATE 12:02 p.m.) The Maute terror group has apparently established its presence in Metro Manila, police said Tuesday following the arrest of an alleged member of the Lanao del Sur-based extremist band, which has declared allegiance to the Islamic State.
“I don’t want to sound alarmist but prudence … is the better part of valor,” Philippine National Police chief Ronald dela Rosa said at a press briefing where he presented Nasip Ibrahim, 35, of the Salam Muslim Compound in Barangay Culiat, Quezon City from whose store police seized on Monday night weapons, a mortar shell and other components allegedly intended to craft an improvised explosive device.
The guns and mortar shell seized by authorities. (photo by Gary de Leon, News5)
Dela Rosa urged the public to “remain calm, yet alert, to the presence of threat groups.”
National Capital Region police director Oscar Albayalde said the 60-millimeter mortar shell seized from the store was supposed to have been used to manufacture a bomb to be detonated during the Traslacion, the annual procession of the Black Nazarene, which draws millions of devotee, or the Miss Universe contest held in Metro Manila. Both plots were aborted when police caught wind of them.
The police officials also said Ibrahim, who has been living in Metro Manila since 1992, was the driver of the vehicle in the botched attempt to explode a bomb late last year that led to the explosive device being dumped in a trash bin near the US embassy in Manila, where it was discovered and safely detonated by authorities. Four suspects, all said to be members of the Maute group, were eventually arrested and charged.
Nasir Ibrahim's mug shot (photo by Gary de Leon, News5)
The “discovery leads us to believe the Maute (group has) established a presence in Metro Manila,” Dela Rosa said.
Quezon City police had raided Ibrahim’s store to serve a warrant of arrest for illegal possession of firearms on Jamil Baja Tawil, said to be a member of the Maute group who had been hiding out there.
Tawil was, however, not around during the raid.
While officers were questioning Ibrahim and his wife, they noticed a .45 caliber pistol on a table.
Quezon City police director Chief Superintenent Guillermo Eleazar said in all they seized two .45 caliber pistols, a KG9 submachinegun, a 60-millimeter mortar shell, and seven sachets of crystal meth or shabu.
Police also named one of the Maute group's alleged leaders as Yusoy Makoto, who they described as an imam, or religious leader of the Tejeros mosque in Tanza, Cavite. Makoto supposedly issues orders to attack chosen targets.
http://interaksyon.com/article/137885/maute-group-may-have-established-presence-in-metro-manila---pnp
PNP chief Ronald dela Rosa presents alleged Maute group member Nasir Ibrahim at a press briefing in Camp Crame. (photo by Gary de Leon, News5)
MANILA, Philippines -- (UPDATE 12:02 p.m.) The Maute terror group has apparently established its presence in Metro Manila, police said Tuesday following the arrest of an alleged member of the Lanao del Sur-based extremist band, which has declared allegiance to the Islamic State.
“I don’t want to sound alarmist but prudence … is the better part of valor,” Philippine National Police chief Ronald dela Rosa said at a press briefing where he presented Nasip Ibrahim, 35, of the Salam Muslim Compound in Barangay Culiat, Quezon City from whose store police seized on Monday night weapons, a mortar shell and other components allegedly intended to craft an improvised explosive device.
The guns and mortar shell seized by authorities. (photo by Gary de Leon, News5)
Dela Rosa urged the public to “remain calm, yet alert, to the presence of threat groups.”
National Capital Region police director Oscar Albayalde said the 60-millimeter mortar shell seized from the store was supposed to have been used to manufacture a bomb to be detonated during the Traslacion, the annual procession of the Black Nazarene, which draws millions of devotee, or the Miss Universe contest held in Metro Manila. Both plots were aborted when police caught wind of them.
The police officials also said Ibrahim, who has been living in Metro Manila since 1992, was the driver of the vehicle in the botched attempt to explode a bomb late last year that led to the explosive device being dumped in a trash bin near the US embassy in Manila, where it was discovered and safely detonated by authorities. Four suspects, all said to be members of the Maute group, were eventually arrested and charged.
Nasir Ibrahim's mug shot (photo by Gary de Leon, News5)
The “discovery leads us to believe the Maute (group has) established a presence in Metro Manila,” Dela Rosa said.
Quezon City police had raided Ibrahim’s store to serve a warrant of arrest for illegal possession of firearms on Jamil Baja Tawil, said to be a member of the Maute group who had been hiding out there.
Tawil was, however, not around during the raid.
While officers were questioning Ibrahim and his wife, they noticed a .45 caliber pistol on a table.
Quezon City police director Chief Superintenent Guillermo Eleazar said in all they seized two .45 caliber pistols, a KG9 submachinegun, a 60-millimeter mortar shell, and seven sachets of crystal meth or shabu.
Police also named one of the Maute group's alleged leaders as Yusoy Makoto, who they described as an imam, or religious leader of the Tejeros mosque in Tanza, Cavite. Makoto supposedly issues orders to attack chosen targets.
http://interaksyon.com/article/137885/maute-group-may-have-established-presence-in-metro-manila---pnp
MEDCAP benefits 1,300 residents in Labangan town
From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 20): MEDCAP benefits 1,300 residents in Labangan town
About 1,300 residents of barangay San Isidro, Labangan town benefitted from the free Medical and Dental Civic Action Program (MEDCAP) conducted on Thursday by the 1st Field Artillery Battalion, Army Artillery Regiment in partnership with the 1st Cavalry (Tagapanguna) Squadron, Mechanized Infantry Division, 53rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, Rural Health Unit, DXPR Radio Station, and the Armed Forces and Police Mutual Benefit Assistance, Inc. (AFPMBAI).
Capt. Holly John Godinez, 1st FAB Alpha Battery commander said the MEDCAP is part of the Philippine Army’s commitment to serve the people and secure the land. “As the forefront of keeping our province secure and safe, we reach out and extend a helping hand to our fellowmen especially the poor,” he said.
Under the Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan, the military commits to cooperative relationships with local stakeholders in all its activities.
“We want to show to the people that we are not only protecting them, but we also serve by bringing the government closer and making our services accessible to poor constituents,” he added.
Punong Barangay Gavino Lacsado said the constituents in his barangay were grateful that the MEDCAP was held in San Isidro.
“Ang mga katawhan nalipay kaayo sa gibuhat sa mga kasundaluhan ilabi na sa 1FAB nga nagpahigayon ug MEDCAP dinhi sa barangay San Isidro tungod kay sila ang nakapahimulos pag-usab sa libre nga medical ug dental services. (The residents were very grateful to the troops because the MEDCAP was conducted here in barangay San Isidro. They have availed of free medical and dental services),” Lacsado happily said.
It was the second time that the MEDCAP was held in San Isidro, the adopted barangay of 1FAB.
Local residents have availed of the following services: Hepatitis B, pneumonia and anti-rabies vaccination, bloodletting, circumcision, feeding, free medical consultation, free medicines and tooth extraction.
“The activity has greatly helped because they do not need to spend money to travel and go to the rural health center which is far from their barangay,” Lacsado said.
With the MEDCAP program, residents foster good relations with the Philippine Army. “Our friendship with the Philippine Army is imprinted in our hearts and will never be diminished,” he concluded.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1371489981721/medcap-benefits-1-300-residents-in-labangan-town
About 1,300 residents of barangay San Isidro, Labangan town benefitted from the free Medical and Dental Civic Action Program (MEDCAP) conducted on Thursday by the 1st Field Artillery Battalion, Army Artillery Regiment in partnership with the 1st Cavalry (Tagapanguna) Squadron, Mechanized Infantry Division, 53rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, Rural Health Unit, DXPR Radio Station, and the Armed Forces and Police Mutual Benefit Assistance, Inc. (AFPMBAI).
Capt. Holly John Godinez, 1st FAB Alpha Battery commander said the MEDCAP is part of the Philippine Army’s commitment to serve the people and secure the land. “As the forefront of keeping our province secure and safe, we reach out and extend a helping hand to our fellowmen especially the poor,” he said.
Under the Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan, the military commits to cooperative relationships with local stakeholders in all its activities.
“We want to show to the people that we are not only protecting them, but we also serve by bringing the government closer and making our services accessible to poor constituents,” he added.
Punong Barangay Gavino Lacsado said the constituents in his barangay were grateful that the MEDCAP was held in San Isidro.
“Ang mga katawhan nalipay kaayo sa gibuhat sa mga kasundaluhan ilabi na sa 1FAB nga nagpahigayon ug MEDCAP dinhi sa barangay San Isidro tungod kay sila ang nakapahimulos pag-usab sa libre nga medical ug dental services. (The residents were very grateful to the troops because the MEDCAP was conducted here in barangay San Isidro. They have availed of free medical and dental services),” Lacsado happily said.
It was the second time that the MEDCAP was held in San Isidro, the adopted barangay of 1FAB.
Local residents have availed of the following services: Hepatitis B, pneumonia and anti-rabies vaccination, bloodletting, circumcision, feeding, free medical consultation, free medicines and tooth extraction.
“The activity has greatly helped because they do not need to spend money to travel and go to the rural health center which is far from their barangay,” Lacsado said.
With the MEDCAP program, residents foster good relations with the Philippine Army. “Our friendship with the Philippine Army is imprinted in our hearts and will never be diminished,” he concluded.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1371489981721/medcap-benefits-1-300-residents-in-labangan-town
Transformation of conflict-affected areas into peaceful and productive communities assured
From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 20): Transformation of conflict-affected areas into peaceful and productive communities assured
Decommissioned Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants, along with their famiies, are seen to prosper in realm of livelihood following government’s commitment to provide them livelihood assistance.
One of the beneficiaries is 65-year old Hadji Jacob Palao, one of the 127 decommissioned combatants who hails from Pikit, North Cotabato. He joined the MILF revolutionary movement when he was only 13 years old.
Palao who received one head cattle, corn seeds with fertilizer and other farm implements shed tears when he was delivering his acceptance message.
When asked, he said, “hindi ko napigilan na maiyak, sobra ang saya ko kasi hindi ko talaga akalain na mabibigyan kami ng ganitong mga tulong.”
The Task Force for Decommissioned Combatants and their Communities (TFDCC) together with the Department of Agriculture (DA) as the implementing partner agency turned-over livelihood assistance to 127 decommissioned combatants on March 15, 2017 at Camp Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.
The 127 is part of the 145 MILF-Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF)members who turned over their firearms on June 2015 under Phase 1 of the decommissioning process and underwent profiling wherein their needed socio-economic assistance have been identified.
This initiative is pursuant to the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) particularly on the Annex on Normalization.
On May 31, 2015, the GPH and MILF negotiating panels signed an agreement creating the TFDCC which is mandated to undertake special socio-economic and development programs for the decommissioned women auxiliary forces of the MILF.
The livelihood assistance include: 103 heads of carabao with farm implements, 83 heads of cattle, 38 modules of goat, 108 modules of native chicken, 57 modules of duck, 152 bags of OPV corn seeds, 65 bags of certified rice seeds and fruit and vegetable seedlings.
GPH-Implementing Chair Irene Santiago said preparations are underway for a program focused on the transition process to transformation of conflict-affected areas into peaceful and productive communities.
“Hindi lang ang decommissioned combatants this is also the decommissioned combatants and their communities. We have to prepare a program for their communities. As I said in my short message, sometimes we think normalization is going back to normal but their normal was not exactly a normal we’d like to go back to. So what does that mean, ang program that we are preparing is called from transition to transformation. So sa transition of course they have been somewhat deprived for so long, from basic services, infrastructure, health, education yan lang muna. But you don’t stop there, what kind of life, what kind of communities should we have so that they can have a better life for themselves and for all our communities.” Santiago said.
According to TFDCC Co-chair Asec Rolando Asuncion of the GPH, to date, except for DA’s remaining livelihood assistance and cash-for-work of DSWD pending approval by the MNLF, other components – health, education, skills training, etc. of the socio-economic development package by partner implementing agencies (PHIC, DEPED, TESDA, CHED, DA, and DSWD) have been fully delivered.
Turnover of similar livelihood assistance for the remaining 18 decommissioned combatants is slated in April this year in Cagayan de Oro City, Asuncion said.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1661489714456/transformation-of-conflict-affected-areas-into-peaceful-and-productive-communities-assured-
Decommissioned Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants, along with their famiies, are seen to prosper in realm of livelihood following government’s commitment to provide them livelihood assistance.
One of the beneficiaries is 65-year old Hadji Jacob Palao, one of the 127 decommissioned combatants who hails from Pikit, North Cotabato. He joined the MILF revolutionary movement when he was only 13 years old.
Palao who received one head cattle, corn seeds with fertilizer and other farm implements shed tears when he was delivering his acceptance message.
When asked, he said, “hindi ko napigilan na maiyak, sobra ang saya ko kasi hindi ko talaga akalain na mabibigyan kami ng ganitong mga tulong.”
The Task Force for Decommissioned Combatants and their Communities (TFDCC) together with the Department of Agriculture (DA) as the implementing partner agency turned-over livelihood assistance to 127 decommissioned combatants on March 15, 2017 at Camp Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.
The 127 is part of the 145 MILF-Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF)members who turned over their firearms on June 2015 under Phase 1 of the decommissioning process and underwent profiling wherein their needed socio-economic assistance have been identified.
This initiative is pursuant to the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) particularly on the Annex on Normalization.
On May 31, 2015, the GPH and MILF negotiating panels signed an agreement creating the TFDCC which is mandated to undertake special socio-economic and development programs for the decommissioned women auxiliary forces of the MILF.
The livelihood assistance include: 103 heads of carabao with farm implements, 83 heads of cattle, 38 modules of goat, 108 modules of native chicken, 57 modules of duck, 152 bags of OPV corn seeds, 65 bags of certified rice seeds and fruit and vegetable seedlings.
GPH-Implementing Chair Irene Santiago said preparations are underway for a program focused on the transition process to transformation of conflict-affected areas into peaceful and productive communities.
“Hindi lang ang decommissioned combatants this is also the decommissioned combatants and their communities. We have to prepare a program for their communities. As I said in my short message, sometimes we think normalization is going back to normal but their normal was not exactly a normal we’d like to go back to. So what does that mean, ang program that we are preparing is called from transition to transformation. So sa transition of course they have been somewhat deprived for so long, from basic services, infrastructure, health, education yan lang muna. But you don’t stop there, what kind of life, what kind of communities should we have so that they can have a better life for themselves and for all our communities.” Santiago said.
According to TFDCC Co-chair Asec Rolando Asuncion of the GPH, to date, except for DA’s remaining livelihood assistance and cash-for-work of DSWD pending approval by the MNLF, other components – health, education, skills training, etc. of the socio-economic development package by partner implementing agencies (PHIC, DEPED, TESDA, CHED, DA, and DSWD) have been fully delivered.
Turnover of similar livelihood assistance for the remaining 18 decommissioned combatants is slated in April this year in Cagayan de Oro City, Asuncion said.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1661489714456/transformation-of-conflict-affected-areas-into-peaceful-and-productive-communities-assured-
Rebel returnees get aid from DILG’s integration program
From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 20): Rebel returnees get aid from DILG’s integration program
Some 16 former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in the Municipality of Tulunan who surrendered to the Philippine Army received P15,000 each as financial assistance from the Department of the Interior and Local Government through its Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP).
Aside from the financial assistance, the former rebels also received sacks of rice as additional benefits.
North Cotabato DILG provincial director Ali Abdullah said that this shows the commitment of the government to help the returnees to become part of the mainstream society and to live normal lives again.
“The government is serious in pursuing genuine peace and is committed to help rebel returnees to start a new life,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Governor Emmylou Mendoza urged the returnees to seize the opportunity given by the government and become peace builders themselves as they are now back in the folds of the law and in the community.
“Now that you are back to the community, let yourselves become part of our efforts to promote long lasting peace,” Mendoza stated assuring the rebel returnees of all available help the provincial government could extend.
According to Dexter (not his real name), 44 years old, after he surrendered to the authority, he felt the sincerity of the government to help former rebels like him to start a new life.
Another returnee, Gilda (not her real name), said she did not regret surrendering because she felt the effort of different government agencies to help them. She also narrated how hard it is to be part of the armed group as she can’t even visit her own family and friends.
In the past months, a number of former NPA members received financial aid helping them to start small livelihood business.
In addition to the assistance from the DILG, the provincial government through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Division and the Provincial Planning and Development Office also extended help to the beneficiaries after assessment of the projects they requested where they can avail as much as P50,000 as capital for their livelihood project.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2301489979267/rebel-returnees-get-aid-from-dilg-s-integration-program
Some 16 former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in the Municipality of Tulunan who surrendered to the Philippine Army received P15,000 each as financial assistance from the Department of the Interior and Local Government through its Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP).
Aside from the financial assistance, the former rebels also received sacks of rice as additional benefits.
North Cotabato DILG provincial director Ali Abdullah said that this shows the commitment of the government to help the returnees to become part of the mainstream society and to live normal lives again.
“The government is serious in pursuing genuine peace and is committed to help rebel returnees to start a new life,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Governor Emmylou Mendoza urged the returnees to seize the opportunity given by the government and become peace builders themselves as they are now back in the folds of the law and in the community.
“Now that you are back to the community, let yourselves become part of our efforts to promote long lasting peace,” Mendoza stated assuring the rebel returnees of all available help the provincial government could extend.
According to Dexter (not his real name), 44 years old, after he surrendered to the authority, he felt the sincerity of the government to help former rebels like him to start a new life.
Another returnee, Gilda (not her real name), said she did not regret surrendering because she felt the effort of different government agencies to help them. She also narrated how hard it is to be part of the armed group as she can’t even visit her own family and friends.
In the past months, a number of former NPA members received financial aid helping them to start small livelihood business.
In addition to the assistance from the DILG, the provincial government through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Division and the Provincial Planning and Development Office also extended help to the beneficiaries after assessment of the projects they requested where they can avail as much as P50,000 as capital for their livelihood project.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2301489979267/rebel-returnees-get-aid-from-dilg-s-integration-program
Security forces, PLGU and elders discuss peace and security crisis in Abra town
From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 20): Security forces, PLGU and elders discuss peace and security crisis in Abra town
The Philippine National Police, Philippine Army and provincial government officials here met with the elders and community members of Malibcong municipality to plan out interventions to sustain peace and security of the place.
The police station of the municipality of Malibcong was assaulted by New People’s Army rebels at around 7:30 PM last March 12. They tied three police officers and took all their guns, 7 M16 rifles and 3 pistols, 4 cellphones and a laptop.
The following day, the rebels ambushed a police convoy led by PNP Provincial Director PSupt. Alexander Tagum while on its way to reinforced the Malibcong police. Five police officers were wounded in said incident.
Barangay Chairman Claro Bugawit of Poblacion Malibcong informed in the dialogue that he immediately gathered his barangay tanod and community leaders to respond to the police station upon hearing gunshots. He said 3 NPA rebels stopped them as they approached but he talked them out and convinced them not to hurt, abduct or kill the police. He said the negotiation lasted for 20 minutes and the rebels returned the wallets but took away the guns and gadgets.
Vice Mayor Joseph Duggay, who came all the way from another far barangay to Poblacion, reported that he received a phone call after the incident from someone who claimed to be NPA that they will receive a message from them soon.
Col. Leopoldo Imbang Jr., Brigade Commander of 503rd Infantry Division commended the LGU and community members for their bravery and valor in responding to the crisis and being able to convince the rebels not to abduct and harm the police.
“Wala pa akong nakita in my years of service na community at LGU ang nag-respond at dininig ng mga rebels. Maraming salamat at hindi napasama ang ating kapulisan.”
PNP Regional Director Police Chief Superintendent Elmo Francis O. Sarona said that requested by the community, they will provide more Tingguian police officers who can understand their culture better.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3191489479966/security-forces-plgu-and-elders-discuss-peace-and-security-crisis-in-abra-town
The Philippine National Police, Philippine Army and provincial government officials here met with the elders and community members of Malibcong municipality to plan out interventions to sustain peace and security of the place.
The police station of the municipality of Malibcong was assaulted by New People’s Army rebels at around 7:30 PM last March 12. They tied three police officers and took all their guns, 7 M16 rifles and 3 pistols, 4 cellphones and a laptop.
The following day, the rebels ambushed a police convoy led by PNP Provincial Director PSupt. Alexander Tagum while on its way to reinforced the Malibcong police. Five police officers were wounded in said incident.
Barangay Chairman Claro Bugawit of Poblacion Malibcong informed in the dialogue that he immediately gathered his barangay tanod and community leaders to respond to the police station upon hearing gunshots. He said 3 NPA rebels stopped them as they approached but he talked them out and convinced them not to hurt, abduct or kill the police. He said the negotiation lasted for 20 minutes and the rebels returned the wallets but took away the guns and gadgets.
Vice Mayor Joseph Duggay, who came all the way from another far barangay to Poblacion, reported that he received a phone call after the incident from someone who claimed to be NPA that they will receive a message from them soon.
Col. Leopoldo Imbang Jr., Brigade Commander of 503rd Infantry Division commended the LGU and community members for their bravery and valor in responding to the crisis and being able to convince the rebels not to abduct and harm the police.
“Wala pa akong nakita in my years of service na community at LGU ang nag-respond at dininig ng mga rebels. Maraming salamat at hindi napasama ang ating kapulisan.”
PNP Regional Director Police Chief Superintendent Elmo Francis O. Sarona said that requested by the community, they will provide more Tingguian police officers who can understand their culture better.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3191489479966/security-forces-plgu-and-elders-discuss-peace-and-security-crisis-in-abra-town
6 rebels surrender in Abra
From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 20): 6 rebels surrender in Abra
Six former rebels (FRs) were presented last week to Governor Maria Jocelyn V. Bernos at the Provincial Capitol by the 24th Infantry Battalion.
Three of them are from Sallapadan, one from Tubo, one from Licuan-Baay and one from Lacub.
Each received P65,000 under the Comprehensive Local Integration program of the Department of Interior and Local Government.
Bernos expressed high hopes for all Abrenians who are who are members of the News People’s Army to realize soon that there is no better battle than to fight for one’s family and loved ones as she encouraged all of them to come back to their homes and live a normal life.
“Gumatang ka ti baboy wenno baka.” (Buy pigs or a cow). Bernos urged the FRs. “It’s for your livelihood. Use it to start again please.” Do not go back your the life as a rebel.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3191489394795/6-rebels-surrender-in-abra-
Six former rebels (FRs) were presented last week to Governor Maria Jocelyn V. Bernos at the Provincial Capitol by the 24th Infantry Battalion.
Three of them are from Sallapadan, one from Tubo, one from Licuan-Baay and one from Lacub.
Each received P65,000 under the Comprehensive Local Integration program of the Department of Interior and Local Government.
Bernos expressed high hopes for all Abrenians who are who are members of the News People’s Army to realize soon that there is no better battle than to fight for one’s family and loved ones as she encouraged all of them to come back to their homes and live a normal life.
“Gumatang ka ti baboy wenno baka.” (Buy pigs or a cow). Bernos urged the FRs. “It’s for your livelihood. Use it to start again please.” Do not go back your the life as a rebel.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3191489394795/6-rebels-surrender-in-abra-
AFP fetes, emulates Yes for Peace
From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 20): AFP fetes, emulates Yes for Peace
The Civil Relations Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (CRSAFP) has hailed the 12 million strong peace advocacy group Yes for Peace for effectively bringing its peace education campaign to the masses.
In a simple ceremony held at the CRSAFP Headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo over the weekend, AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations MGen Mequiades L. Feliciano presented the recognition to Yes for Peace lead organizer Ernesto Alcanzare, “for taking the initiative of gathering professionals, organizations, and government servicemen in a movement for the attainment of peace in our country through, giving voice to the peace loving sector through signature drives, peace caravans and information campaigns that spotlight the need to advance the cause of peace and development, an unsolicited initiative that is worth recognizing and emulating.”
“We must be able to mobilize the youth in nation-building. It may be cliché to say but the youth is the hope of our country,” Feliciano said in his speech.
For his part, BGen Ronnie S. Evangelista, the 36th Commander of CRSAFP, who signed and issued the certificate said, “Without doubt, all Filipinos -- men, women and children, including the armed rebels--Love our Country. It is therefore the single unifying factor of all Filipinos.”
“Let us create collaborations and partnerships with the civilian sector of our society, both government and non-government institutions, in the attainment of our Mission,” he added.
After accepting the recognition, Alcanzare said, “Anchored on the Filipinos’ Love of Country, Yes for Peace–Bayanihan ng Bayan has deliberately been designed to transcend our differences in religion, political affiliation, socio-economic stature and even gender and thus provide equal footing on common ground for Filipinos killing Filipinos to fight for or protect the human rights of Filipinos to peace.”
For his part, Lawyer Domingo B. Alidon, President of Department of Education - National Employees Union (DepEd-NEU) said, “Frankly, I was surprised that the AFP is the first institution directly affected by recent events in the peace talks to publicly recognize our unsolicited initiative to bring the Filipino people into the center stage of the comprehensive peace process pursuant to the three underlying principles stated in the mandate of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process.”
Likewise, Johnny Balawag, Chairman of the National Board of Trustees of the DepEd-NEU commented, “Curiously, these principles stressing that the peace process cannot be left alone to the government nor to the armed insurgents alone but needs the involvement of all Filipinos were apparently ignored by professional OPAPP staff ever since their office was organized by former President Fidel V. Ramos.”
For his part, Mama S. Lalanto, al Haj, Adviser of Yes for Peace said, “In the past, most Filipinos were made to believe that the AFP will never agree to a permanent ceasefire because of widespread allegations that its officers earn from purchases war-materiel and would thus want the armed conflicts to last forever.”
EarIier, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Jesus C. Dureza wrote in a letter to Yes for Peace, “We note with appreciation the peace advocacy efforts of this citizen-led initiative that you are pursuing and congratulate your unwavering efforts to support the peace process.”
Also recognized for their invaluable contributions to the fulfillment of the AFP Mission to “Protect the people, secure the sovereignty of the State and the integrity of the national territory,” include: Ligtas Patrol; Keysquare, Incorporated; InfiniVAN, Incorporated; IPS Incorporated; Bantay Bayan, Incorporated; Department of Environment and Natural Resources – National Capital Region; HOPE, Incorporated; Institute of Electronics and Communications Engineers of the Philippines; Regional Emergency Assistance Communications Team; Rotary Club of Camp Aguinaldo; Security Reform Initiative; and Teach Peace Build Peace Movement.
It can be recalled that Yes for Peace is also supported and implemented by the DepEd, the Philippine Postal Corporation, the Philippine Information Agency, the Philippine News Agency, the Philippine Broadcasting System, the Radio Television Malacanang, the Boy Scouts of the Philippines, the Girl Scouts of the Philippines and the Alpha Phi Omega.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/261489993674/afp-fetes-emulates-yes-for-peace
The Civil Relations Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (CRSAFP) has hailed the 12 million strong peace advocacy group Yes for Peace for effectively bringing its peace education campaign to the masses.
In a simple ceremony held at the CRSAFP Headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo over the weekend, AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations MGen Mequiades L. Feliciano presented the recognition to Yes for Peace lead organizer Ernesto Alcanzare, “for taking the initiative of gathering professionals, organizations, and government servicemen in a movement for the attainment of peace in our country through, giving voice to the peace loving sector through signature drives, peace caravans and information campaigns that spotlight the need to advance the cause of peace and development, an unsolicited initiative that is worth recognizing and emulating.”
“We must be able to mobilize the youth in nation-building. It may be cliché to say but the youth is the hope of our country,” Feliciano said in his speech.
For his part, BGen Ronnie S. Evangelista, the 36th Commander of CRSAFP, who signed and issued the certificate said, “Without doubt, all Filipinos -- men, women and children, including the armed rebels--Love our Country. It is therefore the single unifying factor of all Filipinos.”
“Let us create collaborations and partnerships with the civilian sector of our society, both government and non-government institutions, in the attainment of our Mission,” he added.
After accepting the recognition, Alcanzare said, “Anchored on the Filipinos’ Love of Country, Yes for Peace–Bayanihan ng Bayan has deliberately been designed to transcend our differences in religion, political affiliation, socio-economic stature and even gender and thus provide equal footing on common ground for Filipinos killing Filipinos to fight for or protect the human rights of Filipinos to peace.”
For his part, Lawyer Domingo B. Alidon, President of Department of Education - National Employees Union (DepEd-NEU) said, “Frankly, I was surprised that the AFP is the first institution directly affected by recent events in the peace talks to publicly recognize our unsolicited initiative to bring the Filipino people into the center stage of the comprehensive peace process pursuant to the three underlying principles stated in the mandate of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process.”
Likewise, Johnny Balawag, Chairman of the National Board of Trustees of the DepEd-NEU commented, “Curiously, these principles stressing that the peace process cannot be left alone to the government nor to the armed insurgents alone but needs the involvement of all Filipinos were apparently ignored by professional OPAPP staff ever since their office was organized by former President Fidel V. Ramos.”
For his part, Mama S. Lalanto, al Haj, Adviser of Yes for Peace said, “In the past, most Filipinos were made to believe that the AFP will never agree to a permanent ceasefire because of widespread allegations that its officers earn from purchases war-materiel and would thus want the armed conflicts to last forever.”
EarIier, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Jesus C. Dureza wrote in a letter to Yes for Peace, “We note with appreciation the peace advocacy efforts of this citizen-led initiative that you are pursuing and congratulate your unwavering efforts to support the peace process.”
Also recognized for their invaluable contributions to the fulfillment of the AFP Mission to “Protect the people, secure the sovereignty of the State and the integrity of the national territory,” include: Ligtas Patrol; Keysquare, Incorporated; InfiniVAN, Incorporated; IPS Incorporated; Bantay Bayan, Incorporated; Department of Environment and Natural Resources – National Capital Region; HOPE, Incorporated; Institute of Electronics and Communications Engineers of the Philippines; Regional Emergency Assistance Communications Team; Rotary Club of Camp Aguinaldo; Security Reform Initiative; and Teach Peace Build Peace Movement.
It can be recalled that Yes for Peace is also supported and implemented by the DepEd, the Philippine Postal Corporation, the Philippine Information Agency, the Philippine News Agency, the Philippine Broadcasting System, the Radio Television Malacanang, the Boy Scouts of the Philippines, the Girl Scouts of the Philippines and the Alpha Phi Omega.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/261489993674/afp-fetes-emulates-yes-for-peace
Basilan landmine explosion kills coconut farmer
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 19): Basilan landmine explosion kills coconut farmer
One person died in a landmine explosion in the hinterlands of Basilan province on Sunday, police said.
Police said the incident occurred at around 11:30 a.m. in Barangay Dugaa, Tuburan, Basilan.
PO3 Ricky Mohammad, case investigator, identified the victim as Mustafa Abdurahim, 68, a coconut farmer.
Mohammad said Abdurahim was harvesting coconut when he accidentally tripped on an improvised bomb fashioned out as a landmine.
He said the victim died on the spot.
Authorities said the improvised bomb could have been placed by Abu Sayyaf bandits targeting troops patrolling the area.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=972957
One person died in a landmine explosion in the hinterlands of Basilan province on Sunday, police said.
Police said the incident occurred at around 11:30 a.m. in Barangay Dugaa, Tuburan, Basilan.
PO3 Ricky Mohammad, case investigator, identified the victim as Mustafa Abdurahim, 68, a coconut farmer.
He said the victim died on the spot.
Authorities said the improvised bomb could have been placed by Abu Sayyaf bandits targeting troops patrolling the area.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=972957
Officials send off almost 4,300 security forces for ASEAN meeting in Bacolod
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 20): Officials send off almost 4,300 security forces for ASEAN meeting in Bacolod
Almost 4,300 security personnel were sent off to their assigned posts by police and city officials here Monday ahead of the 15th Meeting of the ASEAN Senior Officials/Ministers Responsible for Information (SOMRI) hosted by this city on March 22 to 23 at the SMX Convention Center.
Around 80 delegates from the 10 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Member States will convene here.
The send-off rites, held at the Bacolod City Government Center, was led by Chief Superintendent Renato Gumban, acting director of Police Regional Office-18, who also heads Task Group Bacolod, and Mayor Evelio Leonardia.
They were joined by, among others, retired Chief Superintendent Josephus Angan, members of ASEAN National Organizing Committee.
Only about 2,500 were present during the ceremony since the rest were already deployed to various assignments since last weekend.
Deployed were personnel from the Bacolod City Police Office, Negros Occidental Provincial Police Office, Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office, Special Action Force, Philippine Army, Mobile Highway Patrol Group, Police Regional Office-6, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, National Support Unit, and Philippine National Police headquarters.
Gumban said they are assigned to secure hotels, airports, roads, malls and other areas of convergence in the host-city and adjacent areas.
Although the 15th Meeting of the SOMRI will be held on March 22 and 23, other related activities are also scheduled on March 21 and 24.
Gumban said that securing the four-day event is “a team effort and a call of nation approach.”
“Let us invest skills and knowledge for a successful event as this will give way to more opportunities for Bacolod City (and also for) Negros Island Region,” he added.
Moreover, Leonardia urged the security personnel to ensure the peaceful staging of the historic event.
“I hope you all have a sense of mission and fulfillment in performing your responsibilities,” the mayor added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=973276
Almost 4,300 security personnel were sent off to their assigned posts by police and city officials here Monday ahead of the 15th Meeting of the ASEAN Senior Officials/Ministers Responsible for Information (SOMRI) hosted by this city on March 22 to 23 at the SMX Convention Center.
Around 80 delegates from the 10 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Member States will convene here.
The send-off rites, held at the Bacolod City Government Center, was led by Chief Superintendent Renato Gumban, acting director of Police Regional Office-18, who also heads Task Group Bacolod, and Mayor Evelio Leonardia.
They were joined by, among others, retired Chief Superintendent Josephus Angan, members of ASEAN National Organizing Committee.
Only about 2,500 were present during the ceremony since the rest were already deployed to various assignments since last weekend.
Deployed were personnel from the Bacolod City Police Office, Negros Occidental Provincial Police Office, Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office, Special Action Force, Philippine Army, Mobile Highway Patrol Group, Police Regional Office-6, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, National Support Unit, and Philippine National Police headquarters.
Gumban said they are assigned to secure hotels, airports, roads, malls and other areas of convergence in the host-city and adjacent areas.
Although the 15th Meeting of the SOMRI will be held on March 22 and 23, other related activities are also scheduled on March 21 and 24.
Gumban said that securing the four-day event is “a team effort and a call of nation approach.”
“Let us invest skills and knowledge for a successful event as this will give way to more opportunities for Bacolod City (and also for) Negros Island Region,” he added.
Moreover, Leonardia urged the security personnel to ensure the peaceful staging of the historic event.
“I hope you all have a sense of mission and fulfillment in performing your responsibilities,” the mayor added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=973276
Kapampangan PMA topnotcher cited
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 20): Kapampangan PMA topnotcher cited
The Provincial Government of Pampanga on Monday recognized a Kapampangan topnotcher from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Salaknib (Sangalang ay Lakas at Buhay Para sa Kalayaan ng Inang Bayan) Class of 2017.
2LT Carlo Emmanuel Manalansan Canlas, who landed in the top five spot, received the recognition during the flag raising ceremony held at the provincial capitol grounds here.
Governor Lilia Pineda, together with board members Ananias Canlas Jr., Cherry Manalo, Salvador Dimson Jr, Benny Jocson and Pol Balingit, presented the certificate of recognition to Canlas.
Resolution 4577 stipulates that graduating from the PMA is by itself an achievement and being one who made to the top 10 graduating class is a rare distinction that brings honor and worthy of commendation.
According to the Provincial Board, 2LT Canlas passed the rigid screening and underwent the most difficult military trainings and academic tests and eventually ranked No. 5 of the graduates of PMA ‘SALAKNIB’ Class of 2017.
The resolution also states that Canlas “will serve as a role model to encourage younger Kapampangan generations to enter the PMA and become successful in the field of military or police service”.
Aside from ranking fifth, Canlas also received the Philippine Air Force saber.
Canlas, who hails from Barangay Sto. Niño in Lubao town, never expected the recognition from the provincial government.
"I never expected this kind of recognition. I am very glad because it is like an incentive and I think it will inspire the other youth too. Even though they are not in military institution, they can aim for excellence," he said.
Canlas is one of the five Kapampangans who graduated in PMA this March.
The Provincial Board is set to create a resolution to recognize other Kapampangans who graduated from the premiere military institution in the country.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=973232
The Provincial Government of Pampanga on Monday recognized a Kapampangan topnotcher from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Salaknib (Sangalang ay Lakas at Buhay Para sa Kalayaan ng Inang Bayan) Class of 2017.
2LT Carlo Emmanuel Manalansan Canlas, who landed in the top five spot, received the recognition during the flag raising ceremony held at the provincial capitol grounds here.
Governor Lilia Pineda, together with board members Ananias Canlas Jr., Cherry Manalo, Salvador Dimson Jr, Benny Jocson and Pol Balingit, presented the certificate of recognition to Canlas.
Resolution 4577 stipulates that graduating from the PMA is by itself an achievement and being one who made to the top 10 graduating class is a rare distinction that brings honor and worthy of commendation.
According to the Provincial Board, 2LT Canlas passed the rigid screening and underwent the most difficult military trainings and academic tests and eventually ranked No. 5 of the graduates of PMA ‘SALAKNIB’ Class of 2017.
The resolution also states that Canlas “will serve as a role model to encourage younger Kapampangan generations to enter the PMA and become successful in the field of military or police service”.
Aside from ranking fifth, Canlas also received the Philippine Air Force saber.
Canlas, who hails from Barangay Sto. Niño in Lubao town, never expected the recognition from the provincial government.
"I never expected this kind of recognition. I am very glad because it is like an incentive and I think it will inspire the other youth too. Even though they are not in military institution, they can aim for excellence," he said.
Canlas is one of the five Kapampangans who graduated in PMA this March.
The Provincial Board is set to create a resolution to recognize other Kapampangans who graduated from the premiere military institution in the country.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=973232
NPAs have to stop attacks if they are interested in peace -- AFP
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 20): NPAs have to stop attacks if they are interested in peace -- AFP
If they are really sincere in resuming peace negotiations, then the New People's Army (NPA) rebels should stop making unprovoked attacks against civilian and military targets.
“If the NPAs are really sincere and one with the National Democratic Front (NDF) in their intent to resume the talks with government, they should start manifesting their intention by putting a stop to their terroristic activities which continue to harm our citizens and halt development in the communities,” Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo said Sunday.
He made this statement as insurgents continue to conduct arson and harassment attacks against legitimate business operators and government troops despite the announcement of the Government of the Philippines and NDF pronouncement on restarting peace talks in The Netherlands.
Several NPA arson attacks were recorded by the AFP last week, including the torching of a commercial transport bus in Makilala, North Cotabato last March 13 and gutting of delivery van owned by Fighter Wine Company in San Fernando, Bukidnon, also in the same day.
Other incidents of harassment includes the series of NPA attacks in Barangay Hinimbangan, Kitcharao in Agusan Del Norte which displaced 89 families last March 15.
“While the AFP sees that the NDF continues to push for the resumption of the peace negotiations, it is clear that they are also losing hold of their men on the ground. The NPA, with their twisted ideals are attacking innocent civilians, extorting money or burning private properties,” Arevalo stressed.
As of this posting, the NPAs have already conducted 62 terroristic activities since the start of the year.
These include abduction, burning or arson, extortion, ambush and harassment against both civilians and military members.
“On our part, we will continue to conduct combat operations against the terrorist NPAs until we receive an official communication from the Office of the President suspending the all-out war. Our surgical, deliberate, and intelligence-driven operations have so far resulted to the neutralization of 129 NPAs; of which, 23 were killed, 19 were arrested and 87 surrendered,” the AFP public affairs office chief stressed.
“At present, the operations against the NPA already yielded 83 firearms from the NPA; 22 were surrendered while 61 were recovered during operations. The casualties on our side are now at 53, of which 14 were killed in action, 36 were wounded, and three were abducted,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=972965
If they are really sincere in resuming peace negotiations, then the New People's Army (NPA) rebels should stop making unprovoked attacks against civilian and military targets.
“If the NPAs are really sincere and one with the National Democratic Front (NDF) in their intent to resume the talks with government, they should start manifesting their intention by putting a stop to their terroristic activities which continue to harm our citizens and halt development in the communities,” Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo said Sunday.
He made this statement as insurgents continue to conduct arson and harassment attacks against legitimate business operators and government troops despite the announcement of the Government of the Philippines and NDF pronouncement on restarting peace talks in The Netherlands.
Several NPA arson attacks were recorded by the AFP last week, including the torching of a commercial transport bus in Makilala, North Cotabato last March 13 and gutting of delivery van owned by Fighter Wine Company in San Fernando, Bukidnon, also in the same day.
Other incidents of harassment includes the series of NPA attacks in Barangay Hinimbangan, Kitcharao in Agusan Del Norte which displaced 89 families last March 15.
“While the AFP sees that the NDF continues to push for the resumption of the peace negotiations, it is clear that they are also losing hold of their men on the ground. The NPA, with their twisted ideals are attacking innocent civilians, extorting money or burning private properties,” Arevalo stressed.
As of this posting, the NPAs have already conducted 62 terroristic activities since the start of the year.
These include abduction, burning or arson, extortion, ambush and harassment against both civilians and military members.
“On our part, we will continue to conduct combat operations against the terrorist NPAs until we receive an official communication from the Office of the President suspending the all-out war. Our surgical, deliberate, and intelligence-driven operations have so far resulted to the neutralization of 129 NPAs; of which, 23 were killed, 19 were arrested and 87 surrendered,” the AFP public affairs office chief stressed.
“At present, the operations against the NPA already yielded 83 firearms from the NPA; 22 were surrendered while 61 were recovered during operations. The casualties on our side are now at 53, of which 14 were killed in action, 36 were wounded, and three were abducted,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=972965
100 crew members of PN's 2nd SSV now undergoing training
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 20): 100 crew members of PN's 2nd SSV now undergoing training
Around 100 enlisted personnel and officers are now undergoing training on the various systems of the country's second strategic sealift vessel (SSV), the BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602), which is now nearing completion at the shipyard of contractor PT PAL (Persero) in Surabaya, Indonesia.
These naval military personnel are now being trained shipboard training to ensure that they are capable of sailing the ship home by second week of May, Philippine Navy spokesperson Capt. Lued Lincuna said in an interview with the PNA Monday.
"About 100 of the ship's crew are now undergoing their shipboard and depot level maintenance training," he added.
After these exercises, Lincuna said the Filipino crew will then subject BRP Davao Del Sur to a series of machinery and equipment to ensure she is capable of putting out to sea.
"After all those checks, she will be subjected to a series of dock trials, sea trials and endurance run (to determine her seaworthiness)," he added.
As of this posting, the BRP Davao Del Sur is 98 percent completed.
The BRP Davao Del Sur was launched last Sept. 29. She is the sister ship of the BRP Tarlac (LD-601), currently the largest Filipino warship in commissioned.
BRP Tarlac was commissioned during short ceremonies at Pier 13, Manila South Harbor last June 1.
She arrived in the Philippines last May 14 after a five-day journey from PT PAL shipyard in Surabaya which started on May 9.
BRP Davao Del Sur is also a Makassar-class landing platform dock like her sister ship BRP Tarlac.
Its delivery to the Philippines, is tentatively scheduled this coming May, will complete the two-unit SSV procurement project with an approved budget contract of PHP4 billion sourced from the AFP Modernization Act Trust Fund.
Just like the BRP Tarlac, the PN's latest SSV will serve as a floating command-and-control ship especially in the conduct of humanitarian assistance and disaster response and will also serve as a military sealift and transport vessel.
The ship has an overall length of 120 meters,breadth of 21 meters, draft of five meters and can carry a payload of 2,800 tons.
She has a cruising speed of 13 knots and maximum speed of 16 knots and a minimum operating range of 7,500 nautical miles.
BRP Davao Del Sur can carry 500 troops, two rigid-hull inflatable boats, two landing craft units and three helicopters.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=973112
Around 100 enlisted personnel and officers are now undergoing training on the various systems of the country's second strategic sealift vessel (SSV), the BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602), which is now nearing completion at the shipyard of contractor PT PAL (Persero) in Surabaya, Indonesia.
These naval military personnel are now being trained shipboard training to ensure that they are capable of sailing the ship home by second week of May, Philippine Navy spokesperson Capt. Lued Lincuna said in an interview with the PNA Monday.
"About 100 of the ship's crew are now undergoing their shipboard and depot level maintenance training," he added.
After these exercises, Lincuna said the Filipino crew will then subject BRP Davao Del Sur to a series of machinery and equipment to ensure she is capable of putting out to sea.
"After all those checks, she will be subjected to a series of dock trials, sea trials and endurance run (to determine her seaworthiness)," he added.
As of this posting, the BRP Davao Del Sur is 98 percent completed.
The BRP Davao Del Sur was launched last Sept. 29. She is the sister ship of the BRP Tarlac (LD-601), currently the largest Filipino warship in commissioned.
BRP Tarlac was commissioned during short ceremonies at Pier 13, Manila South Harbor last June 1.
She arrived in the Philippines last May 14 after a five-day journey from PT PAL shipyard in Surabaya which started on May 9.
BRP Davao Del Sur is also a Makassar-class landing platform dock like her sister ship BRP Tarlac.
Its delivery to the Philippines, is tentatively scheduled this coming May, will complete the two-unit SSV procurement project with an approved budget contract of PHP4 billion sourced from the AFP Modernization Act Trust Fund.
Just like the BRP Tarlac, the PN's latest SSV will serve as a floating command-and-control ship especially in the conduct of humanitarian assistance and disaster response and will also serve as a military sealift and transport vessel.
The ship has an overall length of 120 meters,breadth of 21 meters, draft of five meters and can carry a payload of 2,800 tons.
She has a cruising speed of 13 knots and maximum speed of 16 knots and a minimum operating range of 7,500 nautical miles.
BRP Davao Del Sur can carry 500 troops, two rigid-hull inflatable boats, two landing craft units and three helicopters.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=973112
GA looking for PHP45.8M worth of finished 7.62-mm components
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 20): GA looking for PHP45.8M worth of finished 7.62-mm components
The Limay, Bataan-based Government Arsenal (GA) is looking for qualified bidders capable of supplying it with PHPP45.8 million worth of 7.62mm finished components.
The 7.62mm is the round used to arm the military's sniper rifles and light machine guns.
Pre-bid conference is slated this coming March 27, 11 a.m. at the Government Arsenal Metro Manila Liaison Office (GAMMLO), Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
Interested parties are advised to contact GA bids and awards committee chair Mariamisma P. Ablir for further details.
Winning bidders are required to deliver the items within 210 calendar days.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=973088
The Limay, Bataan-based Government Arsenal (GA) is looking for qualified bidders capable of supplying it with PHPP45.8 million worth of 7.62mm finished components.
The 7.62mm is the round used to arm the military's sniper rifles and light machine guns.
Pre-bid conference is slated this coming March 27, 11 a.m. at the Government Arsenal Metro Manila Liaison Office (GAMMLO), Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
Interested parties are advised to contact GA bids and awards committee chair Mariamisma P. Ablir for further details.
Winning bidders are required to deliver the items within 210 calendar days.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=973088
SC Justice Carpio recommends ways to defend Panatag shoal
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 20): SC Justice Carpio recommends ways to defend Panatag shoal
Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio on Monday made recommendations to President Rodrigo Duterte on how to respond to China's reported plan to install a radar station in the disputed Panatag or Scarborough Shoal.
In a statement, Carpio said the President is the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces which is tasked by the Constitution to defend the country’s territory.
He pointed out that under Republic Act 9522 or the Philippines’ Baseline Law, Scarborough Shoal is part of the Philippine territory.
Carpio said since the Philippines is no match to China militarily, the President can fulfill his constitutional duty by doing any, some or all of the following:
1. File a strong formal protest against the Chinese building activity. This is the least that the President should do. This is what the Vietnamese did recently when China sent cruise tours to the disputed Paracels.
2. Send the Philippine Navy to patrol Scarborough Shoal. If the Chinese forces attack Philippine navy vessels, then the President can invoke the Philippines-US Mutual defense Treaty which covers any armed attack on Philippine navy vessels operating in the South China Sea.
3. Ask the United States to declare that Scarborough Shoal is part of Philippine territory for purposes of the Philippines-US Mutual Defense Treaty since the shoal has been part of Philippine territory even during the American colonial period. The US has declared the Senkakus as part of Japanese territory for purposes of the US-Japan mutual defense treaty.
4. Accept the standing US offer to hold joint naval patrols in the South China Sea, which includes Scarborough Shoal. This will demonstrate joint Philippine and US determination to prevent China from building on Scarborough Shoal.
5. Avoid any act, statement or declaration that expressly or impliedly waives Philippine sovereignty to any Philippine territory in the West Philippine Sea. This will preserve for future generations of Filipinos their national patrimony in the West Philippine Sea.
“This will preserve for future generations of Filipinos their natural patrimony in the West Philippine Sea,” Carpio said.
In 2012, China seized Panatag Shoal or the Scarborough Shoal after a standoff between Chinese and Filipino vessels. China is denying Filipino fishermen access to its rich fishing stock.
The Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled that Panatag Shoal is a “common fishing ground” of fishermen not only from the Philippines but also from China and other neighboring countries.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=973228
Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio on Monday made recommendations to President Rodrigo Duterte on how to respond to China's reported plan to install a radar station in the disputed Panatag or Scarborough Shoal.
In a statement, Carpio said the President is the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces which is tasked by the Constitution to defend the country’s territory.
He pointed out that under Republic Act 9522 or the Philippines’ Baseline Law, Scarborough Shoal is part of the Philippine territory.
Carpio said since the Philippines is no match to China militarily, the President can fulfill his constitutional duty by doing any, some or all of the following:
1. File a strong formal protest against the Chinese building activity. This is the least that the President should do. This is what the Vietnamese did recently when China sent cruise tours to the disputed Paracels.
2. Send the Philippine Navy to patrol Scarborough Shoal. If the Chinese forces attack Philippine navy vessels, then the President can invoke the Philippines-US Mutual defense Treaty which covers any armed attack on Philippine navy vessels operating in the South China Sea.
3. Ask the United States to declare that Scarborough Shoal is part of Philippine territory for purposes of the Philippines-US Mutual Defense Treaty since the shoal has been part of Philippine territory even during the American colonial period. The US has declared the Senkakus as part of Japanese territory for purposes of the US-Japan mutual defense treaty.
4. Accept the standing US offer to hold joint naval patrols in the South China Sea, which includes Scarborough Shoal. This will demonstrate joint Philippine and US determination to prevent China from building on Scarborough Shoal.
5. Avoid any act, statement or declaration that expressly or impliedly waives Philippine sovereignty to any Philippine territory in the West Philippine Sea. This will preserve for future generations of Filipinos their national patrimony in the West Philippine Sea.
“This will preserve for future generations of Filipinos their natural patrimony in the West Philippine Sea,” Carpio said.
In 2012, China seized Panatag Shoal or the Scarborough Shoal after a standoff between Chinese and Filipino vessels. China is denying Filipino fishermen access to its rich fishing stock.
The Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled that Panatag Shoal is a “common fishing ground” of fishermen not only from the Philippines but also from China and other neighboring countries.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=973228
Declaration of state of emergency, martial law in Mindanao a prerogative of political leadership -- AFP
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 20): Declaration of state of emergency, martial law in Mindanao a prerogative of political leadership -- AFP
The decision to declare a state of emergency or martial law is primarily a political decision and does not rest on the military.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla issued this statement when queried about President Rodrigo Duterte's earlier announcement that he is mulling at the possibility of declaring martial law in some parts of Mindanao in wake of the threats being posed by lawless elements and terror groups known to be operating in the region.
These groups often conduct kidnap-for-ransom activities and other criminal acts to fund their illegal activities and proving detrimental to development of Mindanao and its people.
"The decision to implement a state of emergency or martial law does not lie with the AFP. It lies with the political leadership and depends (on the prevailing security situation)," Padilla said in Filipino.
However, the Chief Executive is not keen to implement this most extreme measure and is urging the local government units in Mindanao to help the police and soldiery in curbing these threats and allow genuine peace and progress to come into the area.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=973274
The decision to declare a state of emergency or martial law is primarily a political decision and does not rest on the military.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla issued this statement when queried about President Rodrigo Duterte's earlier announcement that he is mulling at the possibility of declaring martial law in some parts of Mindanao in wake of the threats being posed by lawless elements and terror groups known to be operating in the region.
These groups often conduct kidnap-for-ransom activities and other criminal acts to fund their illegal activities and proving detrimental to development of Mindanao and its people.
"The decision to implement a state of emergency or martial law does not lie with the AFP. It lies with the political leadership and depends (on the prevailing security situation)," Padilla said in Filipino.
However, the Chief Executive is not keen to implement this most extreme measure and is urging the local government units in Mindanao to help the police and soldiery in curbing these threats and allow genuine peace and progress to come into the area.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=973274
AFP tells NDF: Exert tighter control your field units to ensure success of peace talks
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 20): AFP tells NDF: Exert tighter control your field units to ensure success of peace talks
To ensure progress in the soon-to-resume peace negotiations at The Netherlands, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is hoping that the National Democratic Front (NDF) will exert tighter control over its field units this time.
AFP public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo said such control is needed to prevent rebel elements from making unprovoked attacks against civilian and military targets just like what happened last February.
During that month, the New People's Army (NPA) made a series of attacks against military personnel and civilian businesses, killing six soldiers in the process, causing the abduction of three troopers, and causing millions of pesos in damages to properties.
This prompted President Rodrigo Duterte to suspend the peace talks last Feb. 4 and ordered a massive retaliatory campaign against rebel forces.
“While the AFP sees that the NDF continues to push for the resumption of the peace negotiations, it is clear that they are also losing hold of their men on the ground. The NPA, with their twisted ideals are attacking innocent civilians, extorting money or burning private properties,” Arevalo stressed.
As of this posting, the NPAs have already conducted 62 terroristic activities since the start of the year.
These include abduction, burning or arson, extortion, ambush and harassment against both civilians and military members.
“On our part, we will continue to conduct combat operations against the terrorist NPAs until we receive an official communication from the Office of the President suspending the all-out-war. Our surgical, deliberate, and intelligence-driven operations have so far resulted to the neutralization of 129 NPAs, of which 23 were killed, 19 were arrested and 87 surrendered,” the AFP public affairs office chief stressed.
“At present, the operations against the NPA already yielded 83 firearms from the NPA -- 22 were surrendered while 61 were recovered during operations. The casualties on our side are now at 53, of which 14 were killed in action, 36 were wounded, and three were abducted,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=973151
To ensure progress in the soon-to-resume peace negotiations at The Netherlands, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is hoping that the National Democratic Front (NDF) will exert tighter control over its field units this time.
AFP public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo said such control is needed to prevent rebel elements from making unprovoked attacks against civilian and military targets just like what happened last February.
During that month, the New People's Army (NPA) made a series of attacks against military personnel and civilian businesses, killing six soldiers in the process, causing the abduction of three troopers, and causing millions of pesos in damages to properties.
This prompted President Rodrigo Duterte to suspend the peace talks last Feb. 4 and ordered a massive retaliatory campaign against rebel forces.
“While the AFP sees that the NDF continues to push for the resumption of the peace negotiations, it is clear that they are also losing hold of their men on the ground. The NPA, with their twisted ideals are attacking innocent civilians, extorting money or burning private properties,” Arevalo stressed.
As of this posting, the NPAs have already conducted 62 terroristic activities since the start of the year.
These include abduction, burning or arson, extortion, ambush and harassment against both civilians and military members.
“On our part, we will continue to conduct combat operations against the terrorist NPAs until we receive an official communication from the Office of the President suspending the all-out-war. Our surgical, deliberate, and intelligence-driven operations have so far resulted to the neutralization of 129 NPAs, of which 23 were killed, 19 were arrested and 87 surrendered,” the AFP public affairs office chief stressed.
“At present, the operations against the NPA already yielded 83 firearms from the NPA -- 22 were surrendered while 61 were recovered during operations. The casualties on our side are now at 53, of which 14 were killed in action, 36 were wounded, and three were abducted,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=973151
Dela Rosa reveals new appointees to PNP’s top posts
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 20): Dela Rosa reveals new appointees to PNP’s top posts
Police Deputy Director General Ramon Apolinario is now the second highest official of the Philippine National Police (PNP) following the retirement of Deputy Director General Francisco Uyami Jr.
This was divulged by PNP chief Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa in a press conference in Camp Crame, Quezon City on Monday.
Dela Rosa also announced the new appointees to the highest positions in the PNP.
Deputy Director General Fernando Mendez Jr. will fill up the position vacated by Apolinario as Deputy Director General for Operations.
Police Director Archie Gamboa will serve as the chief of The Chief Directorial Staff (TCDS).
Police Director Ramon Purugganan will also move as chief of the PNP Directorate for Comptrollership (DC).
On the other hand, Director Rene Aspera will serve as the chief of the Directorate for Personnel Records and Management (DPRM).
Director Joel Garcia is the new director of the Police Security and Protection Group (PSPG).
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=973156
Police Deputy Director General Ramon Apolinario is now the second highest official of the Philippine National Police (PNP) following the retirement of Deputy Director General Francisco Uyami Jr.
This was divulged by PNP chief Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa in a press conference in Camp Crame, Quezon City on Monday.
Dela Rosa also announced the new appointees to the highest positions in the PNP.
Deputy Director General Fernando Mendez Jr. will fill up the position vacated by Apolinario as Deputy Director General for Operations.
Police Director Archie Gamboa will serve as the chief of The Chief Directorial Staff (TCDS).
Police Director Ramon Purugganan will also move as chief of the PNP Directorate for Comptrollership (DC).
On the other hand, Director Rene Aspera will serve as the chief of the Directorate for Personnel Records and Management (DPRM).
Director Joel Garcia is the new director of the Police Security and Protection Group (PSPG).
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=973156