Kalinaw News: Bukidnon holds peace and development forum, vows full support to end armed conflict

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 24, 2019): Bukidnon holds peace and development forum, vows full support to end armed conflict



MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon-Various sectors in Northern Mindanao are heeding the call of the national government to finally put to an end the communist insurgency in the country.

Last May 22, the Provincial Government of Bukidnon in partnership with the Northern Mindanao Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF- ELCAC) Technical Working Group held a peace and development forum at the Kaamulan Open Theater, Malaybalay City. Bukidnon Governor Jose Ma. Zubiri led four Mayors, 98 Barangay Captains, 16 City and Municipal Planning and Development Officers (C/MPDO), and 15 representatives of local government agencies as the newly- created task force discussed Executive Order (EO) 70 and Convergence Areas for Peace and Development (CAPDEV).

EO 70 institutionalized the Whole-of-Nation Approach in addressing the root causes of insurgency, and created the National Task Force on ELCAC. CAPDEV on the other hand,is Region 10’s banner program to put into motion EO 70. It aims to address the root causes of insurgency through focused, coordinated and sustained delivery of basic services and social development packages by the government in poor, conflict-affected and Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) in Region 10.

Major General Franco Nemesio Gacal, the Commander of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division who also serves as RTF-ELCAC TWG Chairperson led the forum facilitators. He was joined by 403rd Brigade Commander, Col. Edgardo de Leon, and Director Mylah Faye Aurora Cariño of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Region 10 Office.

The activity was part of the Task Force’s program to engage all sectors including local government units and line agencies, non- government and civil society organizations, as well as the private sector, church and academe to finally end the local communist armed conflict being waged by the communist- terrorist CPP-NPA-NDF. The forum focused on the role of every sector in the operationalization of EO 70, and the concept behind the establishment of CAPDev in the region.

Zubiri who also chairs the Regional Development Council (RDC) expressed his full support to the task force and its programs. “We are together in this fight as we strive to put an end to the armed conflict that has ravaged our communities especially our Indigenous Peoples”, Zubiri said. 90% of the members of the CPP- NPA-Terrorists in Bukidnon belong to various Indigenous Peoples tribes.

One of the highlights of the forum was the
“Validation of Needs” workshop which allowed the participants to validate the Programs, Projects and Activities (PPAs) needed by their respective communities which were earlier endorsed by the RDC to be included in the 2020 National Budget.

The said PPAs were included in the P25 billion- budget for conflict affected areas in Bukidnon which already earned the nod of the RDC last March.

De leon lauded Zubiri’s support which he said is crucial to the implementation of CAPDev programs and other peace and development efforts in the province and the entire region. “We are very optimistic that we can address the root causes of insurgency and other forms of conflict here in Bukidnon because we are finally on the same page”, De Leon said.

Gacal, on the other hand, said the activity was a prelude to the creation of the Provincial TF-ELCAC which in turn will spearhead the implementation of CAPDev in the province. “We are glad that the Whole-of-Nation Approach along with our Peaceful War are rapidly gaining traction among our stakeholders. We are now seeing positive results in our peace and development campaign because of the concerted efforts from the Regional, Provincial, Municipal and Barangay level”, he said. “We would like to commend Governor Zubiri, the Mayors, Brgy Captains, Municipal, Provincial Planning Development Officers and all Regional Line Agencies for showing their commitment and cooperation to this endeavor”, Gacal added.

Meanwhile, Cariño said a similar forum will also be held in Misamis Occidental,Lanao del Norte and Misamis Oriental over the next few days.

Division Public Affairs Office 4th Infantry Division Philippine Army
Cpt Regie H Go
OIC DPAO 4ID
armydiamond@ymail.com

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/bukidnon-holds-peace-and-development-forum-vows-full-support-to-end-armed-conflict/

Kalinaw News: Army; NPA terrorists recruits minors as child warriors

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 24, 2019): Army; NPA terrorists recruits minors as child warriors



Tago, Surigao del Sur – Army’s 36 th Infantry (Valor) Battalion, Philippine Army have validated that the CPP-NPA terrorist is recruiting minors as NPA red fighter after the recent clash at Brgy Cancavan, Carmen, Surigao del Sur last May 19, 2019.

The security operations by the Army resulted to four (4) CNT killed wherein one (1) was immediately identified as Dylan Ghem Padilla Jimenez alias Gareb, 18 years old, a resident of Brgy Adlay, Carrascal, SDS who was found wounded and rushed by the troops to the hospital but was pronounce dead on arrival by the attending physician. According to the mother of Dylan, her son left home when he was still 17 years old and was recruited by the NPA as a regular fighter.

The CPP-NPA Terrorist are held liable in violation of RA No. 9851 or an act defining and penalizing crimes against international humanitarian law, genocide and other crimes against humanity, organizing jurisdiction, designating special courts, and for related purposes, it prohibits the recruitment and participation of children in arm conflict. In which the state values the dignity of every human person and guarantees full respect for human rights, including the rights of indigenous cultural communities and other vulnerable groups, such as women and children.

Further, the CNTs recruitment of minors are in violation of the “Special Protection of Children in Situations of Armed Conflict Act” or Republic Act. No.11188. Under the law, children are declared as “Zones of Peace” which must extend beyond territorial or geographical boundaries. The law recognized that children are entitle to dignity and respect as human beings in need of protection from degradation and to prevent the recruitment, re-recruitment, use, displacement of, or grave child rights violations against children involved in armed conflict.

In his statement, LTC XERXES A TRINIDAD INF (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer, 36IB, PA stated that “it is a clear manifestation that the CNTs are recruiting minors to participate in an armed conflict in pursuit of their disillusioned cause. Evidently, the CNTs violated the rights of children to live peacefully and should not be allowed to take part in the hostilities. The CNTs leadership must be held accountable and liable for this act of crimes against minors. We will facilitate the filing of appropriate charges to this action of the CNTs.”

“We call on the peace loving people of Surigao del Sur to condemn this act of crimes of the CNTs. Let us protect our children at all cost. To the remaining CNT, stop recruiting and exploiting minor. Surrender now and return to the fold of the law and avail the government’s Enhance Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), LTC Trinidad added.

Division Public Affairs Office 4th Infantry Division Philippine Army
Cpt Regie H Go
OIC DPAO 4ID
armydiamond@ymail.com

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-npa-terrorists-recruits-minors-as-child-warriors/

Kalinaw News: 275 Lumads, CAFGU members, former rebels now army privates in 4ID

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 25, 2019): 275 Lumads, CAFGU members, former rebels now army privates in 4ID



MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon – After months of rigorous training, 275 Candidate Soldiers graduate from 4th Division Training School (DTS) during a Joint Closing Ceremony earlier this day May 23, 2019 in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

The 275 new Philippine Army Privates are composed of two Candidate Soldier Courses, CS Cl-571 and CSC Cl-572.

According to Lt Col Jeff Villarosa, Commander 4DTS, both classes entered the military training 4th quarter last year and started their Jungle Warfare Mountain Operation Course (JWMOC) in April 2019.

Villarosa added that, “The 4ID now have 275 trained, strong, brave, responsible and equipped soldiers ready to serve our people and secure our sovereignty.”

Out of 275 new Privates, 154 are Indigenous People (IP) members where majority of them are from the Manobo and Higaonon tribes. 84 of the IP Privates are also former rebels.

Alyas Mike, 23 years old, an IP member from Higaonon Tribe in Bukidnon Province said, “Sa una palang ako ng gidamgo ug gipangandoy nga mahimong sundalo aron akoy mo protekta sa akong pamilya, kabanay ug katribu sa bukid batuk sa propaganda sa Teroristang NPA.” “I have always dreamt of becoming a soldier and be the one to protect my family, relatives and tribe in the mountains from the propaganda of the NPA Terrorists.”

Alyas Rios, a former Vice-Commander of the CNTs thanked the government for giving him and the other FRs a chance. “I have never regretted my decision to return to the folds of the law and so, I call on to those who are still in the mountains, there’s a better life waiting for you here and the NPA will never be able to give you a peaceful life.”

Also among the graduates were 38 deserving former CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA) members who for years have volunteered to protect their community.

Maj Gen Franco Nemesio M Gacal, Commander 4ID, welcomed the new members of the Diamond Troopers, “You are now officially soldiers, use the skills, knowledge and discipline which you have learned from DTS to protect our fellow Filipinos. Let us uphold our Honor, Patriotism and Duty to our beloved country.” “I also congratulate the 4DTS to a job well done, let us continue to produce world-class soldiers who have burning desires to fight for long-lasting peace in Mindanao,” Gacal added.

The 275 privates will be deployed to the different Infantry Units of 4th ID in order to continue the mandate of the Army which is “Serving the people, Securing the land”.

Division Public Affairs Office 4th Infantry Division Philippine Army
Cpt Regie H Go
OIC DPAO 4ID
armydiamond@ymail.com

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/275-lumads-cafgu-members-former-rebels-now-army-privates-in-4id/

PH Navy to get 25-30 more warships: Empedrad

From the Philippine News Agency (May 25, 2019): PH Navy to get 25-30 more warships: Empedrad

The Philippine Navy (PN) is planning to acquire 25 to 30 warships of various types within the next five to 10 years as part of its efforts to augment its fleet.

"We have plans to acquire 25 to 30 in the next five to 10 years. (This) includes corvettes, OPVs (offshore patrol vessels), and even submarines," PN flag officer-in-command Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad told reporters shortly after the keel-laying ceremony for the second missile frigate, BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), at Dock 4 of Hyundai Heavy Industries' (HHI) shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea on Thursday.

The BRP Antonio Luna is the sister ship of the BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), the PN's missile frigate, which was formally launched in the same facility also on Thursday.

Empedrad said these projects are open to all shipbuilding firms with naval construction capabilities worldwide.

"I think there is a need to beef up the PN because we have vast maritime (territories) and we need to protect it," the PN chief said.

The BRP Jose Rizal, which is scheduled for delivery in 2020, and the BRP Antonio Luna, which will be delivered in 2021, will be armed with an Oto Melara 76mm Super Rapid main gun, an Aselsan SMASH 30mm remote-controlled secondary cannon, anti-submarine torpedoes and anti-air and ship missiles along with sensors and surveillance systems capable of detecting and neutralizing air, surface, and sub-surface threats.

The BRP Jose Rizal is also equipped with Hanwha Systems' Naval Shield combat management system (CMS), which integrates all shipboard sensors and weapons and decides on the ideal way to deal with any incoming threat.

It can also detect and track about 4,000 targets and is used in various configurations by the Republic of Korea Navy, the Royal Malaysian Navy, and the Indonesian Navy.

Encrypted tactical data systems

Hanwha Systems also developed a tactical data link system for the two ships called "Link P", which will be exclusively used by the two missile frigates.

This was bared by Hanwha Systems Overseas Business Support manager Samsoo Kim after a tour of their facility early this week.

He added that it can communicate with other similar tactical data link systems and has a 32-digit key code encryption to ensure data security.

"There is 32-digit key code for encrypting ('Link P') and we will give this freedom (to the PN) to change the key code. Normally the password has 10 digits. Hacking of this password takes a million years. That's the theory. Thirty-two digits is a very long password (the) PH Navy can randomly put in this system," Kim said.

The Philippines and HHI signed a PHP16-billion contract for two missile-armed frigates. A total of PHP2 billion was also set aside for its weapon systems and munition in October 2016.

PN spokesperson Capt. Jonathan Zata earlier said these frigates will help secure the country's maritime chokepoints or primary sea routes used for trade, logistics, and naval operations for all forms of threats.

Steel-cutting for BRP Jose Rizal took place in April 1, 2018 while the same ceremony for BRP Antonio Luna transpired in November the same year.

This event officially signified the start of the actual construction of the frigates.

Meanwhile, the keel-laying ceremony for BRP Jose Rizal took place last October as the formal recognition of the start of the ship’s construction.

Keel-laying refers to the official start of the construction of any ship and is considered among the four highlights of any surface vessel with the other three being steel-cutting, commissioning, and decommissioning.

"These frigates are built based on the Incheon/FFX-I/HDF-3000-type multi-purpose frigate of the Republic of Korea Navy (RoKN), which offers increased operational performance and enhanced survivability," Zata said.

The ship measures 351 feet long and 46 feet wide and has a maximum speed of 25 knots. It can travel up to 4,500 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 15 knots and can sustain operational presence for 30 days. It is also capable of withstanding rough sea conditions up to Sea State 7, which means waves of up to six to nine meters high.

"Each frigate has a complement of more than 100 officers and crew. It has a flight deck located at the stern with the ability to handle one maritime helicopter weighing up to 12 tons. Two rigid-hulled inflatable boats will be carried to conduct military and emergency operations at sea," Zata added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070666

Will Marawi become a terrorist magnet?

From the ASEAN Post (May 24, 2019): Will Marawi become a terrorist magnet?

Muslim women sing the Philippine national anthem during an event in Marawi on the southern island of Mindanao on 23 May, 2019, to mark the invasion by jihadists that sparked a five-month battle in the southern city. (Noel Celis / AFP Photo)

Two years after the Philippine city of Marawi was overrun by jihadists it remains in ruins, with experts warning that stalled reconstruction efforts are bolstering the appeal of extremist groups in the volatile region.

The 23 May, 2017 invasion by gunmen waving the black flag of the Islamic State (IS) group sparked a five-month battle that shattered swathes of the southern city.

Demolition of blast-pocked buildings has finally begun, but after several false starts the government does not expect rebuilding to be finished before the end of 2021.

The delays have left about 100,000 residents in squalid relocation camps or sharing homes with relatives, feeding simmering anger among the displaced and providing a recruiting tool for extremists.

"The narratives (to join IS) used to be about the Middle East and the plight of Muslims around the world," said Mouhammad Sharief, who co-founded a support group for Marawi's youth.

"Now it's closer to our hearts because the narrative is Marawi," said 32-year-old Sharief, who was himself displaced by the fighting.

Marawi is symbolically important because it is the Muslim capital of the nation's south, which has been locked in a cycle of poverty and extremism as separatist insurgencies have raged for decades.

It is all the more significant as IS works to maintain a presence via its global affiliates following the fall of its self-proclaimed "caliphate" in the Middle East.

IS regularly claims responsibility for killings of Philippine government troops and took credit for the January bombing of a Catholic cathedral during Sunday mass that was the nation's deadliest attack in years.

Duterte's orders

The organisation has links to local extremist networks, including the kidnap-for-ransom group Abu Sayyaf, that have long operated in the Philippines' restive south.

In this context, an angry displaced population in Marawi is not a risk that can be ignored, experts say.

"The government needs to be concerned about the threats of ISIS attracting young (locals) because of the ongoing resentment from the failure to rebuild and general anger over the destruction," analyst Sidney Jones said.

Fixing the city has been repeatedly delayed. A Chinese-led consortium initially tapped to spearhead the rehabilitation plan was disqualified over legal and financial issues.

The clearing of debris, the first step before the actual construction, also hit a snag due to legal problems and the government hopes it will finally be finished in November.

"This will be used as an example again of government discrimination against Muslims and the government neglect for the responsibility of rebuilding Marawi," said Francisco Lara, an adviser with peace group International Alert.

The government says it is making progress in repairing the city, which was pounded by military air strikes and artillery as it struggled to dislodge the jihadists.

"We are following the guidance and instructions of the president that he will see to it that Marawi will rise as a prosperous city again," Eduardo del Rosario, a retired general overseeing the rebuilding efforts, told journalists this week.

"We...are all undertaking the task given to us as per instruction of the president," he added.

Though President Rodrigo Duterte has tried to portray himself as sensitive to the Philippines' Muslim minority, he has sent mixed signals about Marawi.

He has claimed the city was home to illegal drug activity, a very serious accusation from a leader whose narcotics crackdown has killed over 5,300 alleged dealers and pushers.

"I don't think that I should be spending for their buildings. People there have a lot of money," he said in reference to Marawi in an April speech. - AFP

https://theaseanpost.com/article/will-marawi-become-terrorist-magnet

Militiaman slain by NPA rebels

From the Philippine Star (May 25, 2019): Militiaman slain by NPA rebels

SURIGAO CITY, Philippines — A militiaman was killed by suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in this city on Thursday. 

Col. Diomedes Cuadra Jr., city police chief, said Ronald Contemplo, 21, was shot near his house in Purok 1, Barangay Anomar.

Eight bullet shells for a caliber .45 pistol were recovered at the scene.

At least three persons were murdered by suspected NPA guerrillas in Caraga in the past week.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/05/25/1920620/militiaman-slain-npa-rebels

CPP/NDF-Bicol: Resulta ng Eleksyon 2019, konsolidasyon ng pwersa ng rehimeng US-Duterte para sa pasistang diktadura

NDF-Bicol propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippiines (CPP) Website (May 20, 2019): Resulta ng Eleksyon 2019, konsolidasyon ng pwersa ng rehimeng US-Duterte para sa pasistang diktadura

MARIA ROJA BANUA

SPOKESPERSON

NDF-BICOL

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

MAY 20, 2019

Buong tahasang ipinapangalandakan bilang Duterte Magic ang garapalang pandaraya, malawakang pananakot at pagbubuhos ng pondo ng taumbayan para makamit ng rehimeng US-Duterte ang super majority sa Senado at Kongreso. Pagkatapos ng isa sa mga pinakamaruruming eleksyon sa bansa, mapanlinlang na nailuklok ng pangkating Duterte ang mayorya sa kanyang mga pinakamatatapat na kaalyadong pulitiko upang higit na makamit ang konsolidasyon ng paghahari nito sa buong reaksyunaryong gubyerno at mailatag ang mga kundisyon para sa pagpapalawig ng termino ni Duterte lampas sa taong 2022.

Muli, pinamumugaran ng mga dati nang napatunayang sangkot sa korapsyon, sindikato ng droga, taksil sa soberanya ng bansa at salarin sa napakahabang listahan ng mga krimen laban sa mamamayan ang reaksyunaryong gubyerno. Ilan sa kanila ay pinatunayan ang katapatan sa pangkating Duterte sa pamamagitan ng pagsusulong ng mga kontra-mamamayang batas tulad ng TRAIN Law (ipinanukala ni Sonny Angara) at Rice Tariffication Law (ipinanukala ni Cynthia Villar), pagsuporta sa mapanupil na hakbangin tulad ng Oplan Tokhang (itinulak ng dating PNP Chief Bato dela Rosa) at Batas Militar.

Dahil sa lantarang pagsalaula sa mga batayang karapatan ng mamamayan, higit na nahihiwalay ang rehimeng US-Duterte sa malawak na hanay ng masang anakpawis, mga makabayan at progresibong sektor, mga patriyotikong burukrata at upisyal sa loob ng reaksyunaryong gubyerno at iba pang pwersang anti-pasista at anti-neoliberal. Lalong nagiging malinaw sa sambayanang Pilipino na hindi kailanman kikilanin ng isang reaksyunaryong halalan ang kanilang karapatan sa pagboto at pagpili ng mga karapat-dapat na lider.

Nananawagan ang NDF-Bikol sa mamamayang Pilipino na paghandaan ang panibagong unos na idudulot ng mga neoliberal at pasistang hakbangin ng rehimeng US-Duterte. Ngayong kontrolado na ni Duterte ang Senado, hawak na niya ang lahat ng sangay ng reaksyunaryong gubyerno mula sa ehekutibo, hudikatura at lehislatura. Higit nang mapadudulas ang pagpapasa ng mga kontra-mamamayang panukalang dati ay nahahadlangan ng ilang mga upisyal na nakikinig sa progresibo at militanteng paninindigan ng mamamayan. Nangunguna sa kanyang plano ang tuluyang pagbabago ng konstitusyon o Chacha na magbubukas sa sa sa ibayong dayuhang pandarambong, panghihimasok militar at pagsasakatuparan sa huwad na pederalismong ipinantatabing niya sa kanyang planong diktadura.

Naninindigan ang NDF-Bikol na pagharian man ni Duterte ang gubyerno, tulad ng ginawa ng diktador na si Marcos sa panahon ng kanyang diktadura, lalo lamang nagngangalit ang sambayanang Pilipino sa harap ng tumitinding pang-aapi at pagsasamantala. Sa paghigpit ng kontrol ni Duterte sa lahat ng sangay ng reaksyunaryong gubyerno, lalong tumitingkad ang kawastuhan ng paglaban ng mamamayan.

Nananawagan ang NDF-Bikol sa mamamayang Bikolano na makibahagi sa paglalantad sa malaganap na pampulitika at pang-ekonomikong pananalasa ng rehimen at paglaban sa pakanang diktadura nito.

Sa kanayunan, ibayong paiigtingin ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan ang pagsusulong ng armadong pakikibaka upang pahinain ang mahihinang kawing ng reaksyunaryong hukbong sandigan ng reaksyunaryong paghahari. Sa kalunsuran, patuloy na magpapalakas ang nagkakaisang hanay ng mamamayan upang singilin at papanagutin ang rehimeng US-Duterte hanggang sa ito ay maibagsak.

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/resulta-ng-eleksyon-2019-konsolidasyon-ng-pwersa-ng-rehimeng-us-duterte-para-sa-pasistang-diktadura/

CPP/Sison: Expect the people’s resistance to rise further against the escalation of oppression and exploitation

Jose Maria Sison propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippiines (CPP) Website (May 22, 2019): Expect the people’s resistance to rise further against the escalation of oppression and exploitation

JOSE MARIA SISON

CHIEF POLITICAL CONSULTANT / NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES
MAY 22, 2019


As a result of his rigging the May 13 elections, Duterte has more than two-thirds majority in the Senate and is in a position to dictate the realization of his fascist dictatorship through charter change to bogus federalism and declare martial law nationwide at his whim.

Foreign monopoly capitalism, domestic feudalism and bureaucratic corruption will further oppress and exploit the Filipino people. The dire conditions of underdevelopment of the country, unemployment, mass poverty, mounting debt and tax burden, soaring prices, plunder of natural resources and social wealth, mass murder with impunity and the worst forms of deception will continue.

With overweening arrogance, the Duterte regime will continue to thrive on serving the evil forces of imperialism, feudalism and bureaucrat capitalism; and blame the people, the legal democratic forces and the revolutionary resistance for the worsening socioeconomic and political crisis of the semicolonial and semifeudal ruling system.

We can expect the broad masses of the people to engage in protest actions as in the time of fighting and defeating the Marcos fascist dictatorship. We can also expect that a big new wave of mass activists will join the revolutionary underground and the armed revolutionary movement of the people.

More than ever before, Duterte and his armed minions will seek to destroy the revolutionary movement in order to tighten his monopoly of power and plunder. In this context, there is no chance for the resumption of peace negotiations in accordance with The Hague Joint Declaration for so long as the tyrant Duterte is in power.

The people’s struggle for national liberation and democracy will certainly grow in strength faster than ever before precisely in contention with the escalating conditions of oppression and exploitation. It will surge in concert with the revolutionary struggles of peoples abroad against imperialism and all reaction.###



https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/expect-the-peoples-resistance-to-rise-further-against-the-escalation-of-oppression-and-exploitation/

CPP/CNL-NDF: Stand for Truth and Justice – Reject the Rotten Electoral Exercise

Christians for National Liberation propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippiines (CPP) Website (May 22, 2019): Stand for Truth and Justice – Reject the Rotten Electoral Exercise

CHRISTIANS FOR NATIONAL LIBERATION 

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

RENMIN MALAYA

SPOKESPERSON

NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 

CHRISTIANS FOR NATIONAL LIBERATION – NDFP

MAY 22, 2019

We at the Christians for National Liberation were outraged at the conduct and outcome of the latest electoral exercise. We received reports and the news from tri-media, revealed that there had been “glitches” of the vote counting machines [VCM] We cannot set aside speculations that there had been foreign meddling and systematic cheating in the polls.

There are church groups (religious and lay leaders) those who campaigned for the rightful candidates in a sea of fascist enablers, including the CNL and other faith believers based on principles. For some, the election results may be heartbreaking but as faith believers we should never be discouraged from resisting any looming dictatorship.

To surrender our country to evil personified in the person of our President- is the last thing we need. This is the time now to be engaged more than ever, way beyond these elections. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented. Voters felt deceived and bribed as they were intimidated and manipulated by the leaders of the administration candidates to choose the people they want to win.

In view of this, we call on fellow Christians and faith believers (bishops, clergy,women and men religious, lay leaders) to reject the election result, rather continue to organize, and mobilize the masses for the armed struggle as promoted in the papal encyclical “‘Pacem in Terris” by Saint Pope Paul VI. Revolution for genuine change is the solution NOT any electoral exercise.

Join the sectoral groups who express their pent up voices of disenfranchisement and deception experienced during the electoral exercise. We will never concede to the fraudulent electoral result ! We will continue working for the genuine change the people long ago had been longing for. Reject the Election Result !

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/stand-for-truth-and-justice-reject-the-rotten-electoral-exercise/

WESTMINCOM: Army General visits WestMinCom

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Website (May 24, 2019): Army General visits WestMinCom



Army Artillery Regiment Commander, Brigadier General Virgilio B. Bartolome, paid a courtesy visit to the Western Mindanao Command around 3pm this afternoon, May 24.



He was welcomed with traditional military honors by the officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian employees of this command led by the Chief of Unified Command Staff, Colonel Leonardo I. Peña.



BGen Bartolome was then received by Lieutenant General Arnel B. Dela Vega, commander of the Western Mindanao Command, and his Command Staff at the Laong-Laan Hall, Headquarters, Western Mindanao Command, Calarian, Zamboanga City.



BGen Bartolome is a member of the PMA “Hinirang” Class of 1987.

http://www.westmincom.com/army-general-visits-westmincom/

EASTMINCOM: EMC to build "Bridge of Hope" in Paquibato

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Website (May 24, 2019): EMC to build "Bridge of Hope" in Paquibato

NSFA, Panacan, Davao City - The Eastern Mindanao Command (EMC) is bound to carry out the construction of a hanging bridge in the hinterlands of Barangay Mapula, Paquibato, Davao City after the Command and GMA Kapuso Foundation Incorporated inked a Terms of Reference at Headquarters EMC here on May 24, 2019.

In the agreement which was witnessed by Atty. Elisa D. Evangelista-Lapiña of Davao PEACE 911, the GMA Foundation will provide the design and will be responsible in sourcing out the financial and other material requirements on the construction of the bridge that will benefit the Indigenous Peoples (IP) community in the area.

Meanwhile, the EMC through the 52nd Engineer Brigade will carry out the construction while the 1003rd Infantry Brigade will be tasked to secure the project.

Paquibato District is an IP area of Davao City which is now a focus of the City Government of Davao to be transformed into a conflict-resilient area through their program "Terrorism to Tourism."

"After we have rid of the area of CPP-NPA Terrorist Group's presence, we have now shifted our focus by supporting this kind of initiative and other peace initiatives of the Local Government Unit of Davao City through the PEACE 911 of capacitating the communities of Paquibato to be conflict resilient," Lt. Gen. Felimon T. Santos Jr. said.

Source: Public Information Office, Eastern Mindanao Command, AFP

https://www.eastmincomafp.com.ph/2019/05/emc-to-build-bridge-of-hope-in-paquibato.html

Tribal datu allegedly killed by NPA rebels

From the Mindanao Times (May 24, 2019): Tribal datu allegedly killed by NPA rebels

A tribal leader was killed by alleged members of the New People’ Army in Sitio Dakulang, Barangay Bangonay, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte on Monday.

Capt. Francisco Garello Jr., the Civil-Military Operations (CMO) officer of 402nd Infantry Brigade, identified the victim as Datu Rodito “Bebot” Boklas, a Mamanwa tribal leader.

Boklas was reportedlyl abducted from his farm and later his body, riddled with stab wounds, was dumped on the hilly part of Sitio Amontay of the same barangay.

According to Nenit Cago Boklas, the victim’s wife, they were walking in the hilly part of Sitio Amontay when a group of five armed men confronted them and forcibly took the tribal leader with them. The military identified the rebels as members of the Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda 16A, Guerrilla Front Committee 16, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.
Lt. Col. Isagani O. Criste, acting commanding officer of the 29th Infantry Battalion, extended his condolences to the family of the victim.

“This is again a clear manifestation that the NPA terrorists are mere lowlife outlaws who do not respect Lumad leaders,” Criste said.

“This is a blatant disregard of the value of human life and clear violation under the International Humanitarian Law that sought to spare civilians from conflict. Killing a person will not pave the way to resolve issues,” he added.

Meanwhile, Col. Maurito L. Licudine, the 402nd IB commander, said, “We will pursue these terrorists and rest assured that we shall not rest until these perpetrators are brought to justice and will have no choice but to surrender or else face the consequences of being killed or captured.”

http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/05/24/tribal-datu-allegedly-killed-by-npa-rebels/

100,000 Maranaos still have no homes 2 years after Marawi siege

From the Mindanao Examiner (May 24, 2019): 100,000 Maranaos still have no homes 2 years after Marawi siege

MARAWI CITY – The deep scars left by the 2017 conflict in Marawi City in Lanao del Sur province in southern Philippines continue to haunt over 100,000 people who still do not have a home to return to.

“Despite the numerous aid efforts that have truly helped those in need over the two years, the people of Marawi have grown tired and frustrated. They want to stand on their own feet again and stop depending on assistance,” said Martin Thalmann, head of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) delegation in the Philippines.

Whether they have been living with relatives or are in evacuation centres and transition sites, the displaced people of Marawi struggle for access to potable water, viable livelihood opportunities and most importantly, permanent shelters, according to Thalmann, who noted that the authorities were trying to address complex issues so that the rehabilitation of the most affected area (MAA) could begin.

But the conflict has left more vulnerable groups, such as families of missing people and victims of violence, with invisible scars. “The wounds that do not bleed are the wounds that become scars. And these are the most painful because they will always leave something to look at. And it is something that will always bring back memories of what had happened. Nevertheless, it is still important because it is still a lesson,” recalled Mel, a 34-year-old resident who was severely traumatized by the Marawi conflict.

Launched in October 2018, the ICRC’s mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) programme has reached close to 700 people. Among them, 47 people who were severely traumatized in the Marawi conflict—including “Mel”—have reported feeling “relieved, comfortable, safe and understood” after undergoing individual MHPSS sessions.

“They need sustained support to recover mentally from the trauma caused by the conflict that has affected their overall well-being,” Thalmann said.

He said ICRC would work on strengthening the capacity of the public health system in the area of psychosocial support to victims of violence. He said the ICRC, with its partner the Philippine Red Cross, has been supporting people affected since the onset of the Marawi conflict.

People who were injured during the fighting received ICRC support to cover the cost of their medical treatment. Those with physical disabilities as result of injuries were supported by ICRC to receive prosthesis and physiotherapy, Thalmann said.

The ICRC, he said, continues to help the displaced people by restoring sources of income and improving access to water and sanitation in various sites. It has also been working with families whose loved ones went missing due to the conflict.

“We have been filling the gaps in the recovery response in coordination with the authorities and other aid organizations. But we can only do so much. The authorities still have the primary responsibility of providing sustainable solutions to help the people of Marawi,” Thalmann said.

https://mindanaoexaminer.com/100000-maranaos-still-have-no-homes-2-years-after-marawi-siege/

Muslim scholar shot dead in Zamboanga

From the Mindanao Examiner (May 24, 2019): Muslim scholar shot dead in Zamboanga

Motorcycle gunmen shot dead a Muslim scholar in an attack in the southern Philippine province of Zamboanga del Norte, police said Friday.

Police said the 37-year old Ustadz Abdurahman Abubakar was travelling on a motorcycle with his wife and child when the gunmen, who were tailing them, shot him from behind several times in the village of Malambuhangin in Siocon town.

The assailants fled after the shooting leaving behind Abubakar’s wife and child unscathed. The killing, which occurred late Thursday afternoon, is being investigated by the police, according to Major Helen Galvez, a regional police spokeswoman.

“The unidentified suspects shot the victim several times hitting his left shoulder and right forehead that cause his instantaneous death. The suspects hurriedly fled away to the hinterlands,” she said.

Abubakar’s family did not give any statement on the murder and no individual or group claimed responsibility for the killing. Attacks on Muslim scholars and religious leaders are in the region.

But in January, two unidentified men also attacked a local mosque, exploding a fragmentation grenade that killed 2 Islamic missionaries or Tablighi Jamaat in Zamboanga City.

Five other missionaries were wounded in the attack on Kamalhaldikan Mosque. At least 11 people were sleeping at the mosque when the attack occurred, killing Sattal Bato, 47, and Rex Habil, 46.

No individual claimed responsibility for the desecration of the mosque which occurred 3 days after a pair of Indonesian ISIS bombers blew themselves up at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral in Jolo town in Sulu province that left dozens of casualties.

Muslim scholars, in a strong worded statement, called the attack on the mosque and the killings of the missionaries, as “devilish, irrational and inhumane act.”

https://mindanaoexaminer.com/muslim-scholar-shot-dead-in-zamboanga/

Banwaon tribe declares NPA persona non-grata

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 24, 2019): Banwaon tribe declares NPA persona non-grata 

SAN LUIS, Agusan del Sur – Another indigenous community made a firm stand as the Banwaon tribe has recently declared the terrorist New People's Army (NPA) and its affiliated organizations as persona non-grata in their own tribal territory.

With the support of the tribal leaders and elders of the Banwaon tribe, the Barangay Council of Balit pushed for the declaration of persona non-grata against the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA (CPP-NPA) and its allied organizations inside their territories.

The declaration was made thru a resolution signed by the barangay council during the Barangay Assembly which, were participated by 258 residents of the barangay.

Datu Antonio “Loay-Loay” Mangkogbahan Otacan, the Indigenous People Mandatory Representative of the Banwaon tribe, together with other tribal leaders and elders, expressed his support to the undertakings of the Council, which according to him is the only path towards the total transformation of the barangay away from its bad image.

“We must support our Barangay Leaders for this action without any second thoughts. Being the first barangay leader of Balit to experience the communists influence in 1986, I was blinded on the wrong doings of my fellow tribe members in cooperating with the communist NPAs,” he said.

Brarangay Balit as a former CNN influenced barangay, its residents used to support the “Taktikang Bakwit” orchestrated by the Communist Terrorist Groups displacing an estimated 1500 IPs from the hinter sitios of the municipality and confined them inside Balit Infirmary Compound for almost three months, in order to hamper the conduct of community outreach program.

In her statement to enlighten the residents of her barangay, Punong Barangay Eliza Gaud explained that this act of the council was an indispensable move in order to end the long history of the barangay being tagged as the center of gravity of CNN in the whole province of Agusan del Sur.

“In as much as I wanted to bring development in our barangay, it is necessary that we must first rebuild our name and stop the misconceptions of other Agusanon about Balit that we were a solid communists mass supporters. We are indeed a truly peace-loving people. And by this declaration, I strongly believe that we are giving a strong message to all that we are no more 'masa' of the terrorists NPAs,” she said.

“We want Barangay Balit to experience the true development themselves, and with the newly constructed CAFGU Detachment in their barangay, we are sure that one step at a time, we can achieve our mission of bringing the government much closer to them. Their declaration of persona non grata against the CNN is a big contribution towards achieving that goals,” Lieutenant Colonel Romeo Jimenea, Commander of 26IB emphasized to the residents.

Colonel Allan Hambala, 401st Brigade Commander, expressed his appreciation to this move of the barangay council stressing that “for almost 33 years of being under the shadow of these terrorist CPP-NPA, this is the right time to do such significant move, and I commend the Barangay Council of Balit together with the Banwaon Tribal leaders in coming up with the resolution of making these terrorists restricted in Balit. With the institutionalized Whole of Nation Approach of our government, every Local Government Unit must also do their part on this campaign.”

“Your effort is the most important part of the plan, and with your active involvement on this mission, we are very sure to end this local communist armed conflict in no time,” Hambala added. (26IB/401st Brigade, PA/ PIA-Agusan del Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1021815

PNP Caraga condemns killing of senior police officer by CPP-NPA

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 24, 2019): PNP Caraga condemns killing of senior police officer by CPP-NPA

The leadership of Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 condemned the killing of a Police Executive Master Sergeant (PEMS or SPO4) by the members of the Communist Party of the Philippines- New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) Wednesday (May 22) in Brgy. Tagcatong, Carmen, Agusan del Norte.

“The entire police force condemned in the strongest manner the latest hostility launched by the CPP-NPA on PEMS Jimmer Omisol. This dastardly and barbaric act proved that there is no justice and rule of law in the armed struggle,” Brigadier General Gilberto Cruz, PRO13 director said.

Based on the investigation of Carmen Municipal Police Station, the victim had just arrived in Brgy. Tagcatong around 6:30 PM but when he went out of his car, three armed men tried to grab him.

“The rebels tried to kidnap our police officer but sensing he’s in danger, he was able to shot and hit his assailants as evidenced by the bloodstains at the waiting shed where the five NPA members serving as look-outs were waiting. Although outnumbered, the hero cop fought until his last breath,” BGen. Cruz added.

PRO13 also negated the claim of Ka Omar Ibarra, spokesperson of NPA in Agusan that the victim was involved in illegal activities and inhuman treatment of persons placed in the police detention facility of Carmen.

“He is known to be a humble and hardworking police officer. Even in his previous assignments, he did not have records of illegal activities. The statement of Ibarra is a fabricated story to justify the evil acts of his men,” the region’s police chief stressed out.

Meanwhile, the police and military are conducting joint operations to bring the terrorist-killers before the bar of justice.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1022431

31 Manobos flee Haran, are back home

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 24, 2019): 31 Manobos flee Haran, are back home

KAPALONG, Davao del Norte (PIA) -- Thirty-one members of the Ata-Manobo tribe who reportedly ran away from the Haran compound in Davao City last Saturday (May 18) have returned home, arriving on Tuesday (May 21) afternoon.

Taking almost a three-hour trip on a dump-truck of the local government of Kapalong, and riding through winding roads with concreted and rough portions, the 31 reached their homeland at Sitio Tiabong in Barangay Gupitan, an upland village in Kapalong.

They were accompanied by Kapalong Indigenous People’s Mandatory Representative Datu Arturo Dabao, representatives from the Municipal Information Office of Kapalong and from the Municipal Social Welfare Development Office, the Department of Education Kapalong District, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Davao del Norte Information Center, and the 60th Infantry Battalion.

The homecoming of the 31, who comprised six families with 21 children and 10 adults, ignited cheers from their fellow tribesmen as they passed through Sitio Lunoluno whose residents had been informed of the return of their neighbors.

A screen grab from PIA-XI video report shows Ata-Manobo evacuees who reportedly escaped from the Haran compound arriving in their community in Kapalong.

Datu Dabao revealed that a ritual was held earlier on the same day of the homecoming, at Sitio Lunoluno to appease the spirit of a tribal chieftain who was allegedly killed by members of the New People’s Army due to his refusal to go with the “bakwits” of the nearby sitio.

“Sila man gud tong nahimong hinungdan nganong gipatay tong datu. (They were the reason why that datu was killed),” Datu Dabao told PIA while on the way to Sitio Tiabong.

“Aron makalabang sila sa dapit, kinahanglan naay ritwal nga pagahimoon agig pakig-uli. (So they could pass through the place, a ritual needed to be performed for reconciliation),” he added identifying the datu as Datu Binandao Maugan.

Upon reaching Sitio Tiabong, the 31 were greeted by fellow villagers led by Datu Lambid Tiklunay who thanked Kapalong Mayor Ma. Theresa Timbol for facilitating the safe return of his tribe folk.

Tribal elders and other community leaders then banded together along the road where the 31 disembarked from the dump-truck, and they grouped around the visitors.

Datu Dabao relayed Timbol’s jubilation for the homecoming of the tribe members from Haran in Davao City, and asked community leaders to accommodate those who were returning home.

DepEd Kapalong District representative, Leigh Jay Cubar, brought them the news that DepEd will be setting up two makeshift school buildings for kinder pupils, and for Grade I to Grade IV students.

“Naa nay klase dinhi karong June 3. (Classes will start here on June 3), ” he said.

Datu Tiklunay assured the visitors accompanying his tribe members that the leaders and elders will make sure that community members won’t fall prey again as "bakwit" recruits.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1022427

Martial law instills order in Mindanao

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 24, 2019): Martial law instills order in Mindanao



A Simba Armored Personnel Carrier along Davao City's Claveria Street. The AFP says martial law has helped ensure the safety of cities and communities.

DAVAO CITY (PIA) - Martial law in Mindanao has boosted the implementation of peace and security measures to ensure the safety of communities, military and police officials say.

The martial law, now on its second year of implementation, was declared on May 21, 2017, shortly after the Islamic State-inspired terrorists laid siege to Marawi City.

Speaking at the AFP-PNP Press Corps briefing, Captain Jerry Lamosao, spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division, said martial law has helped in ensuring the safety and security of communities and has corrected the impression that it will make the military more abusive of its authority.

With martial law in place, the communities are more emboldened to report the presence of armed men in their neighborhood while more rebels return to the folds of the law, he added.

Lamosao said no complaints of abuse have been ventilated to the military leadership and even to Malacanang with regards to its implementation.

He said that the military has engaged more stakeholders in its peace and order programs to quash the insurgency.

The 10th ID spokesperson said delivery of services to the communities is also more profound through the construction of more farm-to-market roads, and other infrastructure projects.

“The implementation of martial law is more of a bane to armed groups based on the Marawi experience and the presence of the communist rebels in our area,” Lamosao said.

Police Major Jason Baria, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office XI, maintained that no human rights violation has been reported to have been committed by authorities in Mindanao.

“Surely, the martial law is purely a peace and order measure,” he said.

Baria said the people can reach the authorities through the 888 hotline, but no abuse has been recorded two years since its implementation in Mindanao.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1022378

Island teachers want to return to mainland Zambo City

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 24, 2019): Island teachers want to return to mainland Zambo City

ZAMBOANGA CITY --As classes are to start on June 3, the Department of Education (DepEd) here has received numerous requests from island-barangay teachers to be transferred back to the mainland.

DepEd Zamboanga City Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Oliver Talaoc reported their office has received such requests for re-assignments from teachers, particularly in the island barangays of Tigtabon, Sacol Island, Manalipa, Landang Gua and others.

“They do not want to be assigned in the islands, they are afraid,” Talaoc said as he confirmed that security concerns make up the most of the teachers’ apprehensions. “They are afraid that they might be kidnapped.”

Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) pump boats have been ferrying the teachers from the mainland to the islands, but the boats have a strict schedule. Talaoc said there are instances when teachers are not able to catch the boat on time, and they have to wait for hours for the boat’s return. Otherwise, they have the option to flag boats-for-hire, but they are apprehensive to do this for security reasons.

“The teachers want to be reassigned in the city, but the problem is they do not have replacements yet,” Talaoc explained. They will have to stay until such time when newly-hired teachers would have been assigned to take their posts.

More than 10 years ago in January 2009, three newly-assigned school teachers were abducted in the waters of Sacol Island. There have been other similar abductions of school teachers here in the past.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1022432

Army battalions join 'Brigada Eskwela' in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2019): Army battalions join 'Brigada Eskwela' in Maguindanao



BRIGADA ESKWELA LINK. Soldiers from the Army's 33rd Infantry Battalion provide free haircut to pupils during the Brigada Eskwela activity on Thursday (May 23) in Datu Paglas, Maguindanao ahead of the class opening on June 3. (Photo courtesy of 33rd IB)

Soldiers from two Army battalions took time out on Thursday to participate in “Brigada Eskwela” initiatives in public schools in Maguindanao as part of their social responsibility, officials said. 

Lt. Col. Elmer Boongaling, commander of the 33rd Infantry Battalion (IB), said soldiers of the Bravo Company joined parents and teachers in preparing the Datu Paglas Central School in Poblacion, Datu Paglas, Maguindanao by providing manpower assistance and free haircut, especially to incoming students.

Boongaling said the annual Brigada Eskwela was spearheaded by Bouden Tudon, head teacher of Datu Paglas Central School, with the parents, teachers, and alumni who cleaned, cut grasses, and repair classrooms.

In nearby President Quirino Central School in Barangay Poblacion, Pres. Quirino, Sultan Kudarat, the soldiers joined the annual Brigada Eskwela efforts.

“The soldiers’ participation in the Brigada Eskwela highlight the spirit of volunteerism and unity,” he said in a statement.

Elements of the 57th IB joined the same activity in public schools in the towns of Datu Hoffer, Datu Unsay, and Shariff Aguak, all in Maguindanao, on Thursday.

The soldiers helped prepare the school facilities and its environment to become safe and conducive for learning when pupils return to school on June 3.

Major Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the 6th Infantry Division, has ordered all Army battalions in the provinces of Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat, and parts of North Cotabato and Lanao del Sur to participate in Brigada Eskwela activities.

Brigada Eskwela, or the National Schools Maintenance Week, is a nationwide initiative by the Department of Education (DepEd) that aims to mobilize the parents, alumni, teachers, civic groups, and students, among others, to volunteer their time and repair skills in preparing school facilities for school opening in June.

This year’s theme is "Matatag na Bayan Para sa Matatag na Paaralan."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070602

1 hurt as NoCot town clan war erupts anew

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2019): 1 hurt as NoCot town clan war erupts anew



A clan member was wounded as a longtime feud between two warring families broke out anew in Midsayap, North Cotabato on Thursday afternoon, a military official here said.

Maj. Arvin John Encinas, Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID) spokesperson, said the clans involved in the conflict belong to Mama Makalimbol, an alleged leader of a local private armed group, and Datu Duluan, a Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) area commander.

Encinas said the two families traded shots around 4 p.m. in remote Barangay Tumbras, resulting to the wounding of a certain Akmad Baraguir who belongs to the Makalimbol group.

“The wounded Baraguir was immediately brought to a local infirmary for treatment,” he told the Philippine News Agency in a phone interview Friday.

He said troopers from the Army’s 34th Infantry Battalion responded to the scene, firing three 81 mm mortar projectiles to pacify and separate the quarreling families.

"Officials from the Midsayap town government and local elders are currently talking with the two sides to sort out their differences that have spanned over the last decade,” Encinas said.

He added that the 6ID has also referred the matter to the joint government-MILF coordinating peace panels to talk things over with Duluan.

Some 200 villagers who evacuated at the height of the conflict have started returning home on Friday morning, Encinas said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070606

Prelate to NPAs: Spare billion-peso road project from attacks

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2019): Prelate to NPAs: Spare billion-peso road project from attacks



CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS. The ongoing contruction of Simora Bridge that links Laoang town center to the mainland is one of the projects monitored by the church-led Samar Island Partnership for Peace and Development. Catholic Bishop Crispin Varquez of the Diocese of Borongan said the Eastern Samar development projects monitoring team will closely check on the civil works despite security threats. (Photo from FB page of Borongan Diocesan Social Action Center)

TACLOBAN CITY -- The church-led Samar Island Partnership for Peace and Development (SIPPAD) on Thursday appealed to the New People’s Army (NPA) to spare the billion-peso Samar Pacific Coastal Road Project amid security issues.

Catholic Bishop Crispin Varquez of the Diocese of Borongan said the Eastern Samar development projects monitoring team will closely check on the civil works despite security threats.

Varquez led the team in the inspection of Simora Bridge construction in Northern Samar, a major component of the coastal road project that will connect the island town of Laoang to the mainland in Palapag town.

The Catholic bishop also toured the towns of Laoang and Palapag to check the status of the ongoing road project that links the four Pacific coastal towns of Northern Samar to Laoang.

“The road network and bridges are important infrastructures to aid the development of these towns. Its absence may result in peace and order and economic setbacks,” Varquez said in a phone interview after the first field monitoring activity.

The monitoring was almost postponed due to the recent clash between government troops and rebels, where a soldier of the 63rd Infantry Battalion and two communist rebels died.

The soldiers were deployed in the area to secure the infrastructure project when a group of communist terrorists attacked them early morning on May 21.

“It is sad to hear that there are people who sacrificed their lives in the implementation of a project designed to bring development and progress,” Varquez said.

“I am appealing to the people that if you can talk with our rebel brothers, tell them to stop and spare this project in their attacks because this will not only benefit a few sectors but our entire province,” he said.

The church official, who heads SIPPAD, said that solving the peace and order concerns is not only the job of the military but the community as well. “We need to work hand-in-hand to solve our security problem and to maintain peace and order.”

SIPPAD is a partnership of the church, academe, civil society, media, and youth sectors in Northern, Eastern, and Samar provinces. The organization is headed by the three bishops in the Diocese of Borongan, Calbayog, and Catarman, who oversee the church in Samar Island provinces.

The partnership has identified the PHP997.50-million road project as a priority for monitoring since it is crucial in solving decades-long poverty and insurgency.

The project, funded through a loan from the South Korean government, will open an 11.6-km. two-lane road and build three bridges. The Korean contractor aims to complete the project by March 2020.

To reach the capital town of Catarman, residents of Palapag and three other Pacific towns -- Mapanas, Gamay, and Lapinig -- need to cross the river twice through a pump boat ride.

From the port in Pangpang village in Palapag, travelers need to cross the river to Calomotan village of Laoang, then take a boat ride to the port in the town center and ride another pump boat to cross the river going to Rawis village.

The road project will also help promote the tourism potentials of the four Pacific coastal towns blessed with beaches, rock formations, waterfalls, and caves, he said.

Through this road network, Eastern Samar will be directly connected to Northern Samar without passing through the cities of Catbalogan and Calbayog in Samar province, cutting travel time by six hours via Arteche-Palapag Road bordering the eastern and northern side of the province.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070603

Army hits NPA recruitment of minors in Surigao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2019): Army hits NPA recruitment of minors in Surigao Sur



The Army's 36th Infantry Battalion (36IB) said it has validated yet again the continued recruitment of minors by communist rebels, in violation of Philippine laws.

In a statement released Thursday, 36IB said it managed to confirm the recruitment of a minor following an encounter in Carmen, Surigao del Sur, on May 19 that killed four New People's Army (NPA) combatants.

Of the casualties, the 36IB said, was 18-year old Dylan Ghem Padilla Jimenez, whose mother told military authorities that her son fled their home in Carrascal, Surigao del Sur, after he was recruited by the rebels when he was 17.

1Lt. Jonald Romorosa, 36IB civil-military operations officer, said the troops found Jimenez wounded and rushed him to the hospital but was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.

By recruiting Jimenez when was still a minor, the 36IB said the NPA was liable for violating Republic Act 9851, or "an act defining and penalizing crimes against international humanitarian law, genocide and other crimes against humanity, organizing jurisdiction, designating special courts, and for related purposes..."

The law, the Army said, "prohibits the recruitment and participation of children in arm conflict. In which the state values the dignity of every human person and guarantees full respect for human rights, including the rights of indigenous cultural communities and other vulnerable groups, such as women and children."

Further, the 36IB said the NPA's "recruitment of minors is a violation of the “Special Protection of Children in Situations of Armed Conflict Act" or Republic Act 11188."

"Under the law, children are declared as ‘Zones of Peace’ which must extend beyond territorial or geographical boundaries. The law recognized that children are entitle to dignity and respect as human beings in need of protection from degradation and to prevent the recruitment, re-recruitment, use, displacement of, or grave child rights violations against children involved in armed conflict," it added.

Lt. Col. Xerxes Trinidad, 36IB commander, said the recruitment of Jimenez was proof of the rebels' continuing use of child soldiers "to participate in an armed conflict in pursuit of their disillusioned cause."

"The CNTs (Communist Party of the Philippines –New People’s Army terrorists) leadership must be held accountable and liable for this act of crimes against minors. We will facilitate the filing of appropriate charges to this action of the CNTs,” Trinidad said.

Trinidad added: “We call on the peace-loving people of Surigao del Sur to condemn this act of crimes of the CNTs. Let us protect our children at all cost. To the remaining CNT, stop recruiting and exploiting minor. Surrender now and return to the fold of the law and avail the government’s Enhance and Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP)."

The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070659

Duterte appoints replacement for late BTA member

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2019): Duterte appoints replacement for late BTA member

President Rodrigo Duterte has appointed Mudjib Compania Abu as member of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), replacing the late Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) vice chair Ghazali Jaafar, Malacañang said on Thursday.

Jaafar, who also served as chairperson of the MILF Peace Negotiating Panel from 1996 to 1997, died in a hospital in Davao City on March 13.

Duterte appointed him as chairperson of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission in January 2017 and as member of the BTA, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao in February 2019.

Aside from Compania, Duterte also appointed pastor Grepor Belgica as the new presidential adviser for religious affairs.

Beglica will have a one-peso compensation every year.

He appointed Jose Sylton Solidum as assistant Cabinet secretary under the Office of the Cabinet Secretariat, Office of the President.

The President also appointed former special envoy to China Fernando Borja as his new special envoy to Japan for business and investment promotion for a term of six months.

He renewed the appointment of Almarim Tillah as special envoy of the President to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation from Jan. 1, 2019 to Dec. 31, 2019.

Duterte also appointed Teresita Mata-Maranon as member of the Board of Directors, Coconut Industry Investment Fund (CIIF) Oil Mill, Inc.; Leonor Cabral-Lim as member, representing the academe/research at the Philippine Council for Mental Health, Department of Health (DOH); Celerino Umandap as member, representing the overseas Filipino workers land-based sector of the Board of Trustees, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Department of Labor and Employment; Datu Mama Salazar Sinsuat Jr. as Director IV of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos; Ronlyn Quillope Zambales as Director IV of the Department of Interior and Local Government; and Judith Pagsanjan as Director II of the Department of Transportation among others.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070596

Frigates purchase aimed at ensuring PH territorial integrity

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2019): Frigates purchase aimed at ensuring PH territorial integrity

Photo courtesy: Hyundai Heavy Industries

ULSAN, South Korea -- The acquisition of modern naval platforms, such as the missile frigate, BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), and its sister ship, BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), is part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) ongoing efforts to ensure the country's territorial integrity.

This was stressed by AFP Chief-of-Staff, Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr., when asked by reporters whether the acquisition of these frigates mean that the country is engaging in an arms race in the wake of the ongoing tensions at the West Philippine Sea.

"No, the objective of our ongoing modernization program is to come up with a very credible and world-class AFP that the Filipino people will be proud of. Those (tensions) are just incidental but our overall intention, of course, is to ensure we maintain our territorial integrity and that we are able to represent an armed forces that can be at par with other Armed Forces in other countries," he said in a mixture of Filipino and English during the briefing for the launch of the BRP Jose Rizal.

Madrigal said these ships will be able to support Filipino fishermen engaged in their lawful occupation in the country's territorial waters.

The AFP chief's views were echoed by Philippine Navy flag officer-in-command, Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad, who noted the urgent need for the PN to upgrade its new assets due to the country's vast territorial waters.

"There is a saying that if you want to achieve peace, you prepare for war. I attended the International Maritime Security Conference last week in Singapore and we observed that a lot of Navies are modernizing their capabilities," Empedrad said.

He cited as an example the case of Australia, China, and Malaysia who are currently ramping up their naval forces.

"I think there is a need to beef up the PN because we have vast maritime (territories that these countries) and we need to protect it," Empedrad said.

The BRP Jose Rizal was formally launched at the Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea Thursday morning.

The ship, which is expected to be delivered to the Philippines by HHI in September 2020, will be armed with an Oto Melara 76mm Super Rapid main gun, an Aselsan SMASH 30mm remote-controlled secondary cannon, anti-submarine torpedoes, and anti-air and ship missiles.

It is also equipped with Hanwha Systems' Naval Shield combat management system (CMS), which integrates all shipboard sensors and weapons and decides which is ideal to deal with any incoming threat.

This system can also detect and track about 4,000 targets and is used in various configurations by the Republic of Korea Navy, Royal Malaysian Navy and the Indonesian Navy.

The Philippines and HHI signed a PHP16-billion contract for two missile-armed frigates, with another PHP2 billion set aside for its weapon systems and munition in October 2016.

PN spokesperson, Capt. Jonathan Zata, said these frigates will help secure the country's maritime chokepoints or primary sea routes used for trade, logistics, and naval operations for all forms of threats.

The steel-cutting for BRP Jose Rizal took place on April 1, 2018 while the same ceremony for BRP Antonio Luna transpired in November that year.

This event officially signified the start of the actual construction of the frigates.

Meanwhile, the keel-laying ceremony for BRP Jose Rizal took place last October as the formal recognition of the start of the ship’s construction.

Keel-laying refers to the official start of the construction of any ship and is considered among the four highlights of any surface vessel with the other three being steel-cutting, commissioning, and decommissioning.

"These frigates are built based on the Incheon/FFX-I/HDF-3000-type multi-purpose frigate of the Republic of Korea Navy (RoKN), which offers increased operational performance and enhanced survivability," Zata said.

These are also fully-equipped with surface-to-air and surface-to-surface missiles, torpedoes, launchers and weapon systems for four-dimensional warfare.

The ship measures 351 feet long and 46 feet wide and has a maximum speed of 25 knots and can travel up to 4,500 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 15 knots. It can sustain operational presence for 30 days and is capable of withstanding rough sea conditions up to Sea State 7, which means waves of up to six meters to nine meters high.

"Each frigate has a complement of more than 100 officers and crew. It has a flight deck located at the stern with the ability to handle one maritime helicopter weighing up to 12 tons. Two rigid-hulled inflatable boats will be carried to conduct military and emergency operations at sea," Zata added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070600

PH Navy to get 3 more multi-purpose attack craft this year

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2019): PH Navy to get 3 more multi-purpose attack craft this year

Photo courtesy: Hyundai Heavy Industries

ULSAN, South Korea -- The Philippine Navy (PN) is expected to acquire another three multi-purpose attack craft (MPAC) armed with the Rafael Advanced Defense Ltd. Spike-ER (extended range) surface-to-surface missile system this year. 

"We have another three (in the process of) building, and they are expected to be delivered this year. They will also be armed with the Spike-ER missiles," PN flag officer-in-command Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad said in an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA) shortly after the launch of the missile frigate, BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), at the Hyundai Heavy Industries shipyard here Thursday.

These MPACs will be called the Mark IV and have started construction in November last year.

Empedrad said the builders of the MPACs are the same as that of the previous Mark II and III.

The PN's three Mark III MPACs were constructed by the Subic-based Propmech Corp. and activated on May 22, 2017.

These boats can cruise up to 45 knots and are armed with remotely-controlled .50-caliber machine guns aside from the Spike-ER missiles.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070601

Marawi on road to recovery through healing, reconciliation

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2019): Marawi on road to recovery through healing, reconciliation



MARAWI CITY -- “We are on our way to being well. We are finally learning what peace is all about,” Marawi City Mayor Majul Gandamra declared as residents here on Thursday commemorated the siege that occurred two years ago.

Although, the full extent of the rehabilitation process has yet to be completed, Gandamra urged the people in Marawi to put more emphasis on social healing.

“Peace starts with us. Peace must be realized,” he said as the city celebrates the culmination of the Week of Peace festival.

The festival was held right on the grounds of the City Hall, where two years ago, the Mayor and several of his security men stood firm for days preventing the Maute group from burning the City Hall.

Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito G. Galvez Jr., who was then the chief of Western Mindanao Command, shared that just like their mayor who fought against the ISIS-linked group tooth and nail, the people of Marawi have shown their best by being resilient right at the height of the conflict.

“I was tasked to deliver an inspirational message today as we culminate the Marawi Week of Peace. But the reality is, it is you, the people of Marawi, who have inspired and strengthen my resolve to work for genuine and enduring peace,” he said.

“Truly, I am very inspired to know that as we observe the Holy Month of Ramadan, you are using the occasion as an opportunity to reflect on the lessons of the Marawi experience and apply them to your daily lives,” Galvez said, adding that “This is where the healing process can truly begin.”

Galvez emphasized that Marawi stand to benefit from the establishment of the Bangsamoro region.

“The opportunity for us to heal, rebuild, and recover is within reach. With the establishment of the Bangsamoro government, the fate of this beautiful city now rests not only in the hands of the new leadership but also in your hands,” he said.

“You now have the opportunity to play a key role in charting the course of Marawi's future,” Galvez pointed out.

Evacuees go back

According to Secretary Eduardo del Rosario, chair of the Task Force Bangon Marawi, only a few families affected by the conflict are still staying in evacuation camps.

“At the initial aftermath of the siege, there were about 57 evacuation centers with almost 6,000 families within and outside of Marawi. Now we have only two evacuation centers in Marawi with only about 312 families,” he said.

“And by July, all of these families will be accommodated in the temporary shelters. So nobody will be staying in evacuation centers,” he said.

Families that applied for building and reconstruction permits from the city government of Marawi will be allowed to go back in the most affected area, he said.

Del Rosario said Marawi is gradually bouncing back.

“We are mandated to ensure that Marawi will rise as a prosperous city again,” he said.

Transitional justice program

To achieve a holistic approach for the healing process, the Armed Forces of the Philippines is partnering with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) to help rehabilitate former members of the Maute group.

Col. Romeo Brawner, the commander of Task Force Ranao, said it is also important to intervene in the deradicalization of these individuals who were duped to join the Maute group.

“We are looking at the Basilan model, wherein members of the Abu Sayyaf, who have surrendered, where given proper interventions,” he said.

Galvez said his office will be helping the military in Lanao areas to bring down the level of animosity between the victims of the conflict and surrendered perpetrators.

“What we are looking at is the implementation of transitional justice and reconciliation here,” he said.

Part of the activities is to meet with the members of the Maute group who have surrendered and their families for an Iftar.

Brawner said they will tap these former and reformed combatants to prevent others from being radicalized.

Galvez also went to the Sarimanok Evacuation Center together with OPAPP personnel to hand over goods in solidarity with the internally displaced persons.

The visit is part of the yearly Duyog Ramadan that OPAPP is implementing during the month-long observance.

Meanwhile, Galvez, Del Rosario, Gandamra, and Brawner held a solemn wreath laying to commemorate the soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice to liberate Marawi. The ceremony was held inside the 103rd Infantry Brigade headquarters.

“The gallantry of the 168 soldier who lost their lives will forever be etched in our hearts,” Galvez said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070597

BRP Conrado Yap to arrive in PH in July

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2019): BRP Conrado Yap to arrive in PH in July

The BRP Conrado Yap (PS-39), formerly the South Korean "Pohang" class corvette Chungju, will sail home to the Philippines in July and is set to boost the Navy's anti-submarine and anti-surface capabilities.

This was disclosed by Philippine Navy flag officer-in-command Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad in an interview shortly after the launch of the country's first missile frigate, the BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) at the Hyundai Heavy Industries' shipyard in South Korea's southeastern city of Ulsan Thursday.

"The ship will be delivered to the Philippines by July (after refurbishment works in June)," he added.

The BRP Conrado Yap (PS-39) is the former Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) "Pohang"-class corvette Chungju (PCC-762) that was commissioned with the ROKN in 1987 and served until 2016.

"The ship will sail and arrive in the country in July 2019," PN spokesperson, Capt. Jonathan Zata, said.

The ship was named Conrado Yap to uphold the legacy of a gallant Filipino military leader who served in the Korean War as part of the Philippine Expeditionary Forces to Korea.

Yap was a Philippine Army captain and is considered as the most decorated Filipino soldier during the Korean War.

He posthumously received a Philippine Medal of Valor, the country's highest military honor, as well as a US Distinguished Service Cross, for gallantry in action as part of the Tank Company, 10th Battalion Combat Team (10th BCT), Philippine Army.

"Its sailing crew departed last April 2019 and (is) now undergoing necessary operational and warfare trainings for 13 weeks being facilitated by the Reserve Ship Maintenance Squadron (RSMS) in Jinhae, Gyeongsang-namdo, South Korea. The ship’s crew (members were) divided into five groups based on skills and specialization," Zata added.

The ship measures 88.3 meters long, with a beam of 10 meters and draft of 2.9 meters while its displacement is at 1,216 tons full load.

The ship is rated for a crew of 118 personnel and can sustain operational presence for 20 days.

The vessel's Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion configuration of Motor Transport Unit (MTU) diesel engines and LM2500 gas turbine with controllable pitch propellers (CPP) enable the ship to move to a maximum speed of 25 knots to a distance of 4,000 nautical miles.

"This ship will greatly enhance our fleet’s Anti-Air Warfare (AAW), Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW), Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) capabilities," Zata added.

The ship is armed with two 76mm Oto Melara main guns, a 30mm automatic cannons, anti-submarine torpedoes, and a variety of sensors, including sonars, and radars.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070610

Reds kill Agusan Norte deputy cop chief

From the Philippine Star (May 24, 2019): Reds kill Agusan Norte deputy cop chief

The deputy police chief of Carmen town in Agusan del Norte was shot dead by suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels on Wednesday. 

M/Sgt. Jimmer Omisol had just alighted from his car in Barangay Tagcaton when the rebels tried to kidnap him, Brig. Gen. Gilbert Cruz, Caraga police director, citing initial investigation, said.

”He was able to shoot and hit his assailants... The hero cop fought until his last breath,” Cruz said.

Eleven bullet shells for a caliber .45 pistol were recovered at the scene, which is near a police and military detachment.

Omar Ibarra of the NPA’s Northwestern Mindanao Command claimed responsibility for the killing, saying Omisol planted shabu and firearms seized from arrested NPA sympathizers and civilians.

Cruz condemned the killing even as he denied the allegations against Omisol. 

 
https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/05/24/1920335/reds-kill-agusan-norte-deputy-cop-chief

Army’s 11th IB to return to Negros after 2 years

From Politiko-Visayas (May 24, 2019): Army’s 11th IB to return to Negros after 2 years

After spending two years in Mindanao, the Philippine Army’s 11th Infantry Battalion is soon to return to Negros Island in the Visayas to fight the New People’s Army.

Lt. Gen. Noel Clement, commander of the AFP Central Command in the Visayas, said the 11IB should help fight the communist insurgency problem in the island.

Clement said the 11IB, which is presently based in Zamboanga City, is due to return to Negros Oriental end of May or early June 2019.

He said he is proposing to return the 11IB to its previous headquarters in Guihulngan City, in coordination with the concerned local government unit.

Recent attacks by the NPA had been in the areas of Guihulngan City and its neighboring areas, including Moises Padilla and Isabela towns in Negros Occidental.

The unit was transferred to Mindanao two years ago. Its return will bolster the four Army battalions now in Negros Island, including the 94th Infantry Battalion in Negros Oriental and the 15th, 62nd and 79th IBs in Negros Occidental.

Brig. Gen. Ignacio Madriaga, 302nd Infantry Brigade commander, said the return of 11IB to Negros Oriental is a welcome development.

“It will help fast track our objectives of clearing Negros Oriental of armed insurgents sooner than anticipated and desire to make the whole Region 7 insurgency-free,” he said.

https://visayas.politics.com.ph/armys-11th-ib-to-return-to-negros-after-2-years/

NPA terrorists recruiting child warriors – Army

From the Manila Bulletin (May 24, 2019): NPA terrorists recruiting child warriors – Army

TAGO, Surigao del Sur – The Army’s 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion (36th IB) on Thursday said Communist Party of the Philippines –New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) terrorists (CNTs) are recruiting minors as fighters following a recent clash at Barangay Cancavan, Carmen, Surigao del Sur.



New People’s Army (MANILA BULLETIN)

Four CPP-NPAs were killed during the encounter. One of them was identified as Dylan Ghem P. Jimenez alias “Gareb”, 18, a resident of Barangay Adlay, Carrascal town, Surigao del Sur province who was wounded and rushed by government troops to the hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.

According to the mother of Dylan, her son left home when he was 17 years old and was recruited by the NPA as a regular fighter, 1st Lt. Jopnald D. Romorosa, Civil Military Operations (CMO) officer of the 36th IB said.

The communist terrorist are held liable for violation of RA No. 9851, an act defining and penalizing crimes against international humanitarian law, genocide and other crimes against humanity, organizing jurisdiction, designating special courts, and for related purposes, it prohibits the recruitment and participation of children in arm conflict. In which the state values the dignity of every human person and guarantees full respect for human rights, including the rights of indigenous cultural communities and other vulnerable groups, such as women and children, it said.

The recruitment of minors are in violation of the “Special Protection of Children in Situations of Armed Conflict Act” or Republic Act. No.11188. Under the law, children are declared as “Zones of Peace” which must extend beyond territorial or geographical boundaries. The law recognized that children are entitled to dignity and respect as human beings in need of protection from degradation and to prevent the recruitment, re-recruitment, use, displacement of, or grave child rights violations against children involved in armed conflict.

Lt. Col. Xerxes A. Trinidad, commanding officer of the 36th IB, PA stated that “it is a clear manifestation that the CNTs are recruiting minors to participate in an armed conflict in pursuit of their disillusioned cause. Evidently, the CNTs violated the rights of children to live peacefully and should not be allowed to take part in the hostilities. The CNTs leadership must be held accountable and liable for this act of crimes against minors. We will facilitate the filing of appropriate charges to this action of the CNTs.”

“We call on the peace loving people of Surigao del Sur to condemn this. Let us protect our children at all cost. To the remaining CNT, stop recruiting and exploiting minor. Surrender now and return to the fold of the law and avail of the government’s Enhance Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), LTC Trinidad added.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/05/24/npa-terrorists-recruiting-child-warriors-army/