Monday, May 20, 2019

Actor Matteo Guidicelli promoted to Army 2nd lieutenant at PMA

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (May 20, 2019): Actor Matteo Guidicelli promoted to Army 2nd lieutenant at PMA

Actor Matteo Guidicelli promoted to Army 2nd lieutenant at PMA

NEW SECOND LIEUTENANT. Actor Matteo Guidicelli has been promoted from private to second lieutenant of the Army Reserve Corps on Monday, May 21, 2019, by Army chief Lt. Gen. Macairog Alberto. He participated in a mock battle and rescue operation that was staged for cadets of the Philippine Military Academy. INQUIRER PHOTO/EV Espiritu

FORT DEL PILAR, Baguio City — Actor Matteo Guidicelli was promoted from Army private to a second lieutenant of the military reserve command by Army chief Lt. Gen. Macairog Alberto on Monday (May 20) after he participated in a mock rescue operation at the Philippine Military Academy (PMA).

Guidicelli surprised cadets gathered to watch the skills demonstration when he took off his balaclava following a simulated battle against terrorists who were flanked by heavily-equipped soldiers and armored personnel carriers at the Borromeo Fields here.

The Army’s rescue and medical services rushed in to treat the wounded, rescue hostages, and pull out the dead after the mock assault.

“I am a Filipino so… I want to serve the country in a different way,” said Guidicelli.

The Army Caravan was brought here to show the latest technology and skills capability of the army to first class cadets of Mabalasik Class of 2019 who will graduate and receive their commission as junior officers from President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday (May 26), said Army Captain Mary Manebog of the civil military operations regiment.



NEW OFFICER. Actor Matteo Guidicelli was promoted to second lieutenant of the military’s reserve command on Monday (May 20) by Army chief Lt.Gen. Macairog Alberto at the Philippine Military Academy. Guidicelli joined a mock battle for a simulated rescue exhibition that was staged for PMA cadets. INQUIRER PHOTOS/ EV Espiritu

“We need to have the cream of the crop to fulfill the Army’s transformation roadmap,” she said.

Outside the Regis Hall, the Army put up booths featuring the rescue and technological advances of this branch of military service.

One booth broadcast footage of the Marawi siege and the Army’s efforts to take it back from the Maute Group. Beside the booth was a shooting gallery occupied by Marawi siege veteran Col. Ramon Flores and his wife, PMA human resource officer Lt. Col. Agnes Lynette Flores.

AFP foils NPA extortion, seizes arms cache in Rizal

From UNTV News & Rescue (May 20, 2019): AFP foils NPA extortion, seizes arms cache in Rizal


Courtesy: AFP-2DPAO

RIZAL, Philippines — Elements of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) 80IB recovered assorted fire arms and ammunition during an intelligence operation against members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in the province last week.

According to the information from 202nd Brigade spokesperson and 2DPAO Chief Army Capt. Patrick Jay Retumban, soldiers were able to seize three firearms, five hand grenades and a rifle grenade in Sitio Batangasan, Barangay San Andres in the municipality of Tanay on Thursday (May 16).

80IB Commander Lt. Col. Christopher Diaz reported that “the war materiels belong to the terrorists’ extortion group who were targeting the farms in the area and, for the longest time, have been threatening the people of Tanay,”

“Your soldiers are, and will always be, ready to respond to any NPA terroristic actions,” Diaz assured the public while asking for the community’s continued support, cooperation and vigilance.

Meanwhile, Acting Commander (2ID) BGen. Elias Escarcha lauded the success of the troops’ operations against the NPA terrorists branded “enemies of the state”.

“The fact that the NPA terrorists left these war materiel as they tried to leave the area in a hurry is a manifestation of the NPA’s prevailing fear upon the government’s military might and their diminished will to fight,” Escarcha said.

202IB Commander BGen. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr, who has jurisdiction over CALABARZON, commended the operation saying “this accomplishment is a product of our former rebel engagements” wherein those who surrendered “actively participate in the government’s campaign against the NPA terrorists”.

NPAs slay policeman, soldier in Quinapondan, Eastern Samar

From Tempo (May 20, 2019): NPAs slay policeman, soldier in Quinapondan, Eastern Samar

TACLOBAN City – A police officer and a soldier were shot dead by suspected members of the New People’s Army in separate incidents in Quinapondan, Eastern Samar.

Police Brig. Gen. Dionardo Carlos, Eastern Visayas police director, on Monday identified the police officer as Patrolman Michael Felipe Ribo, single, assigned as an intelligence operative of the 2nd Eastern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company (ESPMFC). He was waylaid in Barangay Buenavista.


The soldier was identified as Arnel Lim-it of the 52nd Infantry Battalion who was killed in Barangay Bagte.

Investigation showed that the twin shootings were related and perpetrated by three unidentified men.

Ribo was tasked to gather information for the possible identification of the suspects, but he was blocked by the armed men, and was shot using undetermined caliber of firearms.

The victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds on different parts of his body, which resulted to his instantaneous death.

The retrieval operation of the victim’s body also took a while because of an information that some members of the NPA were still at the crime scene and were preparing to ambush the responding personnel.

Carlos vowed to run after the assailants. “We will do our best to capture the suspects in order to attain justice for our comrade.”

http://tempo.com.ph/2019/05/20/npas-slay-policeman-soldier-in-quinapondan-eastern-samar/

Cop believed killed by NPAs in Eastern Samar town

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (May 20, 2019: Cop believed killed by NPAs in Eastern Samar town

A member of the intelligence group of the Second Eastern Samar Police Mobile Force Company (ESPMFC) was found dead by residents at around 2:30 p.m. on Saturday in Barangay Cambella, Quinapundan town, Eastern Samar.

Police Lieutenant Perfecto Tolosa, chief of the Quinapundan Police Station, said Patrolman Michael Felipe Ribo, 27,
may have been killed by members of the New People’s Army (NPA).


In an interview, Tolosa said Cherry Gay Ayhon, Chairman of Barangay Cambella claimed that around 50 members of the NPA were seen in the village before Ribo was killed.

He said Ribo was in Quinapundan town to gather information about the incident.

While conducting surveillance operations, Tolosa said Ribo was shot to death.

Tolosa said it took them six hours to recover the victim’s remains due to the reported presence of the communist rebels in the area.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1121344/cop-believed-killed-by-npas-in-eastern-samar-town

4 NPAs killed, one captured, war materials seized

From the Manila Bulletin (May 20, 2019): 4 NPAs killed, one captured, war materials seized

CAMP BANCASI, Butuan City – Four Communist-New People’s Army Terrorists (CNTs) were killed while an undetermined number of rebels were wounded, one of them captured, when a fierce gunbattle erupted between government security forces and communists insurgents in far-flung highland community in Surigao del Sur province.



New People’s Army (MANILA BULLETIN)

A flash report reaching the Army’s command and action center here stated that massive ground pursuit operations are still ongoing in the highland area of Cancavan, Carmen town, Surigao del Sur province.

Troops of the Army’s 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion (36thIB) under the command of Lt. Col. Xerxes A. Trinidad is currently assisted by the Strike Wing and Helicopter Wing of the Tactical Operations Group (TOG) of the Philippine Air Forces (PAF), in pursuing the fleeing CNTs.

Troops of the 36th IB is pursuing the fleeing members of the Weakened Guerrilla Front 30 (WGF 30, SPP2) of the CPP-NPA, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), 1Lt. Jonald D. Romorosa, Civil Military Operations (CMO) officer of the 36th IB said.

“The gunbattle took place after 36th IB patrolling troops, led by 1st Lt. Jayson R. Tulang, immediately responded to the reports of the locals about the presence of CNTs conducting extortion and posing a threat to the community. Upon arriving in the mountainous area of the said community, responding troops encountered the rebels in a fierce gunfight,” the 36th IB CMO officer said.

Initial report received here also stated that the first 15 minute engagement of the 36th IB troops happened at 1 p.m.of Sunday in the uninhabited and hilly area of Barangay Cancavan, Carmen town, Surigao del Sur province.

The encountered CNTs were under the command of a certain “Commander Megan” of the WGF 30-SPPD, NEMRC, the 36th IB CMO officer said.

“A 15 minute running gun battle also ensued and the CNTs scampered to different directions leaving behind their wounded and killed comrades,” 1st Lt. Romorosa said.

The gun battle resulted in the deaths of four CNTs and the wounding of one rebel who was captured.

Government troops initially seized from the encounter site five high powered firearms (3-AK47 and 2-M16 Armalite rifle), 12 magazines of AK-47, two long magazines of M16, three cellular phones, assorted live ammunitions, personal belongings, and backpacks containing high valued documents.


Operating troops of the 36th IB, under the operational control of the 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade, applied first aid to the wounded NPA who was left by his comrades during their withdrawal.

The wounded CNT rebel was immediately rushed to Madrid District Hospital for medical attention but was proclaimed dead on arrival by the attending physician.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to the bereaved families of those NPAs killed. It is disheartening that CPP-NPA terrorist will just leave their comrades behind. We will coordinate with the local government unit and the local authorities to ensure that the killed CNTs will be delivered to their families for proper burial,” Lt. Col. Trinidad said

“It is has been my unit’s commitment to the peace-loving Surigaonons to deliver and preserve peace and security in the province. Let us unite our efforts in addressing this 50 years-long and wasted year of insurgency. It is not too late. I urge the remaining CNTs to lay down their arms and return to the folds of the law, embrace peace in resolving issues, and avail of the government’s intervention program, the Enhance Comprehensive and Local Integration Program (E-CLIP),” the 36th IB commander added.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/05/20/4-npas-killed-one-captured-war-materials-seized/

US Navy sails a vessel near contested South China Sea shoal for second time in a week

From Stars & Stripes (May 20, 2019): US Navy sails a vessel near contested South China Sea shoal for second time in a week


The guided-missile destroyer USS Preble steams through the Philippine Sea, April 18, 2019.
BRYAN NIEGEL/U.S. NAVY


YOKOSUKA NAVAL BASE, Japan — For the second time in the past week, the United States has sent a ship into the vicinity of a South China Sea islet claimed by China, the Philippines and Taiwan.

The guided-missile destroyer USS Preble on Monday sailed within 12 nautical miles of Scarborough Shoal to “challenge excessive maritime claims and preserve access to the waterways as governed by international law,” said 7th Fleet spokesman Lt. Joe Keiley.

The Navy last week sent a U.S. vessel to an exercise in the area near the contested shoal.

The Coast Guard cutter Bertholf and two Philippine coast guard vessels practiced search-and-rescue procedures May 14 near Scarborough Shoal, according to the Navy. Chinese coast guard vessels kept watch, according to Japanese broadcaster NHK.

Competing claims in April 2012 led to a standoff between naval and coast guard vessels from the Philippines — a U.S. ally — and China at Scarborough Shoal, which lies 120 nautical miles west of the Philippine island of Luzon, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative.

China “effectively controls” Scarborough Shoal as it has constantly kept its coast guard present at the feature since 2012, according to the transparency initiative.

Scarborough Shoal in the past was a popular spot for Philippine fishermen before the Chinese coast guard arrived. Since then, China has barred fishermen from entering the shoal, according to the center, a nonprofit policy research group based in Washington, D.C.

Monday’s freedom-of-navigation operation came as China and the U.S. continue trade talks aimed at easing the escalating tariffs each country has imposed on the other, but Keiley said the operation was not geared toward any specific nation.

“All operations are designed in accordance with international law and demonstrate that the United States will fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows,” he said. “… FONOPs are not about any one country, nor are they about making political statements.”

Monday’s operation was the fourth of its kind reported this year and the third to include the Preble since February.

In January, the USS McCampbell sailed near the Paracel Islands, whose claimants include China, Vietnam and Taiwan. In February, the Preble and the destroyer USS Spruance passed within 12 nautical miles of the Spratly Islands, which are claimed by China, the Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam and Taiwan.

The Navy on May 6 conducted another freedom of navigation operation in the South China Sea, sending the Preble and destroyer USS Chung Hoon within 12 nautical miles of the Gaven and Johnson reefs in the Spratlys, Keiley said at the time.

The Paracel and Spratly islands offer rich fishing grounds and oil and gas deposits, according to the CIA World Factbook.

“We conduct routine and regular Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOPS) as we have done in the past and will continue to in the future,” Keiley said.

US Navy ship sails past Chinese-claimed reef in South China Sea

From ABC 7 News (May 20, 2019): US Navy ship sails past Chinese-claimed reef in South China Sea



A U.S. Navy destroyer sailed within 12 miles of the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea on Monday in a challenge to China's maritime territorial claims that will likely set off renewed Chinese complaints.

"The guided-missile destroyer USS Preble conducted a Freedom of Navigation Operation(FONOP) in the South China Sea, May 20. USS Preble sailed within 12 nautical miles of Scarborough Reef in order to challenge excessive maritime claims and preserve access to the waterways as governed by international law," said Cmdr. Clayton Doss, a spokesman for the Navy's Seventh Fleet.

Scarborough Reef, aka Scarborough Shoal, is an uninhabited reef in the South China Seaabout 120 miles west of the Philippines surrounded by rich fishing grounds claimed by both China and the Philippines. China seized control of the reef from the Philippines in 2012 as part of an effort to claim control of South China Sea areas near the Spratly Islands and the Paracel Islands.

Under international law, a country's territorial water limits extend 12 nautical miles from its coastline. The U.S. Navy will sail what are known FONOPS within that limit to challenge a country's excessive maritime territorial claims.

The U.S. Navy executes FONOPs worldwide to challenge excessive maritime claims, but the missions challenging China's claims in the South China Sea always draw the most attention.

"U.S. Forces operate in the Indo-Pacific region on a daily basis, including in the South China Sea," Doss said. "All operations are designed in accordance with international law and demonstrate that the United States will fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows. That is true in the South China Sea as in other places around the globe."

Monday's passage by the USS Preble is only the Navy's second Freedom of Navigation Operation off Scarborough Shoal -- the first one was in January 2018.

The passage past Scarborough Reef was the USS Preble's second FONOP this month. In early May, the destroyer was one of two warships to sail past the Spratly Islands.

The Pentagon has criticized China's militarization of the Spratly and Parcel Island chains.

China has placed significant military structures and equipment on seven artificial islands it's built on reefs in the Spratly Islands.

There have been U.S. and Philippine concerns that in the future China might engage in similar dredging operations to create an artificial island around Scarborough Reef.

https://abc7news.com/us-navy-ship-sails-past-chinese-claimed-reef-in-south-china-sea/5308477/

NDF: Stay alert and militant on the more important issues

Jose Maria Sison propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP or NDF) Website (May 20, 2019): Stay alert and militant on the more important issues

By Jose Maria Sison
NDFP Chief Political Consultant
May 20, 2019



It is a matter of public interest to know the physical and mental health condition of Duterte, especially because he is known to be afflicted by chronic illnesses which he himself admits. But it is even of higher public interest for the broad masses of the people and all patriotic and progressive forces not to be distracted from the more urgent and more important issues.

The entire people need to stay alert and militant against the electoral rigging by the Duterte regime, the many crimes it has committed and the more crimes of tyranny, state terrorism and plunder it intends to commit in the course of imposing a fascist dictatorship on the people.

The Filipino people and other peoples abroad expect the Duterte regime to inflict further oppression and exploitation and are therefore desirous of the progress of the legal mass protests and the armed revolution for national freedom and democracy until the Duterte tyranny is extirpated.

AFP-CRS: Lumikas ang ilang residente sa Maguindanao matapos ang pag-atake ng mga armadong kalalakihan

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (May 20, 2019): Lumikas ang ilang residente sa Maguindanao matapos ang pag-atake ng mga armadong kalalakihan

Image may contain: text

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2475438145808228/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo

AFP-CRS: Philippine Navy 121st Founding Anniversay

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (May 20, 2019): Philippine Navy 121st Founding Anniversay

Happy PHILIPPINE NAVY day!

Hoorah! There are lots of ways you can join the celebration. Come along to our very own Navy's Foundation Anniversary events.

Image may contain: 1 person, text

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2475388212479888/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo


Kalinaw News: 29 enlightened NPA supporters surrender to the military and police in Mindoro

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 20, 2019): 29 enlightened NPA supporters surrender to the military and police in Mindoro



CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay Rizal – A total of 29 New People’s Army (NPA) supporters and sympathizers voluntarily surrendered to the members of the 4 th Infantry Battalion, 203 rd Brigade and the local Police in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro this month.

Colonel Marceliano V Teofilo, Commander of the 203 rd Infantry Brigade which has operational jurisdiction over Mindoro island said, “The surrenderees were members of the Sangay ng Partido sa Lokalidad (SPL) and Milisyang Bayan (MB) which are components of the CPP-NPAs underground organization tasked as spies, foodstuff and tax collector, and even recruiters”.

“These rebels decided to return to the fold of the law due to our relentless combat operations and Community Support Programs (CSP) in the Geographically Isolated and Disadvantage Areas (GIDAs). Our troop deployment in Mindoro is continuous and we will not stop until the CPP-NPA’s only option left is to surrender”, Col Teofilo added.

During the interview, the former rebels revealed their horrible experiences in the revolutionary movement. “Mapanlinlang at mapagsamantala ang mga NPA. Ginamit kami nila bilang mga utusan at taga-dala ng kanilang mga kagamitan. Sinamantala nila ang aming kahirapan at kamangmangan sa buhay para magalit kami at mag-aklas laban sa gobyerno. Ngunit ngayon, dahil sa tulong ng mga sundalo at pulis, nalaman namin ang tunay na hangarin ng gobyerno sa amin, taliwas sa mga sinasabi ng mga NPA”, the rebels said in unison.

The former rebels also disclosed that they had undergone several CPP-NPA courses or lectures such as Batayang Kursong Partido (BKP), Espesyal na Kursong Masa (ESKUM) and Araling Aktibista (ARAK). Public Affairs Office, 2ID, PA Camp General Mateo Capinpin, Tanay, Rizal Cp Number: 0977- 277- 1986 Email Add:dpao2id@gmail.com, pjretumban07@gmail.com Like us on our Facebook page: 2 nd infantry Jungle Fighter DivisionLieutenant Colonel Alexander Arbolado, Battalion Commander of 4IB said, “The successive surrender of the NPA members and supporters is a clear manifestation that Communist Terrorists Group (CTG) is no longer effective. Even Indigenous People (IP) are well aware of their deception and recruitment tactics”.

“Patuloy akong nananawagan sa mga kamag-anak, kaibigan o kakilala ng mga aktibo pang NPA, mga SPL o MB na maipaabot sa kanila ang impormasyon na may pag-asa pa silang mag bagong buhay at tuluyan ng talikuran ang masalimoot at marahas na gawain ng mga teroristang NPA”, LtCol Arbolado added. On the other hand, Police Brigadier General Thomas Apolinario Jr, MIMAROPA Regional Director, commended the effectiveness of the joint Army and Police operations against the NPAs in Mindoro Island.

“I encourage all of the Local Government Units (LGUs), stakeholders and peace- loving Mindoreños to continually cooperate and support our government. Let us join our hands to protect our Mangyan IPs against these terrorist NPAs. Be with your Army and Police in achieving stable and genuine peace in our Island”, PBGEN Apolinario added.

Meanwhile, BGen Elias H Escarcha, Acting Commander of 2 nd Infantry Division also lauded the troops’ success against the enemies of the state. He said that the 2ID localized peace talks with the NPAs and the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government are gaining more surrenderers in regions 4A & B. “We are winning the campaign and the NPA are quickly losing people’s support. We will sustain our gains until they are defeated the soonest possible time. Rest assured that NPAs who desires to surrender will be processed to avail the E-CLIP.

The 29 NPA surrenderees, of which 18 belongs to the Mangyan Buhid Tribe, are now undergoing debriefing, documentation and psycho-social intervention prior their enrollment in the ECLIP. Under the E-CLIP, a former rebel can receive 15,000 pesos immediate cash assistance, 50,000 livelihood assistance, firearms remuneration, have access to housing, loans, medical and legal assistance, among others. It also includes educational benefits which can be extended to the rebel’s immediate family members.


Kalinaw News: AFP supports nationwide Brigada Eskwela 2019

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 20, 2019): AFP supports nationwide Brigada Eskwela 2019



CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) enjoined all its units in all levels of command to support the nationwide “Brigada Eskwela” from May 20 to 25, 2019.

The national schools maintenance week is an annual program spearheaded by the Department of Education (DepEd). It aims to bring together stakeholders to help prepare public school facilities in time for the school opening in June. This year’s theme is “Matatag na Bayan para sa Maunlad na Paaralan”.

During the week, military personnel will assist the DepEd in its manpower requirements on different public elementary and secondary schools in the country. Soldiers will be aiding the department and other volunteers in painting, repairing, cleaning, and sanitizing school facilities and classrooms nationwide for the students to have a clean and safe environment conducive to learning.

The AFP’s participation will be properly coordinated through letter request from the School Administration or at the least from the Principal or School Administrator. Aside from active soldier, the AFP will maximize the utilization of reservists during Brigada Eskwela 2019.

Personnel from the General Headquarters, Joint Task Force National Capital Region, Philippine Army, Philippine Air Force and Philippine Navy will be deployed to assist in areas within Metro Manila. Meanwhile, the Unified Commands will encourage units under their control to participate in the week-long activity. They are to prioritize public schools in geographically-isolated and depressed areas.

Security personnel will also be available to ensure the safety and security for each deployment. Soldiers who are armed will only be in proximity and not inside of the school.

Brigada Eskwela also enjoins parents, teachers, students, civic and business groups, local government units, non-government units, and other community residents. It also encourages participants to donate construction and cleaning materials or serve as volunteers for the week-long activity.

The continuous involvement of the AFP in DepEd’s efforts manifests the military’s commitment to support government programs for the benefit of the youth and the society. It also shows that soldiers are not only tasked to defend the country’s territory and sovereignty but are also expected to improve the environment and wellbeing of all Filipinos.



Public Affairs Office, Armed Forces of the Philippines
COL NOEL J DETOYATO GSC (INF) PA
Public Affairs Office AFP
Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo Quezon City
911-6001 Local 6000 & 6700

https://www.kalinawnews.com/afp-supports-nationwide-brigada-eskwela-2019/

Kalinaw News: Army treated wounded NPA rebel, dies in hospital

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 20, 2019): Army treated wounded NPA rebel, dies in hospital


Bancasi, Butuan City – Soldiers from the 36th Infantry Battalion treated a wounded NPA Rebel after a clash transpired against more or less ten (10) CPP-NPA Terrorists in Brgy Cancavan, Carmen, Surigao del Sur yesterday afternoon, Sunday, May 19, 2019.

The wounded NPA rebel who was cowardly left by his comrades after a fifteen (15) minute running gun battle against government troops was initially identified as a certain Gealan P Jimenez alias Jareb, 24 yrs old and a resident of Brgy Adlay, Carrascal of same province but his parents corrected his identity as Dylan Ghem Padilla Jimenez, 18yrs old and left his family last October 2018 when he was still 17 yrs old.

Dylan was given first aid treatment to preserve his life after troops who scoured and cleared the area found him still alive and even revealed his false identity. In the hope to save his life, around 06:15 in the evening, troops successfully extricated the wounded CNT along with his three (3) dead comrades and was rushed immediately to Madrid District Hospital in the municipality of Madrid of same province but unfortunately he was pronounce Dead On Arrival by the attending physician, Dr Mary Michelle Paganpan.

The death of Dylan is another story of recruitment of MINORS of the CNTs who prey on their innocence and weaknesses and a clear violation of the International Humanitarian Law. Dylan could have been someone in the society someday if the CNTs spared him from the life of violence and let him be educated in schools. Said encounter resulted to four (4) CNTs dead, recovery of three (3) AK47 rifles, two (2) M16 Rifles, two (2) long magazines for M16, three (3) cellular phones, assorted ammunitions and subversive documents.

It can be recalled that 36IB Valor Troopers also treated a wounded NPA rebel named Jernel Regulada, alias Alfred, then 17 yrs old, after his comrades helplessly left him behind and scampered for their own lives after a brief firefight in Brgy Tubo-tubo, Cagwait, Suirago del Sur last July 2016.

In his statement, Col Maurito L Licudine, Commander of 402nd Infantry Brigade said, “We offer our sincerest condolences to the families of the dead NPA rebels. Our troops have done their best to save Dylan’s life yesterday but he expired upon arrival in the hospital. It is tragic that they have taken arms against our government because we know that only through peace can development and social justice can be attained. We shall perform our mandate to protect communities and confront those that threatened the well-being and safety of the people. Let this be a reminder to those who sow terror that arms of justice will catch them”.

“The NPA leadership must be made accountable for IHL violation of recruiting and involving minors in the armed atrocities against the government. Appropriate complaint or charges will be filed against the NPA for this utter disregard on the life of the minor. We call on the CHR and other concerned agencies to condemn this irresponsible acts of the NPA. Once again, we urge the remaining CNTs to surrender, armed violence and fighting will not solve our problems. Let us talk peace and development for our people. Take advantage of the government’s reintegration program, the E-CLIP, as an opportunity to go back to your families and live a peaceful life”, Col Licudine added.

Remains of the four (4) killed CNTs were brought to Mata Funeral Services at Cantilan, Surigao del Sur for Postmortem examination.


Talking to Joma useless, Army says

From the Visayan Daily Star (May 20, 2019): Talking to Joma useless, Army says

An Army general said yesterday that engaging in peace talks with exiled communist rebel leader Jose Maria Sison is an exercise in futility for the government.

Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, said peace talks are deceptive ploys of Sison in order to pursue the ultimate objective of the Communist Party of the Philippines- New People’s Army- National Democratic Front, to overthrow the government.


Sison blamed anew the military for the delay in peace talks between the government and communist rebels, in a statement issued recently by the CPP.

Arevalo reported that 40 NPA regular members had given up the armed struggle and surrendered 31 firearms from January to May, in Negros Occidental alone, as a result of peace negotiations with local communist rebel leaders.

Instead of pursuing peace talks with Sison at the national level and allowing them to recoup, it is better for the government to pursue localized peace talks, like what is being done in Negros, Arevalo said, as he noted that local NPA leaders are more sincere and reasonable to talk to, compared to Sison, whom he described as long-exiled and detached from reality.

Citing documents recovered from numerous encounters with NPA rebels in Negros, Arevalo said that communist rebels are pursuing two forms of armed struggle, one with the NPA using guns, and the legal struggle, through the NDF, that will strengthen the armed revolution, using their mass based organizations, engagement in the electoral process, and in peace talks.

Arevalo, who used to be assigned in Panay as 301st Infantry Brigade commander, claimed that Concha Araneta, secretary of the Komiteng Rehiyonal-Panay, after decades of denial carelessly and incriminatingly stated in a press release they issued on April 24 that members of the Kabataang Makabayan, Makibaka, PKM, Revolutionary Council of Trade Unions, and allied organizations of the NDF have continually filled in the ranks of the NPA and CPP, immersing themselves in the countryside and cities while others perform underground work in urban areas.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/May/20/topstory7.htm

Long-time indigenous peoples' rights activist wins international award

From Rappler (May 20, 2019): Long-time indigenous peoples' rights activist wins international award

Joanna Cariño, a long-time champion for indigenous peoples' rights, is one of the many activists and human rights workers the Philippine government wants to tag as terrorists

RIGHTS. Joanna Cariño receives the Gwangju Prize for Human Rights. Photo from the The May 18 Memorial Foundation

RIGHTS. Joanna Cariño receives the Gwangju Prize for Human Rights. Photo from the The May 18 Memorial Foundation

An activist and champion of indigenous peoples’ (IPs) rights was awarded the 2019 Gwangju Prize for Human Rights.

Joanna Cariño is the first Filipino to receive the prestigious award which commemorates the pro-democracy uprising in Gwangju, South Korea, in the aftermath of the 18-year authoritarian rule of Park Chung-hee.

An Ibaloi, Cariño has long worked for the rights of the IPs, especially in the Cordilleras. She co-founded the Cordillera Peoples Alliance in 1984 and continues to push for programs and advocacies that will benefit national minorities, including those that concern ancestral land issues.

Cariño is currently the co-chairperson of Sandugo, a national minority alliance formed in 2016 that seeks to address growing threats against IPs in pursuit of self-determination.

In her speech, Cariño said the award is a “vindication of a lifelong vocation to defend and promote democracy and human rights.” She also highlighted the threats human rights activists are facing in the Philippines, especially under President Rodrigo Duterte.

“It is ironic that while the repressive Duterte regime labels human rights activists such as myself as terrorists, prestigious foreign institutions such as the May 18 Memorial Foundation recognize my human rights activism as honorable,” she said.

Cariño is one of at least 649 people the Department of Justice sought to tag as terrorists in 2018, an action aligned with the government’s offensive against progressive groups that they alleged were fronts of the Communist Party of the Philippines. 

(READ: Sagada council urges DOJ: Drop terror tag vs indigenous activists)

Human rights groups have consistently denounced the Duterte administration for red-tagging, profiling, and surveillance.

Despite the continuous attacks, Cariño emphasized that standing up against tyranny and an oppressive system is justified.

“We have to prepare ourselves for sacrifice and even death in the struggle against tyrants for people’s democracy and a better world,” she said. “It is honorable to stand up for democracy and to defend human rights, especially for the less unfortunate and downtrodden.”

A torture victim detained for two years under dictator Ferdinand Marcos’ Martial Law, Cariño urged the public to hold close the lessons in the Philippines and the Gwangju Uprising “in the face of historical revisionism and the resurgence of tyranny and dictatorship.”

“We should always remember, we should never forget,” she said. “The people, united, shall never be defeated.”

https://www.rappler.com/nation/231105-indigenous-peoples-rights-activist-joanna-carino-wins-gwangju-prize-human-rights-2019

House approves bill requiring ROTC for Grades 11, 12

From Rappler (May 20, 2019): House approves bill requiring ROTC for Grades 11, 12

If passed into law, the bill would make the Reserve Officers' Training Corps program mandatory for both male and female senior high school students

REQUIRED SOON? A soldier of the 1st Scout Ranger Regiment of the Philippine Army instructs an ROTC cadet officer on the finer points of the M16 rifle. Photo from Wikipedia

REQUIRED SOON? A soldier of the 1st Scout Ranger Regiment of the Philippine Army instructs an ROTC cadet officer on the finer points of the M16 rifle. Photo from Wikipedia

As it reopened session, the House of Representatives approved on 3rd and final reading the controversial bill making the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program mandatory for Grades 11 and 12.

Legislators voted 167-4-0 in favor of House Bill (HB) 8961 on Monday, May 20, more than 3 months since they approved the measure on 2nd reading in February.

The bill has a long way to go, however, as its Senate version remains pending at the committee level. It would have to go through successful 2nd and 3rd readings in the upper chamber before President Rodrigo Duterte may sign it into law.

HB 8961 says the conduct of military training under ROTC "shall apply to all students in Grades 11 and 12 in all senior high schools in public and private educational institutions."

This means the military training would be required for both male and female students.

The goal behind the proposed two-year mandatory ROTC is "producing well-trained and prepared reservists for military and civic service."

"The ROTC training is aimed to instill patriotism, love of country, moral and spiritual virtues, and respect for human rights and adherence to the Constitution," states HB 8961.

But the bill also says "in no way should the ROTC be used for political gains, to teach and instill particular ideology, and as a mechanism for hazing and abuse."

Duterte himself wants ROTC to become mandatory for students. But the President himself had also claimed in public speeches that he had tried to skip ROTC as a student.

Why is mandatory ROTC opposed by some lawmakers? Kabataan Representative Sarah Elago posted on Facebook her opposition to HB 8961's passage in the House. (READ: Mandatory ROTC? How about no?)

"House passes on 3rd and final reading today the institutionalization of mandatory ROTC in Grades 11-12, railroaded without senior high school/K to 12 implementation review, and even without status report/resolution on the program's widespread cases of harassment, hazing, and corruption," said Elago, who said she will later file her written opposition to the bill.

Other legislators previously argued that requiring ROTC for students in Grades 11 and 12 would expose them to corruption.

ROTC was previously implemented at the college level, but it was scrapped in 2002 after an investigation showed that a University of Santo Tomas student was murdered after he exposed alleged corruption in the program.

Who would be exempt? Under HB 8961, only students deemed by the Armed Forces of the Philippines surgeon general or his or her medical officer as physically or psychologically unfit for the ROTC program would be exempt, "in pursuance to the recommendation of the educational institutions where the concerned student is enrolled."

Also to be exempted are students who have undergone similar military training, varsity players in sports competitions, and those exempted by the Department of National Defense for other valid reasons.

What would be the punishment for non-completion of the training? Any student who would not complete the mandatory ROTC program would not be allowed to graduate. This would also be a ground for compulsory military training.

A school that would refuse to offer the required ROTC program would be subjected to "administrative sanctions" by the Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, or the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/231111-house-3rd-reading-mandatory-rotc-senior-high-school-students

5 NPA rebels killed in Caraga

From MindaNews (May 20, 2019): 5 NPA rebels killed in Caraga


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Five suspected New People’s Army rebels were killed in a series of encounters with government troops in Caraga region last Sunday.

Capt. Francisco Garello, spokesperson of the Army 402nd Infantry Brigade said a platoon of 20 soldiers chanced on a group of 10 suspected rebels resting under the trees in Barangay Cancavan, Carmen town in Surigao del Sur.


“We’ve been monitoring their presence since the May 13 elections. We moved against them when we realized they were still there after the elections,” Garello said.

Garello said the soldiers caught the rebels by surprise and a 15-minute gun battle ensued.

“The soldiers and rebels were chasing each other. It was a running gun battle for 15 minutes,” he said.

Garello said the bodies of four rebels were recovered together with three AK-47 rifles, two M16 rifles, three mobile phones and assorted ammunition.

In Remedios T. Romualdez town in Agusan del Norte, another encounter between Army soldiers and NPA rebels happened in Barangay San Antonio last Sunday.

Garello said one rebel died in the encounter and the soldiers were able to recover his firearm, an AK 47 rifle with two magazines.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/05/5-npa-rebels-killed-in-caraga/

4ID: Elections in NorMin peaceful

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 20, 2019): 4ID: Elections in NorMin peaceful

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CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City -- The conduct of the national and local elections (NLE) 2019 in northern Mindanao and Caraga regions were very peaceful with no election related violent incident recorded during election day.

More than six thousand troops coming from the 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division, Philippine Army successfully secured the voters and the polling centers which resulted in orderly and peaceful NLE in the two regions.

Despite of the 61 identified election areas of concern due to the presence of CPP-NPA terrorist and intense political rivalry, there was no reported election-related violent incident (ERVI) based on the 4ID Election Monitoring Action Center (EMAC).

Meanwhile, 4ID troops, together with the Philippine National Police (PNP), are still on red alert status to maintain peace and order while election paraphernalia are still being retrieved from the polling precincts.

The security forces will also continue to monitor the CPP-NPA Terrorist and other lawless elements in order to thwart any terroristic activities that may hamper the canvasing and the retrieval of election paraphernalia.

Maj Gen Franco Nemesio M Gacal, 4ID commander said, “Today’s national and local elections mark another milestone in our history. Everyone freely fulfilled their right of suffrage that is an utmost expression and display of the country’s democracy. As the NLE 2019 culminates, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the people in Region 10 and Caraga for their support and cooperation.”

He also commended their troops and partner agencies in both regions particularly the PNP, Commission on Elections (Comelec) and Department of Education (DepEd), for their devotion to duty and selfless sacrifices to ensure that there will be a free, honest, peaceful, orderly and credible election.

Gen Gacal added, “We will continue to be on Red Alert to ensure that the election in our area of operation will culminate in a very peaceful manner. We assure the people that we will always do our best to protect the sanctity of the ballot. We guarantee that the Philippine Army in this part of the country will remain fully and faithfully committed to protect democracy by standing to our core purpose: Serving the People, Securing the Land.” (4ID)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1022193

IDPs benefit from army, PHO medical services

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 20, 2019): IDPs benefit from army, PHO medical services

MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon -- Over a hundred internally displaced persons (IDPs), mostly women and children of the indigenous peoples (IPs), benefited from the medical services offered for free recently here at the old Provincial Detention area.



Sheltered in tents inside the fenced vacant lot of the provincial government, over a hundred of internally displaced persons (IDPs), mostly women and children of the indigenous peoples (IPs), get medical services offered for free at the old Provincial Detention area, Malaybalay, Bukidnon. (403rd Brigade)

Sheltered in tents inside the fenced vacant lot of the provincial government, the IDPs had developed minor illnesses and infections such as skin diseases, muscle pains, coughs and colds.

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The IDPs received assorted medicines and vitamins after thorough medical checkups.

They arrived here early last month from the villages of Kawayan and Magkalungay in San Fernando town.

They said they were displaced because their lands were allegedly grabbed by non-IP groups.

Col. Edgardo De Leon, 403rd Infantry “Peacemaker” Brigade commander said the medical mission is part of the soldiers’ role in the government’s whole-of-nation approach in attaining an inclusive and sustainable peace.

Spearheaded by the 43rd Civil-Military Operations Company of the 403rd Infantry “Peacemaker” Brigade Philippine Army, Provincial Health Office, Philippine Red Cross, and other concerned agencies, the medical team was able to serve 66 children and 80 adults inside the campground. (With reports from SSg Elwod C. Rule, NCCivil Affairs NCO and 1Lt Kent Chasper Maguing, CMO Coy/PIA Bukidnon)

Lanao Norte involves brgys in peace building

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 20, 2019): Lanao Norte involves brgys in peace building

LANAO DEL NORTE -- Dubbed as Barangay Information/Intelligence Network (BIN), the barangays of Lanao del Norte have been tapped to provide relevant information to maintain peace and order in the province.




The Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte through the Provincial Community Affairs Division organized the “2nd Provincial Volunteers for Peace and Development Congress” held in Mindanao Civic Center Gymnasium, Sagadan, Municipality of Tubod on May 6, 2019.

During the province’s 2nd Provincial Volunteers for Peace and Development (PVPD) Congress at Mindanao Civic Center Gymnasium, Sagadan, Tubod, Lanao del Norte, Major Victor Leopoldo, CMO Officer of 5th Mechanized Battalion, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) shared the importance of establishing Barangay Information/Intelligence Network or BIN.

Barangay Information/Intelligence Network or BIN is used to gather or collect information in the community also known as “Eyes and Ears” in the Barangay or anything that can affect the peace and order in the community.

Major Leopoldo barangay officials or residents may use the word SALUTE in providing information to the army: S- size, A-activity, L-location, U-unit, T-time and E-equipment.

Meanwhile, Major Salman M. Saad, Chief, Police Community Affairs and Development Branch of PNP Lanao del Norte presented to the volunteers the vital role of Barangay Peacekeeping Action (BPO) and Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT).

BPAT is to conduct peacekeeping activities in association with the various sectors of the community and ensure their continuous support towards the maintenance of peace and order and safety while BPO is also known as the Bayanihan concept, a partnership between the community and law enforcers in Policing and maintenance of security, peace and order.

Volunteers for Peace and Development are also considered as one major partner for securing safety and providing peace and order to the community.

The 2nd PVPD Congress holds the theme: Safeguarding the Community thru Volunteerism.

Governor Imelda “Angging” Quibranza Dimaporo expressed her gratitude to the PVPD in helping and sustaining peace and order in the province.

At the end, AFP and PNP provided hotline numbers to the volunteers for them to contact immediately if there is something to report or any suspicious activity in the community.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1022202

Spear Warriors proves readiness during midterm elections

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 20, 2019): Spear Warriors proves readiness during midterm elections

PILI, Camarines Sur – 9th Infantry Division Spokesperson Col. Ferozaldo Paul T. Regencia lauded the men and women of the 9ID “Spear” Division for the “generally very peaceful” midterm elections in the region and for ensuring the safety of the electorate during the entire poll hours.

“In behalf of our Commanding General, MGen. Fernando T. Trinidad, I would like to thank all the members of our community, our soldiers, other partner agencies, the Philippine National Police, the Air Force and the Navy and especially our teachers for the commendable cooperation and coordination that led to the successful and peaceful conduct of the 2019 Midterm elections,” Regencia stated.


Members of the 9th Infantry (SANDIGAN) Battalion with Lupi PNP Personnel with other partner government agencies take post at Cristo Rey ES in Lupi to ensure security in the area. (Photo credits: SandiganBattalion/DPAOSpear)

That is despite the declaration of other municipalities as election areas of concern, election areas of immediate concern and election areas of grave concern.

Election areas of grave concern coded "red" are areas with an occurrence of suspected election-related incidents (ERI) in the past 2 elections, existence of intense partisan political rivalry, with serious armed threats posed by NPA, BIFF, ASG, and rogue elements of MNLF and/or MILF and other analogous groups.

In Camarines Sur, the municipalities of Lupi, Libmanan, Caramoan, Tinambac, Siruma and Iriga City were placed under that category.

Several municipalities in the province were also placed under the Orange category. These are areas with immediate concerns which include the towns of Del Gallego, Ragay, Sipocot, Minalabac, Pamplona, Pasacao, San Fernando, Calabanga, Garchitorena, Goa, Lagonoy, Presentacion, Balatan, Bato, Buhi and Bula.

Under yellow alert are the municipalities of Pili and Tigaon which means that there is also an occurrence of election-related incidents during the past 2 elections and possible employment of partisan armed groups by candidates of the said area.

To ensure that these areas are under their vigilant eyses, the Philippine Army joined other authorities in securing all vital installations, seaports, terminals, airports and conducted massive security mapping especially in identified election areas of concerns to ensure the safety of the populace.

Not all municipalities though became the authority’s areas of concern when it comes to safety.

Municipalities which are labeled under the green category are those election areas or towns with no security concerns or those municipalities which are relatively peaceful and orderly. It includes the towns of Cabusao, Milaor, Gainza, Bombon, Camaligan, Magarao, Ocampo, Sangay, Nabua and Baao.

The municipality of San Jose was listed under this category but 2 election-related incidents were recorded here, a day after the elections.

Nonetheless, the army’s vigilance and coordination with other authorities and stakeholders proved to be the best weapon to combat any attempt to mar the peaceful elections.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1022170

Ex-rebels in CV receive livelihood aid from gov't

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 20, 2019): Ex-rebels in CV receive livelihood aid from gov't


FILE PHOTO. Rebel returnees and E-CLIP beneficiaries from Negros Oriental pose for a photo opportunity during a turnover ceremony in Dumaguete City. (Photo from PIA Negros Oriental)

Through Pres. Rodrigo Duterte’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), 34 rebel returnees in Central Visayas benefited from the government’s housing and livelihood assistance worth more than P800,000.

Deanna Alila, Local Government Operations Officer IV of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Monitoring and Evaluation Division-7, said four of these beneficiaries hailed from Negros Oriental, while the other 30 are from Bohol.


Alila shared that some 20 inactive rebels have also expressed their intent to avail of E-CLIP.

She added that they are waiting for the confirmation of the surrenderers' identities from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the national intelligence.

According to Alila, poverty is the primary reason the former rebels returned to the folds of law, which was also the same reason that led them to join left-leaning groups back then.

“We still have more available funds for them to start their livelihood. We’ve also partnered with other government agencies that can accommodate them and offer them more programs,” she said.

For this program, DILG is in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Department of Agrarian Reform, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Department of Justice, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development, among others.

DILG has also made sure to capacitate Social Welfare and Development officers in the provinces and in Highly Urbanized Cities (P/HUCs), who are the focal point of authority for E-CLIP.

They are in-charge of screening rebel returnees and assessing the assistance they can avail of.

Col. Noel T. Baluyan, Commander of Task Force Cebu, said the government agencies and local government units (LGUs) should step up the delivery of social services, so vulnerable sectors will not be swayed into joining the left-leaning groups.

“Where there is no presence of the AFP, and where poverty, injustice, disease and ignorance are rampant, CPP-NPA recruitment is very strong,” Baluyan said.

Baluyan stressed that these groups, especially the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPP-NPA), are good in muddling issues and brainwashing those in far flung areas where government programs rarely reach.

Alila also addressed the issue that some rebels might not want to surrender due to their fear for their security.

She assured the public that their identity will be kept confidential, and surrenderers will be protected by law enforcers once they enroll for E-CLIP.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1021763

Village dad hurt in NoCot town ambush

From the Philippine News Agency (May 20, 2019): Village dad hurt in NoCot town ambush


Policemen have launched a manhunt for two motorcycle-riding men who wounded a village official in an ambush in Pikit, North Cotabato on Sunday night.

Speaking for the North Cotabato police, Lt. Col. Bernard Tayong, said Col. Maximo Layugan, provincial police director, had ordered the manhunt after a witness provided vital information to the local police about the gunmen.

“Police tracking teams are in pursuit of the persons of interest,” Tayong said in an interview over a local radio station on Monday.

The victim, Samama Guiamadel, who sustained multiple gunshot wounds, was driving a motorbike heading towards the town proper when ambushed in Barangay Rajah Muda.

Guiamadel, a Rajah Muda village council member, is currently confined in a hospital in Kidapawan City.

Tayong said police investigators are also trying to determine the motive behind the attack.