From GMA News Online (Apr 30): 2 policewomen, 2 others abducted in Sulu
Armed men abducted four people, including two policewomen, in Patikul, Sulu on Sunday afternoon.
Kidnapped were Police Officer 2 Benierose Alvarez, Police Officer 1 Dinah Gumahad, a certain Jakosalem Ahamad Blas and Faizal Ahidji.
Philippine National Police chief Director General Oscar Albayalde said one of the two policewomen is a member of the PNP-Crime Laboratory.
Albayalde said that according to reports from the military, the policewomen and their companions had just came from Camp Teodulfo Bautista when they were abducted in Barangay Liang at past noon.
The military said the victims were on board a tricycle when they were taken by 11 armed men led by a certain Mujir Yada.
Albayalde said hot pursuit operations are ongoing for the recovery of the two policewomen and their companions.
He said the pursuit operations are being led by the Joint Task Force Sulu and assisted by the police's mobile group.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/651702/2-policewomen-2-others-abducted-in-sulu/story/
Sunday, April 29, 2018
Joma Sison told: Come home and talk peace
From The Standard (Apr 29): Joma Sison told: Come home and talk peace
President Rodrigo Duterte said Sunday he would not leave the country to negotiate peace with the communist rebels and would not agree to a coalition government.
“I am ready to listen to anybody, even to [Communist Party of the Philippines founder Jose Maria] Sison, lecture on me how to improve the lives of Filipinos. So I have to find the peace. But there are lines that I cannot cross,” Duterte said.
He revealed that the CPP has previously asked him to go to Amsterdam to discuss the elusive peace with Sison, but he refused to travel to the foreign country.
“You know, it would not look good for a President to be chasing the elusive peace. I would have crossed the fine line of governance. I told Sison that he should come home and I would spend for everything,” he said in a mix of English and Filipino.
Duterte also said that while he is open to negotiations, “a coalition government is out of the question.”
The President sounded more conciliatory than he did when he broke off talks with the communists in anger over several rebel attacks on government forces.
“Look, I cannot fight forever with my own countrymen. I am not a soldier. I am not a policeman. I am just a worker of the government tasked to make it easy for everybody,” he said.
Duterte said that it is about time that the government start talking peace with the CPP-NPA since he, 73, and CPP founder Sison, 79, were getting old.
He said there was still a small window for peace, saying he would give negotiations two months once Sison returns to the Philippines for talks.
He said the New People’s Army, the armed wing of the CPP, should keep their arms inside their camps while the two sides talk peace.
http://thestandard.com.ph/news/top-stories/264445/joma-sison-told-come-home-and-talk-peace.html
President Rodrigo Duterte said Sunday he would not leave the country to negotiate peace with the communist rebels and would not agree to a coalition government.
“I am ready to listen to anybody, even to [Communist Party of the Philippines founder Jose Maria] Sison, lecture on me how to improve the lives of Filipinos. So I have to find the peace. But there are lines that I cannot cross,” Duterte said.
He revealed that the CPP has previously asked him to go to Amsterdam to discuss the elusive peace with Sison, but he refused to travel to the foreign country.
“You know, it would not look good for a President to be chasing the elusive peace. I would have crossed the fine line of governance. I told Sison that he should come home and I would spend for everything,” he said in a mix of English and Filipino.
Duterte also said that while he is open to negotiations, “a coalition government is out of the question.”
The President sounded more conciliatory than he did when he broke off talks with the communists in anger over several rebel attacks on government forces.
“Look, I cannot fight forever with my own countrymen. I am not a soldier. I am not a policeman. I am just a worker of the government tasked to make it easy for everybody,” he said.
Duterte said that it is about time that the government start talking peace with the CPP-NPA since he, 73, and CPP founder Sison, 79, were getting old.
He said there was still a small window for peace, saying he would give negotiations two months once Sison returns to the Philippines for talks.
He said the New People’s Army, the armed wing of the CPP, should keep their arms inside their camps while the two sides talk peace.
http://thestandard.com.ph/news/top-stories/264445/joma-sison-told-come-home-and-talk-peace.html
NPA members kill CAFGU member in Negros Oriental ambush
From GMA News Online (Apr 29): NPA members kill CAFGU member in Negros Oriental ambush
A member of the Philippine Army's Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) was shot dead after he was ambushed by suspected New People's Army (NPA) rebels Saturday in Santa Catalina, Negros Oriental.
The victim was identified as Bobby Sarino, 46, a member of the CAFGU's Cogon Patrol Base in southern Negros Oriental.
The Santa Catalina Police said Sarino was on his way home in Sitio Bacnet in Barangay Nagbinlod at around 6 a.m. when he was waylaid by four suspected NPA members.
Police Officer 1 Elizer Enrique said Sarino was died due to six gunshot wounds in the head and body.
Meanwhile, Sarino's fellow CAFGU members and troops from the Army's 15th Infantry Battalion clashed with at least 30 NPA members while pursuing his attackers at around 1 p.m.
Lieutenant Colonel Patricio Tomales, commanding officer of the 15th Infantry Battalion, told GMA News Online in a phone interview that the some minors and two women were among the NPA members encountered by the troops.
The clash lasted for at least 20 minutes.
The ambush happened as peace talks between the Philippine government and the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) were set to resume.
Due to the strong presence of NPA rebels in the province, Police Regional Office-7 (PRO-7) director Chief Superintendent Robert Quenery has named Negros Oriental a "priority province" for the May 14 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections.
The PRO-7 will closely monitor Negros Oriental next month, as it is only the province in Central Visayas with many recent insurgency-related incidents, Negros Oriental Police chief Senior Superintendent Edwin Portento previously told reporters.
Santa Catalina has some barangays initially listed as poll hot spots. The number of poll hot spots in the province range from 62 to 79.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/651662/npa-members-kill-cafgu-member-in-negros-oriental-ambush/story/
A member of the Philippine Army's Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) was shot dead after he was ambushed by suspected New People's Army (NPA) rebels Saturday in Santa Catalina, Negros Oriental.
The victim was identified as Bobby Sarino, 46, a member of the CAFGU's Cogon Patrol Base in southern Negros Oriental.
The Santa Catalina Police said Sarino was on his way home in Sitio Bacnet in Barangay Nagbinlod at around 6 a.m. when he was waylaid by four suspected NPA members.
Police Officer 1 Elizer Enrique said Sarino was died due to six gunshot wounds in the head and body.
Meanwhile, Sarino's fellow CAFGU members and troops from the Army's 15th Infantry Battalion clashed with at least 30 NPA members while pursuing his attackers at around 1 p.m.
Lieutenant Colonel Patricio Tomales, commanding officer of the 15th Infantry Battalion, told GMA News Online in a phone interview that the some minors and two women were among the NPA members encountered by the troops.
The clash lasted for at least 20 minutes.
The ambush happened as peace talks between the Philippine government and the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) were set to resume.
Due to the strong presence of NPA rebels in the province, Police Regional Office-7 (PRO-7) director Chief Superintendent Robert Quenery has named Negros Oriental a "priority province" for the May 14 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections.
The PRO-7 will closely monitor Negros Oriental next month, as it is only the province in Central Visayas with many recent insurgency-related incidents, Negros Oriental Police chief Senior Superintendent Edwin Portento previously told reporters.
Santa Catalina has some barangays initially listed as poll hot spots. The number of poll hot spots in the province range from 62 to 79.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/651662/npa-members-kill-cafgu-member-in-negros-oriental-ambush/story/
NPA communists-terrorists surrendered 288 firearms since peace talks cancellation
From the Manila Bulletin (Apr 29): NPA communists-terrorists surrendered 288 firearms since peace talks cancellation
The Philippine Army (PA) through its ground forces has been unrelenting in the conduct of security operations in consonance to the government thrust and pronouncement of no less than President Duterte to finish-off the communist terrorist and other threat groups to pave the way for sustaining peace and development in the country.
(Czar Dancel / MANILA BULLETIN)
In a statement, Army spokesman Lt. Col. Louie Villanueva, said that since the cancelation of the peace talks last year, 6,709 armed communist-terrorists and sympathizers have already surrendered and 288 assorted firearms were also seized.
In the case of Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and Maute, the troops’ effort resulted in the capture and surrender of 96 personalities.
Villanueva said the proclamation of the extension of martial law in Mindanao conspicuously contributed to the success of the military operations.
“Significantly, as part of the AFP’s effort to prevent and counter violent extremism in Mindanao, various Army major units have succeeded and gained ground with recovering of loose firearms in 2018. There was a massive surrender of loose firearms which is a good indication of the people’s willingness spearheaded by local government units for the attainment of peace in the region,” Villanueva said.
‘It is also worthy to note that during the entire implementation of martial law there was no single incident of abuse reported by Army soldiers,” he added.
Villanueva said most people in Mindanao were vocal in expressing their gratitude for the implementation of martial law as it provides them comfort and safety to pursue their daily chores. Business groups appreciate the way the military conducts their operation as this provided them confidence and sense of security.
According to the latest survey of the Social Weather Station, the Army has garnered +72 net satisfaction rating, with one-point decrease compared to the 2015 survey result conducted by the Club Media Asia Inc. Meanwhile, it gained a record-breaking 9 points increase on its net trust rating from only +75 in 2015 to +84 this year.
Specifically, the Army gained the highest trust rating in Mindanao at +87 compared with the National Capital Region at +85, Balance Luzon at +83, and Visayas at +81. Notably, the highest number of surrenderers came from Mindanao.
“The Philippine Army as the main force provider of the Armed Forces of the Philippines fully supports the commander-in-chief on his thrusts and advocacies to totally eliminate the CPP-NPA-NDF terrorists and the other threat groups. Due to intensified military operations, there was a significant increase in the number of surrenderers particularly from the CPP-NPA terrorists,” Villanueva said.
“These victories can also be attributed to the response and cooperation of the community as well as the local leaders imbibed with the idea that security is a shared and everybody’s responsibility,” he added
On the other hand, Army chief Lt. Gen. Rolando Joselito Bautista assured the troops that the command has in its priority and working ardently to provide the necessary combat essentials for them.
He also lauded the troops for their untiring efforts and dedication in protecting and serving the people.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/04/29/npa-communists-terrorists-surrendered-288-firearms-since-peace-talks-cancellation/
The Philippine Army (PA) through its ground forces has been unrelenting in the conduct of security operations in consonance to the government thrust and pronouncement of no less than President Duterte to finish-off the communist terrorist and other threat groups to pave the way for sustaining peace and development in the country.
(Czar Dancel / MANILA BULLETIN)
In a statement, Army spokesman Lt. Col. Louie Villanueva, said that since the cancelation of the peace talks last year, 6,709 armed communist-terrorists and sympathizers have already surrendered and 288 assorted firearms were also seized.
In the case of Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and Maute, the troops’ effort resulted in the capture and surrender of 96 personalities.
Villanueva said the proclamation of the extension of martial law in Mindanao conspicuously contributed to the success of the military operations.
“Significantly, as part of the AFP’s effort to prevent and counter violent extremism in Mindanao, various Army major units have succeeded and gained ground with recovering of loose firearms in 2018. There was a massive surrender of loose firearms which is a good indication of the people’s willingness spearheaded by local government units for the attainment of peace in the region,” Villanueva said.
‘It is also worthy to note that during the entire implementation of martial law there was no single incident of abuse reported by Army soldiers,” he added.
Villanueva said most people in Mindanao were vocal in expressing their gratitude for the implementation of martial law as it provides them comfort and safety to pursue their daily chores. Business groups appreciate the way the military conducts their operation as this provided them confidence and sense of security.
According to the latest survey of the Social Weather Station, the Army has garnered +72 net satisfaction rating, with one-point decrease compared to the 2015 survey result conducted by the Club Media Asia Inc. Meanwhile, it gained a record-breaking 9 points increase on its net trust rating from only +75 in 2015 to +84 this year.
Specifically, the Army gained the highest trust rating in Mindanao at +87 compared with the National Capital Region at +85, Balance Luzon at +83, and Visayas at +81. Notably, the highest number of surrenderers came from Mindanao.
“The Philippine Army as the main force provider of the Armed Forces of the Philippines fully supports the commander-in-chief on his thrusts and advocacies to totally eliminate the CPP-NPA-NDF terrorists and the other threat groups. Due to intensified military operations, there was a significant increase in the number of surrenderers particularly from the CPP-NPA terrorists,” Villanueva said.
“These victories can also be attributed to the response and cooperation of the community as well as the local leaders imbibed with the idea that security is a shared and everybody’s responsibility,” he added
On the other hand, Army chief Lt. Gen. Rolando Joselito Bautista assured the troops that the command has in its priority and working ardently to provide the necessary combat essentials for them.
He also lauded the troops for their untiring efforts and dedication in protecting and serving the people.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/04/29/npa-communists-terrorists-surrendered-288-firearms-since-peace-talks-cancellation/
DSWD DROMIC Terminal Report on the Armed Conflict in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental as of 28 April 2018, 4PM
Posted to the Relief Web (Apr 28): DSWD DROMIC Terminal Report on the Armed Conflict in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental as of 28 April 2018, 4PM
Report from Government of the Philippines
T
his is the final report on the monitored armed conflict that happened on 16 April 2018 between the 79th Infantry Batallion of AFP and alleged members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) in Brgy. Nataban and Mabato. The conflict transpired in the upper slopes of Barangay Guadalupe, Baranggay Buluangan and Brgy. Quezon. The IDPs took temporary shelter in Handalago Elementary School, Mabato Elementary School, and Balabag Elementary school.
1. Status of Affected Families / Persons
In total, 112 families or 445 persons were affected by the armed conflict in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental (see Table 1).
2. Status of Displaced Families/ Persons
Inside Evacuation Centers
There were 112 families or 445 persons who stayed in 3 evacuation centers (see Table 2).
3. Cost of Assistance
₱64,025.00 worth of assistance was provided to the affected families, all of which came from the LGU (see Table 3).
https://reliefweb.int/report/philippines/dswd-dromic-terminal-report-armed-conflict-san-carlos-city-negros-occidental-28
his is the final report on the monitored armed conflict that happened on 16 April 2018 between the 79th Infantry Batallion of AFP and alleged members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) in Brgy. Nataban and Mabato. The conflict transpired in the upper slopes of Barangay Guadalupe, Baranggay Buluangan and Brgy. Quezon. The IDPs took temporary shelter in Handalago Elementary School, Mabato Elementary School, and Balabag Elementary school.
1. Status of Affected Families / Persons
In total, 112 families or 445 persons were affected by the armed conflict in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental (see Table 1).
2. Status of Displaced Families/ Persons
Inside Evacuation Centers
There were 112 families or 445 persons who stayed in 3 evacuation centers (see Table 2).
3. Cost of Assistance
₱64,025.00 worth of assistance was provided to the affected families, all of which came from the LGU (see Table 3).
https://reliefweb.int/report/philippines/dswd-dromic-terminal-report-armed-conflict-san-carlos-city-negros-occidental-28
Scarborough, Benham Rise general leads US-PH Balikatan 2018
From Rappler (Apr 30): Scarborough, Benham Rise general leads US-PH Balikatan 2018
It's the second Balikatan under President Rodrigo Duterte, who at the start of his term threatened to end the military exercises. Ties between the Philippines and US have since improved.
The commander of the Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom), Lieutenant General Emmanuel Salamat, is the exercise director of this year's Balikatan military exercises with the US.
He will work with his counterpart from the US Pacific Command.
Nolcom is responsible for flashpoint areas Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal and Philippine (Benham) Rise. Chinese activities in these areas have caused concerns, although Salamat said the Balikatan will not involve maritime domain awareness.
"Our exercises are geared towards inter-operability of forces. We exercise of our skills with our US counterparts. It's what we do every year," Salamat said.
Balikatan is a set of annual joint training exercises between the two countries bound by a Mutual Defense Treaty. Other allies have since joined as observers, including Australia and Japan.
It's the second Balikatan under President Rodrigo Duterte, who at the start of his term threatened to end the military exercises. Ties between the two countries have since been improved. (READ: Duterte's pivot to China won't be easy for Americanized PH military)
Duterte is also scheduled to sail to Benham Rise this week to assert the country's sovereign rights over the undersea territory. Critics have pressed him to abandon his defeatist attitude over the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea), where China continues to take aggressive actions.
Marawi lessons with US forces
The US forces have arrived for the exercises this year. They began community work in various provinces – constructing school buildings in Isabela, Cagayan, and Nueva Ecija – before the scheduled formal opening of the exercises on May 7.
"We have a joint effort with US forces to provide some basic infrastructure to schools. We build schools for the use of our local commnity," said Salamat.
Salamat said the Philippine military will be sharing lessons learned from the Marawi siege last year, where the US provided assistance.
"We want to maintain our skills to be able to keep our readiness to counter extremism," Salamat said.
Salamat said the major activities will be held in major camps under Nolcom. Exercises with the Americans are traditionally held in Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija, Crow Valley in Tarlac, and Naval Education and Training Command in Zambales.
The Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) had its groundbreaking ceremony this month at the Basa Air Base where the US is building facilities for disaster response.
It's the second Balikatan under President Rodrigo Duterte, who at the start of his term threatened to end the military exercises. Ties between the Philippines and US have since improved.
MARITIME FORUM. Northern Luzon Command chief Lieutenant General Emmanuel Salamat hosts a maritime forum for fishermen in Pangasinan. Photo by Carmela Fonbuena/Rappler.com
The commander of the Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom), Lieutenant General Emmanuel Salamat, is the exercise director of this year's Balikatan military exercises with the US.
He will work with his counterpart from the US Pacific Command.
Nolcom is responsible for flashpoint areas Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal and Philippine (Benham) Rise. Chinese activities in these areas have caused concerns, although Salamat said the Balikatan will not involve maritime domain awareness.
"Our exercises are geared towards inter-operability of forces. We exercise of our skills with our US counterparts. It's what we do every year," Salamat said.
Balikatan is a set of annual joint training exercises between the two countries bound by a Mutual Defense Treaty. Other allies have since joined as observers, including Australia and Japan.
It's the second Balikatan under President Rodrigo Duterte, who at the start of his term threatened to end the military exercises. Ties between the two countries have since been improved. (READ: Duterte's pivot to China won't be easy for Americanized PH military)
Duterte is also scheduled to sail to Benham Rise this week to assert the country's sovereign rights over the undersea territory. Critics have pressed him to abandon his defeatist attitude over the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea), where China continues to take aggressive actions.
Marawi lessons with US forces
The US forces have arrived for the exercises this year. They began community work in various provinces – constructing school buildings in Isabela, Cagayan, and Nueva Ecija – before the scheduled formal opening of the exercises on May 7.
"We have a joint effort with US forces to provide some basic infrastructure to schools. We build schools for the use of our local commnity," said Salamat.
Salamat said the Philippine military will be sharing lessons learned from the Marawi siege last year, where the US provided assistance.
"We want to maintain our skills to be able to keep our readiness to counter extremism," Salamat said.
Salamat said the major activities will be held in major camps under Nolcom. Exercises with the Americans are traditionally held in Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija, Crow Valley in Tarlac, and Naval Education and Training Command in Zambales.
The Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) had its groundbreaking ceremony this month at the Basa Air Base where the US is building facilities for disaster response.
2 injured in blast beside Koronadal cathedral
From MindaNews (Apr 29): 2 injured in blast beside Koronadal cathedral
Two persons were injured when a suspected improvised bomb exploded beside a tricycle parked in front of the side entrance of the main Catholic church here Sunday noon.
Supt. Ronald Allan Penaverde, Koronadal City police chief, said the explosion occurred at around 12:05 noon in front of the side entrance of the St. Anthony de Padua parish’s Christ the King Cathedral along Rizal Street.
Another suspected bomb was recovered at around 1:40 p.m. near a convenience store located about three blocks away from the church but was detonated by explosives ordnance disposal (EOD) experts.
The explosive was found inside a plastic bag left by an unidentified woman in front of the 747 convenience store along General Santos Drive.
The convenience store is a few meters away from the old city hall compound and the city police station.
Fragments from the blast beside the parked tricycle hit a driver of a passing tricycle identified as Dindo Zamora, 39 and bystander Generosa Sumargo, 34. Both sustained minor injuries.
The parked tricycle, marked with Motorized Tricycle Operators Permit number 5079, was severely damaged as a result of the explosion.
Five other motorcycles parked near the area sustained various damages.
Helen Payunan, passenger of the tricycle driven by Zamora, said they were passing by the area when the explosion happened.
She just came from a nearby shopping mall and was attending a child’s baptism at the cathedral.
Zamora, who was hit on his back and mouth, was forced to slow down and eventually stop the tricycle due to the blast.
“I immediately jumped and ran away,” she told reporters.
Security guard Maria Luz Magollado said she was sitting at her post near the gate when the explosion came.
“It was very loud and I saw a thick smoke coming from the parked tricycle,” she said.
Magollado said she immediately ushered parishioners to clear the area and secured the church compound.
She said it was fortunate that most of the parishioners who attended the fourth mass had left before the blast.
But there were some people still inside the church for the baptism rites.
Mayor Peter Miguel condemned the incident and advised residents to remain calm and vigilant.
“The situation is under control. There was another explosive found but it was already detonated by EOD personnel,” he said in a radio interview.
He said authorities have tightened security at the city center area, including nearby churches and commercial establishments.
“This is a huge challenge for us but we will do everything to find the perpetrators. We will not tolerate this,” he vowed.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2018/04/2-injured-in-blast-beside-koronadal-cathedral/
Two persons were injured when a suspected improvised bomb exploded beside a tricycle parked in front of the side entrance of the main Catholic church here Sunday noon.
Supt. Ronald Allan Penaverde, Koronadal City police chief, said the explosion occurred at around 12:05 noon in front of the side entrance of the St. Anthony de Padua parish’s Christ the King Cathedral along Rizal Street.
Another suspected bomb was recovered at around 1:40 p.m. near a convenience store located about three blocks away from the church but was detonated by explosives ordnance disposal (EOD) experts.
The explosive was found inside a plastic bag left by an unidentified woman in front of the 747 convenience store along General Santos Drive.
The convenience store is a few meters away from the old city hall compound and the city police station.
Fragments from the blast beside the parked tricycle hit a driver of a passing tricycle identified as Dindo Zamora, 39 and bystander Generosa Sumargo, 34. Both sustained minor injuries.
The parked tricycle, marked with Motorized Tricycle Operators Permit number 5079, was severely damaged as a result of the explosion.
Five other motorcycles parked near the area sustained various damages.
Helen Payunan, passenger of the tricycle driven by Zamora, said they were passing by the area when the explosion happened.
She just came from a nearby shopping mall and was attending a child’s baptism at the cathedral.
Zamora, who was hit on his back and mouth, was forced to slow down and eventually stop the tricycle due to the blast.
“I immediately jumped and ran away,” she told reporters.
Security guard Maria Luz Magollado said she was sitting at her post near the gate when the explosion came.
“It was very loud and I saw a thick smoke coming from the parked tricycle,” she said.
Magollado said she immediately ushered parishioners to clear the area and secured the church compound.
She said it was fortunate that most of the parishioners who attended the fourth mass had left before the blast.
But there were some people still inside the church for the baptism rites.
Mayor Peter Miguel condemned the incident and advised residents to remain calm and vigilant.
“The situation is under control. There was another explosive found but it was already detonated by EOD personnel,” he said in a radio interview.
He said authorities have tightened security at the city center area, including nearby churches and commercial establishments.
“This is a huge challenge for us but we will do everything to find the perpetrators. We will not tolerate this,” he vowed.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2018/04/2-injured-in-blast-beside-koronadal-cathedral/
3 injured in Koronadal City bombing
From the Mindanao Examiner (Apr 29): 3 injured in Koronadal City bombing
Three people were wounded in a bomb attack Sunday outside a Catholic church in Koronadal City in South Cotabato province in the restive region of Mindanao where security forces are battling terrorism and insurgent groups.
Police said the explosive went off near the church’s entrance. The injured civilians were rushed to hospital.
A second explosive was also recovered in a trash bin and detonated. No individual or group claimed responsibility for the bombing which occurred while the whole region is under an extended martial rule following a deadly ISIS attack in Marawi City last year.
It was unknown whether ISIS fighters were involved in the latest bombing.
In May 2015, police foiled an attempt to bomb a provincial bus bound for Koronadal City after a passenger discovered an improvised explosive and alerted the driver. The bomb – wrapped in a newspaper and plastic sheet – was placed at the rear of the bus, owned by Yellow Bus Line, which came from Tacurong City in Sultan Kudarat province.
The bus driver and his conductor immediately informed the police about the explosive and ordered passengers to disembark so authorities can retrieve the bomb and disarmed it. Previous bombings in the troubled region were largely blamed to Islamic militants.
https://mindanaoexaminer.com/39038-2/
Three people were wounded in a bomb attack Sunday outside a Catholic church in Koronadal City in South Cotabato province in the restive region of Mindanao where security forces are battling terrorism and insurgent groups.
Police said the explosive went off near the church’s entrance. The injured civilians were rushed to hospital.
A second explosive was also recovered in a trash bin and detonated. No individual or group claimed responsibility for the bombing which occurred while the whole region is under an extended martial rule following a deadly ISIS attack in Marawi City last year.
It was unknown whether ISIS fighters were involved in the latest bombing.
In May 2015, police foiled an attempt to bomb a provincial bus bound for Koronadal City after a passenger discovered an improvised explosive and alerted the driver. The bomb – wrapped in a newspaper and plastic sheet – was placed at the rear of the bus, owned by Yellow Bus Line, which came from Tacurong City in Sultan Kudarat province.
The bus driver and his conductor immediately informed the police about the explosive and ordered passengers to disembark so authorities can retrieve the bomb and disarmed it. Previous bombings in the troubled region were largely blamed to Islamic militants.
https://mindanaoexaminer.com/39038-2/
Soldier killed, 2 more wounded in NPA clashes in South
From the Mindanao Examiner (Apr 30): Soldier killed, 2 more wounded in NPA clashes in South
One government soldier was killed and two more wounded in fierce clashes with communist rebels Sunday afternoon in Davao del Norte province in southern Philippines, the army said.
It said the fighting erupted in the town of Asuncion where troops from the 46th Infantry Battalion engaged members of the New People’s Army in a running gun battle. There was no report of enemy casualties, but soldiers recovered 8 high-powered firearms and an improvised explosive left behind by rebels after the gunfight.
The army said fighting also broke out in Laak town in Compostela Valley province between soldiers and rebels, but there had been no reports of casualties on both sides. It said the insurgents belong to the Pulang Bagani Command 4 of the NPA’s Sub-Regional Command under the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee.
Army officials did not release the identities of its casualties, however, radio reports claimed that Private First Class Arman Campos was killed in the clashes while the wounded were Privates First Class Ruben Lambac Jr. and Ralph Ryan Baldomar.
The fighting coincided with ongoing efforts by the government to reopen stalled peace talks with rebels who are waging a secessionist war for decades for the establishment of a Maoist state in the country.
https://mindanaoexaminer.com/soldier-killed-2-more-wounded-in-npa-clashes-in-south/
One government soldier was killed and two more wounded in fierce clashes with communist rebels Sunday afternoon in Davao del Norte province in southern Philippines, the army said.
It said the fighting erupted in the town of Asuncion where troops from the 46th Infantry Battalion engaged members of the New People’s Army in a running gun battle. There was no report of enemy casualties, but soldiers recovered 8 high-powered firearms and an improvised explosive left behind by rebels after the gunfight.
The army said fighting also broke out in Laak town in Compostela Valley province between soldiers and rebels, but there had been no reports of casualties on both sides. It said the insurgents belong to the Pulang Bagani Command 4 of the NPA’s Sub-Regional Command under the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee.
Army officials did not release the identities of its casualties, however, radio reports claimed that Private First Class Arman Campos was killed in the clashes while the wounded were Privates First Class Ruben Lambac Jr. and Ralph Ryan Baldomar.
The fighting coincided with ongoing efforts by the government to reopen stalled peace talks with rebels who are waging a secessionist war for decades for the establishment of a Maoist state in the country.
https://mindanaoexaminer.com/soldier-killed-2-more-wounded-in-npa-clashes-in-south/
Eastmincom urges NPA to stop use of child soldiers
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 29): Eastmincom urges NPA to stop use of child soldiers
The Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) has reiterated its call to the New People's Army (NPA) to stop using minors as combatants.
This came after a 15-year-old boy from Barangay Old Bulatukan, Makilala, North Cotabato and a member of the rebel group, was killed in an encounter in Davao del Sur last April 21.
Eastmincom commander Lt. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr. said it was a clear violation of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) because minors should be spared from any conflict.
"We are saddened by what happened to him," Madrigal said.
Madrigal noted that the rebels are still using minors in their operations.
Earlier, the 39th Infantry Battalion identified the rebel killed during the April 21 encounter as Rondi Ondo - through his mother, Marissa A. Ondo, in a funeral parlor in Sta. Cruz, Davao Del Sur during a public identification.
In its report, operatives recovered an M-16 rifle and Ondo’s remains were in black NPA uniform.
Karapatan-Southern Mindanao Region (SMR) denied the military’s claim that the 15-year-old boy was killed in an alleged armed encounter in Barangay Astorga in Santa Cruz was a member of NPA.
Karapatan SMR secretary general Jay Apiag said the 39th IBPA, 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion and the Eastern Mindanao Command's allegation was "baseless" at the expense of the victim and his grieving kin.
But the said military relies more on the information given by the family of the slain rebel.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033606
The Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) has reiterated its call to the New People's Army (NPA) to stop using minors as combatants.
This came after a 15-year-old boy from Barangay Old Bulatukan, Makilala, North Cotabato and a member of the rebel group, was killed in an encounter in Davao del Sur last April 21.
Eastmincom commander Lt. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr. said it was a clear violation of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) because minors should be spared from any conflict.
"We are saddened by what happened to him," Madrigal said.
Madrigal noted that the rebels are still using minors in their operations.
Earlier, the 39th Infantry Battalion identified the rebel killed during the April 21 encounter as Rondi Ondo - through his mother, Marissa A. Ondo, in a funeral parlor in Sta. Cruz, Davao Del Sur during a public identification.
In its report, operatives recovered an M-16 rifle and Ondo’s remains were in black NPA uniform.
Karapatan-Southern Mindanao Region (SMR) denied the military’s claim that the 15-year-old boy was killed in an alleged armed encounter in Barangay Astorga in Santa Cruz was a member of NPA.
Karapatan SMR secretary general Jay Apiag said the 39th IBPA, 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion and the Eastern Mindanao Command's allegation was "baseless" at the expense of the victim and his grieving kin.
But the said military relies more on the information given by the family of the slain rebel.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033606
Duterte not lifting CPP-NPA's terror group tag yet
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 29): Duterte not lifting CPP-NPA's terror group tag yet
President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday said he is not yet lifting his proclamation tagging the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) as a terror organization.
“Not yet,” Duterte answered when asked if he is willing to lift the proclamation, in a press conference upon his arrival from the Singapore ASEAN Leaders Summit at the Davao International Airport.
Duterte signed the proclamation in December last year, tagging the CPP-NPA as a terror group, based on Republic Act No. 10168 or the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012.
Despite the proclamation, Duterte said he would still give the CPP-NPA a small "window" to talk peace by inviting CPP founder Jose Maria "Joma" Sison to return to the Philippines.
“I would have crossed the fine line of governance. I told Sison, you return home, I pay everything for two months, hotel and food. And the NPAs to come down, stay there in a camp of your choice, but do not go out of the camp bringing guns. Stay there, then we talk,” Duterte said.
Duterte said he is ready to listen to anybody, even to Sison’s lecture on how to improve the lives of the Filipino people.
The President said his mission in pursuing peace is to bring comfortable life for the Filipino people without using guns.
“I would save lives. Filipinos against the government, you cannot expect our people in unison to toe the line. I also save the lives of the soldiers and policemen,” Duterte said.
“So I’ve left a small window. Only 60 days. Before, they wanted me to go to Amsterdam. But you know, it would not look good for a President to be chasing the elusive peace,” he added.
The President, however, maintained he would not agree with Sison’s demand for a “coalition government”.
“Coalition is out of the question. Maybe, economic reforms and everything,” Duterte said.
“Ten years from now, all of us are inutile or no longer around. So, it is good as any other time to talk about peace. But one thing that which I cannot surrender is really a coalition government. That cannot happen,” the 73-year-old leader added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033619
President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday said he is not yet lifting his proclamation tagging the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) as a terror organization.
“Not yet,” Duterte answered when asked if he is willing to lift the proclamation, in a press conference upon his arrival from the Singapore ASEAN Leaders Summit at the Davao International Airport.
Duterte signed the proclamation in December last year, tagging the CPP-NPA as a terror group, based on Republic Act No. 10168 or the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012.
Despite the proclamation, Duterte said he would still give the CPP-NPA a small "window" to talk peace by inviting CPP founder Jose Maria "Joma" Sison to return to the Philippines.
“I would have crossed the fine line of governance. I told Sison, you return home, I pay everything for two months, hotel and food. And the NPAs to come down, stay there in a camp of your choice, but do not go out of the camp bringing guns. Stay there, then we talk,” Duterte said.
Duterte said he is ready to listen to anybody, even to Sison’s lecture on how to improve the lives of the Filipino people.
The President said his mission in pursuing peace is to bring comfortable life for the Filipino people without using guns.
“I would save lives. Filipinos against the government, you cannot expect our people in unison to toe the line. I also save the lives of the soldiers and policemen,” Duterte said.
“So I’ve left a small window. Only 60 days. Before, they wanted me to go to Amsterdam. But you know, it would not look good for a President to be chasing the elusive peace,” he added.
The President, however, maintained he would not agree with Sison’s demand for a “coalition government”.
“Coalition is out of the question. Maybe, economic reforms and everything,” Duterte said.
“Ten years from now, all of us are inutile or no longer around. So, it is good as any other time to talk about peace. But one thing that which I cannot surrender is really a coalition government. That cannot happen,” the 73-year-old leader added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033619
DWDD: NATIONS PARTNER FOR PEACE | NOLCOM celebrates 31st Anniversary
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 28): NATIONS PARTNER FOR PEACE | NOLCOM celebrates 31st Anniversary
CAMP GEN SERVILLANO AQUINO, Tarlac City (DWDD) – The Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) held its 31st Anniversary at NOLCOM Grounds, Camp Gen Servillano Aquino, Tarlac City on April 27, 2018.
The event’s theme “31 Years of Selflessly Fulfilling our Mandate to Advance Peace and Development, Fight for our People, and Protect our Territory.” is timely as NOLCOM remains steadfast to do its traditional and non-traditional roles as partner for national peace and development.
The celebration started with a Thanks-Giving Mass, followed by Artillery Capability Demonstration by the Army Artillery Regiment, Philippine Army (AAR, PA) and Silent Drill Exhibition by the cadets of Officer Candidate School, Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), PA.
Arrival of Senator “Sonny” Angara, as Guest of Honor and Speaker (GOHAS), immediately followed with the Ribbon-Cutting of the Bayanihan Park and Unveiling of the Bayanihan Signage by the GOHAS. The signage is a sculpture showing the cooperation and collaboration of all stakeholders and their dedicated service to the Filipino people.
During the main event, Awards were given to the Military Personnel, Civilian Employees and Civilian Stakeholders of NOLCOM, who continuously contribute to the overall mission of the Command.
Afterwards, Lt Gen Emanuel B Salamat, Commander NOLCOM, also delivered the Commander’s Message and Introduced the GOHAS. “Along with the support of our partners is the key to our success in attaining our mandated tasks to fight all threats to peace, development and security” Lt Gen Salamat said. He added that the families of Bayanihan Park would serve as a reminder of strong partnership among LGUs, CSO and the AFP towards a peaceful progressive and stable environment in the Norther Luzon Region.
Finally, Senator Sonny M. Angara gave his message appreciating the heroism and professionalism of soldiers of NOLCOM. “Everyday, uniformed personnel of NOLCOM are asked to be steadfast warriors for the country, and each time, throughout your 31 years of existence, you have answered the call to fulfill your sacred duty to this country.” Sen. Angara said.
He further showed support as an all in the Senate, through legislations favoring the whole AFP. “Military personnel and their families are asked to make huge sacrifices for the sake of the country. That’s why it’s only right that the country repays them with utmost care and support.” he mentioned.
NOLCOM’s battlecry “One Team NOLCOM, One AFP” will remain as a reminder for every personnel and its stakeholders to work in unison towards the attainment of common objectives. NOLCOM / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/28/nations-partner-for-peace-nolcom-celebrates-31st-anniversary/
CAMP GEN SERVILLANO AQUINO, Tarlac City (DWDD) – The Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) held its 31st Anniversary at NOLCOM Grounds, Camp Gen Servillano Aquino, Tarlac City on April 27, 2018.
The event’s theme “31 Years of Selflessly Fulfilling our Mandate to Advance Peace and Development, Fight for our People, and Protect our Territory.” is timely as NOLCOM remains steadfast to do its traditional and non-traditional roles as partner for national peace and development.
The celebration started with a Thanks-Giving Mass, followed by Artillery Capability Demonstration by the Army Artillery Regiment, Philippine Army (AAR, PA) and Silent Drill Exhibition by the cadets of Officer Candidate School, Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), PA.
Arrival of Senator “Sonny” Angara, as Guest of Honor and Speaker (GOHAS), immediately followed with the Ribbon-Cutting of the Bayanihan Park and Unveiling of the Bayanihan Signage by the GOHAS. The signage is a sculpture showing the cooperation and collaboration of all stakeholders and their dedicated service to the Filipino people.
During the main event, Awards were given to the Military Personnel, Civilian Employees and Civilian Stakeholders of NOLCOM, who continuously contribute to the overall mission of the Command.
Afterwards, Lt Gen Emanuel B Salamat, Commander NOLCOM, also delivered the Commander’s Message and Introduced the GOHAS. “Along with the support of our partners is the key to our success in attaining our mandated tasks to fight all threats to peace, development and security” Lt Gen Salamat said. He added that the families of Bayanihan Park would serve as a reminder of strong partnership among LGUs, CSO and the AFP towards a peaceful progressive and stable environment in the Norther Luzon Region.
Finally, Senator Sonny M. Angara gave his message appreciating the heroism and professionalism of soldiers of NOLCOM. “Everyday, uniformed personnel of NOLCOM are asked to be steadfast warriors for the country, and each time, throughout your 31 years of existence, you have answered the call to fulfill your sacred duty to this country.” Sen. Angara said.
He further showed support as an all in the Senate, through legislations favoring the whole AFP. “Military personnel and their families are asked to make huge sacrifices for the sake of the country. That’s why it’s only right that the country repays them with utmost care and support.” he mentioned.
NOLCOM’s battlecry “One Team NOLCOM, One AFP” will remain as a reminder for every personnel and its stakeholders to work in unison towards the attainment of common objectives. NOLCOM / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/28/nations-partner-for-peace-nolcom-celebrates-31st-anniversary/
DWDD: SOUTHERN TOUR | PMA “Masidlawin” Class 2020 visits Zamboanga City
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 28): SOUTHERN TOUR | PMA “Masidlawin” Class 2020 visits Zamboanga City
ZAMBOANGA CITY (DWDD) – Brig. Gen. Joseph P Villanueva AFP, Head of PMA Academic Group and Brig. Gen. Jose C Faustino AFP, Commandant of Second Class Cadets Class 2020 with the PMA “Masidlawin” Class 2020 calls on Rear Adm. Rene V Medina AFP on behalf of the Commander, Western Mindanao Command Lt. Gen. Carlito G Galvez AFP on Thursday, April 26, 2018 aboard Headquarters Western Mindanao Command.
Part of the PMA Cadets’ Southern Tour is the Clean-Up Drive and Mangrove Planting at Simariki Eco-Culture Tourism, Talon-Talon, Zamboanga City; Interaction with the students of selected Schools in Zamboanga City and Silent Drill Performance on April 29 at Paseo
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/28/southern-tour-pma-masidlawin-class-2020-visits-zamboanga-city/Del Mar. PMA / MCAG
ZAMBOANGA CITY (DWDD) – Brig. Gen. Joseph P Villanueva AFP, Head of PMA Academic Group and Brig. Gen. Jose C Faustino AFP, Commandant of Second Class Cadets Class 2020 with the PMA “Masidlawin” Class 2020 calls on Rear Adm. Rene V Medina AFP on behalf of the Commander, Western Mindanao Command Lt. Gen. Carlito G Galvez AFP on Thursday, April 26, 2018 aboard Headquarters Western Mindanao Command.
Part of the PMA Cadets’ Southern Tour is the Clean-Up Drive and Mangrove Planting at Simariki Eco-Culture Tourism, Talon-Talon, Zamboanga City; Interaction with the students of selected Schools in Zamboanga City and Silent Drill Performance on April 29 at Paseo
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/28/southern-tour-pma-masidlawin-class-2020-visits-zamboanga-city/Del Mar. PMA / MCAG
DWDD: AIMING FOR EXCELLENCE | PN holds 2nd Leg of PN Governance Forum
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 28): AIMING FOR EXCELLENCE | PN holds 2nd Leg of PN Governance Forum
NAVAL STATION JOSE ANDRADA, Manila (DWDD) – The 2nd leg of the Philippine Navy Governance Forum Series 2018 was held at the Headquarters Philippine Navy, with the guest speaker Ms. Evelyn Grace C. Sorongon, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of the John Clements Consultants, Inc.
The forum was attended by members of the Team Navy led by the Deputy Chief of the Navy RADM GAUDENCIO C COLLADO JR AFP. Also present were participants from the Department of National Defense, National Defense College of the Philippines, Philippine Army, Philippine Air Force and the Philippine National Police. NPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/28/aiming-for-excellence-pn-holds-2nd-leg-of-pn-governance-forum/
NAVAL STATION JOSE ANDRADA, Manila (DWDD) – The 2nd leg of the Philippine Navy Governance Forum Series 2018 was held at the Headquarters Philippine Navy, with the guest speaker Ms. Evelyn Grace C. Sorongon, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of the John Clements Consultants, Inc.
The forum was attended by members of the Team Navy led by the Deputy Chief of the Navy RADM GAUDENCIO C COLLADO JR AFP. Also present were participants from the Department of National Defense, National Defense College of the Philippines, Philippine Army, Philippine Air Force and the Philippine National Police. NPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/28/aiming-for-excellence-pn-holds-2nd-leg-of-pn-governance-forum/
DWDD: FUTURE LEADERS | PMA Entrance Exam Set on August 19,2018
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 28): FUTURE LEADERS | PMA Entrance Exam Set on August 19,2018
FORT GREGORIO DEL PILAR, Baguio City (DWDD) – The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) requirements for admission are the following:
– Natural-born Filipino citizen
– Minimum 5 feet for both male and female
– Physically fit and of good moral character
– Single and has never been married
– Grade 11 students and below are not yet qualified to take the exam.
– High school graduate with 85% GPA
– Grade 12 Senior High School may take the exam provided that they graduate before April 01,2019 (K-12)
– 17 years old to 21 years old
REQUIREMENTS:
1. Duly accomplished application form. Download it here >> http://www.pma.ph/PMAEE%20APPLICATION%20FORM%202017.pdf
2. NSO Birth Certificate (Photocopy)
3. Original and photocopy of ANY of the following:
– Copy of your High School form 137
– Latest grade in High School if currently in Grade 12
– Certificate of Grades from last semester attended (for college students)
PMA / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/03/05/future-leaders-pma-entrance-exam-set-on-august-192018-3/
#Katropa #PMA #PMAEntranceExamSetonAugust192018
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/28/future-leaders-pma-entrance-exam-set-on-august-192018-4/
FORT GREGORIO DEL PILAR, Baguio City (DWDD) – The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) requirements for admission are the following:
– Natural-born Filipino citizen
– Minimum 5 feet for both male and female
– Physically fit and of good moral character
– Single and has never been married
– Grade 11 students and below are not yet qualified to take the exam.
– High school graduate with 85% GPA
– Grade 12 Senior High School may take the exam provided that they graduate before April 01,2019 (K-12)
– 17 years old to 21 years old
REQUIREMENTS:
1. Duly accomplished application form. Download it here >> http://www.pma.ph/PMAEE%20APPLICATION%20FORM%202017.pdf
2. NSO Birth Certificate (Photocopy)
3. Original and photocopy of ANY of the following:
– Copy of your High School form 137
– Latest grade in High School if currently in Grade 12
– Certificate of Grades from last semester attended (for college students)
PMA / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/03/05/future-leaders-pma-entrance-exam-set-on-august-192018-3/
#Katropa #PMA #PMAEntranceExamSetonAugust192018
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/28/future-leaders-pma-entrance-exam-set-on-august-192018-4/
DWDD: SUSTAINED OPERATIONS I 19 NPAs in Mountain Province surrender to NOLCOM
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 30): SUSTAINED OPERATIONS I 19 NPAs in Mountain Province surrender to NOLCOM
CAMP GEN SERVILLANO AQUINO, Tarlac City (DWDD) – Nineteen (19) communist terrorist in Mountain Province surrendered to troops of the Armed Forces of the Philippines – Northern Luzon Command (AFP-NOLCOM).
According to data released by the AFP NOLCOM, the rebels surrendered to officials on April 26, Thursday. Two of them were members of the New People’s Army (NPA), while the rest were Militia ng Bayan. The two NPA fighters were residents of Ifugao and Mountain Province operating in the Cagayan area, while the Militia ng Bayan members were from the Cagayan Valley.
With the latest development, NOLCOM spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Isagani Nato said more communists are expected to surrender given the intensified operations in the area. “NOLCOM [is] expecting more from the ranks of the communist terrorists to surrender in the coming days, as NOLCOM units relentlessly pursue the conduct of focused military operations in their identified sanctuaries,” he said.
Philippine Army spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Louie Villanueva said a total of 6,709 rebels have surrendered—not counting these 19—and 288 firearms have been seized since the peace talks were terminated November last year. “The Philippine Army, as the main force provider of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, fully supports the commander-in-chief on his thrusts and advocacies to totally eliminate the CPP-NPA-NDF terrorists and the other threat groups,” he said.
“Due to intensified military operations, there was a significant increase in the number of surrenderees particularly from the CPP-NPA terrorists,” he added. NOLCOM / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/30/sustained-operations-i-19-npas-in-mountain-province-surrender-to-nolcom/
CAMP GEN SERVILLANO AQUINO, Tarlac City (DWDD) – Nineteen (19) communist terrorist in Mountain Province surrendered to troops of the Armed Forces of the Philippines – Northern Luzon Command (AFP-NOLCOM).
According to data released by the AFP NOLCOM, the rebels surrendered to officials on April 26, Thursday. Two of them were members of the New People’s Army (NPA), while the rest were Militia ng Bayan. The two NPA fighters were residents of Ifugao and Mountain Province operating in the Cagayan area, while the Militia ng Bayan members were from the Cagayan Valley.
With the latest development, NOLCOM spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Isagani Nato said more communists are expected to surrender given the intensified operations in the area. “NOLCOM [is] expecting more from the ranks of the communist terrorists to surrender in the coming days, as NOLCOM units relentlessly pursue the conduct of focused military operations in their identified sanctuaries,” he said.
Philippine Army spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Louie Villanueva said a total of 6,709 rebels have surrendered—not counting these 19—and 288 firearms have been seized since the peace talks were terminated November last year. “The Philippine Army, as the main force provider of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, fully supports the commander-in-chief on his thrusts and advocacies to totally eliminate the CPP-NPA-NDF terrorists and the other threat groups,” he said.
“Due to intensified military operations, there was a significant increase in the number of surrenderees particularly from the CPP-NPA terrorists,” he added. NOLCOM / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/30/sustained-operations-i-19-npas-in-mountain-province-surrender-to-nolcom/
DWDD: KOMODO 2018 | PN Frigate participates in Multi-Lateral Exercise in Indonesia
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 30): KOMODO 2018 | PN Frigate participates in Multi-Lateral Exercise in Indonesia
NAVAL STATION JOSE ANDRADA, Manila (DWDD) – The Philippine Navy has sent over 300 officers to Indonesia to take part in the Komodo 2018, said to be the “biggest multilateral naval exercise” in the world.
The naval officers and personnel travelled onboard BRP Gregorio del Pilar.
“This (exercise) is the first international defense and security engagement to be participated by the PN this year,” Navy spokesperson Captain Lued Lincuna said.
The Komodo exercise is held once every two years, and participated in by the navies of over 30 countries including China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Hosted by Indonesia, this year’s exercise will be held at the Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia from May 4, Friday to May 9, Wednesday.
The event will include 12 workshops for all participants estimated to reach 4,000. “It aims to enhance the relationship and cooperation among participating navies in building common understanding about humanitarian assistance, disaster response operations, and will also focus on the Maritime Interdiction,” Lincuna said.
“This multilateral naval exercise is a platform on how the PN and other navies in the region can cooperate and work together to address shared maritime security priorities through the development of combined naval tactics, techniques and procedures,” he said. NPAO / MCAG
NAVAL STATION JOSE ANDRADA, Manila (DWDD) – The Philippine Navy has sent over 300 officers to Indonesia to take part in the Komodo 2018, said to be the “biggest multilateral naval exercise” in the world.
The naval officers and personnel travelled onboard BRP Gregorio del Pilar.
“This (exercise) is the first international defense and security engagement to be participated by the PN this year,” Navy spokesperson Captain Lued Lincuna said.
The Komodo exercise is held once every two years, and participated in by the navies of over 30 countries including China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Hosted by Indonesia, this year’s exercise will be held at the Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia from May 4, Friday to May 9, Wednesday.
The event will include 12 workshops for all participants estimated to reach 4,000. “It aims to enhance the relationship and cooperation among participating navies in building common understanding about humanitarian assistance, disaster response operations, and will also focus on the Maritime Interdiction,” Lincuna said.
“This multilateral naval exercise is a platform on how the PN and other navies in the region can cooperate and work together to address shared maritime security priorities through the development of combined naval tactics, techniques and procedures,” he said. NPAO / MCAG
DWDD: BALIK BARIL PROGRAM | 25 unlicensed guns surrendered in Talitay, Maguindanao
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 30): BALIK BARIL PROGRAM | 25 unlicensed guns surrendered in Talitay, Maguindanao
CAMP GEN GONZALO SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao (DWDD) – At least 13 high-powered and 12 low-powered firearms were surrendered by the local leaders of Talitay in Maguindanao in a ceremony held at the town’s municipal hall on April 21, 2018.
The firearms were surrendered by Talitay Mayor Omar Abdulwahab Sabal to 6th Infantry Division Assistant Commander and GPH-CCCH Chairman Brig. Gen.Cirilo Thomas Donato Jr and 90th Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Crisaldo Fernandez.
The surrender of firearms was a product of the concerted efforts of 90th Infantry Battalion, Talitay Vice-Mayor Kamid Buisan and the town’s barangay leaders.
Among the firearms surrendered were 3 US Garrand rifles, 2 US M14 rifles, 1 M79 Tube Launder Grenade, 1 homemade M16 rifle, 1 homemade M14 rifle, 1 improvised US Garrand rifle, 1 homemade shotgun, 1 M16 Elesco, 1 homemade Tongram, 1 M79 rifle rifle, 8 caliber .38 pistol, 2 caliber .45 pistol, and 1 caliber .48 pistol.
During the Ceremony, Mayor Sabal said that he strongly supports the ‘Balik-Baril’ Program of the government as this will help shun violence and extremism in the region.
As the Assistant Division Commander of 6th ID, Brig Gen. Donato said that peace will be attained by working together.
He also congratulated the people of Talitay for partaking in the government’s program to have a peaceful community.
A total of 664 firearms were surrendered and recovered in the areas of 6th ID as of today. 6DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/30/balik-baril-program-25-unlicensed-guns-surrendered-in-talitay-maguindanao/
CAMP GEN GONZALO SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao (DWDD) – At least 13 high-powered and 12 low-powered firearms were surrendered by the local leaders of Talitay in Maguindanao in a ceremony held at the town’s municipal hall on April 21, 2018.
The firearms were surrendered by Talitay Mayor Omar Abdulwahab Sabal to 6th Infantry Division Assistant Commander and GPH-CCCH Chairman Brig. Gen.Cirilo Thomas Donato Jr and 90th Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Crisaldo Fernandez.
The surrender of firearms was a product of the concerted efforts of 90th Infantry Battalion, Talitay Vice-Mayor Kamid Buisan and the town’s barangay leaders.
Among the firearms surrendered were 3 US Garrand rifles, 2 US M14 rifles, 1 M79 Tube Launder Grenade, 1 homemade M16 rifle, 1 homemade M14 rifle, 1 improvised US Garrand rifle, 1 homemade shotgun, 1 M16 Elesco, 1 homemade Tongram, 1 M79 rifle rifle, 8 caliber .38 pistol, 2 caliber .45 pistol, and 1 caliber .48 pistol.
During the Ceremony, Mayor Sabal said that he strongly supports the ‘Balik-Baril’ Program of the government as this will help shun violence and extremism in the region.
As the Assistant Division Commander of 6th ID, Brig Gen. Donato said that peace will be attained by working together.
He also congratulated the people of Talitay for partaking in the government’s program to have a peaceful community.
A total of 664 firearms were surrendered and recovered in the areas of 6th ID as of today. 6DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/30/balik-baril-program-25-unlicensed-guns-surrendered-in-talitay-maguindanao/
DWDD: BALIK BARIL PROGRAM | 6ID receives 76 more unlicensed firearms
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 30): BALIK BARIL PROGRAM | 6ID receives 76 more unlicensed firearms
CAMP GEN GONZALO SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao (DWDD) – A total of 76 unlicensed firearms was turned over by the municipalities of Datu Anggal Midtimbang, Talayan, Guindulungan and Datu Saudi Ampatuan of Maguindanao in separate ceremonies on April 24, 2018.
Datu Anggal Midtimbang Mayor Datu Nathaniel Midtimbang, Talayan Mayor Datu Tungkang Midtimbang, and Guindulungan Mayor Datu Midpantao Midtimbang Jr turned over 59 assorted firearms to 90th Infantry Battalion under 603rd Infantry Brigade in a ceremony held in Talayan Municipal Hall.
The surrender of loose firearms of the three municipalities are the concerted efforts of the “Kapamagayon” Inter-agency Task Force, a unit collaboration of the local government units of Mother Kabuntalan, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Datu Anggal Midtimbang, Talayan, Talitay, and Guindulungan as a mechanism of peace and development within the clustered municipalities under the supervision of 90th IB.
On the other hand, the Mayor Bai Anida A. Dimaukom of Datu Saudi Ampatuan surrendered 17 loose firearms to 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion and 57th Infantry Battalion under 601st Infantry Brigade coming from the Barangays of Gawang, Kitango, Kitapok, Madia, Kabengi and Salbu.
The firearms were formally received by 601st Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Diosdado C. Carreon held at the Municipal Hall of Datu Saudi Ampatuan.
The Commander of 6th Infantry Division, Maj. Gen. Arnel B Dela Vega, commended the local chief executives of the 4 municipalities for their efforts in participating in the Balik-Baril Program of the government.
As of today, a total of 740 loose firearms were surrendered in 6ID AOR since January 2018. 6DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/30/balik-baril-program-6id-receives-76-more-unlicensed-firearms/
CAMP GEN GONZALO SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao (DWDD) – A total of 76 unlicensed firearms was turned over by the municipalities of Datu Anggal Midtimbang, Talayan, Guindulungan and Datu Saudi Ampatuan of Maguindanao in separate ceremonies on April 24, 2018.
Datu Anggal Midtimbang Mayor Datu Nathaniel Midtimbang, Talayan Mayor Datu Tungkang Midtimbang, and Guindulungan Mayor Datu Midpantao Midtimbang Jr turned over 59 assorted firearms to 90th Infantry Battalion under 603rd Infantry Brigade in a ceremony held in Talayan Municipal Hall.
The surrender of loose firearms of the three municipalities are the concerted efforts of the “Kapamagayon” Inter-agency Task Force, a unit collaboration of the local government units of Mother Kabuntalan, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Datu Anggal Midtimbang, Talayan, Talitay, and Guindulungan as a mechanism of peace and development within the clustered municipalities under the supervision of 90th IB.
On the other hand, the Mayor Bai Anida A. Dimaukom of Datu Saudi Ampatuan surrendered 17 loose firearms to 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion and 57th Infantry Battalion under 601st Infantry Brigade coming from the Barangays of Gawang, Kitango, Kitapok, Madia, Kabengi and Salbu.
The firearms were formally received by 601st Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Diosdado C. Carreon held at the Municipal Hall of Datu Saudi Ampatuan.
The Commander of 6th Infantry Division, Maj. Gen. Arnel B Dela Vega, commended the local chief executives of the 4 municipalities for their efforts in participating in the Balik-Baril Program of the government.
As of today, a total of 740 loose firearms were surrendered in 6ID AOR since January 2018. 6DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/30/balik-baril-program-6id-receives-76-more-unlicensed-firearms/
DWDD: BALIK BARIL PROGRAM | Cotabato City Mayor turns over unlicensed guns to 5SFBn
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 30): BALIK BARIL PROGRAM | Cotabato City Mayor turns over unlicensed guns to 5SFBn
CAMP GEN GONZALO SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao (DWDD) – The Cotabato City joined other local chief executives in 6th Infantry Division’s area of jurisdiction to respond in the campaign of the government against loose firearms.
Cotabato City Mayor Frances Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi turned over 9 high-powered and 35 low-powered firearms and explosives to 5th Special Forces Battalion (5th SFBn) Commander Ltc Eros James M. Uri and Task Force Kutawato (TFK) Commander Col. Wilbur C. Mamawag on April 25, 2018.
The firearms were collected from the residents of the city through the joint efforts of 5th SFBn, TFK, Cotabato City Police Office, and the city’s local leaders.
Maj. Gen. Arnel B. Dela Vega, Commander of 6th ID, expressed his gratitude to Mayor Guiani-Sayadi for participating in the military’s disarmament campaign.
As of today, 837 loosed firearms were surrendered and recovered in the different municipalities and cities under 6th ID. 6DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/30/balik-baril-program-cotabato-city-mayor-turns-over-unlicensed-guns-to-5sfbn/
CAMP GEN GONZALO SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao (DWDD) – The Cotabato City joined other local chief executives in 6th Infantry Division’s area of jurisdiction to respond in the campaign of the government against loose firearms.
Cotabato City Mayor Frances Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi turned over 9 high-powered and 35 low-powered firearms and explosives to 5th Special Forces Battalion (5th SFBn) Commander Ltc Eros James M. Uri and Task Force Kutawato (TFK) Commander Col. Wilbur C. Mamawag on April 25, 2018.
The firearms were collected from the residents of the city through the joint efforts of 5th SFBn, TFK, Cotabato City Police Office, and the city’s local leaders.
Maj. Gen. Arnel B. Dela Vega, Commander of 6th ID, expressed his gratitude to Mayor Guiani-Sayadi for participating in the military’s disarmament campaign.
As of today, 837 loosed firearms were surrendered and recovered in the different municipalities and cities under 6th ID. 6DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/30/balik-baril-program-cotabato-city-mayor-turns-over-unlicensed-guns-to-5sfbn/
DWDD: Maigo LDN Voluntarily Turns Over 34 Firearms and Explosives
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 30): Maigo LDN Voluntarily Turns Over 34 Firearms and Explosives
KUTA SANG-AN, Labangan, Zambo del Sur (DWDD) – Thirty-four (34) assorted firearms were voluntarily surrendered to Joint Task Force Ranao in the municipality of Maigo, Lanao Del Norte on April 23, 2018.
The ceremonial turn-over of firearms was headed by Hon. Rafael C. Rizalda, municipal mayor, with Colonel Ezra James P. Enriquez, Deputy Brigade Commander of 2nd Mechanized Brigade of the JTF Ranao in the covered court of the municipality.
The yielded firearms and explosives include one (1) light anti-tank weapon, twenty-six (26) high-powered firearms, seven (7) low-powered firearms, eighteen (18) fragmentation and rifle grenades and one (1) improvised explosive.
Mayor Rizalda explained the advocacy of President Duterte in turning over all loose firearms not only in Mindanao but in the entire country as a whole. “Today we turn over loose firearms in my municipality in line with the President’s advocacy.” Said Rizalda.
“Peace and security is a shared responsibility. Collaboration among the local government units, local populace and the securing forces is vital in attaining just and lasting peace in our area of responsibility” said Major General Roseller G. Murillo, Commander, JTF Ranao and 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division. 1DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/30/maigo-ldn-voluntarily-turns-over-34-firearms-and-explosives/
KUTA SANG-AN, Labangan, Zambo del Sur (DWDD) – Thirty-four (34) assorted firearms were voluntarily surrendered to Joint Task Force Ranao in the municipality of Maigo, Lanao Del Norte on April 23, 2018.
The ceremonial turn-over of firearms was headed by Hon. Rafael C. Rizalda, municipal mayor, with Colonel Ezra James P. Enriquez, Deputy Brigade Commander of 2nd Mechanized Brigade of the JTF Ranao in the covered court of the municipality.
The yielded firearms and explosives include one (1) light anti-tank weapon, twenty-six (26) high-powered firearms, seven (7) low-powered firearms, eighteen (18) fragmentation and rifle grenades and one (1) improvised explosive.
Mayor Rizalda explained the advocacy of President Duterte in turning over all loose firearms not only in Mindanao but in the entire country as a whole. “Today we turn over loose firearms in my municipality in line with the President’s advocacy.” Said Rizalda.
“Peace and security is a shared responsibility. Collaboration among the local government units, local populace and the securing forces is vital in attaining just and lasting peace in our area of responsibility” said Major General Roseller G. Murillo, Commander, JTF Ranao and 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division. 1DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/30/maigo-ldn-voluntarily-turns-over-34-firearms-and-explosives/
DWDD: COMMANDER’S TIME | Com, 2ID with newly assigned 2LTs
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 30): COMMANDER’S TIME | Com, 2ID with newly assigned 2LTs
CAMP GEN MATEO CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal (DWDD) –Major General Rhoderick M Parayno AFP, Commander, 2ID talked with the newly assigned 2nd Lieutenants during a Commander’s time held at Signal Battalion here at Camp Capinpin, Tanay, Rizal on April 23, 2018.
MGen Parayno gave his insights, guidance and advice to the new Platoon Leaders of what to expect in the field when they report to their respective unit of assignment. He also shared his experience during his 2LT days.
The 15 newly assigned 2nd Lieutenants were members of Officer Preparatory Course (OPC) “ Lakanlawig” Class 67-2016 and Officer Candidate Course (OCC) “Gahiusa” Class 48-2017.
Further, the newly assigned officers were formally received and welcomed during a fellowship night at DTS view deck on April 24, 2018. 2DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/30/commanders-time-com-2id-with-newly-assigned-2lts/
CAMP GEN MATEO CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal (DWDD) –Major General Rhoderick M Parayno AFP, Commander, 2ID talked with the newly assigned 2nd Lieutenants during a Commander’s time held at Signal Battalion here at Camp Capinpin, Tanay, Rizal on April 23, 2018.
MGen Parayno gave his insights, guidance and advice to the new Platoon Leaders of what to expect in the field when they report to their respective unit of assignment. He also shared his experience during his 2LT days.
The 15 newly assigned 2nd Lieutenants were members of Officer Preparatory Course (OPC) “ Lakanlawig” Class 67-2016 and Officer Candidate Course (OCC) “Gahiusa” Class 48-2017.
Further, the newly assigned officers were formally received and welcomed during a fellowship night at DTS view deck on April 24, 2018. 2DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/30/commanders-time-com-2id-with-newly-assigned-2lts/
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