The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is optimistic of ending the communist insurgency in the country through localized peace talks with the support of government agencies.
Saturday, April 20, 2019
AFP-CRS: Ending insurgency via local peace talks
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Apr 20, 2019): Ending insurgency via local peace talks
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is optimistic of ending the communist insurgency in the country through localized peace talks with the support of government agencies.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is optimistic of ending the communist insurgency in the country through localized peace talks with the support of government agencies.
AFP-CRS: 71 rebels, supporters receive aid through E-Clip program
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Apr 20, 2019): 71 rebels, supporters receive aid through E-Clip program
A total of 71 former rebels and Militia ng Bayan (MB) members received financial assistance during the mass awarding of Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) benefits on Tuesday, April 16.
A total of 71 former rebels and Militia ng Bayan (MB) members received financial assistance during the mass awarding of Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) benefits on Tuesday, April 16.
AFP-CRS: Netizens hit 'heartless' CPP-NPA-NDF over boy's death
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Apr 20, 2019): Netizens hit 'heartless' CPP-NPA-NDF over boy's death
Netizens expressed indignation over the heartless acts of the CPP-NPA-NDF with their latest atrocity resulting in the death of a 10-year-old boy in Las Navas, Northern Samar on Wednesday, April 17.
Netizens expressed indignation over the heartless acts of the CPP-NPA-NDF with their latest atrocity resulting in the death of a 10-year-old boy in Las Navas, Northern Samar on Wednesday, April 17.
AFP-CRS: CPP-NPA-NDF members continue to surrender in Agusan del Sur
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Apr 20, 2019): CPP-NPA-NDF members continue to surrender in Agusan del Sur
NPAs surrender to 26th Infantry Battalion as the government troops continue to conduct intensified focused military operations against the remaining members of the NPAs operating in the boundaries of Agusan del Sur and Bukidnon areas this month.
NPAs surrender to 26th Infantry Battalion as the government troops continue to conduct intensified focused military operations against the remaining members of the NPAs operating in the boundaries of Agusan del Sur and Bukidnon areas this month.
AFP-CRS: Northern Samar community unites against CPP-NPA atrocities
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Apr 20, 2019): Northern Samar community unites against CPP-NPA atrocities
Under the extreme heat of the sun, people from the different barangays of Las Navas town in Northern Samar converged to denounce the recent atrocities perpetrated by the Communist NPA Terrorists in the municipality.
Under the extreme heat of the sun, people from the different barangays of Las Navas town in Northern Samar converged to denounce the recent atrocities perpetrated by the Communist NPA Terrorists in the municipality.
AFP-CRS: DOJ sees progress in bid to declare CPP-NPA as terror group.
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Apr 20, 2019): DOJ sees progress in bid to declare CPP-NPA as terror group
CPP: Gen. Dagoy’s “peace rally” is fake; NPA cannot be defeated in Leyte because of deep roots
Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 21, 2019): Gen. Dagoy’s “peace rally” is fake; NPA cannot be defeated in Leyte because of deep roots
The Efren Martires Command (EMC) of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Eastern Visayas today said the NPA has struck deep roots in Leyte and is standing up to the all-out war of the US-Duterte regime, thus dismissing the “peace rally” held last April 13 in San Isidro, Leyte as a charade orchestrated by Army brigade commander Gen. Lope Dagoy. “The NPA has persevered since 1978 in Leyte because it serve the people and advances the armed struggle for national freedom and democracy. The so-called peace rallies staged by the Armed Forces of the Philippines such as in San Isidro are desperate ploys to parade thousands of fake “NPA surrenderees” to falsely claim victory over the NPA,” said EMC spokesperson Ka Karlos Manuel. “But the AFP itself admits it cannot defeat the NPA this 2019 and has moved the deadline to 2022.
“Moreover, the AFP keeps on coercing and deceiving peasants who are just innocent civilians to become “NPA surrenderees” and inflate the number of such because the Enhanced Comprehensive Livelihood Integration (E-CLIP) is the cash cow of corrupt military officials. According to Gen. Dagoy’s calculations of E-CLIP benefits per individual, the more than 1,000 “NPA surrenderees” he paraded are already worth more than P500 million pesos. But there is no transparency in the E-CLIP program to show the truthfulness of the cash outlays, and it is thus widely suspected the program is merely lining the pockets of the military.”
The NPA also laughed off Gen. Dagoy’s claim the surrender of an alleged NPA leader galvanized the mass surrender in Leyte. “The island of Leyte is rich in natural resources, but the people are poor and suffer under the elite rule of the big compradors and landlords. That is why the NPA is deeply rooted among the peasants in the Leyte countryside, who cherish their people’s army for supporting their struggle for land and social justice. On the other hand, the people of Leyte despise a rat like Dagoy, who led the summary execution of captured NPA leaders Bibiano Rentillosa and Antonio Ramos in 2006, and continues his brutal role as a wanton violator of human rights and international humanitarian law under his murderous commander-in-chief ,GRP President Rodrigo Duterte. Last December, for example, the fascist troops led by Dagoy terrorized the people and caused mass evacuation in Barangay Anislagan, Calubian after a soldier was killed in a clash with the NPA.
“The people are sick and tired of a vicious butcher like Gen. Lope Dagoy and his master who is the chief executioner today of the poor under the reactionary ruling system. The people despise the brutal Oplan Kapayapaan and the other wars against drugs and the Moro people, that are nothing less than the mass murder of the poor so Duterte could install a fascist dictatorship. The people hail the NPA as their army for waging heroic battle against Duterte’s throne of blood. In due time, the NPA will intensify guerrilla offensives not only in Leyte but the entire Eastern Visayas to annihilate the fascist forces of Duterte and hasten the people’s overthrow of the hated regime.”#
————————————————————————————
Sumada: NPA nagsering nga hilarum ini nga nakagamot ha Leyte, ginsukna nga buwa an “peace rally” ni Gen. Dagoy. Ginsering yana ni Ka Karlos Manuel han Efren Martires Command han New People’s Army-Eastern Visayas nga diri mapeperdi an NPA ha Leyte tungod kay hilarum ini nga nakagamot ha masa nga parag-uma ngan gin-uundong an ira pakigbisog para ha tuna ngan pankatilingban nga hustisya. Gindugang ni Ka Karlos Manuel nga buwa an ginsesering ni Gen. Lope Dagoy han 802nd Infantry Brigade han Philippine Army nga masobra usa kayukot nga “NPA surrenderees” nga tumambong ha “peace rally,” tungod kay mga inosente nga sibilyan la ini nga gin-gamit agud pagawson nga napeperdi an NPA ngan agud kurakuton an milyun-milyon nga pondo para ha Enhanced Community Livelihood Integration Program. Nagpatapod an Efren Martires Command nga pararayhakon pa hini an mga taktikal nga opensiba ha Leyte ngan bug-os nga Eastern Visayas agud buligan an katawhan ha madagnit nga pagpabagsak ha ginkakangalsan nga GRP President Rodrigo Duterte.#
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/2019/04/19/gen-dagoys-peace-rally-is-fake-npa-cannot-be-defeated-in-leyte-because-of-deep-roots/
The Efren Martires Command (EMC) of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Eastern Visayas today said the NPA has struck deep roots in Leyte and is standing up to the all-out war of the US-Duterte regime, thus dismissing the “peace rally” held last April 13 in San Isidro, Leyte as a charade orchestrated by Army brigade commander Gen. Lope Dagoy. “The NPA has persevered since 1978 in Leyte because it serve the people and advances the armed struggle for national freedom and democracy. The so-called peace rallies staged by the Armed Forces of the Philippines such as in San Isidro are desperate ploys to parade thousands of fake “NPA surrenderees” to falsely claim victory over the NPA,” said EMC spokesperson Ka Karlos Manuel. “But the AFP itself admits it cannot defeat the NPA this 2019 and has moved the deadline to 2022.
“Moreover, the AFP keeps on coercing and deceiving peasants who are just innocent civilians to become “NPA surrenderees” and inflate the number of such because the Enhanced Comprehensive Livelihood Integration (E-CLIP) is the cash cow of corrupt military officials. According to Gen. Dagoy’s calculations of E-CLIP benefits per individual, the more than 1,000 “NPA surrenderees” he paraded are already worth more than P500 million pesos. But there is no transparency in the E-CLIP program to show the truthfulness of the cash outlays, and it is thus widely suspected the program is merely lining the pockets of the military.”
The NPA also laughed off Gen. Dagoy’s claim the surrender of an alleged NPA leader galvanized the mass surrender in Leyte. “The island of Leyte is rich in natural resources, but the people are poor and suffer under the elite rule of the big compradors and landlords. That is why the NPA is deeply rooted among the peasants in the Leyte countryside, who cherish their people’s army for supporting their struggle for land and social justice. On the other hand, the people of Leyte despise a rat like Dagoy, who led the summary execution of captured NPA leaders Bibiano Rentillosa and Antonio Ramos in 2006, and continues his brutal role as a wanton violator of human rights and international humanitarian law under his murderous commander-in-chief ,GRP President Rodrigo Duterte. Last December, for example, the fascist troops led by Dagoy terrorized the people and caused mass evacuation in Barangay Anislagan, Calubian after a soldier was killed in a clash with the NPA.
“The people are sick and tired of a vicious butcher like Gen. Lope Dagoy and his master who is the chief executioner today of the poor under the reactionary ruling system. The people despise the brutal Oplan Kapayapaan and the other wars against drugs and the Moro people, that are nothing less than the mass murder of the poor so Duterte could install a fascist dictatorship. The people hail the NPA as their army for waging heroic battle against Duterte’s throne of blood. In due time, the NPA will intensify guerrilla offensives not only in Leyte but the entire Eastern Visayas to annihilate the fascist forces of Duterte and hasten the people’s overthrow of the hated regime.”#
————————————————————————————
Sumada: NPA nagsering nga hilarum ini nga nakagamot ha Leyte, ginsukna nga buwa an “peace rally” ni Gen. Dagoy. Ginsering yana ni Ka Karlos Manuel han Efren Martires Command han New People’s Army-Eastern Visayas nga diri mapeperdi an NPA ha Leyte tungod kay hilarum ini nga nakagamot ha masa nga parag-uma ngan gin-uundong an ira pakigbisog para ha tuna ngan pankatilingban nga hustisya. Gindugang ni Ka Karlos Manuel nga buwa an ginsesering ni Gen. Lope Dagoy han 802nd Infantry Brigade han Philippine Army nga masobra usa kayukot nga “NPA surrenderees” nga tumambong ha “peace rally,” tungod kay mga inosente nga sibilyan la ini nga gin-gamit agud pagawson nga napeperdi an NPA ngan agud kurakuton an milyun-milyon nga pondo para ha Enhanced Community Livelihood Integration Program. Nagpatapod an Efren Martires Command nga pararayhakon pa hini an mga taktikal nga opensiba ha Leyte ngan bug-os nga Eastern Visayas agud buligan an katawhan ha madagnit nga pagpabagsak ha ginkakangalsan nga GRP President Rodrigo Duterte.#
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/2019/04/19/gen-dagoys-peace-rally-is-fake-npa-cannot-be-defeated-in-leyte-because-of-deep-roots/
EASTMINCOM: Eastmincom receives 13 NPA Surrenders during Holy Week
Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Website (Apr 21, 2019): Eastmincom receives 13 NPA Surrenders during Holy Week
Photo courtesy of 39IB
NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – NSFA, Panacan, Davao City.-Thirteen regular armed members of the CPP- NPA Terrorist (CNT) Group return to the folds of the law to the different units of Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) during the holy week.
In the morning of Good Friday, April 19, 2019, Joint efforts of 39IB and Davao del Sur Provincial Police Office facilitated the surrender of three CNTs at Barangay Colonsabak, Matanao, Davao Del Sur.
Accordingly, the three (one Vice Team Leader and two elements) who belong to the CNT Group being monitored in the quad boundary of Davao del Sur, North and South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat were part of the group that were encountered by the 39IB in the same Barangay on April 1, 2019. Since then the three became paranoid and were always on the run until they took hold of an E-CLIP leaflet which was further explained by members of the community through an E-CLIP tarpaulin posted in the Barangay which made them decide to surrender.
Alias Dante, Alias Jek and Alias Garry brought with them three fire arms (M16, M14 and Garand rifles) in their surrender.
Another CNTG member identified as alias Rosman, 18, a resident of Lianga, Surigao del Sur also surrendered to the the same unit on April 19, 2019 to 3rd SF Battalion. He brought with him (1) cal. 5.56mm M16 Rifle.
On Maundy Thursday, April 18, 2019, six regular CNTs and 14 Militia ng Bayan (MB) surrendered to the 3rd Special Forces Battalion while 30 members of the underground mass organization from Sitio Kahayag, Barangay Banag-banag and Sitio Bantolinao, Barangay Padiay of Sibagat Municipality, Agusan Del Sur. The combined group brought with them one M653 rifle, one Cal.22 rifle, six 12 gauge homemade shotguns, two cal .38 pistols, and one fragmentation grenade.
In a separate occasion, alias Joy, 18, a resident of San Agustin, Surigao del Sur and an active medic of CNTG in Northeastern Mindanao surrendered last April 17 and brought with her one Cal. 30 M1 Carbine Rifle, one Shotgun and medical supplies.
In her revelation, alias Joy, decided to surrender after hearing the arrest of her party boyfriend, Robert Tejero Calipay Alyas Satur/Arpak, a leader of CNTG in the same area last April 14, 2019 by the troops of the 75th Infantry Battalion.
The female rebel returnee also revealed that she was only 16 years old when she was recruited, a clear violation of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL).
In Bukidnon, a certain alias Jeffry (NPSRL), 22 years old, Team Leader, of CNTG in North Central Mindanao and his wife identified as alias Maymay, 27 years old, and a member of the medical Pltn of the same CNTG, voluntarily surrendered without firearms to Ltc. Ronald M Illana, Commander of 8IB at Brgy Poblacion, Impasugong, Bukidnon in the morning of April 17, 2019.
Units in charge are now conducting interview and debriefing of the surrenderees in preparation for their enrollment to E-CLIP and other Government assistance.
Meanwhile, Lt. Gen Felimon T. Santos Jr., Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command lauded the effort of the communities and the units.
"We have truly practice the message of Holyweek when we reached out to the lost soul and deceived to join the organization espousing evil armed struggle. Let us continue to be ambassadors of peace by letting those who were lost understand the effort of the government to bring peace and change in the lives of every Filipino and facilitate the resolution of push and pull issues of people joining the armed group." Lt. Gen. Santos Jr. said.
Source: Public Information Office, Eastern Mindanao Command
http://www.eastmincomafp.com.ph/2019/04/eastmincom-receives-13-npa-surrenders.html
Photo courtesy of 39IB
NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – NSFA, Panacan, Davao City.-Thirteen regular armed members of the CPP- NPA Terrorist (CNT) Group return to the folds of the law to the different units of Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) during the holy week.
In the morning of Good Friday, April 19, 2019, Joint efforts of 39IB and Davao del Sur Provincial Police Office facilitated the surrender of three CNTs at Barangay Colonsabak, Matanao, Davao Del Sur.
Accordingly, the three (one Vice Team Leader and two elements) who belong to the CNT Group being monitored in the quad boundary of Davao del Sur, North and South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat were part of the group that were encountered by the 39IB in the same Barangay on April 1, 2019. Since then the three became paranoid and were always on the run until they took hold of an E-CLIP leaflet which was further explained by members of the community through an E-CLIP tarpaulin posted in the Barangay which made them decide to surrender.
Alias Dante, Alias Jek and Alias Garry brought with them three fire arms (M16, M14 and Garand rifles) in their surrender.
Another CNTG member identified as alias Rosman, 18, a resident of Lianga, Surigao del Sur also surrendered to the the same unit on April 19, 2019 to 3rd SF Battalion. He brought with him (1) cal. 5.56mm M16 Rifle.
On Maundy Thursday, April 18, 2019, six regular CNTs and 14 Militia ng Bayan (MB) surrendered to the 3rd Special Forces Battalion while 30 members of the underground mass organization from Sitio Kahayag, Barangay Banag-banag and Sitio Bantolinao, Barangay Padiay of Sibagat Municipality, Agusan Del Sur. The combined group brought with them one M653 rifle, one Cal.22 rifle, six 12 gauge homemade shotguns, two cal .38 pistols, and one fragmentation grenade.
In a separate occasion, alias Joy, 18, a resident of San Agustin, Surigao del Sur and an active medic of CNTG in Northeastern Mindanao surrendered last April 17 and brought with her one Cal. 30 M1 Carbine Rifle, one Shotgun and medical supplies.
In her revelation, alias Joy, decided to surrender after hearing the arrest of her party boyfriend, Robert Tejero Calipay Alyas Satur/Arpak, a leader of CNTG in the same area last April 14, 2019 by the troops of the 75th Infantry Battalion.
The female rebel returnee also revealed that she was only 16 years old when she was recruited, a clear violation of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL).
In Bukidnon, a certain alias Jeffry (NPSRL), 22 years old, Team Leader, of CNTG in North Central Mindanao and his wife identified as alias Maymay, 27 years old, and a member of the medical Pltn of the same CNTG, voluntarily surrendered without firearms to Ltc. Ronald M Illana, Commander of 8IB at Brgy Poblacion, Impasugong, Bukidnon in the morning of April 17, 2019.
Units in charge are now conducting interview and debriefing of the surrenderees in preparation for their enrollment to E-CLIP and other Government assistance.
Meanwhile, Lt. Gen Felimon T. Santos Jr., Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command lauded the effort of the communities and the units.
"We have truly practice the message of Holyweek when we reached out to the lost soul and deceived to join the organization espousing evil armed struggle. Let us continue to be ambassadors of peace by letting those who were lost understand the effort of the government to bring peace and change in the lives of every Filipino and facilitate the resolution of push and pull issues of people joining the armed group." Lt. Gen. Santos Jr. said.
Source: Public Information Office, Eastern Mindanao Command
http://www.eastmincomafp.com.ph/2019/04/eastmincom-receives-13-npa-surrenders.html
3 Reds killed, soldier wounded in Negros clash
From the Manila Times (Apr 19, 2019): 3 Reds killed, soldier wounded in Negros clash
Three suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) died, while a Philippine Army soldier was injured in a gunbattle on Wednesday afternoon in Sitio Banwa Minatay, Barangay Marcelo in Calatrava, Negros Occidental.
Troops from the 79th Infantry Battalion (IB), responding to reports of local residents that 12 armed men believed to be rebels were conducting extortion activities in the area, engaged the enemy in a firefight that lasted 30 minutes, Lt. Col. Emelito Thaddeus Logan, 79th IB commander, said.
Logan added the rebels scampered in various directions, leaving behind their three slain comrades at the encounter site.
Philippine Army soldiers recovered M16 and AK 47 assault rifles, five magazines of M16 with ammunition, seven magazines of AK 47 also with ammunition, three rifle grenades, four M4 magazines with bullets, two hand-held radios and 12 backpacks containing personal belongings.
The slain rebels have not yet been identified as of press time, as their bodies were turned over to the Calatrava municipal government for identification by their respective families.
The injured soldier identified as Staff Sgt. Edwin Gardose is now in stable condition.
Earlier, Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, said their combat operations would continue even during the Holy Week to quell rebel atrocities.
On April 15, Army soldiers overran a rebel camp in Bindoy, Negros Oriental that resulted in recovery of two M16 and M4 automatic rifles.
In Bislig City, Surigao del Sur, an NPA commander was arrested last Sunday by the Philippine Army.
Second Lt. Abigail Lorenzo, spokesman for the 4th Infantry Division, said the 75th IB and the Bislig City Police Station made the arrest on Sunday night at Purok 1, Sitio San Agustin, Barangay San Roque in Bislig City.
The NPA commander was identified as Robert Tejero Calipay, alias Satur or Arpak, 29, who leads the NPA’s Platoon 2 of the Guerilla Front 14 under the Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee.
Lorenzo said Calipay had a standing arrest warrant that stemmed from charges of arson, frustrated murder, attempted homicide, multiple attempted murders and attempted murder.
Calipay is detained at the Bislig City Police Station and is subject for inquest proceedings after the conduct of medico-legal at the Bislig District Hospital.
Lt. Col. Jaime Datuin, 75th IB commander, also urged the NPA rebels under Calipay to surrender to authorities.
Troops from the 79th Infantry Battalion (IB), responding to reports of local residents that 12 armed men believed to be rebels were conducting extortion activities in the area, engaged the enemy in a firefight that lasted 30 minutes, Lt. Col. Emelito Thaddeus Logan, 79th IB commander, said.
Logan added the rebels scampered in various directions, leaving behind their three slain comrades at the encounter site.
Philippine Army soldiers recovered M16 and AK 47 assault rifles, five magazines of M16 with ammunition, seven magazines of AK 47 also with ammunition, three rifle grenades, four M4 magazines with bullets, two hand-held radios and 12 backpacks containing personal belongings.
The slain rebels have not yet been identified as of press time, as their bodies were turned over to the Calatrava municipal government for identification by their respective families.
The injured soldier identified as Staff Sgt. Edwin Gardose is now in stable condition.
Earlier, Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, said their combat operations would continue even during the Holy Week to quell rebel atrocities.
On April 15, Army soldiers overran a rebel camp in Bindoy, Negros Oriental that resulted in recovery of two M16 and M4 automatic rifles.
In Bislig City, Surigao del Sur, an NPA commander was arrested last Sunday by the Philippine Army.
Second Lt. Abigail Lorenzo, spokesman for the 4th Infantry Division, said the 75th IB and the Bislig City Police Station made the arrest on Sunday night at Purok 1, Sitio San Agustin, Barangay San Roque in Bislig City.
The NPA commander was identified as Robert Tejero Calipay, alias Satur or Arpak, 29, who leads the NPA’s Platoon 2 of the Guerilla Front 14 under the Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee.
Lorenzo said Calipay had a standing arrest warrant that stemmed from charges of arson, frustrated murder, attempted homicide, multiple attempted murders and attempted murder.
Calipay is detained at the Bislig City Police Station and is subject for inquest proceedings after the conduct of medico-legal at the Bislig District Hospital.
Lt. Col. Jaime Datuin, 75th IB commander, also urged the NPA rebels under Calipay to surrender to authorities.
Shoulder to shoulder with the Philippines
From Australian Defense News (Apr 18, 2019): Shoulder to shoulder with the Philippines
Lieutenant Christian Aca-Ac (centre) and Armed Forces of the Philippines officer Captain Henedino Vergara (centre-right) demonstrate cardio pulmonary resuscitation Pagasa Elementary School, Orani, Philippines.
There is meaning in a name, as Australian forces deployed on Exercise Balikatan 2019 learned firsthand when they worked alongside, partner forces.
The exercise brought Australian Defence Force (ADF) and US personnel to the Philippines from April 2-12 to train with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and build upon shared knowledge.
The Australian contingent commander, Wing Commander Sean Ahern, said Balikatan – the Tagalog word for ‘shoulder to shoulder’ – aimed to build capabilities that enhanced readiness and response capabilities during real-world challenges.
“The US, Australia and the Philippines have a longstanding relationship dating back to World War II."
ADF members were spread across the country; engineers supported building projects, a medical team delivered training and community health, chaplains provided spiritual support and a special forces team trained AFP peers.
“The exercise allows us all to plan, coordinate and conduct operations that can be applied to a range of military capabilities,” Wing Commander Ahern said.
“It enhances our military relationships and interoperability with our regional partner forces, as well as supporting the AFP modernisation efforts.
Sapper builds a future for the Philippines
Three Australian Army sappers lived with local communities for a month to help build classrooms and health centres in the Philippines during Exercise Balikatan 2019.
“This kind of work is what I signed up for, so Balikatan was a really rewarding experience."
The engineers worked with Americans and Philippine personnel in hot, tropical conditions as part of the community relations program during the exercise from April 2-12.
One of them, Sapper James McLennan, was awarded the US Army Commendation Medal by US Army Colonel Brian Horton and Lieutenant Colonel Mike Tucker for his dedication to the project.
Sapper James McLennan discusses operations with the project officer Philippine Army Captain Alger Depositario, at Victor O' De Guia Jr. Memorial Elementary School in Balian, Pangil, Laguna, Philippines, as part of Exercise Balikatan. Photo: Lance Corporal Mark Fike
“When I got called up I still didn’t really know what was going on, so it was a really nice surprise,” Sapper McLennan said.
“I’ll definitely look back on the team I worked with in the Philippines with some fond memories.”
Counting it among the most satisfying projects of his career, Sapper James McLennan helped construct a one-room special education classroom at the Victor O De Guia Jr Memorial Elementary School in Laguna province.
“Being able to see something tangible at the end and seeing the kids who would be using the classroom at the closing ceremony and how happy they were was a really special moment.
At the official opening ceremony of the new classroom, school principal Feliza Ambrocio said the community was grateful for the efforts of the entire building crew.
“Thanks for your hard work, even over the weekends. We’re all very glad for your efforts,” Ms Ambrocio said.
“Your efforts have left a legacy not just for the school, but also for the whole town.”
Colonel Horton said the team had provided a place for children at the school to be “given an opportunity to learn”.
Mr Fuzz delivers a health message
Delivering training in disaster management, basic life support and health, hygiene and sanitation to rural communities in the Philippines was a key task for health professionals during Exercise Balikatan 2019.
Personnel from the Philippine, Australian and US militaries conducted sessions at multiple locations around Luzon Island for emergency services personnel and volunteers, as well as families looking to pick up some tips.
Flight Lieutenant Victoria Love-Rainbow and "Mr Fuzz" talk to students during a community health engagement activity at Pagasa Elementary School, Orani, Philippines. Photo: Corporal Seb Beurich
Providing clinical and technical support to her Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) counterparts was a fulfilling experience for Flight Lieutenant Victoria Love-Rainbow.
“We got a lot of mothers and their kids coming to our presentations and they were always quite full with 30 to 40 people sitting in a small classroom,” Flight Lieutenant Love-Rainbow said.
“I love this sort of stuff – teaching basic hygiene and seeing people respond in a positive manner.
“I particularly like training children because they are the ones who will take the information back to their families and try to help the overall community, which I think makes a real difference.”
“We tried to incorporate a lot of props into our presentations to make our topics more exciting and engaging to children."
The team was ably assisted by “Mr Fuzz”, a puppet brought by Flight Lieutenant Love-Rainbow.
“We used the ‘Germinator’ – a UV light that you shine onto a gel on your hands to see dirty spots – to teach the kids about proper hand-washing technique.
“And we had Mr Fuzz, who we would ask questions of during the presentations. He was kind of like Harold the Giraffe, which I’m sure most Australians know from their own childhood.”
Rank structures disappeared during the training, according to Royal Australian Navy Lieutenant Christian Aca-Ac, who said the Philippine and American personnel were easy to work with.
“We had a major doing compressions and a captain who was acting as a training dummy – it was more about delivering the proper way of training to hopefully save lives,” Lieutenant Aca-Ac said.
“Everyone in the community health engagement team were subject-matter experts in their own fields, so it was really good to bounce off each other while we were teaching.”
Lieutenant Aca-Ac also has a deeper connection to the Philippines.
“I grew up in Australia, but my parents are from the Philippines, so I feel like I have a special connection to this country,” he said.
“I think the Filipinos were very comfortable around me and, because I can speak Tagalog, I could act as a translator when required as well.”
Lieutenant Christian Aca-Ac (centre) and Armed Forces of the Philippines officer Captain Henedino Vergara (centre-right) demonstrate cardio pulmonary resuscitation Pagasa Elementary School, Orani, Philippines.
There is meaning in a name, as Australian forces deployed on Exercise Balikatan 2019 learned firsthand when they worked alongside, partner forces.
The exercise brought Australian Defence Force (ADF) and US personnel to the Philippines from April 2-12 to train with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and build upon shared knowledge.
The Australian contingent commander, Wing Commander Sean Ahern, said Balikatan – the Tagalog word for ‘shoulder to shoulder’ – aimed to build capabilities that enhanced readiness and response capabilities during real-world challenges.
“The US, Australia and the Philippines have a longstanding relationship dating back to World War II."
ADF members were spread across the country; engineers supported building projects, a medical team delivered training and community health, chaplains provided spiritual support and a special forces team trained AFP peers.
“The exercise allows us all to plan, coordinate and conduct operations that can be applied to a range of military capabilities,” Wing Commander Ahern said.
“It enhances our military relationships and interoperability with our regional partner forces, as well as supporting the AFP modernisation efforts.
Sapper builds a future for the Philippines
Three Australian Army sappers lived with local communities for a month to help build classrooms and health centres in the Philippines during Exercise Balikatan 2019.
“This kind of work is what I signed up for, so Balikatan was a really rewarding experience."
The engineers worked with Americans and Philippine personnel in hot, tropical conditions as part of the community relations program during the exercise from April 2-12.
One of them, Sapper James McLennan, was awarded the US Army Commendation Medal by US Army Colonel Brian Horton and Lieutenant Colonel Mike Tucker for his dedication to the project.
Sapper James McLennan discusses operations with the project officer Philippine Army Captain Alger Depositario, at Victor O' De Guia Jr. Memorial Elementary School in Balian, Pangil, Laguna, Philippines, as part of Exercise Balikatan. Photo: Lance Corporal Mark Fike
“When I got called up I still didn’t really know what was going on, so it was a really nice surprise,” Sapper McLennan said.
“I’ll definitely look back on the team I worked with in the Philippines with some fond memories.”
Counting it among the most satisfying projects of his career, Sapper James McLennan helped construct a one-room special education classroom at the Victor O De Guia Jr Memorial Elementary School in Laguna province.
“Being able to see something tangible at the end and seeing the kids who would be using the classroom at the closing ceremony and how happy they were was a really special moment.
At the official opening ceremony of the new classroom, school principal Feliza Ambrocio said the community was grateful for the efforts of the entire building crew.
“Thanks for your hard work, even over the weekends. We’re all very glad for your efforts,” Ms Ambrocio said.
“Your efforts have left a legacy not just for the school, but also for the whole town.”
Colonel Horton said the team had provided a place for children at the school to be “given an opportunity to learn”.
Mr Fuzz delivers a health message
Delivering training in disaster management, basic life support and health, hygiene and sanitation to rural communities in the Philippines was a key task for health professionals during Exercise Balikatan 2019.
Personnel from the Philippine, Australian and US militaries conducted sessions at multiple locations around Luzon Island for emergency services personnel and volunteers, as well as families looking to pick up some tips.
Flight Lieutenant Victoria Love-Rainbow and "Mr Fuzz" talk to students during a community health engagement activity at Pagasa Elementary School, Orani, Philippines. Photo: Corporal Seb Beurich
Providing clinical and technical support to her Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) counterparts was a fulfilling experience for Flight Lieutenant Victoria Love-Rainbow.
“We got a lot of mothers and their kids coming to our presentations and they were always quite full with 30 to 40 people sitting in a small classroom,” Flight Lieutenant Love-Rainbow said.
“I love this sort of stuff – teaching basic hygiene and seeing people respond in a positive manner.
“I particularly like training children because they are the ones who will take the information back to their families and try to help the overall community, which I think makes a real difference.”
“We tried to incorporate a lot of props into our presentations to make our topics more exciting and engaging to children."
The team was ably assisted by “Mr Fuzz”, a puppet brought by Flight Lieutenant Love-Rainbow.
“We used the ‘Germinator’ – a UV light that you shine onto a gel on your hands to see dirty spots – to teach the kids about proper hand-washing technique.
“And we had Mr Fuzz, who we would ask questions of during the presentations. He was kind of like Harold the Giraffe, which I’m sure most Australians know from their own childhood.”
Rank structures disappeared during the training, according to Royal Australian Navy Lieutenant Christian Aca-Ac, who said the Philippine and American personnel were easy to work with.
“We had a major doing compressions and a captain who was acting as a training dummy – it was more about delivering the proper way of training to hopefully save lives,” Lieutenant Aca-Ac said.
“Everyone in the community health engagement team were subject-matter experts in their own fields, so it was really good to bounce off each other while we were teaching.”
Lieutenant Aca-Ac also has a deeper connection to the Philippines.
“I grew up in Australia, but my parents are from the Philippines, so I feel like I have a special connection to this country,” he said.
“I think the Filipinos were very comfortable around me and, because I can speak Tagalog, I could act as a translator when required as well.”
Lieutenant Christian Aca-Ac (centre) assists with a demonstration of basic first aid during a community health engagement activity at Pagasa Elementary School, Orani, Philippines. Photo: Corporal Sebastian Beurich
When it comes to cleanliness, United States Navy Hospital Corpsman Grade Three (Fleet Marine Force) Simon Rodriguez said everything mattered, especially in rural areas that did not have access to the same resources as cities.
“Our audiences had a fair bit of prior knowledge about how to handle situations with unhygienic practices, but being able to go into detail and explain why they should do certain things was really helpful to them,” Hospital Corpsman Grade Three Rodriguez said.
AFP Reserve Command Captain Henedino Vergara said it was important to undertake disaster preparation and basic life support training to be prepared for anything that may happen.
“Part of the AFP Reserve Command mandate is to serve in our communities, in our case by conducting medical and dental missions for our fellows here in Bataan,” Captain Vergara said.
“I think the townsfolk got the importance of the lectures we shared with them, so in the future if we have disasters or calamities we’re ready to respond to them.”
https://news.defence.gov.au/international/shoulder-shoulder-philippines
When it comes to cleanliness, United States Navy Hospital Corpsman Grade Three (Fleet Marine Force) Simon Rodriguez said everything mattered, especially in rural areas that did not have access to the same resources as cities.
“Our audiences had a fair bit of prior knowledge about how to handle situations with unhygienic practices, but being able to go into detail and explain why they should do certain things was really helpful to them,” Hospital Corpsman Grade Three Rodriguez said.
AFP Reserve Command Captain Henedino Vergara said it was important to undertake disaster preparation and basic life support training to be prepared for anything that may happen.
“Part of the AFP Reserve Command mandate is to serve in our communities, in our case by conducting medical and dental missions for our fellows here in Bataan,” Captain Vergara said.
“I think the townsfolk got the importance of the lectures we shared with them, so in the future if we have disasters or calamities we’re ready to respond to them.”
https://news.defence.gov.au/international/shoulder-shoulder-philippines
BIFF leader, cohort killed in Cotabato firefight
From the Manila Bulletin (Apr 20, 2019): BIFF leader, cohort killed in Cotabato firefight
A senior leader of an ISIS-inspired local terrorist group and his cohort were killed in a shootout with security forces in an outskirt village in Midsayap, North Cotabato on Saturday.
Capt. John Arvin Encinas, 6th Infantry Division spokesperson, said combined personnel of the 34th Infantry Battalion and Midsayap police station swooped down on Barangay Olandang, Midsayap to serve the arrest warrant against Mando Mamalompong, 2nd Division commander of Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter, an ISIS-inspired local terror group under Kagi Karialan.
Capt. John Arvin Encinas, 6th Infantry Division spokesperson, said combined personnel of the 34th Infantry Battalion and Midsayap police station swooped down on Barangay Olandang, Midsayap to serve the arrest warrant against Mando Mamalompong, 2nd Division commander of Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter, an ISIS-inspired local terror group under Kagi Karialan.
Encinas said the government forces figured in a 30-minute gunfight with at least ten heavily-armed BIFF members who repulsed the arresting team who tried to serve the arrest warrant against Mamalompong who was holed up in the area.
He said Mamalompong and his cohort identified as Nur Hamid Sabdullah were killed in an ensuing firefight.
He said the suspects have been ordered arrested over charges for murder and illegal possession of firearms.
Lt. Col. Glenn Loreto Caballero, 34th IB commander, said civilian residents in the area had earlier tipped off the military on the presence of the BIFF rebels who had gone into hiding in the area.
He said troops seized an M-16 and one M-14 automatic rifles from the slain suspects.
He said Mamalompong and his cohort identified as Nur Hamid Sabdullah were killed in an ensuing firefight.
He said the suspects have been ordered arrested over charges for murder and illegal possession of firearms.
Lt. Col. Glenn Loreto Caballero, 34th IB commander, said civilian residents in the area had earlier tipped off the military on the presence of the BIFF rebels who had gone into hiding in the area.
He said troops seized an M-16 and one M-14 automatic rifles from the slain suspects.
2 BIFF militants killed, soldier wounded in North Cotabato fighting
From the Mindanao Examiner (Apr 20, 2019): 2 BIFF militants killed, soldier wounded in North Cotabato fighting
Security forces killed 2 senior commanders of the pro-ISIS group called Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in fierce fighting Saturday in North Cotabato province, south of the Philippines, officials said.
Officials said one soldier was also wounded in the clash that erupted in Olandang village in Midsayap town where policemen, backed by army soldiers, were sent to arrest wanted senior BIFF commanders.
Officials said one soldier was also wounded in the clash that erupted in Olandang village in Midsayap town where policemen, backed by army soldiers, were sent to arrest wanted senior BIFF commanders.
“Combined troops of 34th Infantry Battalion and Midsayap Municipal Police Station were serving warrants of arrest when they were fired upon by heavily armed men under Mando Mamalompong that ensued a heavy exchanges of fire. The terrorist group were ready to confront the security forces as they were occupying fortified positions,” said Lt. Col. Glenn Loreto Caballero, the battalion commander.
He said Mamalompong, commander of the BIFF’s 2nd Division, who was also the spokesman of the militant group, and Nur Hamid were both slain in the fighting. Soldiers also seized two automatic rifles from the area.
He said Mamalompong, commander of the BIFF’s 2nd Division, who was also the spokesman of the militant group, and Nur Hamid were both slain in the fighting. Soldiers also seized two automatic rifles from the area.
Brig. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, commander of the 602nd Infantry Brigade, said security forces tracked down the militants after civilians passed off information to the military on the hideout of Mamalompong. “The successful operation is attributed to the information shared by the local residents who did not want terrorists’ presence in their area,” he said.
Authorities have tagged the BIFF, whose leaders have pledged allegiance to ISIS, as behind the spate of attacks on military and civilian targets in the province.
https://mindanaoexaminer.com/2-biff-militants-killed-soldier-wounded-in-north-cotabato-fighting/
Authorities have tagged the BIFF, whose leaders have pledged allegiance to ISIS, as behind the spate of attacks on military and civilian targets in the province.
https://mindanaoexaminer.com/2-biff-militants-killed-soldier-wounded-in-north-cotabato-fighting/
Eastmincom says 13 NPA rebels surrendered during Holy Week
From GMA News (Apr 20, 2019): Eastmincom says 13 NPA rebels surrendered during Holy Week
A total of 13 members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) yielded to authorities during the Holy Week, the Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) said Saturday.
The joint efforts of the 39th Infrantry Battalion (39IB) and Davao del Sur Provincial Police Office facilitated the surrender of three communist rebels in the morning of Good Friday, April 19, at Barangay Colonsabak, Matanao, Davao del Sur, the Eastmincom said in a statement.
The three surrenderees, one of whom is a vice team leader, belonged to the CPP-NPA group being monitored in the quad boundary of Davao del Sur, North and South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat.
The rebels were part of the group that were encountered by the 39IB in the same Barangay on April 1.
"Since then the three became paranoid and were always on the run until they took hold of an E-CLIP leaflet which was further explained by members of the community through an E-CLIP tarpaulin posted in the Barangay which made them decide to surrender," the Eastmincom said.
"Alias Dante, Alias Jek and Alias Garry brought with them three fire arms (M16, M14 and Garand rifles) in their surrender," it added.
Meanwhile, another communist rebel identified as alias Rosman, 18, a resident of Lianga, Surigao del Sur also surrendered to the the same unit on April 19 to 3rd SF Battalion. He brought with him a cal. 5.56mm M16 Rifle.
Likewise, on Maundy Thursday, six regular CPP-NPA members and 14 Militia ng Bayan (MB) surrendered to the 3rd Special Forces Battalion while 30 members of the underground mass organization from Sitio Kahayag, Barangay Banag-banag and Sitio Bantolinao, Barangay Padiay of Sibagat Municipality, Agusan Del Sur.
The combined group brought with them one M653 rifle, one Cal.22 rifle, six 12 gauge homemade shotguns, two cal .38 pistols, and one fragmentation grenade.
In a separate occasion, alias Joy, 18, a resident of San Agustin, Surigao del Sur and an active medic of CNTG in Northeastern Mindanao surrendered last April 17 and brought with her one Cal. 30 M1 Carbine Rifle, one Shotgun and medical supplies, the Eastmincom said.
"In her revelation, alias Joy, decided to surrender after hearing the arrest of her party boyfriend, Robert Tejero Calipay Alyas Satur/Arpak, a leader of CNTG in the same area last April 14, 2019 by the troops of the 75th Infantry Battalion," it said.
"The female rebel returnee also revealed that she was only 16 years old when she was recruited, a clear violation of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL)," it added.
In Bukidnon, a certain alias Jeffry, 22 years old, team leader, of CPP-NPA in North Central Mindanao and his wife identified as alias Maymay, 27 years old, and a member of the medical Pltn of the same group, voluntarily surrendered without firearms to Ltc. Ronald M Illana, Commander of 8IB at Brgy Poblacion, Impasugong, Bukidnon in the morning of April 17.
"Units in charge are now conducting interview and debriefing of the surrenderees in preparation for their enrollment to E-CLIP and other Government assistance," the Eastmincom said.
Lt. Gen Felimon T. Santos Jr., Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command lauded the effort of the communities and the units.
"We have truly practice the message of Holy Week when we reached out to the lost soul and deceived to join the organization espousing evil armed struggle. Let us continue to be ambassadors of peace by letting those who were lost understand the effort of the government to bring peace and change in the lives of every Filipino and facilitate the resolution of push and pull issues of people joining the armed group," Santos said.
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/691843/13-npa-rebels-surrender-during-holy-week-eastmincom/story/
The joint efforts of the 39th Infrantry Battalion (39IB) and Davao del Sur Provincial Police Office facilitated the surrender of three communist rebels in the morning of Good Friday, April 19, at Barangay Colonsabak, Matanao, Davao del Sur, the Eastmincom said in a statement.
The three surrenderees, one of whom is a vice team leader, belonged to the CPP-NPA group being monitored in the quad boundary of Davao del Sur, North and South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat.
The rebels were part of the group that were encountered by the 39IB in the same Barangay on April 1.
"Since then the three became paranoid and were always on the run until they took hold of an E-CLIP leaflet which was further explained by members of the community through an E-CLIP tarpaulin posted in the Barangay which made them decide to surrender," the Eastmincom said.
"Alias Dante, Alias Jek and Alias Garry brought with them three fire arms (M16, M14 and Garand rifles) in their surrender," it added.
Meanwhile, another communist rebel identified as alias Rosman, 18, a resident of Lianga, Surigao del Sur also surrendered to the the same unit on April 19 to 3rd SF Battalion. He brought with him a cal. 5.56mm M16 Rifle.
Likewise, on Maundy Thursday, six regular CPP-NPA members and 14 Militia ng Bayan (MB) surrendered to the 3rd Special Forces Battalion while 30 members of the underground mass organization from Sitio Kahayag, Barangay Banag-banag and Sitio Bantolinao, Barangay Padiay of Sibagat Municipality, Agusan Del Sur.
The combined group brought with them one M653 rifle, one Cal.22 rifle, six 12 gauge homemade shotguns, two cal .38 pistols, and one fragmentation grenade.
In a separate occasion, alias Joy, 18, a resident of San Agustin, Surigao del Sur and an active medic of CNTG in Northeastern Mindanao surrendered last April 17 and brought with her one Cal. 30 M1 Carbine Rifle, one Shotgun and medical supplies, the Eastmincom said.
"In her revelation, alias Joy, decided to surrender after hearing the arrest of her party boyfriend, Robert Tejero Calipay Alyas Satur/Arpak, a leader of CNTG in the same area last April 14, 2019 by the troops of the 75th Infantry Battalion," it said.
"The female rebel returnee also revealed that she was only 16 years old when she was recruited, a clear violation of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL)," it added.
In Bukidnon, a certain alias Jeffry, 22 years old, team leader, of CPP-NPA in North Central Mindanao and his wife identified as alias Maymay, 27 years old, and a member of the medical Pltn of the same group, voluntarily surrendered without firearms to Ltc. Ronald M Illana, Commander of 8IB at Brgy Poblacion, Impasugong, Bukidnon in the morning of April 17.
"Units in charge are now conducting interview and debriefing of the surrenderees in preparation for their enrollment to E-CLIP and other Government assistance," the Eastmincom said.
Lt. Gen Felimon T. Santos Jr., Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command lauded the effort of the communities and the units.
"We have truly practice the message of Holy Week when we reached out to the lost soul and deceived to join the organization espousing evil armed struggle. Let us continue to be ambassadors of peace by letting those who were lost understand the effort of the government to bring peace and change in the lives of every Filipino and facilitate the resolution of push and pull issues of people joining the armed group," Santos said.
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/691843/13-npa-rebels-surrender-during-holy-week-eastmincom/story/
Blast rocks Davao City police office
From Rappler (Apr 20, 2019): Blast rocks Davao City police office
(UPDATED) Police say no one was hurt in the 'accidental' explosion
(UPDATED) – An explosion rocked the Davao City Police Office on Black Saturday, April 20, after a recovered bomb blew up inside a stockroom in the compound.
Davao City police chief Colonel Alexander Tagum said the blast took place inside the storage room of the Explosive and Ordnance Division (EOD), where confiscated explosives or those being used as court evidence had been stored.
The incident happened at around 11:30 am on Saturday.
"As of now EOD personnel of this office and from PRO 11 are presently investigating the cause of the said explosion," he said.
There were no casualities from the explosion which authorities said was "accidental." Fire teams responded to contain the fire.
Tagum said fire personnel and those from the Central 911 helped cool the area to prevent other explosives from going off.
He said the explosives and other pieces of evidence in court cases were being properly stored and it was unclear how the explosion took place.
"The manner of storage is according to EOD standards," he said. –
https://www.rappler.com/nation/228589-blast-davao-city-police-office-april-2019
(UPDATED) Police say no one was hurt in the 'accidental' explosion
Davao City police chief Colonel Alexander Tagum said the blast took place inside the storage room of the Explosive and Ordnance Division (EOD), where confiscated explosives or those being used as court evidence had been stored.
The incident happened at around 11:30 am on Saturday.
"As of now EOD personnel of this office and from PRO 11 are presently investigating the cause of the said explosion," he said.
There were no casualities from the explosion which authorities said was "accidental." Fire teams responded to contain the fire.
Tagum said fire personnel and those from the Central 911 helped cool the area to prevent other explosives from going off.
He said the explosives and other pieces of evidence in court cases were being properly stored and it was unclear how the explosion took place.
"The manner of storage is according to EOD standards," he said. –
https://www.rappler.com/nation/228589-blast-davao-city-police-office-april-2019
Blast hits police ammo dump in Davao city
From the Manila Times (Apr 21, 2019): Blast hits police ammo dump in Davao city
A POWERFUL explosion inside the Davao City Police Office camp on Saturday morning destroyed an ammunition dump, forcing civilians near the area to flee.
The blast happened at around 11:30 a.m. inside the stock room of the city police office’s Special Anti-Terrorist Unit. Col. Alexander Tagum, Davao City police commander, said they were investigating the blast in the dump where seized explosives and grenades, including vintage bombs as well as UXO or unexploded ordnance, were stored.
“We cannot speculate right now on what caused the explosion or if it was an accident. Our Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams are investigating it,” he told reporters outside the police camp later in the day, adding that there was no report of casualties.
https://www.manilatimes.net/blast-hits-police-ammo-dump-in-davao-city/543125/
https://www.manilatimes.net/blast-hits-police-ammo-dump-in-davao-city/543125/