From the Philippine Star (Jun 3, 2019): NPA leader slain in firefight
An alleged ranking leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) has been killed in an encounter with government security forces in Talacogon, Agusan del Sur, the military announced yesterday.
Joeboy Mantipala, alias Bernabe, was reportedly among a group of insurgents who exchanged fire with a joint team of soldiers and police officers in Barangay Marbon on Thursday, according to Capt. Aldim Viernes of the Army’s 26th Infantry Battalion (IB).
Mantipala was reportedly the vice commanding officer of the NPA’s Platoon Banglas, Guerrilla Front 88-North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.
He suffered multiple gunshot wounds in the body and was declared dead on arrival at the Talacogon District Hospital.
Mantipala was tagged as one of the assailants of Felipe Amado, a militiaman who was killed in Barangay Lydia, San Luis town.
The military and the police launched a manhunt for Mantipala and his companions after witnesses identified them as the killers of Amado.
Mantipala was also tagged in the murder of Rubencio Salamoren, chairman of Barangay San Pedro, who was shot in nearby Barangay Don Alejandro in February.
“We received reports that the NPA is planning to attack government personnel, including soldiers and policemen. With the help of the people, we were able to track down Mantipala easily,” Lt. Col. Romeo Jimenea, chief of the 26th IB, said.
Authorities recovered a .45 caliber pistol, ammunition and a motorcycle at the scene of the encounter.
Sunday, June 2, 2019
ROTC revival has legal basis—DND
From the Manila Standard (Jun 1, 2019): ROTC revival has legal basis—DND
The proposed reinstatement of the mandatory Reserve Officers Training Corps for Grades 11 and 12 students does not violate any international law, the Department of National Defense said.
“It is the DND’s position that those opposed to the proposed bill are using a myopic interpretation of the law, which misleads the public into forming false perceptions and ill-informed opinions. The proposed bill was vetted by the departments of justice, national defense, education, and foreign affairs to ensure that it does not contravene the Philippine Constitution and international conventions,” Arsenio Andolong told the Philippine News Agency.
He was reacting to claims made by some sectors that making ROTC mandatory for senior high students violates international law.
An accompanying measure, House of Representatives Bill 8961 seeks to amend Republic Act 7077 or the Citizen Armed Forces of the Philippines Reservist Act. The bill was approved by the House on third and final reading, with a vote of 167-4-0.
Andolong said that under the “Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the Involvement of Children in Armed Conflict”, to which the Philippines is a signatory, the minimum age for voluntary recruitment into the Armed Forces of the Philippines is 18 years old.
ROTC cadets are not conscripted into the military and expected to fight wars during their two-year training.
“While some cadets may opt to join the regular force after they finish their voluntary advanced ROTC in college, mandatory ROTC will not automatically make our Grades 11 and 12 students part of the AFP. Furthermore, critics of the bill also forget that [the] mobilization of reservists in times of war will require an Act of Congress,” Andolong explained.
He added that reinstating mandatory ROTC among Grades 11 and 12 students is logical as only a small percentage of high school students are able to attend college.
This will automatically exclude them from the program should mandatory ROTC be reinstated for college students only.
“As to the question of age, we must point out that mandatory ROTC in the past was part of the curriculum of first and second year college students, most of whom were 16 to 18 years old. Reinstating mandatory ROTC in Grades 11 and 12 would not be any different in terms of age because these students fall within the same age bracket of the first and second year college students of the old curriculum. This seems to be a fact that proponents of college-level ROTC conveniently forget when they cite age as a problem in the current proposal,” Andolong said.
Under House Bill 8961, ROTC training would apply to “all students in Grades 11 and 12 in all senior high schools in public and private educational institutions” and shall be a requirement for graduation.
The following students may, however, be exempted: those who are physically or psychologically unfit; those who have undergone or are undergoing similar military training; those who are chosen by their school to serve as varsity players in sports competition; and those who may be exempted from training for valid reasons as approved by the DND, upon recommendation by an educational institution where the student is enrolled.
The proposed measure also strictly prohibits the use of ROTC training for “political” objective and for teaching and instilling a particular political ideology on students. House Bill 8961 also bans hazing and other forms of physical or mental abuse.
http://www.manilastandard.net/news/national/296232/rotc-revival-has-legal-basis-dnd-.html
“It is the DND’s position that those opposed to the proposed bill are using a myopic interpretation of the law, which misleads the public into forming false perceptions and ill-informed opinions. The proposed bill was vetted by the departments of justice, national defense, education, and foreign affairs to ensure that it does not contravene the Philippine Constitution and international conventions,” Arsenio Andolong told the Philippine News Agency.
He was reacting to claims made by some sectors that making ROTC mandatory for senior high students violates international law.
An accompanying measure, House of Representatives Bill 8961 seeks to amend Republic Act 7077 or the Citizen Armed Forces of the Philippines Reservist Act. The bill was approved by the House on third and final reading, with a vote of 167-4-0.
Andolong said that under the “Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the Involvement of Children in Armed Conflict”, to which the Philippines is a signatory, the minimum age for voluntary recruitment into the Armed Forces of the Philippines is 18 years old.
ROTC cadets are not conscripted into the military and expected to fight wars during their two-year training.
“While some cadets may opt to join the regular force after they finish their voluntary advanced ROTC in college, mandatory ROTC will not automatically make our Grades 11 and 12 students part of the AFP. Furthermore, critics of the bill also forget that [the] mobilization of reservists in times of war will require an Act of Congress,” Andolong explained.
He added that reinstating mandatory ROTC among Grades 11 and 12 students is logical as only a small percentage of high school students are able to attend college.
This will automatically exclude them from the program should mandatory ROTC be reinstated for college students only.
“As to the question of age, we must point out that mandatory ROTC in the past was part of the curriculum of first and second year college students, most of whom were 16 to 18 years old. Reinstating mandatory ROTC in Grades 11 and 12 would not be any different in terms of age because these students fall within the same age bracket of the first and second year college students of the old curriculum. This seems to be a fact that proponents of college-level ROTC conveniently forget when they cite age as a problem in the current proposal,” Andolong said.
Under House Bill 8961, ROTC training would apply to “all students in Grades 11 and 12 in all senior high schools in public and private educational institutions” and shall be a requirement for graduation.
The following students may, however, be exempted: those who are physically or psychologically unfit; those who have undergone or are undergoing similar military training; those who are chosen by their school to serve as varsity players in sports competition; and those who may be exempted from training for valid reasons as approved by the DND, upon recommendation by an educational institution where the student is enrolled.
The proposed measure also strictly prohibits the use of ROTC training for “political” objective and for teaching and instilling a particular political ideology on students. House Bill 8961 also bans hazing and other forms of physical or mental abuse.
http://www.manilastandard.net/news/national/296232/rotc-revival-has-legal-basis-dnd-.html
More soldiers deployed vs Abus
Fro the Philippine Star (Jun 3, 2019): More soldiers deployed vs Abus
The military has deployed an additional 1,700 Army troopers in Jolo, Sulu to help crush the Abu Sayyaf and other terrorist groups in Mindanao.
Troopers of 1st Brigade Combat Team (1BCT) boarded the BRP Tarlac that took them to Jolo on Friday, according to Army spokesman and public affairs chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala.
The team will be dispatched in areas under the jurisdiction of the Western Mindanao Command.
Zagala said aside from addressing threats posed by local terrorist groups, the soldiers would fill the force requirement of the newly activated 11th Infantry Division.
“The 1BCT is the Army’s contingency force that is capable of addressing conventional, unconventional and asymmetric threats. It is composed of an intelligence unit, combat engineer company, aviation, explosives and ordnance platoon, and air defense artillery battery, among others,” Zagala said.
Since its formation in December 2018, the unit has participated in the recently concluded Salaknib and Balikatan exercises with the US’ Pacific Command.
“The men and women of the 1BCT will ensure peace and security in Sulu. They are men and women of action and we commend them for going about their mission without fanfare, an attitude they carry even beyond their service in the military,” he said.
Army chief Maj. Gen. Jesus Sarsagat said that for several years now, the military’s peacekeeping efforts have stopped the terrorist groups from spreading destruction outside Jolo.
“We should remain determined in sustaining our internal operations and safeguarding the security of our territories. Let us preserve our hard-earned gains for the peace and development in the Mindanao Region,” he said.
https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/06/03/1923113/more-soldiers-deployed-vs-abus
The team will be dispatched in areas under the jurisdiction of the Western Mindanao Command
Troopers of 1st Brigade Combat Team (1BCT) boarded the BRP Tarlac that took them to Jolo on Friday, according to Army spokesman and public affairs chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala.
The team will be dispatched in areas under the jurisdiction of the Western Mindanao Command.
Zagala said aside from addressing threats posed by local terrorist groups, the soldiers would fill the force requirement of the newly activated 11th Infantry Division.
“The 1BCT is the Army’s contingency force that is capable of addressing conventional, unconventional and asymmetric threats. It is composed of an intelligence unit, combat engineer company, aviation, explosives and ordnance platoon, and air defense artillery battery, among others,” Zagala said.
Since its formation in December 2018, the unit has participated in the recently concluded Salaknib and Balikatan exercises with the US’ Pacific Command.
“The men and women of the 1BCT will ensure peace and security in Sulu. They are men and women of action and we commend them for going about their mission without fanfare, an attitude they carry even beyond their service in the military,” he said.
Army chief Maj. Gen. Jesus Sarsagat said that for several years now, the military’s peacekeeping efforts have stopped the terrorist groups from spreading destruction outside Jolo.
“We should remain determined in sustaining our internal operations and safeguarding the security of our territories. Let us preserve our hard-earned gains for the peace and development in the Mindanao Region,” he said.
https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/06/03/1923113/more-soldiers-deployed-vs-abus
Absence of hostages prompts military to intensify ops in Sulu
From Business Mirror (Jun3, 2019): Absence of hostages prompts military to intensify ops in Sulu
The deployment of the Army’s 1st Brigade Combat Team (1st BCT) over the weekend has made Sulu as the most military saturated province in the country, given that the 11th Infantry Division (11th ID) has also been predeployed or based there.
“As of now, we are really saying there is no more [captive]. In the past, we have records but, without the proof of life, there is no more report [that] they are still there,” Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command Spokesman Col. Gerry Besana said.
Over the weekend, the ASG under its chieftain, Radullan Sahiron, killed Ewold Horn, the Dutch captive held by the local terrorist group, following a firefight with soldiers at Sitio Bud Sub-Sub, Barangay Pansul, Patikul, Sulu, wherein Sahiron’s wife was also killed.
Horn, who was snatched in Tawi-Tawi along with another foreigner in 2012, was the last remaining captive of the ASG in Sulu, according to Besana. More than a week ago, however, Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana said that the ASG is still holding 11 captives, including the Dutch.
With the absence of any kidnap victims in the hands of the ASG, Besana said nothing will no longer hold the military from further intensifying its operations in Sulu in its effort to stop terrorism in the province.
In December last year, the military created the 11th ID and based it in Sulu, purposely to end the ASG-borne terrorism in the province, the first in the military’s history where a division-sized of soldiers was deployed in a province to run after a single indigenous threat group.
The division was backed up by specialized units from the Army, Navy and the Marines. On Friday the Army also sent its 1st BCT in Sulu, still to run after the ASG, which according to Besana, still has a record of 200 fighters in the province.
Besana said that while the military maintains a very big number of troops in Sulu, it could not just carry out an all-out war against the ASG in the province since it was holding kidnap victims until the death of Horn.
“That was correct. It became the limitation [the presence of kidnap victims]. We cannot go all-out. We are only doing surgical and selective [operations]. If we bomb [them], the kidnap victims will be hit,” he said.
The local military spokesman justified the military solution as only a part of the holistic approach in dealing with the problem of terrorism in Sulu as it needs to involve the other stakeholders.
https://businessmirror.com.ph/2019/06/03/absence-of-hostages-prompts-military-to-intensify-ops-in-sulu/
Denounce Reds over brutal slay of CAFGU member, Karapatan told
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 2, 2019): Denounce Reds over brutal slay of CAFGU member, Karapatan told
Major General Antonio Parlade, Jr., AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations
A ranking official of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC) on Sunday blasted human rights group Karapatan for its silence about the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA)'s brutal murder of a member of Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) who was just helping in the "Brigada Eskwela" program in a remote barangay in La Paz, Agusan del Sur on May 30.
"So, again where are you Kamatayan (Makabayan) bloc? Where is Cristina Palabay of Karapatan? Where are those who didn't want red-tagged? Where are those who complain that they are being harassed by the government?" said Major General Antonio Parlade, Jr., who is also Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Deputy Chief-of-Staff for civil-military operations.
Parlade was referring to the murder of Felipe Amado, 42, Manobo resident of Barangay Lydia, who was repeatedly shot and stabbed dead by five NPA members while the victim was off from work.
Perpetrators broke Amado’s neck and skinned his left arm before they fled towards Comota–Lydia barangay road.
At the time of his death, Amado was helping in the yearly "Brigada Eskwela" activities of the Lydia Elementary School.
"Here is another brutal killing by the NPAs and we are not hearing from you. It’s your chance to prove you have nothing to do with this organization who has been killing defenseless people. Indeed, what color do you want to be tagged now?" Parlade said.
Karapatan and two other militant groups earlier filed writs of amparo and habeas data before the Supreme Court, accusing the government and military of red-tagging, harassment, and other charges in connection with their alleged human right work.
Parlade also urged Karapatan to denounce the CPP-NPA and its allies for repeated atrocities they have committed against innocent indigenous peoples, and farmers in the countryside.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
"A good number of people just rejected you last elections. It’s time to convince them you have been unfairly linked to the communist terrorists. You cannot be quiet forever without saying something about this brutality of your CPP cohorts," he added.
Parlade also warned Karapatan and other leftist organizations to come clean and convince the public that they do not have a hand in the violent and illegal acts being perpetrated by communist rebels.
"You only have another three years until next election and if you cannot turn the tide to your favor, your Makabayan bloc will face extinction. NUPL (National Union of Peoples' Lawyers), Karapatan, RMP (Rural Missionaries of the Philippines), Gabriela, Ibon Foundation, and the rest of the Makabayan bloc, please we urge you. Condemn this terrorist killing now and be the champions of the oppressed as you claim. The people are waiting. Your European and foreign funders you have duped are watching," he added.
Parlade earlier said the severe defeat suffered by Makabayan bloc party-list groups in the May 13 elections polls is a wake-up call as people no longer believe in their advocacies.
"The result of the recent elections has shown that the people are finally awake," he added.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071309
A ranking official of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC) on Sunday blasted human rights group Karapatan for its silence about the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA)'s brutal murder of a member of Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) who was just helping in the "Brigada Eskwela" program in a remote barangay in La Paz, Agusan del Sur on May 30.
"So, again where are you Kamatayan (Makabayan) bloc? Where is Cristina Palabay of Karapatan? Where are those who didn't want red-tagged? Where are those who complain that they are being harassed by the government?" said Major General Antonio Parlade, Jr., who is also Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Deputy Chief-of-Staff for civil-military operations.
Parlade was referring to the murder of Felipe Amado, 42, Manobo resident of Barangay Lydia, who was repeatedly shot and stabbed dead by five NPA members while the victim was off from work.
Perpetrators broke Amado’s neck and skinned his left arm before they fled towards Comota–Lydia barangay road.
At the time of his death, Amado was helping in the yearly "Brigada Eskwela" activities of the Lydia Elementary School.
"Here is another brutal killing by the NPAs and we are not hearing from you. It’s your chance to prove you have nothing to do with this organization who has been killing defenseless people. Indeed, what color do you want to be tagged now?" Parlade said.
Karapatan and two other militant groups earlier filed writs of amparo and habeas data before the Supreme Court, accusing the government and military of red-tagging, harassment, and other charges in connection with their alleged human right work.
Parlade also urged Karapatan to denounce the CPP-NPA and its allies for repeated atrocities they have committed against innocent indigenous peoples, and farmers in the countryside.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
"A good number of people just rejected you last elections. It’s time to convince them you have been unfairly linked to the communist terrorists. You cannot be quiet forever without saying something about this brutality of your CPP cohorts," he added.
Parlade also warned Karapatan and other leftist organizations to come clean and convince the public that they do not have a hand in the violent and illegal acts being perpetrated by communist rebels.
"You only have another three years until next election and if you cannot turn the tide to your favor, your Makabayan bloc will face extinction. NUPL (National Union of Peoples' Lawyers), Karapatan, RMP (Rural Missionaries of the Philippines), Gabriela, Ibon Foundation, and the rest of the Makabayan bloc, please we urge you. Condemn this terrorist killing now and be the champions of the oppressed as you claim. The people are waiting. Your European and foreign funders you have duped are watching," he added.
Parlade earlier said the severe defeat suffered by Makabayan bloc party-list groups in the May 13 elections polls is a wake-up call as people no longer believe in their advocacies.
"The result of the recent elections has shown that the people are finally awake," he added.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071309
Opinion: The communists’ most successful strategy — but don’t Red-tag it
Opinion piece by Rigoberto D. Tiglao in the Manila Times (Jun 3, 2019): The communists’ most successful strategy — but don’t Red-tag it
THE Duterte government is the first ever post-EDSA administration to expose the Communist Party of the Philippines’ most successful strategy in its 50-year insurgency.
This strategy is its use of fronts and of organizations it had infiltrated and whose leadership it had captured. These are exploited not just to recruit people into their ranks but to disseminate its propaganda and to acquire finances, especially from gullible Western do-gooder NGOs and foundations.
In sharp contrast, past administrations, especially the two Aquino administrations, had very opportunistically coddled them, hoping to get their political and even voter-base support. Even media had hesitated to expose these Red fronts and puppet organizations for fear of being called Red-baiters, afraid that they could be targeted by the New People’s Army assassination teams.
The communists have been so successful in this strategy that communist cadres became congressmen through the party-list system — seven in the outgoing 17th Congress — which gave them vast resources and a national podium to propagate the Communist Party’s propaganda agendas.
No wonder this government’s all-out campaign to expose these Red fronts has created such a howl of protest from them, with the party even mobilizing the Rural Missionaries of the Philippines — set up in 1969 and the least known to be Red-influenced — to file a petition with the Supreme Court to stop such a move.
Red party-lists
In its dogma, this has been rationalized as part of the overall strategy calling for a “united front” which — plagiarizing from Mao Zedong — is the party’s shield, with the New People’s Army (NPA) its sword.
Without its fronts, the CPP would not have been able to recruit Filipinos who have been so brainwashed by the US and the Church to be rabidly anti-communists.
Sources: *NDF website. **Bulgar, March 28, 2019
Sison was first involved in such a tactic in the late 1950, when he joined UP academic Francisco Nemenzo and other members of the old pro-Soviet Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas, in establishing the Bertrand Russell Peace Foundation. It succeeded in recruiting what would later become Sison’s first core group, attracted to the organization’s campaign against America’s war in Vietnam.
Sison himself founded the Student Cultural Association of the University of the Philippines in 1959, its acronym SCAUP his weird way of raising its profile, since the most popular non-frat organization at that time was the UP Student Catholic Action (UPSCA).
As Youth Bureau head of the PKP, Sison established what would be in the 1970s the biggest recruiter for the party and the NPA, the Kabataang Makabayan. Sison was lucky enough to found the KM in the late 1960s when the youth in America and Europe became a political force, dubbed as “student power.”
Process
The process, which I myself experienced, was as follows. Either excited over the huge youth demonstrations in Washington and Paris, or seeking an organization defying the mimic-America culture of that period and championing nationalism, students, mainly from UP, Lyceum, and the Philippine College of Commerce (now the Polytechnic University of the Philippines) – schools where Sison or his first comrades taught – joined the KM.
After enjoying the KM’s camaraderie — it had a penthouse headquarters in Quezon Avenue where you could hang out and sleep — and more importantly, after experiencing “police brutality” — and consequently radicalized — in demonstrations, its members would be ripe for their introduction to Mao Zedong Thought and communist dogma.
Its most active members — almost all in their teen-age years or early 20s — would be invited to apply as “candidate member” of the Communist Party, and a young man would almost always be flattered to be invited to join some kind of elite secret society. Indeed, it was nearly a religious ritual when a candidate becomes a full-member, raises his fist, swears to the party constitution with the hammer-and-sickle flag hanging on the wall, and is given a .45 or an Armalite bullet as a souvenir.
Many would be invited to join the NPA, romanticized as already liberating peasants in their mountain “bases” in Isabela. Many of them would be killed in a few months in firefights with the police or town militias, who thought they were bandits.
(Sison also managed to recruit the toughie children of his old PKP comrades, who lived in the urban slums of Caloocan and Tondo. These would be Sison’s provocateurs in many demonstrations, many of whom were either drunk or stoned to be so bold as to provoke the Manila policemen to retaliate — creating a scenario of state police brutality).
It was the KM template that Sison and the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) used to expand the communist ranks throughout martial law. Just as KM was the recruiting venue for the youth, the party set up mass organizations for several “sectors” — among them workers, peasants, teachers, artists and even for OFWs.
The communists convinced Cory Aquino, the Liberals and academics to institute a party-list system in the 1987 Constitution, a brilliant move as it had already already set up in 1987 Partido ng Bayan with the just-freed Sison himself as one of its founders. It was merely renamed Bayan Muna in 1999 that could claim to represent “marginalized sectors” deserving to be represented in Congress. It topped the first party-list elections with 1.7 million votes.
One kind of organization that advances the CPP’s agenda are those it had infiltrated and captured the leadership of, which includes the Rural Missionaries of the Philippines, one of three groups that filed a case in the Supreme Court to stop the military’s alleged “red-tagging.” Most of the members of such organizations are not CPP members but its leaders are, who convince the members that their political activism is for some noble goal, for instance, fighting for human rights.
There are dozens now of such organizations. The website Bulatlat for instance posts nothing but news articles and opinion pieces critical of government since it was set up, expounds on the same propaganda line the party undertakes in different periods of time, and even covers on the ground the CPP and NPA’s anniversary celebration. I get very regular emails from a “Children’s Rehabilitation Center,” which report only on alleged abuses of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
The other two kinds of CPP organizations are, first, those which are “underground,” completely controlled by the party, but called “allied organizations” of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) in order to portray it as an alliance of independent revolutionary organizations representing various sectors of Filipinos. The NPA and even the first mass organization that Sison set up, the KM, are such NDFP member organizations.
Command centers
While these organizations recruit their own members, these also act as the command centers of the second type of CPP-controlled entities, the legal organizations, which include the “party-lists.”
When I was with the Arroyo government, I asked for a meeting in a Quezon City steak house with party-list leaders to sound them out if they could support us in the 2004 elections. It turned out that the person I talked to was a comrade from way back in the 1970s, whom I assumed was then a Politburo member, the commissar for the party-lists whose representatives like Teddy Casiño were in another table, speaking not a word during the entire meeting, busying themselves with their T-bone steaks.
Accompanying this article is a table containing the list of NDFP member-organizations together with the sectors they represent, and a list of alleged organizations Red-tagged by the military. I do not have information though whether a particular NDFP member representing one sector, for instance KM for youth, is the command center of a Red-tagged legal entity in the same sector.
Email: tiglao.manilatimes@gmail.com
Facebook: Rigoberto Tiglao
Twitter: @bobitiglao
Book orders: www.rigobertotiglao.com/debunked
This strategy is its use of fronts and of organizations it had infiltrated and whose leadership it had captured. These are exploited not just to recruit people into their ranks but to disseminate its propaganda and to acquire finances, especially from gullible Western do-gooder NGOs and foundations.
In sharp contrast, past administrations, especially the two Aquino administrations, had very opportunistically coddled them, hoping to get their political and even voter-base support. Even media had hesitated to expose these Red fronts and puppet organizations for fear of being called Red-baiters, afraid that they could be targeted by the New People’s Army assassination teams.
The communists have been so successful in this strategy that communist cadres became congressmen through the party-list system — seven in the outgoing 17th Congress — which gave them vast resources and a national podium to propagate the Communist Party’s propaganda agendas.
No wonder this government’s all-out campaign to expose these Red fronts has created such a howl of protest from them, with the party even mobilizing the Rural Missionaries of the Philippines — set up in 1969 and the least known to be Red-influenced — to file a petition with the Supreme Court to stop such a move.
Red party-lists
That the Duterte administration has made gains in its program to expose these Red party-list organizations has been demonstrated by the fact that votes for these groups in the recent elections drastically decreased.
Votes for Gabriela, the communist attempt to exploit the women’s movement for its purposes, was cut by more than half, from the 1.4 million votes it got in 2016 to 450,000 in the recent elections. Votes for the Red youth front Kabataan fell from 300,000 to 195,000, and for the communist party’s labor front Anakpawis, from 370,000 to 145,000.
However, what should worry government is the fact that Bayan Muna nearly doubled its votes; from the 600,000 it got in 2016 to 1.1 million, increasing from one to three its cadres that would become members of the Philippine Congress.
Bayan Muna even appears to have been revitalized, since votes for it have consistently dropped from 1.7 million in 2001 to 750,000 in 2012 to just 600,000 in 2016. Sources among political campaigners, however, claim that Bayan Muna had amassed a huge kitty from the Yellows, their payment for campaigning for the Otso Diretso candidates.
The communist insurgency in the Philippines is the only such revolutionary movement in the world that has organized or controlled so many organizations, which profess to be do-gooders in their different fields, but are in reality advancing the communists’ goals to overthrow our democratic system.
Dogma
Votes for Gabriela, the communist attempt to exploit the women’s movement for its purposes, was cut by more than half, from the 1.4 million votes it got in 2016 to 450,000 in the recent elections. Votes for the Red youth front Kabataan fell from 300,000 to 195,000, and for the communist party’s labor front Anakpawis, from 370,000 to 145,000.
However, what should worry government is the fact that Bayan Muna nearly doubled its votes; from the 600,000 it got in 2016 to 1.1 million, increasing from one to three its cadres that would become members of the Philippine Congress.
Bayan Muna even appears to have been revitalized, since votes for it have consistently dropped from 1.7 million in 2001 to 750,000 in 2012 to just 600,000 in 2016. Sources among political campaigners, however, claim that Bayan Muna had amassed a huge kitty from the Yellows, their payment for campaigning for the Otso Diretso candidates.
The communist insurgency in the Philippines is the only such revolutionary movement in the world that has organized or controlled so many organizations, which profess to be do-gooders in their different fields, but are in reality advancing the communists’ goals to overthrow our democratic system.
Dogma
In its dogma, this has been rationalized as part of the overall strategy calling for a “united front” which — plagiarizing from Mao Zedong — is the party’s shield, with the New People’s Army (NPA) its sword.
Without its fronts, the CPP would not have been able to recruit Filipinos who have been so brainwashed by the US and the Church to be rabidly anti-communists.
Sources: *NDF website. **Bulgar, March 28, 2019
Sison was first involved in such a tactic in the late 1950, when he joined UP academic Francisco Nemenzo and other members of the old pro-Soviet Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas, in establishing the Bertrand Russell Peace Foundation. It succeeded in recruiting what would later become Sison’s first core group, attracted to the organization’s campaign against America’s war in Vietnam.
Sison himself founded the Student Cultural Association of the University of the Philippines in 1959, its acronym SCAUP his weird way of raising its profile, since the most popular non-frat organization at that time was the UP Student Catholic Action (UPSCA).
As Youth Bureau head of the PKP, Sison established what would be in the 1970s the biggest recruiter for the party and the NPA, the Kabataang Makabayan. Sison was lucky enough to found the KM in the late 1960s when the youth in America and Europe became a political force, dubbed as “student power.”
Process
The process, which I myself experienced, was as follows. Either excited over the huge youth demonstrations in Washington and Paris, or seeking an organization defying the mimic-America culture of that period and championing nationalism, students, mainly from UP, Lyceum, and the Philippine College of Commerce (now the Polytechnic University of the Philippines) – schools where Sison or his first comrades taught – joined the KM.
After enjoying the KM’s camaraderie — it had a penthouse headquarters in Quezon Avenue where you could hang out and sleep — and more importantly, after experiencing “police brutality” — and consequently radicalized — in demonstrations, its members would be ripe for their introduction to Mao Zedong Thought and communist dogma.
Its most active members — almost all in their teen-age years or early 20s — would be invited to apply as “candidate member” of the Communist Party, and a young man would almost always be flattered to be invited to join some kind of elite secret society. Indeed, it was nearly a religious ritual when a candidate becomes a full-member, raises his fist, swears to the party constitution with the hammer-and-sickle flag hanging on the wall, and is given a .45 or an Armalite bullet as a souvenir.
Many would be invited to join the NPA, romanticized as already liberating peasants in their mountain “bases” in Isabela. Many of them would be killed in a few months in firefights with the police or town militias, who thought they were bandits.
(Sison also managed to recruit the toughie children of his old PKP comrades, who lived in the urban slums of Caloocan and Tondo. These would be Sison’s provocateurs in many demonstrations, many of whom were either drunk or stoned to be so bold as to provoke the Manila policemen to retaliate — creating a scenario of state police brutality).
It was the KM template that Sison and the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) used to expand the communist ranks throughout martial law. Just as KM was the recruiting venue for the youth, the party set up mass organizations for several “sectors” — among them workers, peasants, teachers, artists and even for OFWs.
The communists convinced Cory Aquino, the Liberals and academics to institute a party-list system in the 1987 Constitution, a brilliant move as it had already already set up in 1987 Partido ng Bayan with the just-freed Sison himself as one of its founders. It was merely renamed Bayan Muna in 1999 that could claim to represent “marginalized sectors” deserving to be represented in Congress. It topped the first party-list elections with 1.7 million votes.
One kind of organization that advances the CPP’s agenda are those it had infiltrated and captured the leadership of, which includes the Rural Missionaries of the Philippines, one of three groups that filed a case in the Supreme Court to stop the military’s alleged “red-tagging.” Most of the members of such organizations are not CPP members but its leaders are, who convince the members that their political activism is for some noble goal, for instance, fighting for human rights.
There are dozens now of such organizations. The website Bulatlat for instance posts nothing but news articles and opinion pieces critical of government since it was set up, expounds on the same propaganda line the party undertakes in different periods of time, and even covers on the ground the CPP and NPA’s anniversary celebration. I get very regular emails from a “Children’s Rehabilitation Center,” which report only on alleged abuses of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
The other two kinds of CPP organizations are, first, those which are “underground,” completely controlled by the party, but called “allied organizations” of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) in order to portray it as an alliance of independent revolutionary organizations representing various sectors of Filipinos. The NPA and even the first mass organization that Sison set up, the KM, are such NDFP member organizations.
Command centers
While these organizations recruit their own members, these also act as the command centers of the second type of CPP-controlled entities, the legal organizations, which include the “party-lists.”
When I was with the Arroyo government, I asked for a meeting in a Quezon City steak house with party-list leaders to sound them out if they could support us in the 2004 elections. It turned out that the person I talked to was a comrade from way back in the 1970s, whom I assumed was then a Politburo member, the commissar for the party-lists whose representatives like Teddy Casiño were in another table, speaking not a word during the entire meeting, busying themselves with their T-bone steaks.
Accompanying this article is a table containing the list of NDFP member-organizations together with the sectors they represent, and a list of alleged organizations Red-tagged by the military. I do not have information though whether a particular NDFP member representing one sector, for instance KM for youth, is the command center of a Red-tagged legal entity in the same sector.
Email: tiglao.manilatimes@gmail.com
Facebook: Rigoberto Tiglao
Twitter: @bobitiglao
Book orders: www.rigobertotiglao.com/debunked
MNLF: MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari joins 53 world leaders in Saudi Arabia for OIC summit
Posted to Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Facebook Page (May 31, 2019): MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari joins 53 world leaders in Saudi Arabia for OIC summit
The summit, 14th in its series to be attended by all Heads of State and Governments of Member countries is to be presided over by the Saudi Monarch, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
https://www.facebook.com/MNLFMISUARI/photos/a.299414697369861/362668111044519/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/MNLFMISUARI/
The summit, 14th in its series to be attended by all Heads of State and Governments of Member countries is to be presided over by the Saudi Monarch, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
https://www.facebook.com/MNLFMISUARI/photos/a.299414697369861/362668111044519/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/MNLFMISUARI/
CPP: Patuloy na pananalasa ng teroristang 2nd IBPA, MICO at PNP Masbate sa ilalim ng Oplan Kapanatagan bilang pampalit sa Oplan Kapayapaan ng pasistang diktadurang rehimeng US-Duterte na ang mga biktima ay mahihirap na magsasakang Masbatenyo sa kanayunan
Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 31, 2019): Patuloy na pananalasa ng teroristang 2nd IBPA, MICO at PNP Masbate sa ilalim ng Oplan Kapanatagan bilang pampalit sa Oplan Kapayapaan ng pasistang diktadurang rehimeng US-Duterte na ang mga biktima ay mahihirap na magsasakang Masbatenyo sa kanayunan
Kaisa ng masang Masbatenyo ang Jose Rapsing Command (JRC-BHB Masbate) sa pagkundina sa nagpapatuloy at tumitinding militarisasyon sa walong(8) mga barangay, (Dalipe, Panan-awan, RM. Magbalon, Guiom, Taberna, Cabayugan, Calumpang at Iraya) sa bayan ng Cawayan, Masbate. Ito ay malinaw na paglabag sa karapatang tao ng mga residente na mabuhay ng mapayapa at ligtas sa anumang kapahamakan, ngunit lansakang itong linalabag ng mga sundalo at pulis sa ilalim ng Oplan Kapanatagan na kumbinasyong 2nd IBPA, MICO at PNP Masbate na pinamumunuan ni Sgt. Rico Amaro (@ Puma) ng MICO.
Ilang kabahayan sa So. Jamorawon, Brgy. Dalepe at Brgy. Rm. Magbalon ang pnasok at kinuha ang mga personal na gamit, kabilang ang 80 kaban ng palay, alagang hayop at perang nagkakahalaga ng P11,000.00.
Pwersahan nilang pinasok ang mga bahay nina Rosemarie Guererro, Nilo Guererro, Jr., Nilo Guererro, Sr.,Baby Baybayon, Rosa Baybayon, Baby Empas at iba pang residente. Walang magawa ang mga residente habang tinatangay ng mga sundalo at pulis ang kanilang personal na kagamitan. Ayon pa sa mga residente ay kasa-kasama parati ng mga sundalo at pulis sa pag-iikot ang punong barangay ng Brgy. Dalepe na si Boyet Besana na dating kasapi ng Philippine Army.
Ayon sa ulat koresponsal ng mga yunit ng JRC-BHB sa lugar ay iniikot ng mga sundalo at pulis ang walong barangay para hikayatin ang mga punong barangay nito na pirmahan ang Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) at binababalaan ang mga residente na huwag sumali sa mga rally.
Para sa kaalaman ng mga Masbatenyo, ang mga ninakaw na mga palay at alagang hayop ang siyang ginagamit na kunsomo ng mga sundalo at pulis sa kanilang operasyon. Nakakalungkot lang isipin na ang mga magsasakang lumilikha ng pagkain ng mga Pilipino ang siya ngayong walang makain dahil sa kagagawan ng mga gutom at tulisang sundalo at pulis.
Nananawagan ang JRC-BHB Masbate sa mga nanalong kandidato na tulungan ninyo ang mga biktima ng pang-aabuso ng mga sa sundalo at pulis dahil ang ugat ng kaguluhang ito ay ang nakaraang eleksyon kung saan natalo ang kandidatong mayor na sinusuportahan ni PB Boyet Besana ng Brgy. Dalipe, Cawayan. Nananawagan din ang JRC-BHB Masbate sa lahat na mga Masbatenyo na ilantad ang lahat na pang aabuso sa karapatang tao ng mga pasistang kasundaluhan at kapulisan.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/2019/05/31/patuloy-na-pananalasa-ng-teroristang-2nd-ibpa-mico-at-pnp-masbate-sa-ilalim-ng-oplan-kapanatagan-bilang-pampalit-sa-oplan-kapayapaan-ng-pasistang-diktadurang-rehimeng-us-duterte-na-ang-mga-biktima-an/
Ilang kabahayan sa So. Jamorawon, Brgy. Dalepe at Brgy. Rm. Magbalon ang pnasok at kinuha ang mga personal na gamit, kabilang ang 80 kaban ng palay, alagang hayop at perang nagkakahalaga ng P11,000.00.
Pwersahan nilang pinasok ang mga bahay nina Rosemarie Guererro, Nilo Guererro, Jr., Nilo Guererro, Sr.,Baby Baybayon, Rosa Baybayon, Baby Empas at iba pang residente. Walang magawa ang mga residente habang tinatangay ng mga sundalo at pulis ang kanilang personal na kagamitan. Ayon pa sa mga residente ay kasa-kasama parati ng mga sundalo at pulis sa pag-iikot ang punong barangay ng Brgy. Dalepe na si Boyet Besana na dating kasapi ng Philippine Army.
Ayon sa ulat koresponsal ng mga yunit ng JRC-BHB sa lugar ay iniikot ng mga sundalo at pulis ang walong barangay para hikayatin ang mga punong barangay nito na pirmahan ang Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) at binababalaan ang mga residente na huwag sumali sa mga rally.
Para sa kaalaman ng mga Masbatenyo, ang mga ninakaw na mga palay at alagang hayop ang siyang ginagamit na kunsomo ng mga sundalo at pulis sa kanilang operasyon. Nakakalungkot lang isipin na ang mga magsasakang lumilikha ng pagkain ng mga Pilipino ang siya ngayong walang makain dahil sa kagagawan ng mga gutom at tulisang sundalo at pulis.
Nananawagan ang JRC-BHB Masbate sa mga nanalong kandidato na tulungan ninyo ang mga biktima ng pang-aabuso ng mga sa sundalo at pulis dahil ang ugat ng kaguluhang ito ay ang nakaraang eleksyon kung saan natalo ang kandidatong mayor na sinusuportahan ni PB Boyet Besana ng Brgy. Dalipe, Cawayan. Nananawagan din ang JRC-BHB Masbate sa lahat na mga Masbatenyo na ilantad ang lahat na pang aabuso sa karapatang tao ng mga pasistang kasundaluhan at kapulisan.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/2019/05/31/patuloy-na-pananalasa-ng-teroristang-2nd-ibpa-mico-at-pnp-masbate-sa-ilalim-ng-oplan-kapanatagan-bilang-pampalit-sa-oplan-kapayapaan-ng-pasistang-diktadurang-rehimeng-us-duterte-na-ang-mga-biktima-an/
MILF: Australian Ambassador Robinson and BARMM Education Minister Iqbal lead Brigada Eskwela in Datu Odin Sensuat Town
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Jun 2, 2019): Australian Ambassador Robinson and BARMM Education Minister Iqbal lead Brigada Eskwela in Datu Odin Sensuat Town
Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao— Australian Ambassador Steven Robinson and BARMM Education Minister Mohagher Iqbal on Friday (May 31, 2019) led a “Brigada Eskwela” activity in the campus of the Kurintem Elementary School in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.
In his message, Robinson reiterated Australia’s willingness to continue helping promote quality education in BARMM provinces.
He told reporters education is one good solution to underdevelopment.
“It is the key to peace and prosperity,” Robinson said.
Robinson said he is glad seeing the MILF and the government work together now for peace and development through governance.
Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao— Australian Ambassador Steven Robinson and BARMM Education Minister Mohagher Iqbal on Friday (May 31, 2019) led a “Brigada Eskwela” activity in the campus of the Kurintem Elementary School in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.
In his message, Robinson reiterated Australia’s willingness to continue helping promote quality education in BARMM provinces.
He told reporters education is one good solution to underdevelopment.
“It is the key to peace and prosperity,” Robinson said.
Robinson said he is glad seeing the MILF and the government work together now for peace and development through governance.
Meanwhile, Hadji Ahod Ebrahim aka Al Haj Murad, Chief Minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), expressed his gratitude on Saturday (June 1, 2019) to the Australian government and other foreign institutions, and governments for complementing education programs benefiting the residents of the new Bangsamoro Region.
Ebrahim said besides Australia and the United States Agency for International Development, they are also grateful to other foreign peace and development-oriented institutions helping the education ministry of BARMM.
The Brigada Eskwela activity capped off with the distribution of paints for chairs and classrooms, school supplies that include school bag for elementary pupils in Barangay Kurintem.
Iqbal said BARMM is thankful to foreign benefactors supporting its activities meant to hasten the southern peace process covering areas made impoverished by decades of strife, a Philstar report quoting him saying.
BARMM replaced the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in February after a successful conduct of plebiscite in the core areas, Cotabato City, and 63 villages in North Cotabato.
Ebrahim said besides Australia and the United States Agency for International Development, they are also grateful to other foreign peace and development-oriented institutions helping the education ministry of BARMM.
The Brigada Eskwela activity capped off with the distribution of paints for chairs and classrooms, school supplies that include school bag for elementary pupils in Barangay Kurintem.
Iqbal said BARMM is thankful to foreign benefactors supporting its activities meant to hasten the southern peace process covering areas made impoverished by decades of strife, a Philstar report quoting him saying.
BARMM replaced the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in February after a successful conduct of plebiscite in the core areas, Cotabato City, and 63 villages in North Cotabato.
(Source: Philstar, June 01, 2019 with reports from Muhammad Musa)
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1813/australian_ambassador_robinson_and_barmm_education_minister_iqbal_lead_brigada_eskwela_in__datu_odin_sensuat_town
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1813/australian_ambassador_robinson_and_barmm_education_minister_iqbal_lead_brigada_eskwela_in__datu_odin_sensuat_town
MILF: Two senators seek approval of Islamic Banking Act
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Jun 1, 2019): Two senators seek approval of Islamic Banking Act
Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao- After having filed and co-sponsored Senate Bill No. 2231, or an Act Providing for the Regulation and The Organization of Islamic Banks, two senators sought for the approval of the bill seeking the establishment of a sound legal and regulatory framework for the development of Islamic banks in the country.
Outgoing Senator Francis ‘’Chiz’’ Escudero and Senator Sherwin Gatchalian are both pushing for the approval of the said bill.
Congress has to pass the measure in the last two plenary sessions on Monday and Tuesday before adjourning sine die on June 7, according to a report by the Manila Bulletin on May 30.
Gatchalian chairs the Senate Committee on Economic Affairs while Escudero heads the Senate Committee on Banks, Financial Institutions, and Currencies.
Gatchalian, Chair of the Senate Committee on Economic Affairs said the measure would pave the way for the creation of a framework that would allow Filipino Muslim entrepreneurs, especially those involved in micro, small, and medium enterprises, to effectively access responsive banking and financial services that are compliant with the principles of Shari’ah or Islamic law.
He said that when approved, it would enable the country to tap into the growing pool of Islamic investors across the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
Even more important, Gatchalian stressed, the bill would complement the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), which mandates the Bangsamoro Government to promote the development of an Islamic banking and finance system in the country, said the Manila Bulletin report.
“This proposed measure seeks to establish the legal and regulatory framework that will make Islamic finance in the country more viable and mainstream,” Gatchalian said as quoted by the Manila Bulletin.
“This bill also presents an opportunity to tap international financial markets for both resource mobilization and investment diversification through Suk?k and equity markets,” he added.
In the same article by the Manila Bulletin, Gatchalian pointed out that the Islamic finance industry has expanded rapidly over the past decade, growing at 10-12 percent annually.”
Under SB 2231, the Monetary Board of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is tasked with authorizing the establishment of Islamic banks.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1812/two-senators-seek-approval-of-islamic-banking-act
Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao- After having filed and co-sponsored Senate Bill No. 2231, or an Act Providing for the Regulation and The Organization of Islamic Banks, two senators sought for the approval of the bill seeking the establishment of a sound legal and regulatory framework for the development of Islamic banks in the country.
Outgoing Senator Francis ‘’Chiz’’ Escudero and Senator Sherwin Gatchalian are both pushing for the approval of the said bill.
Congress has to pass the measure in the last two plenary sessions on Monday and Tuesday before adjourning sine die on June 7, according to a report by the Manila Bulletin on May 30.
Gatchalian chairs the Senate Committee on Economic Affairs while Escudero heads the Senate Committee on Banks, Financial Institutions, and Currencies.
Gatchalian, Chair of the Senate Committee on Economic Affairs said the measure would pave the way for the creation of a framework that would allow Filipino Muslim entrepreneurs, especially those involved in micro, small, and medium enterprises, to effectively access responsive banking and financial services that are compliant with the principles of Shari’ah or Islamic law.
He said that when approved, it would enable the country to tap into the growing pool of Islamic investors across the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
Even more important, Gatchalian stressed, the bill would complement the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), which mandates the Bangsamoro Government to promote the development of an Islamic banking and finance system in the country, said the Manila Bulletin report.
“This proposed measure seeks to establish the legal and regulatory framework that will make Islamic finance in the country more viable and mainstream,” Gatchalian said as quoted by the Manila Bulletin.
“This bill also presents an opportunity to tap international financial markets for both resource mobilization and investment diversification through Suk?k and equity markets,” he added.
In the same article by the Manila Bulletin, Gatchalian pointed out that the Islamic finance industry has expanded rapidly over the past decade, growing at 10-12 percent annually.”
Under SB 2231, the Monetary Board of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is tasked with authorizing the establishment of Islamic banks.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1812/two-senators-seek-approval-of-islamic-banking-act
AFP-CRS: Abu Sayyaf neutralized
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Jun 1, 2019): Abu Sayyaf neutralized
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2494674823884560/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2494674823884560/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
Kalinaw News: NPA “Hitman” Killed in Agusan del Sur
Posted to Kalinaw News (Jun 2, 2019): NPA “Hitman” Killed in Agusan del Sur
TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur – A notorious New People’s Army gunman in Agusan del Sur was killed after fighting it out with government forces on Thursday evening, May 30.
Joeboy Mantipala alias Bernabe, 28, was killed after he and his fellow NPA terrorists engaged soldiers and policemen in a running gun-battle after trying to avoid pursuing troops in Barangay Marbon. He sustained gunshot wounds on different parts of his body. Soldiers immediately brought him to Talacogon District Hospital but was declared Dead on Arrival by the attending physician.
Mantipala was earlier tagged as one of the killers of Felipe Amado, a CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA) who was killed in Barangay Lydia, San Luis earlier in the afternoon of May 30.
Amado was off-duty and was participating in the Brigada Eskwela in the said barangay when he was killed by Mantipala’s group.
Up until his death, Mantipala was the Vice Commanding Officer of Platoon Banglas, Guerilla Front 88 of the NPA’s North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.
He was positively identified by witnesses prompting Army and PNP units to launch manhunt operations against him and his cohorts. He was also tagged as one of the killers of Rubencio Salamoren, Barangay Chairman of Brgy. San Pedro, San Luis. Salamoren was shot to death last February 27, 2019 while driving his motorcycle in Don Alejandro, San Luis.
“We have received reports of the NPA’s plan to attack government personnel including soldiers and policemen. Unfortunately for them, we have the support of the people now that is why we were able to track down Mantipala easily,” said Lt. Col. Romeo Jimenea, Commanding Officer of 26th Infantry Battalion.
Recovered on site was Caliber.45 pistol, two magazines with seven live ammunitions and a Honda Motorcycle.
Jimenea condoled with Mantipala’s family. He said they tried to save him and bring him to the bars of justice. “Sana sumuko na lang siya ng maayos. He could have surrendered and have the chance to live with his family but he made the wrong decision,” Jimenea added.
Col. Allan Hambala, 401st Brigade Commander expressed his contentment to 26IB for its swift and decisive action against Bernabe’s group. “This should serve as a warning to CPP-NPA terrorists who still choose a life of violence. We will come and get you. We will never stop running after you because you prey on helpless citizens. We will hunt you down until you give up and surrender,” Hambala said.
Joeboy Mantipala alias Bernabe, 28, was killed after he and his fellow NPA terrorists engaged soldiers and policemen in a running gun-battle after trying to avoid pursuing troops in Barangay Marbon. He sustained gunshot wounds on different parts of his body. Soldiers immediately brought him to Talacogon District Hospital but was declared Dead on Arrival by the attending physician.
Mantipala was earlier tagged as one of the killers of Felipe Amado, a CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA) who was killed in Barangay Lydia, San Luis earlier in the afternoon of May 30.
Amado was off-duty and was participating in the Brigada Eskwela in the said barangay when he was killed by Mantipala’s group.
Up until his death, Mantipala was the Vice Commanding Officer of Platoon Banglas, Guerilla Front 88 of the NPA’s North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.
He was positively identified by witnesses prompting Army and PNP units to launch manhunt operations against him and his cohorts. He was also tagged as one of the killers of Rubencio Salamoren, Barangay Chairman of Brgy. San Pedro, San Luis. Salamoren was shot to death last February 27, 2019 while driving his motorcycle in Don Alejandro, San Luis.
“We have received reports of the NPA’s plan to attack government personnel including soldiers and policemen. Unfortunately for them, we have the support of the people now that is why we were able to track down Mantipala easily,” said Lt. Col. Romeo Jimenea, Commanding Officer of 26th Infantry Battalion.
Recovered on site was Caliber.45 pistol, two magazines with seven live ammunitions and a Honda Motorcycle.
Jimenea condoled with Mantipala’s family. He said they tried to save him and bring him to the bars of justice. “Sana sumuko na lang siya ng maayos. He could have surrendered and have the chance to live with his family but he made the wrong decision,” Jimenea added.
Col. Allan Hambala, 401st Brigade Commander expressed his contentment to 26IB for its swift and decisive action against Bernabe’s group. “This should serve as a warning to CPP-NPA terrorists who still choose a life of violence. We will come and get you. We will never stop running after you because you prey on helpless citizens. We will hunt you down until you give up and surrender,” Hambala said.
26 Infantry Battalion, 4th Infantry Division Philippine Army
Cpt Aldim Viernes
CMO Officer, 26th Infantry Battalion
Patag Cagayan de Oro City
09076699160
Cpt Aldim Viernes
CMO Officer, 26th Infantry Battalion
Patag Cagayan de Oro City
09076699160
[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.]
Kalinaw News: Community Support Program yields NPA Surrenderee
Posted to Kalinaw News (Jun 2, 2019): Community Support Program yields NPA Surrenderee
Eastern Mindanao Command Community Support Program received CPP-NPA Terrorist Group (CNTG) surrenderees from different areas in Eastern Mindanao during the past days.
Noon of May 31, 2019, five regular NPAs being monitored in the boundary of Laak Compostela Valley Province and Loreto, Agusan Sur surrendered to 26IB at Brgy Poblacion, Loreto, Agusan del Sur.
Led by a CNTG Platoon Commander identified as alias Javier, he brought with him other four CNTGs. They were: alias, Anne, a squad Political Officer; alias James, a Squad Leader; aliases Ricky and Yaw both elements of a platoon.
They brought along with them two M1 Carbine rifle, two shot guns, two sub-machine gun pistols, one caliber 45 pistol and a hand grenade.
On May 30, 2019, a certain, alias Beriot/Tonyo an Asst. Squad Leader of a CNTG in Balingasag, Misamis Oriental surrendered to troops of 58th Infantry Battalion immersed in Sitio Lantad, Brgy Kibanban, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental.
On a separate instance a certain alias Vargas of the CNTG being monitored in Impasug-ong Bukidnon yielded to the troops of 8th Infantry Battalion on May 29, 2019 after community thereat facilitated his surrender. He brought with him one M16 rifle and magazines loaded with ammunition.
On May 31, 2019, Community Support Program of 8th Infantry Battalion facilitated the surrender of 27 Militiang Bayan and the dissociation of membership of 80 members of the CNTG Underground Mass Organization in Brgy Manalog, Kibalabag & Can-ayan all of Malaybalay City and Bontongon of Impasug-ong all of Bukidnon. They are now undergoing reorientation in partnership with other government agencies.
Meanwhile, Lt. General Felimon T. Santos Jr., Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command, directed all units under his command to sustain the momentum by integrating other efforts of government in reaching out the members of the CNTG to return to the folds of the law.
” We should continue to support the different local peace initiatives, harness the capabilities and capacity of the different agencies in reaching out to our lost brothers and sisters and deradicalizing the affected communities to ensure the peace gains will be sustainable and durable.” Lt. Gen. Santos said.
Source: Eastern Mindanao Command Philippine Army
Eastern Mindanao Command Community Support Program received CPP-NPA Terrorist Group (CNTG) surrenderees from different areas in Eastern Mindanao during the past days.
Noon of May 31, 2019, five regular NPAs being monitored in the boundary of Laak Compostela Valley Province and Loreto, Agusan Sur surrendered to 26IB at Brgy Poblacion, Loreto, Agusan del Sur.
Led by a CNTG Platoon Commander identified as alias Javier, he brought with him other four CNTGs. They were: alias, Anne, a squad Political Officer; alias James, a Squad Leader; aliases Ricky and Yaw both elements of a platoon.
They brought along with them two M1 Carbine rifle, two shot guns, two sub-machine gun pistols, one caliber 45 pistol and a hand grenade.
On May 30, 2019, a certain, alias Beriot/Tonyo an Asst. Squad Leader of a CNTG in Balingasag, Misamis Oriental surrendered to troops of 58th Infantry Battalion immersed in Sitio Lantad, Brgy Kibanban, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental.
On a separate instance a certain alias Vargas of the CNTG being monitored in Impasug-ong Bukidnon yielded to the troops of 8th Infantry Battalion on May 29, 2019 after community thereat facilitated his surrender. He brought with him one M16 rifle and magazines loaded with ammunition.
On May 31, 2019, Community Support Program of 8th Infantry Battalion facilitated the surrender of 27 Militiang Bayan and the dissociation of membership of 80 members of the CNTG Underground Mass Organization in Brgy Manalog, Kibalabag & Can-ayan all of Malaybalay City and Bontongon of Impasug-ong all of Bukidnon. They are now undergoing reorientation in partnership with other government agencies.
Meanwhile, Lt. General Felimon T. Santos Jr., Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command, directed all units under his command to sustain the momentum by integrating other efforts of government in reaching out the members of the CNTG to return to the folds of the law.
” We should continue to support the different local peace initiatives, harness the capabilities and capacity of the different agencies in reaching out to our lost brothers and sisters and deradicalizing the affected communities to ensure the peace gains will be sustainable and durable.” Lt. Gen. Santos said.
Source: Eastern Mindanao Command Philippine Army
[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.]
Kalinaw News: Official Statement of Hon. Salvacion Azarcon condemning CPP NPA for kidnapping seven (7) innocent civilians including minor children
Posted to Kalinaw News (Jun 2, 2019): Official Statement of Hon. Salvacion Azarcon condemning CPP NPA for kidnapping seven (7) innocent civilians including minor children
Official Statement of Hon. Salvacion Azarcon condemning the recent kidnapping of seven (7) innocent civilians including minors perpetrated by the Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT'S) at the boundary of Tandag-Lanuza, Surigao del Sur last May 30 2019.
The kidnapping of my constituents from Sitio Ibuan, Brgy Mampi on May 30, 2019 which took place along the boundary of Tandag City and Lanuza has come to my attention. As Mayor of this municipality, I am furiously condemning the act of terrorism of NPA’s with no respect to the Human Rights and the International Humanitarian Law. The Lanuzanons are disheartened by this heartless incident included a clear violation of RA 7610 “Strong deterrence and Special Protection Against Child Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination, and for other purposes.”
I urged my constituents to always be on guard and look after each other’s back to ensure the safety of every member of our community. Let us not tolerate any acts of terrorism such as this to happen again in our locality. We need to work together, collaborate and combine our efforts to show the Communist NPA Terrorist that we are not afraid to condemn any inhumane activities perpetuated by them. We must deny this group of any kind of support for their terroristic undertakings and disillusioned cause.
We demand to the Communist NPA Terrorist to release the kidnapped victims and let the people of Sitio Ibuan live in peace. Their families are worried, weary and depressed. We are certain that you don’t want to allow the same fate to happen with your families and love ones. To the rank-in-file members of the NPAs, do not be fooled and deceived by your commanders, we encourage you to lay down your arms and return to the folds of the law. Our Government has implemented various programs to uplift your living condition. One of them is the enhance Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) which aims to provide you the livelihood and other benefits to your families as you start a new life and be reintegrated back to the mainstream society.
To the families of the kidnap victims, we understand that nit a single word can oppose your pain and anxiety. Rest assured that the Local Government will undertake all possible means to include collaboration with the security forces so that your loved ones will be returned to you whole, safe and alive.
Official Statement of Hon. Salvacion Azarcon condemning the recent kidnapping of seven (7) innocent civilians including minors perpetrated by the Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT'S) at the boundary of Tandag-Lanuza, Surigao del Sur last May 30 2019.
The kidnapping of my constituents from Sitio Ibuan, Brgy Mampi on May 30, 2019 which took place along the boundary of Tandag City and Lanuza has come to my attention. As Mayor of this municipality, I am furiously condemning the act of terrorism of NPA’s with no respect to the Human Rights and the International Humanitarian Law. The Lanuzanons are disheartened by this heartless incident included a clear violation of RA 7610 “Strong deterrence and Special Protection Against Child Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination, and for other purposes.”
I urged my constituents to always be on guard and look after each other’s back to ensure the safety of every member of our community. Let us not tolerate any acts of terrorism such as this to happen again in our locality. We need to work together, collaborate and combine our efforts to show the Communist NPA Terrorist that we are not afraid to condemn any inhumane activities perpetuated by them. We must deny this group of any kind of support for their terroristic undertakings and disillusioned cause.
We demand to the Communist NPA Terrorist to release the kidnapped victims and let the people of Sitio Ibuan live in peace. Their families are worried, weary and depressed. We are certain that you don’t want to allow the same fate to happen with your families and love ones. To the rank-in-file members of the NPAs, do not be fooled and deceived by your commanders, we encourage you to lay down your arms and return to the folds of the law. Our Government has implemented various programs to uplift your living condition. One of them is the enhance Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) which aims to provide you the livelihood and other benefits to your families as you start a new life and be reintegrated back to the mainstream society.
To the families of the kidnap victims, we understand that nit a single word can oppose your pain and anxiety. Rest assured that the Local Government will undertake all possible means to include collaboration with the security forces so that your loved ones will be returned to you whole, safe and alive.
36th Infantry Battalion, 4th Infantry Division PA
1LT Jonald D Romorosa
CMO Officer, 36th Infantry Battalion
Sitio Upper Mambago, Dayo-an, Tago, Surigao del Sur
valor_36@yahoo.com
0917-1466-326/09491243886
[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/official-statement-of-hon-salvacion-azarcon-condemning-the-recent-kidnapping-of-seven-7-innocent-civilians-including-minor-children/
1LT Jonald D Romorosa
CMO Officer, 36th Infantry Battalion
Sitio Upper Mambago, Dayo-an, Tago, Surigao del Sur
valor_36@yahoo.com
0917-1466-326/09491243886
[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/official-statement-of-hon-salvacion-azarcon-condemning-the-recent-kidnapping-of-seven-7-innocent-civilians-including-minor-children/
Kalinaw News: 663 New Breed Candidate Soldiers take oath to serve the country
Posted to Kalinaw News (Jun 2, 2019): 663 New Breed Candidate Soldiers take oath to serve the country
CAMP SANG-AN, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur – The 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army officially opened the three (3) batches of Candidate Soldier Course Classes 592,593 and 594-2019 at the hallowed grounds of Tabak Troopers at 9:00 in the morning Saturday, June 1, 2019.
The three (3) batches of CSC 592, 593 and 594 are composed of 608 males and 55 females. They were selected by the Division Candidate Soldier Selection Board based on their Physical, Medical, and Psychological fitness to undergo sixteen (16) weeks rigid military training to be conducted by the 1st Division Training School
The military training will transform them from a carefree civilian to brave and tough soldiers. The training will also mold them into competent, confident and well-disciplined soldiers guided by the Army Core Values of honor, patriotism, and duty adhering to the rule of law, human rights, and international humanitarian law.
After Oath Taking Rites and Opening Ceremony with Brigadier General Roberto Ancan, the 1st Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao Provinces) commander, the 1DTS training directorate headed by LTC RENANTE D BESA GSC (INF) PA, Commandant of 1DTS received the candidate soldiers through a Reception rite that signaled the start of their military life.
“The best training program in the world is absolutely worthless without the will to execute it properly, consistently, and with intensity. This 4 to 5 months training will transform you from being “boys” into “gentlemen” and “girls” into “ladies” and instill in you the military doctrines and the Army tactics and procedures that will mold you into a reliable and responsive member of an Infantry squad committed to accomplishing the unit mission”, said Brigadier General Roberto Ancan AFP, 1ID Commander.
BGen Ancan also gave his words of encouragement to the candidate soldiers, “Your new journey has just begun. Finish the training and prove your worth to be part of the Philippine Army that uphold the virtues of the Armed forces of the Philippines and perform with pride and honor in serving the people and securing the land.”
The three (3) batches of CSC 592, 593 and 594 are composed of 608 males and 55 females. They were selected by the Division Candidate Soldier Selection Board based on their Physical, Medical, and Psychological fitness to undergo sixteen (16) weeks rigid military training to be conducted by the 1st Division Training School
The military training will transform them from a carefree civilian to brave and tough soldiers. The training will also mold them into competent, confident and well-disciplined soldiers guided by the Army Core Values of honor, patriotism, and duty adhering to the rule of law, human rights, and international humanitarian law.
After Oath Taking Rites and Opening Ceremony with Brigadier General Roberto Ancan, the 1st Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao Provinces) commander, the 1DTS training directorate headed by LTC RENANTE D BESA GSC (INF) PA, Commandant of 1DTS received the candidate soldiers through a Reception rite that signaled the start of their military life.
“The best training program in the world is absolutely worthless without the will to execute it properly, consistently, and with intensity. This 4 to 5 months training will transform you from being “boys” into “gentlemen” and “girls” into “ladies” and instill in you the military doctrines and the Army tactics and procedures that will mold you into a reliable and responsive member of an Infantry squad committed to accomplishing the unit mission”, said Brigadier General Roberto Ancan AFP, 1ID Commander.
BGen Ancan also gave his words of encouragement to the candidate soldiers, “Your new journey has just begun. Finish the training and prove your worth to be part of the Philippine Army that uphold the virtues of the Armed forces of the Philippines and perform with pride and honor in serving the people and securing the land.”
Division Public Affairs Office 1st Infantry Division Philippine Army
CPT CLINT ANTIPALA
Chief, Division Public Affairs Office, 1st Infantry Division
E-mail: tabakdpao@gmail.com
Mobile Number: 09177938341
[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/663-new-breed-candidate-soldiers-take-oath-to-serve-the-country/
CPT CLINT ANTIPALA
Chief, Division Public Affairs Office, 1st Infantry Division
E-mail: tabakdpao@gmail.com
Mobile Number: 09177938341
[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/663-new-breed-candidate-soldiers-take-oath-to-serve-the-country/
WESTMINCOM: Government introduces ‘whole-of-nation’ approach against insurgency
Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Website (Jun 2, 2019): Government introduces ‘whole-of-nation’ approach against insurgency
The National Economic Development Authority Region X (NEDA X) Regional Development Council in partnership with the Provincial Government of Misamis Occidental, 1st and 4th Infantry Divisions and the Tenth Infantry (Steady…On) Battalion of the Philippine Army conducted the Provincial Cascading on Executive Order Nr 70, Convergence Areas for Peace and Development, and Validation of Needs Workshop at the Provincial Cultural and Farmers Training Center, Capitol Drive, Lower Lamac, Oroquieta City on Thursday, May 30.
Present during the activity were Brigadier General Roberto Ancan, Commander of the 1st Infantry Dision, Philippine Army; Major General Franco Nemesio Gacal, Commander of the 4th Infantry Division. Philippine Army; Lieutenant Colonel John Andrada, Commanding Officer of the 10th Infantry Battalion; Attorney Ricardo Lumantas, Provincial Administrator of Misamis Occidental, Director Mylah Faye Aurora Carino, CESO III, Regional Director of NEDA; and representatives from the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, Department of Interior and Local Government, and other government agencies.
32 barangay captains of the barangays under the Convergence Areas for Peace and Development participated in the said activity.
The Executive Order Nr. 70 signed by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on December 4, 2018, aimed at institutionalizing the whole-of-nation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace, creating a national task force to end local communist armed conflict, and directing the adoption of a national peace framework.
“We are in full support to the implementation of the EO 70 as this whole-of-nation approach will be of great help in our efforts against insurgencies, internal disturbances and tensions, and other armed conflicts and threats in our area of operation,” Lieutenant General Arnel B. Dela Vega, commander of the Western Mindanao Command, expressed.
The National Economic Development Authority Region X (NEDA X) Regional Development Council in partnership with the Provincial Government of Misamis Occidental, 1st and 4th Infantry Divisions and the Tenth Infantry (Steady…On) Battalion of the Philippine Army conducted the Provincial Cascading on Executive Order Nr 70, Convergence Areas for Peace and Development, and Validation of Needs Workshop at the Provincial Cultural and Farmers Training Center, Capitol Drive, Lower Lamac, Oroquieta City on Thursday, May 30.
Present during the activity were Brigadier General Roberto Ancan, Commander of the 1st Infantry Dision, Philippine Army; Major General Franco Nemesio Gacal, Commander of the 4th Infantry Division. Philippine Army; Lieutenant Colonel John Andrada, Commanding Officer of the 10th Infantry Battalion; Attorney Ricardo Lumantas, Provincial Administrator of Misamis Occidental, Director Mylah Faye Aurora Carino, CESO III, Regional Director of NEDA; and representatives from the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, Department of Interior and Local Government, and other government agencies.
32 barangay captains of the barangays under the Convergence Areas for Peace and Development participated in the said activity.
The Executive Order Nr. 70 signed by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on December 4, 2018, aimed at institutionalizing the whole-of-nation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace, creating a national task force to end local communist armed conflict, and directing the adoption of a national peace framework.
“We are in full support to the implementation of the EO 70 as this whole-of-nation approach will be of great help in our efforts against insurgencies, internal disturbances and tensions, and other armed conflicts and threats in our area of operation,” Lieutenant General Arnel B. Dela Vega, commander of the Western Mindanao Command, expressed.
WESTMINCOM: 1st Brigade Combat Team arrives in Zambo City
Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Website (Jun 2, 2019): 1st Brigade Combat Team arrives in Zambo City
The 1st Brigade Combat Team (1BCT) of the Philippine Army finally arrived in Zamboanga City at 7am today, 02 June 2019.
The 1BCT, led by Brigadier General Leopoldo Imbang, Jr. was deployed by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) purposely to conduct focused military operations against the Abu Sayyaf Group in Sulu province under the Joint Area of Operations of the Joint Task Force Sulu.
After the successful conduct of the midterm elections, the Western Mindanao Command, AFP will now again focus on the campaign against terrorism and violent extremism.
The deployment of these troops also intends to add to the required personnel and equipment of the newly created 11th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army.
“Now that our troops have been augmented, we are expecting more gains in the fight against the Abu Sayyaf Group that has been sowing terror, death, and destruction in Sulu,” WestMinCom chief Lieutenant General Arnel B. Dela Vega said.
The 1st Brigade Combat Team (1BCT) of the Philippine Army finally arrived in Zamboanga City at 7am today, 02 June 2019.
The 1BCT, led by Brigadier General Leopoldo Imbang, Jr. was deployed by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) purposely to conduct focused military operations against the Abu Sayyaf Group in Sulu province under the Joint Area of Operations of the Joint Task Force Sulu.
After the successful conduct of the midterm elections, the Western Mindanao Command, AFP will now again focus on the campaign against terrorism and violent extremism.
The deployment of these troops also intends to add to the required personnel and equipment of the newly created 11th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army.
“Now that our troops have been augmented, we are expecting more gains in the fight against the Abu Sayyaf Group that has been sowing terror, death, and destruction in Sulu,” WestMinCom chief Lieutenant General Arnel B. Dela Vega said.
EASTMINCOM: EASTMINCOM hails "Bayanihan" to put up School in Isolated Area
Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Website (Jun 2, 2019): EASTMINCOM hails "Bayanihan" to put up School in Isolated Area
NSFA, Panacan, Davao City - Lt. General Felimon T. Santos Jr., Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command hails Governor Tyron Uy of Compostela Valley Province for trail blazing Bayanihan spirit of the different stakeholders in putting up a school building in just 15 days in a once conflict-affected Sitio Puting Bato, Barangay Ngan, Compostela, Compostela Valley Province.
This came after one unit of a two-classroom school building at the said place was turned over to the Department of Education on May 31, 2019, in a ceremony led by the Governor himself. Along with the turn over is the appointment of two teachers who will be manning the classes starting this School Year 2019.
"This effort animates the whole of nation approach, which is a testament that it can resolve the root causes of conflict." Lt Gen Santos said.
"This and other projects of the Governor in addressing the issues of conflict and his strong resolve of ending insurgency not only in the Province but also in the whole region being the Regional Peace and Order Council Chairman will surely concretize the peace gains and make it durable and sustainable," Lt. Gen Santos added.
It can be recalled that Governor Uy is pushing a comprehensive approach in addressing insurgency by integrating all effort of different agencies in a Regional Security Plan and aligned it with the Regional Development Plan of the Region.
Meanwhile, Governor Uy pushed and led the construction of the school after the community expressed their disapproval on the existence of Salugpungan School in the said sitio and demanded its eventual demolition.
The construction started after the Governor led the kicked off ceremony at Sitio Puting Bato in Barangay Ngan on May 15, 2019, which was attended by MGen. Jose C. Faustino Jr., Commander of the 10th Infantry Division, Col. Manuel V. Sequitin, Commander of 701st Infantry Brigade, Municipal Mayor Hon. Lema P. Bolo of Compostela Municipality, and other stakeholders.
Prior to the kick-off, social preparation was made by the Local Government Unit of Compostela Province and Community Support Team (CST) of the 66th Infantry Battalion, to ensure the acceptance and commitment of the community on the project.
The project is a convergence effort of the Gawad Kalinga, 10th Infantry Division, Local Government of Compostela Valley Province and Municipality of Compostela, Department of Education Division of Comval, the community, and other partner organization
Source: Public Information Office, Eastern Mindanao Command
NSFA, Panacan, Davao City - Lt. General Felimon T. Santos Jr., Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command hails Governor Tyron Uy of Compostela Valley Province for trail blazing Bayanihan spirit of the different stakeholders in putting up a school building in just 15 days in a once conflict-affected Sitio Puting Bato, Barangay Ngan, Compostela, Compostela Valley Province.
This came after one unit of a two-classroom school building at the said place was turned over to the Department of Education on May 31, 2019, in a ceremony led by the Governor himself. Along with the turn over is the appointment of two teachers who will be manning the classes starting this School Year 2019.
"This effort animates the whole of nation approach, which is a testament that it can resolve the root causes of conflict." Lt Gen Santos said.
"This and other projects of the Governor in addressing the issues of conflict and his strong resolve of ending insurgency not only in the Province but also in the whole region being the Regional Peace and Order Council Chairman will surely concretize the peace gains and make it durable and sustainable," Lt. Gen Santos added.
It can be recalled that Governor Uy is pushing a comprehensive approach in addressing insurgency by integrating all effort of different agencies in a Regional Security Plan and aligned it with the Regional Development Plan of the Region.
Meanwhile, Governor Uy pushed and led the construction of the school after the community expressed their disapproval on the existence of Salugpungan School in the said sitio and demanded its eventual demolition.
The construction started after the Governor led the kicked off ceremony at Sitio Puting Bato in Barangay Ngan on May 15, 2019, which was attended by MGen. Jose C. Faustino Jr., Commander of the 10th Infantry Division, Col. Manuel V. Sequitin, Commander of 701st Infantry Brigade, Municipal Mayor Hon. Lema P. Bolo of Compostela Municipality, and other stakeholders.
Prior to the kick-off, social preparation was made by the Local Government Unit of Compostela Province and Community Support Team (CST) of the 66th Infantry Battalion, to ensure the acceptance and commitment of the community on the project.
The project is a convergence effort of the Gawad Kalinga, 10th Infantry Division, Local Government of Compostela Valley Province and Municipality of Compostela, Department of Education Division of Comval, the community, and other partner organization
Source: Public Information Office, Eastern Mindanao Command
EASTMINCOM: Community Support Program yields NPA Surrenderee
Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Website (Jun 2, 2019): Community Support Program yields NPA Surrenderee
NSFA, Panacan, Davao City - Eastern Mindanao Command Community Support Program received CPP-NPA Terrorist Group (CNTG) surrenderees from different areas in Eastern Mindanao during the past days.
Noon of May 31, 2019, five regular NPAs being monitored in the boundary of Laak Compostela Valley Province and Loreto, Agusan Sur surrendered to 26IB at Brgy Poblacion, Loreto, Agusan del Sur.
Led by a CNTG Platoon Commander identified as alias Javier, he brought with him other four CNTGs. They were: alias, Anne, a squad Political Officer; alias James, a Squad Leader; aliases Ricky and Yaw both elements of a platoon.
NSFA, Panacan, Davao City - Eastern Mindanao Command Community Support Program received CPP-NPA Terrorist Group (CNTG) surrenderees from different areas in Eastern Mindanao during the past days.
Noon of May 31, 2019, five regular NPAs being monitored in the boundary of Laak Compostela Valley Province and Loreto, Agusan Sur surrendered to 26IB at Brgy Poblacion, Loreto, Agusan del Sur.
Led by a CNTG Platoon Commander identified as alias Javier, he brought with him other four CNTGs. They were: alias, Anne, a squad Political Officer; alias James, a Squad Leader; aliases Ricky and Yaw both elements of a platoon.
They brought along with them two M1 Carbine rifle, two shot guns, two sub-machine gun pistols, one caliber 45 pistol and a hand grenade.
On May 30, 2019, a certain, alias Beriot/Tonyo an Asst. Squad Leader of a CNTG in Balingasag, Misamis Oriental surrendered to troops of 58th Infantry Battalion immersed in Sitio Lantad, Brgy Kibanban, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental.
On a separate instance a certain alias Vargas of the CNTG being monitored in Impasug-ong Bukidnon yielded to the troops of 8th Infantry Battalion on May 29, 2019 after community thereat facilitated his surrender. He brought with him one M16 rifle and magazines loaded with ammunition.
On May 31, 2019, Community Support Program of 8th Infantry Battalion facilitated the surrender of 27 Militiang Bayan and the dissociation of membership of 80 members of the CNTG Underground Mass Organization in Brgy Manalog, Kibalabag & Can-ayan all of Malaybalay City and Bontongon of Impasug-ong all of Bukidnon. They are now undergoing reorientation in partnership with other government agencies.
Meanwhile, Lt. General Felimon T. Santos Jr., Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command, directed all units under his command to sustain the momentum by integrating other efforts of government in reaching out the members of the CNTG to return to the folds of the law.
" We should continue to support the different local peace initiatives, harness the capabilities and capacity of the different agencies in reaching out to our lost brothers and sisters and deradicalizing the affected communities to ensure the peace gains will be sustainable and durable." Lt. Gen. Santos said.
Source: Public Information Office, Eastern Mindanao Command
On May 30, 2019, a certain, alias Beriot/Tonyo an Asst. Squad Leader of a CNTG in Balingasag, Misamis Oriental surrendered to troops of 58th Infantry Battalion immersed in Sitio Lantad, Brgy Kibanban, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental.
On a separate instance a certain alias Vargas of the CNTG being monitored in Impasug-ong Bukidnon yielded to the troops of 8th Infantry Battalion on May 29, 2019 after community thereat facilitated his surrender. He brought with him one M16 rifle and magazines loaded with ammunition.
On May 31, 2019, Community Support Program of 8th Infantry Battalion facilitated the surrender of 27 Militiang Bayan and the dissociation of membership of 80 members of the CNTG Underground Mass Organization in Brgy Manalog, Kibalabag & Can-ayan all of Malaybalay City and Bontongon of Impasug-ong all of Bukidnon. They are now undergoing reorientation in partnership with other government agencies.
Meanwhile, Lt. General Felimon T. Santos Jr., Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command, directed all units under his command to sustain the momentum by integrating other efforts of government in reaching out the members of the CNTG to return to the folds of the law.
" We should continue to support the different local peace initiatives, harness the capabilities and capacity of the different agencies in reaching out to our lost brothers and sisters and deradicalizing the affected communities to ensure the peace gains will be sustainable and durable." Lt. Gen. Santos said.
Source: Public Information Office, Eastern Mindanao Command
Tulfo brothers lose PNP, Marine security details
From Rappler (Jun 2, 2019): Tulfo brothers lose PNP, Marine security details
This comes as uniformed personnel fume at newsreader Erwin Tulfo for threatening to slap their comrade, Social Welfare Secretary Rolando Bautista
Photos of Mon, Erwin, and Ben Tulfo from their Facebook and Twitter accounts. Photo of Raffy Tulfo from Wikimedia Commons. Police photo by Darren Langit/Rappler
The Tulfo brothers lost their security details from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Marines coincidentally after one of them angered members of the uniformed services, Rappler learned on Sunday, June 2.
In a phone interview, PNP Police Security and Protection Group chief Brigadier General Filmore Escobal said the 8 police security escorts for Erwin, Ben, Raffy, and Raffy's wife Jocelyn have been recalled as of noon on Saturday, June 1.
"Their deployment is under review for possible violations of claiming security details," Escobal told Rappler.
This comes as uniformed personnel fume at newsreader Erwin Tulfo for threatening to slap their comrade, Social Welfare Secretary Rolando Bautista
The Tulfo brothers lost their security details from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Marines coincidentally after one of them angered members of the uniformed services, Rappler learned on Sunday, June 2.
In a phone interview, PNP Police Security and Protection Group chief Brigadier General Filmore Escobal said the 8 police security escorts for Erwin, Ben, Raffy, and Raffy's wife Jocelyn have been recalled as of noon on Saturday, June 1.
"Their deployment is under review for possible violations of claiming security details," Escobal told Rappler.
(READ: Why PNP pulled out Trillanes' police security)
Asked what type of violations may have been committed, Escobal said the escorts, for example, could have been used to complete "errands" instead of standing guard.
Escobal said the Tulfos have kept their police security details "for a long time," and were even allowed by the Commission on Elections to keep their escorts during the 2019 election period.
In a press statement, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Marine Brigadier General Edgard Arevalo meanwhile said they pulled out two Marines assigned to special envoy to China Ramon Tulfo to assuage the Marines' "dearth of personnel."
"The Corps has sent correspondence to their respective principals since last year informing them of the order requiring the Marines to report back to headquarters for consequent deployment to forward units," Arevalo said.
Arevalo explained that the recall taking effect recently is "only part of the process."
The simultaneous pullouts coincided with the anger of present and retired uniformed personnel against Tulfo's younger brother Erwin.
Asked what type of violations may have been committed, Escobal said the escorts, for example, could have been used to complete "errands" instead of standing guard.
Escobal said the Tulfos have kept their police security details "for a long time," and were even allowed by the Commission on Elections to keep their escorts during the 2019 election period.
In a press statement, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Marine Brigadier General Edgard Arevalo meanwhile said they pulled out two Marines assigned to special envoy to China Ramon Tulfo to assuage the Marines' "dearth of personnel."
"The Corps has sent correspondence to their respective principals since last year informing them of the order requiring the Marines to report back to headquarters for consequent deployment to forward units," Arevalo said.
Arevalo explained that the recall taking effect recently is "only part of the process."
The simultaneous pullouts coincided with the anger of present and retired uniformed personnel against Tulfo's younger brother Erwin.
(READ: Soldiers seethe online after Erwin Tulfo threatens to slap ex-Army chief)
Erwin Tulfo recently delivered a condemnation on radio against Social Welfare Secretary Rolando Bautista, with expletives and the threat of slapping him if they meet in person. Tulfo fumed at Bautista for declining him an interview.
Bautista retired a decorated general who headed Duterte's Presidential Security Group, then became an on-the-ground commander at the Marawi siege.
A few weeks after the city was reclaimed, Bautista was promoted to head the 90,000-strong Philippine Army. He is a 1985 graduate of the Philippine Military Academy, which has produced majority of the leaders of the AFP and the PNP.
Arevalo said the Marines remained professional despite Erwin Tulfo's tirades. Escobal declined to comment.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/232055-tulfo-brothers-lose-pnp-marine-security-details
Erwin Tulfo recently delivered a condemnation on radio against Social Welfare Secretary Rolando Bautista, with expletives and the threat of slapping him if they meet in person. Tulfo fumed at Bautista for declining him an interview.
Bautista retired a decorated general who headed Duterte's Presidential Security Group, then became an on-the-ground commander at the Marawi siege.
A few weeks after the city was reclaimed, Bautista was promoted to head the 90,000-strong Philippine Army. He is a 1985 graduate of the Philippine Military Academy, which has produced majority of the leaders of the AFP and the PNP.
Arevalo said the Marines remained professional despite Erwin Tulfo's tirades. Escobal declined to comment.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/232055-tulfo-brothers-lose-pnp-marine-security-details
Hope springs eternal in Butig
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 2, 2019): Hope springs eternal in Butig
BUTIG, Lanao del Sur -- This is where everything started.
The Maute brothers, the main perpetrators of the Marawi siege, were natives of this remote agricultural municipality. These are the very same grounds where the ISIS flag was first hoisted and the scene of the initial gun battles between the terror group and government troops.
Three years after the siege, a sense of normalcy now prevails over this laidback town, a three-hour drive from Marawi. Its public market is now teeming with people, while residents walk in a seemingly leisurely pace, something that was unimaginable at the height of the armed conflict.
Assistant Secretary Felix Castro Jr., Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) field office assistant manager, remembered the days when he crossed the fields of this town as a military officer without any fear of being harmed.
“I’ve eaten in a lot of houses here. I’ve gone to the mountains here. The people of Butig are kind,” shared Castro whose tour of duty in the municipality lasted for almost three years. It was during this time when he befriended the people and developed a strong bond with them.
Deradicalization program for returnees
According to him, it was this sense of belonging that brought him back to Butig. He was joined by representatives of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), the AFP’s 49th and 9th Infantry Battalions, and the Lanao del Sur provincial government.
Castro and his team visited the municipality to take part in the Deradicalization and Aftercare Program spearheaded by the 103rd Brigade. The program aims to help Maute-ISIS returnees to successfully reintegrate into mainstream society and live peaceful and productive lives.
“When we talk about preventing violent extremism, we should focus here. This is where it all began,” he said, while highlighting the various issues that still need to be addressed in the community that is still recovering from the effects of the siege.
“Admittedly the government and NGOs are focused on Marawi. I am making an effort to bring them here. Rest assured that we have not forgotten Butig,” Castro said, who is now working closely with the provincial and municipal governments to identify much-needed interventions.
In fact, he has already received several proposals coming from the Butig LGU that aims to create livelihood opportunities for residents. So far, three of these proposals have been approved. Two of them are on abaca farming, while the other one is on coffee production.
“Why are we here? Because the needs of the people are here. If we develop Butig as a whole, everyone will benefit. The surrounding municipalities will also improve. We, everyone, should help each other,” Castro said.
“We need your cooperation. The government will not be able to do its job if you will not cooperate. What we are talking about here is the lives of our children. We need your help for Butig to rise up,” he said.
Agriculture potential
For his part, Butig Mayor Dimnatang Labay Pansar thanked the TFBM, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Lanao del Sur provincial government and OPAPP for the assistance they have extended to his municipality.
“We are thankful that we now see the determination of the people and other agencies to help each other in the development of Butig,” Pansar said who has also been activity engaging the military, government agencies and NGOs in order to fast-track the municipality’s recovery.
He highlighted the vast agriculture potential of Butig, noting that the municipality has more than three thousand hectares of irrigable lands. Once developed, he said these areas will be ideal of abaca and coffee production.
Pansar also expressed his full support to the AFP’s deradicalization program but recommended that this should be carried out hand in hand with the development assistance programs for the victims of the siege so that no one will be left behind.
Social healing and reconciliation
At the same event, James Abdul of the OPAPP Iligan Office facilitated a peace conversation among Maute returnees. The activity is in line with the agency’s annual Duyog Ramadan initiative, which aims to promote social healing and reconciliation among victims of the siege.
It was the third peace conversation organized by the OPAPP in collaboration with the 103rd Brigade. The activity’s main objective is to help the rebel returnees surface issues they are confronting in their respective communities.
The initiative is anchored on the national government’s whole-of-government approach wherein all stakeholders are involved in the process to ensure that all their interventions are integrated and bring the best results.
“We would like to take part in your transformation. Therefore, there must be consultations so we will find out what you really need [to help uplift] your lives and that of your families and communities,” Adbul said.
Among the key concerns raised by the returnees was their need for a more sustainable livelihood. They said that their transition to civilian life will be easier if they will be able to have a regular income to support the needs of their families.
Most of them wanted to return to farming, the main livelihood of residents. If given the opportunity, some of them would like to continue their schooling while others would like to set up small businesses.
The invaluable role of women was also highlighted during the conversation. Many of the ex-fighters attributed their decision to turn away from a life of violence to their mothers, wives, and sisters.
They are emerging as unsung heroes, who through their interventions are helping communities recover from the conflict and build back better lives.
“You will have better lives after returning to the folds of the law. We hope that your effort to move away from a life of violence will continue as we commit to continue supporting you,” Abdul said. (OPAPP/PR)
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071281
BUTIG, Lanao del Sur -- This is where everything started.
The Maute brothers, the main perpetrators of the Marawi siege, were natives of this remote agricultural municipality. These are the very same grounds where the ISIS flag was first hoisted and the scene of the initial gun battles between the terror group and government troops.
Three years after the siege, a sense of normalcy now prevails over this laidback town, a three-hour drive from Marawi. Its public market is now teeming with people, while residents walk in a seemingly leisurely pace, something that was unimaginable at the height of the armed conflict.
Assistant Secretary Felix Castro Jr., Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) field office assistant manager, remembered the days when he crossed the fields of this town as a military officer without any fear of being harmed.
“I’ve eaten in a lot of houses here. I’ve gone to the mountains here. The people of Butig are kind,” shared Castro whose tour of duty in the municipality lasted for almost three years. It was during this time when he befriended the people and developed a strong bond with them.
Deradicalization program for returnees
According to him, it was this sense of belonging that brought him back to Butig. He was joined by representatives of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), the AFP’s 49th and 9th Infantry Battalions, and the Lanao del Sur provincial government.
Castro and his team visited the municipality to take part in the Deradicalization and Aftercare Program spearheaded by the 103rd Brigade. The program aims to help Maute-ISIS returnees to successfully reintegrate into mainstream society and live peaceful and productive lives.
“When we talk about preventing violent extremism, we should focus here. This is where it all began,” he said, while highlighting the various issues that still need to be addressed in the community that is still recovering from the effects of the siege.
“Admittedly the government and NGOs are focused on Marawi. I am making an effort to bring them here. Rest assured that we have not forgotten Butig,” Castro said, who is now working closely with the provincial and municipal governments to identify much-needed interventions.
In fact, he has already received several proposals coming from the Butig LGU that aims to create livelihood opportunities for residents. So far, three of these proposals have been approved. Two of them are on abaca farming, while the other one is on coffee production.
“Why are we here? Because the needs of the people are here. If we develop Butig as a whole, everyone will benefit. The surrounding municipalities will also improve. We, everyone, should help each other,” Castro said.
“We need your cooperation. The government will not be able to do its job if you will not cooperate. What we are talking about here is the lives of our children. We need your help for Butig to rise up,” he said.
Agriculture potential
For his part, Butig Mayor Dimnatang Labay Pansar thanked the TFBM, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Lanao del Sur provincial government and OPAPP for the assistance they have extended to his municipality.
“We are thankful that we now see the determination of the people and other agencies to help each other in the development of Butig,” Pansar said who has also been activity engaging the military, government agencies and NGOs in order to fast-track the municipality’s recovery.
He highlighted the vast agriculture potential of Butig, noting that the municipality has more than three thousand hectares of irrigable lands. Once developed, he said these areas will be ideal of abaca and coffee production.
Pansar also expressed his full support to the AFP’s deradicalization program but recommended that this should be carried out hand in hand with the development assistance programs for the victims of the siege so that no one will be left behind.
Social healing and reconciliation
At the same event, James Abdul of the OPAPP Iligan Office facilitated a peace conversation among Maute returnees. The activity is in line with the agency’s annual Duyog Ramadan initiative, which aims to promote social healing and reconciliation among victims of the siege.
It was the third peace conversation organized by the OPAPP in collaboration with the 103rd Brigade. The activity’s main objective is to help the rebel returnees surface issues they are confronting in their respective communities.
The initiative is anchored on the national government’s whole-of-government approach wherein all stakeholders are involved in the process to ensure that all their interventions are integrated and bring the best results.
“We would like to take part in your transformation. Therefore, there must be consultations so we will find out what you really need [to help uplift] your lives and that of your families and communities,” Adbul said.
Among the key concerns raised by the returnees was their need for a more sustainable livelihood. They said that their transition to civilian life will be easier if they will be able to have a regular income to support the needs of their families.
Most of them wanted to return to farming, the main livelihood of residents. If given the opportunity, some of them would like to continue their schooling while others would like to set up small businesses.
The invaluable role of women was also highlighted during the conversation. Many of the ex-fighters attributed their decision to turn away from a life of violence to their mothers, wives, and sisters.
They are emerging as unsung heroes, who through their interventions are helping communities recover from the conflict and build back better lives.
“You will have better lives after returning to the folds of the law. We hope that your effort to move away from a life of violence will continue as we commit to continue supporting you,” Abdul said. (OPAPP/PR)
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071281
Sampaloc blast not ‘terror attack': NCRPO
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 2, 2019): Sampaloc blast not ‘terror attack': NCRPO
National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief, Maj. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar
Maj. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief, clarified that it was gas leak and not an improvised explosive device (IED) which caused an explosion in Sampaloc, Manila on Sunday, resulting in the injury of seven persons including a three-year-old boy.
Eleazar, who personally went to the blast site, said the incident is not related to any terror attack but a clear case of negligence causing a gas leak that led to an explosion.
“This is gas leak based on the initial investigation report from the Manila Police District (MPD),” Eleazar said.
Based on the report from the MPD, the explosion occurred around 8:10 a.m. at the Yogurt and Tea House along Dalupan Street in Sampaloc, Manila.
Initial findings showed that the possible cause of the blast was a gas leak, as investigators ruled out a possible terror attack.
“Possible gas leak (of) Petron Gasul based on an inspection conducted by EOD (Explosive Ordnance Division) MPD responding team. No IED (improvised explosive device) or parts explosive device found so far. (We are) still conducting post-blast investigation at the scene,” the report said.
Injured victims were rushed to the Mary Chiles General Hospital for medical treatment.
The explosion also damaged 10 vehicles as well as the glass panels of the hospital in front of the blast site.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071297
Maj. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief, clarified that it was gas leak and not an improvised explosive device (IED) which caused an explosion in Sampaloc, Manila on Sunday, resulting in the injury of seven persons including a three-year-old boy.
Eleazar, who personally went to the blast site, said the incident is not related to any terror attack but a clear case of negligence causing a gas leak that led to an explosion.
“This is gas leak based on the initial investigation report from the Manila Police District (MPD),” Eleazar said.
Based on the report from the MPD, the explosion occurred around 8:10 a.m. at the Yogurt and Tea House along Dalupan Street in Sampaloc, Manila.
Initial findings showed that the possible cause of the blast was a gas leak, as investigators ruled out a possible terror attack.
“Possible gas leak (of) Petron Gasul based on an inspection conducted by EOD (Explosive Ordnance Division) MPD responding team. No IED (improvised explosive device) or parts explosive device found so far. (We are) still conducting post-blast investigation at the scene,” the report said.
Injured victims were rushed to the Mary Chiles General Hospital for medical treatment.
The explosion also damaged 10 vehicles as well as the glass panels of the hospital in front of the blast site.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071297
DILG, AFP order recall of Tulfo siblings' bodyguards
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 2, 2019): DILG, AFP order recall of Tulfo siblings' bodyguards
Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo M. Año on Sunday ordered the Philippine National Police (PNP) to recall eight police security details of media personality Erwin Tulfo and his three siblings as “standard protocol”.
“I directed the PNP to pull out all police security details of Erwin Tulfo including those with his brothers effective today (June 2),” Año said.
Meanwhile, PNP spokesperson, Col. Bernard Banac, said based on standard protocol, the two PNP security personnel assigned to Erwin, and six others detailed to his brothers Ben, Raffy and sister Jocelyn, will undergo the regular inspection, interview and debriefing this week following an assigned schedule among all PSPG personnel on security detail.
“The continuation of security detail will largely depend on the outcome of this regular review process and the revalidation of the level of threats against the protectees. This standard protocol applies to all authorized protectees, and not only to Erwin Tulfo,” said Banac in statement sent to reporters.
“All authorization of Tulfo siblings will undergo the same review process as ordered by Sec. Año,” he added.
Asked why the Tulfo siblings have security details, Banac said “any person can request for security from the PNP when they feel their life is threatened”.
“Upon request, they will undergo threat assessment, if the threat is confirmed they will be provided security detail,” he said.
Marine bodyguards, too
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also recalled the Marine personnel assigned as security escorts of Special Envoy to China Ramon Tulfo due to shortage of personnel.
“Due to the dearth of personnel, the Philippine Marine Corps has started recalling its Marines (personnel) who are detailed outside the Corps as security detail,” said AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo.
Arevalo said the Corps has sent correspondence to their respective principals since last year informing them of the order requiring the Marines to report back to headquarters for consequent deployment to other units.
“Hence, the recall of said security details to Mr. Tulfo, among others. The fact that it took effect only recently is part of the process,” he added.
He added that the AFP has no personnel detailed as security to the Tulfo brothers except for two Marines assigned to Ramon Tulfo, who is the Philippines’ special envoy for public diplomacy to China.
“Marines, who are known for their professionalism, courage, loyalty, discipline, camaraderie, and esprit d’ Corps in their field assignments, are usually requested as security detail which invariably bears on the personnel strength of its units especially those deployed in the frontline,” he added.
It may be recalled that Erwin berated retired Army general and now Department of Social Welfare and Development (DWSD) Secretary Rolando Bautista when the latter begged off from an interview as he was in a meeting with a Singaporean ambassador.
Bautista, a member of the Philippine Military Academy "Sandiwa" Class of 1985, retired as commanding general of the Philippine Army in October 2018.
He was the first commander of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte and was later appointed as DSWD secretary after his retirement.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071301
Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo M. Año on Sunday ordered the Philippine National Police (PNP) to recall eight police security details of media personality Erwin Tulfo and his three siblings as “standard protocol”.
“I directed the PNP to pull out all police security details of Erwin Tulfo including those with his brothers effective today (June 2),” Año said.
Meanwhile, PNP spokesperson, Col. Bernard Banac, said based on standard protocol, the two PNP security personnel assigned to Erwin, and six others detailed to his brothers Ben, Raffy and sister Jocelyn, will undergo the regular inspection, interview and debriefing this week following an assigned schedule among all PSPG personnel on security detail.
“The continuation of security detail will largely depend on the outcome of this regular review process and the revalidation of the level of threats against the protectees. This standard protocol applies to all authorized protectees, and not only to Erwin Tulfo,” said Banac in statement sent to reporters.
“All authorization of Tulfo siblings will undergo the same review process as ordered by Sec. Año,” he added.
Asked why the Tulfo siblings have security details, Banac said “any person can request for security from the PNP when they feel their life is threatened”.
“Upon request, they will undergo threat assessment, if the threat is confirmed they will be provided security detail,” he said.
Marine bodyguards, too
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also recalled the Marine personnel assigned as security escorts of Special Envoy to China Ramon Tulfo due to shortage of personnel.
“Due to the dearth of personnel, the Philippine Marine Corps has started recalling its Marines (personnel) who are detailed outside the Corps as security detail,” said AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo.
Arevalo said the Corps has sent correspondence to their respective principals since last year informing them of the order requiring the Marines to report back to headquarters for consequent deployment to other units.
“Hence, the recall of said security details to Mr. Tulfo, among others. The fact that it took effect only recently is part of the process,” he added.
He added that the AFP has no personnel detailed as security to the Tulfo brothers except for two Marines assigned to Ramon Tulfo, who is the Philippines’ special envoy for public diplomacy to China.
“Marines, who are known for their professionalism, courage, loyalty, discipline, camaraderie, and esprit d’ Corps in their field assignments, are usually requested as security detail which invariably bears on the personnel strength of its units especially those deployed in the frontline,” he added.
It may be recalled that Erwin berated retired Army general and now Department of Social Welfare and Development (DWSD) Secretary Rolando Bautista when the latter begged off from an interview as he was in a meeting with a Singaporean ambassador.
Bautista, a member of the Philippine Military Academy "Sandiwa" Class of 1985, retired as commanding general of the Philippine Army in October 2018.
He was the first commander of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte and was later appointed as DSWD secretary after his retirement.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071301
Nothing wrong with Cardema as PMA adviser, Parlade says
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 2, 2019): Nothing wrong with Cardema as PMA adviser, Parlade says
Major General Antonio Parlade Jr., of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC) sees nothing wrong with the appointment of Duterte Youth party-list representative and former National Youth Commission chair, Ronald Cardema, as one of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA)'s Board of Advisers (BOA).
"What's wrong with that if the institution looks at him and the NYC as a significant partner in its quest for genuine reforms," Parlade said in a statement Sunday.
He said the BOA was activated in April this year as a third-party lens to guide the PMA in its transformation roadmap.
Parlade, who is also the Armed Forces of the Philippines Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations, made the comment following criticism of some sectors on Cardema's appointment as adviser to the PMA which dismissed the latter from its cadet ranks, more than 10 years ago, for allegedly communicating with Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founding chairperson Jose Maria "Joma" Sison.
"Cardema as a victim of red-tagging? I don't know about that but I am sure he was discharged because there were security protocols violated. During our time as cadets, our classmate who was the son of our Commandant of Cadets, who later became CG PAF (Commanding General Philippine Air Force), was discharged for violating cadet rules also. If PMA knew that Cadet Victor Corpus was a potential security threat I’m sure he would have been dismissed as well," he added.
Earlier reports said Cardema was named as one of the members of the BOA due to his position as NYC chairperson.
He later resigned from his post at the NYC to be as substitute nominee of the Duterte Youth Party-list after his wife, Ducielle Marie Suarez, withdrew her nomination.
The Commission on Elections is yet to act on Cardema's substitution petition.
Cardema, he said, is a very credible critic of the Makabayan bloc and other leftist groups with known connections to the CPP-New People's Army (NPA), a listed terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
"But as to Cardema's being an anti-terrorist campaigner, let's give it to him. He is a very credible critic of the Kamatayan (Makabayan) bloc because he knows what he is talking about, as a former LFS (League of Filipino Students) member himself," Parlade added.
He said because of Cardema’s personal knowledge of how the CPP-NPA and its allies work, the rebels are afraid to see Cardema in the House of Representatives as he is very capable of exposing the duplicity and deception of the front organizations of the CPP-NPA operating in Congress.
Instead of sanctioning former activists like Cardema, Parlade said the public should recognize the efforts of these individuals and former rebels for championing the cause of true peace and reconciliation aside from their denouncement of the acts of violence and atrocities committed by the communist rebels and their allies for decades.
"If these hardcore (National Democratic Front members) like Satur (Ocampo) for instance, will realize the futility of this violence and join mainstream (society) we will gladly welcome them to be Board of Advisers of AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) if that's what it takes to attain peace, reconciliation, and eventually progress for the Philippines. Just let them denounce violence and we are good," he added.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071305
Major General Antonio Parlade Jr., of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC) sees nothing wrong with the appointment of Duterte Youth party-list representative and former National Youth Commission chair, Ronald Cardema, as one of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA)'s Board of Advisers (BOA).
"What's wrong with that if the institution looks at him and the NYC as a significant partner in its quest for genuine reforms," Parlade said in a statement Sunday.
He said the BOA was activated in April this year as a third-party lens to guide the PMA in its transformation roadmap.
Parlade, who is also the Armed Forces of the Philippines Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations, made the comment following criticism of some sectors on Cardema's appointment as adviser to the PMA which dismissed the latter from its cadet ranks, more than 10 years ago, for allegedly communicating with Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founding chairperson Jose Maria "Joma" Sison.
"Cardema as a victim of red-tagging? I don't know about that but I am sure he was discharged because there were security protocols violated. During our time as cadets, our classmate who was the son of our Commandant of Cadets, who later became CG PAF (Commanding General Philippine Air Force), was discharged for violating cadet rules also. If PMA knew that Cadet Victor Corpus was a potential security threat I’m sure he would have been dismissed as well," he added.
Earlier reports said Cardema was named as one of the members of the BOA due to his position as NYC chairperson.
He later resigned from his post at the NYC to be as substitute nominee of the Duterte Youth Party-list after his wife, Ducielle Marie Suarez, withdrew her nomination.
The Commission on Elections is yet to act on Cardema's substitution petition.
Cardema, he said, is a very credible critic of the Makabayan bloc and other leftist groups with known connections to the CPP-New People's Army (NPA), a listed terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
"But as to Cardema's being an anti-terrorist campaigner, let's give it to him. He is a very credible critic of the Kamatayan (Makabayan) bloc because he knows what he is talking about, as a former LFS (League of Filipino Students) member himself," Parlade added.
He said because of Cardema’s personal knowledge of how the CPP-NPA and its allies work, the rebels are afraid to see Cardema in the House of Representatives as he is very capable of exposing the duplicity and deception of the front organizations of the CPP-NPA operating in Congress.
Instead of sanctioning former activists like Cardema, Parlade said the public should recognize the efforts of these individuals and former rebels for championing the cause of true peace and reconciliation aside from their denouncement of the acts of violence and atrocities committed by the communist rebels and their allies for decades.
"If these hardcore (National Democratic Front members) like Satur (Ocampo) for instance, will realize the futility of this violence and join mainstream (society) we will gladly welcome them to be Board of Advisers of AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) if that's what it takes to attain peace, reconciliation, and eventually progress for the Philippines. Just let them denounce violence and we are good," he added.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071305