AFP-CRS: Persona Non-Grata declaration against CPP-NPA-NDF and Front Organizations

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Jun 28, 2019): Persona Non-Grata declaration against CPP-NPA-NDF and Front Organizations



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AFP-CRS: "Peaceful War' through Whole-Of-Nation approach

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Jun 28, 2019): "Peaceful War' through Whole-Of-Nation approach



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AFP-CRS: Mataas na lider ng CPP-NPA na napatay sa Mindoro, nakilala na

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Jun 28, 2019): Mataas na lider ng CPP-NPA na napatay sa Mindoro, nakilala na



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AFP-CRS: Region 8 LGU's, tag CPP-NPA as Persona Non Grata

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Jun 28, 2019): Region 8 LGU's, tag CPP-NPA as Persona Non Grata



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AFP-CRS: AFP,Sultanate of Maguindanao ink Peace & Development Pact

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Jun 28, 2019): AFP,Sultanate of Maguindanao ink Peace & Development Pact



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AFP-CRS: San Carlos City local government denounce CPP-NPA atrocities in Negros Occidental

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Jun 28, 2019): San Carlos City local government denounce CPP-NPA atrocities in Negros Occidental



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AFP-CRS: Reformation Program for 214 former Abu Sayyaf Members launched in Basilan

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Jun 28, 2019): Reformation Program for 214 former Abu Sayyaf Members launched in Basilan



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Kalinaw News: A more humane way to handle enemy aggression Krav Maga gains positive feedbacks

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jun 27, 2019): A more humane way to handle enemy aggression Krav Maga gains positive feedbacks



Among the different martial arts that Philippine Army soldiers undergo as part of their hand-to-hand and close quarter combat, the Philippine Army finally found a defense system that would best fit its personnel. The principles of IKMF Krav Maga apparently are perfect fit as a professional combative defense system that truly represents the finest soldierly values.

While the armed enemies of the state would plan out and inflict the most coldblooded and agonizing methods to strike government troops and to prey on the innocents, the Army, on the other hand, continues to go on great lengths to look for better ways for its personnel to survive even in the most unfortunate situations whether in the battleground or in their daily lives.

At present, the Training and Doctrine Command, Philippine Army integrated the IKMF Krav Maga in its curriculum. All training schools offer combative training through electives like the Taek-wando, Pikiti Tersia Kali and now Krav Maga. The same survival techniques being taught by the International Krav Maga Federation to the IDF are the same methods that Army soldiers learn during the training, according to Major Lawrence San Juan, proponent of the Krav Maga in the Philippine Army and the lone military instructor among the 24 under the IKMF-Philippines.

Prior to this, one of the Army’s elite forces, the Light Reaction Regiment, has adopted the Krav Maga as a specialization course and has already produced two classes, according to Major San Juan. Another class, composed of soldiers from different major units, has completed the practitioner level course. They would be developed into becoming Krav Maga instructors, Major San Juan further stated, after their training progresses to the next levels.

Now that Krav Maga has become a part of the training system of the Army, it has been widely accepted by the personnel that in the current training cycle conducted at TRADOC, 168 out of 300 students chose to take up the course. Through word of mouth, it has attracted curiosity Army-wide that it has gain popularity that Army units in different parts of the country are requesting how they could avail of the training.

Krav Maga is All About Survival

Krav Maga is not martial arts. Neither it is a sport, it is simply a practical and tactical system. It is a self- defense system which was designed initially for the military being taught by the International Krav Maga Federation (IKMF) to the Israeli Defense Force (IDF). Although it is beneficial to anyone, its roots is basically for military use. Krav Maga as a principle is to be safe and therefore no rules apply when faced with a violent situation. This is what Maj San Juan said, proponent of Krav Maga in the Philippine Army and a certified Graduate 2 Level Krav Maga Instructor, Tactical Shooting Instructor and VIP Protection Instructor all under the International Krav Maga Federation.

He further explained that in Krav Maga, one need not fight. The first thing that one learns in Krav Maga is situational awareness which could lead to prevention. If one didn’t see or sense the danger at once, most probably, he will become a victim. Once a victim, he could either fight or if he fights and does not know the technique, one becomes injured or maybe worse than that. Basically, survival is not being IN the dangerous situation. Prevention is always the first line of defense, the Krav Maga instructor continued.

Next, according to him, is avoidance. If one thinks danger is imminent, then avoid it—look for another way, he advised. That is the Krav Maga way. Third is de-escalation. One enters this phase when he was not able to prevent nor avoid the unfortunate situation. At this point, according to Major San Juan, when one could try to strike a conversation to negotiate with the perpetrator. This could work or not, 50-50 according to him, but Krav Maga teaches how to negotiate with the perpetrator with the hope to defuse or lower the tension at hand.

If all these did not work out and there is no way out of the situation, then one has to decisively fight. As a Krav Maga practitioner, obviously the fighting techniques one learned during training could then be executed. Of course, this will always be the last resort– the only way to survive then after the three phases were tried yet proved the to be unsuccessful, the Krav Maga instructor finally added.

Krav Maga has an earlier indicator of success. Maj San Juan is confident Krav Maga will be a byword after it has been introduced and implemented in the different training program of instructions. Adding more certified Military Krav Maga Instructors would ensure that Krav Maga program will be sustained in order to give Army soldiers a full advantage when facing the enemy in any given situation.

Kalinaw News


[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.   e-mail: contact@kalinawnews.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/a-more-humane-way-to-handle-enemy-aggression-krav-maga-gains-positive-feedbacks/

Kalinaw News: Kin claims slain bodies of CPP-NPA Terrorist Squad Leader and other

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jun 28, 2019): Kin claims slain bodies of CPP-NPA Terrorist Squad Leader and other



CAMP PERALTA, Jamindan, Capiz – Two members of the CPP-NPA Terrorist who died and were left behind during a firefight with government forces from the Army’s 94th Infantry Battalion June 21, 2019 in Sta Catalina, Negros Oriental were identified and claimed by their families two days after the incident.

Antonio Cardinas alias Marlo who is a resident of Sitio Avocado,Brgy Talalak, Sta. Catalina, Negros Oriental was claimed by his wife Joy Cardinas. Alias Marlo was a squad leader of Southeast Front, Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros. On the other hand, Warlito Sotabento who was a member of the same squad was claimed by his parents; Devinia and Apolinario Sotabento.

Major General Dinoh Dolina, Commander of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division reiterated its call to the remaining members of the communist-terrorist group. “I am once again calling on to our brothers and sisters to please lay down your arms and go back to your families. Your Army along with other government agencies are very much willing to help you. ‘Yung mga kasama niyo sa armadong pakikibaka aabandunahin lamang kayo kapag kayo namatay na, kapag wala nang pakinabang sa kanila. This incident is just one of the many where the same thing happened. They do not care about you when you’re already dead.”

Dolina also pointed out that until now, the families have not received any assistance from the communist-terrorist group or any allied organizations that they wasted their life for. “We regret that their death happened due to deceptions and false promises of this group. That is why I am urging the people especially the farmers to be wary of the deceptive tactics of the CPP-NPA Terrorist for they are vulnerable targets of their recruitment activities. They are just taking advantage of your economic condition to advance their selfish and bloody interest”.

It can be recalled that the CPP-NPA staged an attack against a CAFGU Detachment at Sitio Kakha, Brgy. Talalak, Sta. Catalina, Negros Oriental on June 21, 2019 where two bodies of the aforementioned individuals were recovered by the troops upon scouring the area after a 20-minute exchange of fire.

Division Public Affairs Office 3rd Infantry Division Philippine Army
CPT EDUARDO A PRECIOSO JR (INF) PA
Chief, 3rd Division Public Affairs Office
Camp General Martin T Delgado, Fort San Pedro, Iloilo City
Contact: dpao.3idpa@gmail.com / 0917-857-9157

[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/kin-claims-slain-bodies-of-cpp-npa-terrorist-squad-leader-and-other/

Kalinaw News: Agusan Norte Farmers Denounce NPAs

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jun 27, 2019): Agusan Norte Farmers Denounce NPAs



BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte- More than 200 members of the Union ng Mag- uuma sa Agusan del Norte (UMAN), an NPA allied – organization, disowned the CPP-NPA terrorist group and took their pledge of loyalty and allegiance to the government during a Peace Consultation Dialogue on June 22, 2019 at the Covered Court of Brgy Tungao, Butuan City, Agusan del Norte.

The Peace Consultation Dialogue was conducted thru the convergence effort of the Barangay Council of Barangay Tungao and San Mateo, Local Government Unit of Butuan City and the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion to address the issues and concerns of the residents and the UMAN members. The topics include Security of Land Tenure, Livelihood and Employment, Youth Recruitment and Peace and Order.

Moreover, after the Open Forum, the officers and members of UMAN, as well as, the residents of the barangay took their oath to withdraw their support and dismantle UMAN, to stop supporting the CPP-NPA-NDF and will not succumb to any group who will organize and take advantage of them.

UMAN is a farmers’ organization being used by the CPP-NPA to recruit farmers by utilizing false promises particularly on owning the land they are tilling. Monthly dues was also collected by the organization from the farmer members.

According to Rheda (true name withheld), a member of UMAN, she joined the organization hoping that it would help them with their problems regarding security of land tenure, livelihood, employment, and the availability of their basic social needs.

UMAN assured them that the lands they are tilling will be given to them once they will join the organization. Also the organization imposed force collection for their monthly dues. “Kung muapil mi sa UMAN, tagaan kono mi ug yuta o ihatag sa amoa ang yuta na among gidaro. Nagbayad pa jud mi ug monthly dues sa ilaha.”- Rheda said.

Another member, Elvira (true name withheld) said, “Karon nakabalo na mi kung unsay tinuod sa UMAN, muondang na mi pag-apil sa ilaha ug bungkagon nanamo sila karon. Moderitso nalang mi og duol sa ahensya sa gobyerno kung aduna mi mga problema.” (Now that we are aware of the intention of UMAN, we will stop joining them and dismantle their group. Instead, we go straight to the government whenever we have issues.)

Moreover, the Chairman of Barangay Tungao, Hon. Melchor Salboro expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the soldiers of the Philippine Army under 23rd Infantry Battalion for protecting and saving the barangay from the threats of CPP-NPA. “Atong ampingan ang atong barangay para walay musolod na dautang grupo. Dili na ta magpailad sa mga teroristang CPP-NPA.” Salboro added in his vernacular language.  (We have to take care of our community so that there will be no more unscrupulous group who will enter. We will not support the CPP-NPA anymore)

LTC FRANCISCO L MOLINA JR, Commanding Officer, 23IB is optimistic that with the efforts of Barangay Officials of Barangay Tungao and San Mateo, the former Officers and members of UMAN, and other residents of the two barangays will dismantle UMAN in their areas and will no longer give-in to the CPP-NPA Terrorist Group. “Let us work together in restoring peace in your area. We must not allow any group to sow havoc in our community. Towards this end, development will surely come in.” Molina added.

Meanwhile, Col Maurito Licudine, 402nd Brigade Commander said, “I am reminding our farmers to be wary in joining progressive organizations who are just pretending to help. These groups are only protecting their own selfish interests to agitate farmers and promote communist vested interest. They are not sincere in helping the farmers to uplift their lives. We have the Peace and Development Zones in CARAGA, the regions’ banner program in addressing peace and evelopment concerns. Let us join hands to create conflict resilient communities in CARAGA.” Licudine added.

Source: 23rd Infantry Battalion 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.]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/agusan-norte-farmers-denounce-npas/

Kalinaw News: Matteo Guidicelli graduates from Scout Ranger Training

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jun 27, 2019): Matteo Guidicelli graduates from Scout Ranger Training



FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – Army reservist Probationary 2nd Lt. Matteo Guidicelli graduates from the Scout Ranger Orientation Course at the Scout Ranger School (SRS), First Scout Ranger Regiment (FSRR) at Camp Tecson, Bulacan today, June 27, 2019.

“They underwent one month rigorous training where their physical and mental abilities are harnessed to prepare them to lead,” said FSRR Commander, Brig. Gen. William Gonzales.

Together with the 97 graduates composed of officers and Philippine Military Academy cadets, Guidicelli being the only reservist, was awarded the Military Commendation Medal and was recognized as an outstanding student.

“The physical aspect, given na mahirap, pero what got me is the first four days na psychological effect sa akin. Dahil galing ako sa civilian na buhay, isang araw lang yung transition ko at pumasok na ako sa military, akala ko kaya ko, pero sa totoo lang gusto ko ng umuwi,” said Guidicelli as he recalled his first days in the camp.

“As a civilian before, looking at soldiers, we give them so much respect. Now that I immerse, I live, I train with them, my respect for them has gone up that words cannot explain. Sila ang totoong VIP and without them, we wouldn’t be here, we wouldn’t be protected. The level of sacrifice a soldier goes through for their families, for their country, is beyond expectation,” he added.

During his speech, Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto reiterated to the new graduates to carry the important lessons they have learned during the training and use it as they move forward to become leaders and protectors of the country.

“Each one of you here has the potential to do great things, not just good things, but great and life-changing deeds,” he added.

Source: 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.]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/matteo-guidicelli-graduates-from-scout-ranger-training/

WESTMINCOM: MBLT-3 troops bid farewell to their home for nearly 3 years

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Website (Jun 27, 2019): MBLT-3 troops bid farewell to their home for nearly 3 years



After almost three years of remarkable service to the people of Sulu, the Marine Battalion Landing Team-3 (MBLT-3) finally bade goodbye to the Mindanaoans in a send-off ceremony presided by Western Mindanao Command Chief Lieutenant General Arnel B Dela Vega held at the Zamboanga City Pier earlier today.



The team is set to take responsibility of the internal security operations (ISO) in Northern Palawan under the West Command.

Known as the “Tamed but Fierce Battalion”, MBLT-3 is one of the units of the Philippine Marine Corps that exhibit readiness to serve at all costs whenever the need arises.

Since it was deployed in the province of Sulu in September 09, 2016, the unit was able to conduct a total of 104 major operations, 1,976 minor operations, 3,528 small unit operations, 77 seaborne patrols, and 14,399 security patrols.



As a sign of gratitude for the outstanding performance and valuable service rendered that contributed to the accomplishment of the Command’s mission, a plaque of merit was presented by Lieutenant General Dela Vega to the team during the ceremony.



In his message, WestMinCom Commander LtGen Dela Vega lauded the troops for their significant contributions both in focused and civil military operations that resulted in the success of the unit’s mission.



“I am sure that you will do well in your new venture as you did a great job in fighting against terrorism in Sulu,” LtGen Dela Vega added.

“Carry on your good work by doing the right things and doing the things right,” he concluded.

http://www.westmincom.com/mblt-3-troops-bid-farewell-to-their-home-for-nearly-3-years/

WESTMINCOM: Weary from hunger, 2 NPA members yield in Iligan

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Website (Jun 28, 2019): Weary from hunger, 2 NPA members yield in Iligan



Two communist terrorists surrendered to 51st Infantry Battalion and 5th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Rogongon, Iligan City at 11am on Monday, June 24, 2019.

“Due to our relentless combat operation, most communist terrorists are already starving; they only eat one meal a day”, said Lt. Col. Jasper Edward Obar, 51IB Commander.

“Lisod ang kinabuhi sa bukid. Mas lisod kaysa adtong pa sa panahon kaniadtong dili pa kami myembro sa NPA. Walay direksyon among pakigbisug”, ingon ni alias Braga. (“Our life in the mountain is hard. It was more difficult than when we were not yet members of the NPA. There is no direction in what we are fighting for,” said alias Braga).

The two communist terrorists yielded two M1 Garand rifles and ammunition. As of this year, a total of 29 communist terrorists surrendered to 51IB.



“The influx of CNT surrenders in Iligan City is a testament of the former rebels’ desire to unite and live peacefully with their families. We expect that more communist terrorists will return to the fold of the law in the coming days as our troops on the ground received a lot of surrender feelers,” said Brig. Gen. Ezra James Enriquez, 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade Commander.

“Likewise, we urge the NPA leadership in our area of operation to engage us through localized peace talks to address their issues and problems peacefully,” Enriquez added.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Roberto Ancan, Joint Task Force Zampelan Commander, commended the efforts of the troops that led to the surrender of the two communist terrorists.

“We encourage other CNT members to surrender with their firearms, return to the fold of the law, and benefit from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program of the government,” said Ancan.

“Based on Executive Order No. 70, creating a task force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC), the Joint Task Force ZamPeLan is doing its best to contribute to the mission of the created task force,” added Ancan.

“Convergence and synchronization of plans, programs, and projects among the government agencies is vital to end the long decades of insurgency that only brought misery to our country,” Ancan concluded.

http://www.westmincom.com/weary-from-hunger-2-npa-members-yield-in-iligan/

‘6 rebels nabbed for murder'

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jun 27, 2019): ‘6 rebels nabbed for murder'

Six suspected members of the New People’s Army facing murder and frustrated murder charges, were arrested yesterday by the combined police and military troopers in remote Brgy. Buenavista of Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental.

The respondents in murder and frustrated murder complaints pending at the Kabankalan Regional Trial Court, identified as Rodrigo Medez, alias Salvo, Jimmy Teves, Jodito Montecino, Jeppy Romano, Eliseo Andres and Jack Sabanal, were apprehended simultaneously in Sitios Bito, Balatugan and Dawhan, all in Brgy. Buenavista, Himamaylan City, by troopers of the 2nd Negros Occidental Provincial Mobile Force Company and 62nd Infantry Battalion, with arrest warrants issued by Judge Rodney Magbanua.

Lt. Col. Egberto Dacoscos, 62IB commanding officer, who assisted the 2nd NOCPMFC troopers in serving the arrest warrants, yesterday said that the six arrested rebel suspects were linked to the deaths of two Army soldiers and the injuries of six others, as a result of an encounter with communist rebels in Sitio Bunsad, Brgy. Tan-awan, Kabankalan City in May this year.

Dacoscos tagged Medez as secretary of the local party branch of the Central Negros Front Yunit Militia, with Teves, Montecino, Romano, Sabanal and Andres as members.

The September 21 Movement immediately came to the rescue of the arrested persons it claimed to be farmers.

Felipe Gelle, secretary general of the September 21 Movement, yesterday said that they will check on the legal basis of the arrest of the farmers, including Teves, who is a pastor of the United Church of Christ of the Philippines.

Gelle claimed that the 62IB had threatened them with arrest based, on accusations that they are NPA members.

In the past months, a series of armed skirmishes between government forces and NPA rebels had taken place in the remote sitios of Brgy. Buenavista, Himamaylan City, that is located near Tayasan, Negros Oriental.

Gelle added that the arrest of the farmers is part of the Synchronized Enhanced Managing Police Operations 2 under PNP Oplan Sauron campaign.

Dacoscos maintained that the arrest of five rebels was made in accordance with existing laws, and that he also believes that their apprehension is a blow to the Central Negros Front of the Komiteng Rehiyonal-Negros.

“No one is above the law, and no one can escape justice”, he said, adding that, sooner or later NPA rebels will have to answer for their crimes, either on being apprehended or getting killed in encounters.

On the other hand, Gelle disclosed that Teves used to be the former vice chairperson of the September 21 Movement southern Negros, while Montecino used to be the chairperson of the Kauswagan sang Mangunguma sa Barangay Buenavista, a local chapter of the Kilusang Magbubukid sa Pilipinas.

He also said that the arrest of the farmers was based on a trumped-up charges of murder.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/June/27/topstory6.htm

Army officers shine in Mindanao

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jun 27, 2019): Army officers shine in Mindanao

Military officials who used to be assigned in Negros continue to shine in Mindanao and one of them was named recently as the commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Mindanao Command.

Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, a Medal of Valor awardee, who used to be assigned with the 11th Infantry Battalion at the height of insurgency problem in Negros is slated to assume his new position as Western Mindanao Command chief on Friday. He will replace Lt. Gen. Arnel dela Vega, who will bow out from the military service on June 28.

Sobejana, who is presently the commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, is among the Army officials who used to be assigned in Negros, and had occupied key positions in Mindanao, such as Maj. Gen. Roberto Ancan, 1st Infantry Division commander, and Maj. Gen. Franco Nemesio Gacal, 4th Infantry Division commander.

Ancan, hails from Victorias City, Negros Occidental, while Gacal was formerly assigned also with 11IB in Negros.

The command of 6ID will reportedly be given to Brig. Gen. Diosdado Carreon, commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, who is also a member of PMA Class 1987, Ancan said.

The Wesmincom's jurisdiction covers Zamboanga Peninsula, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Central Mindanao, and the provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

Sobejana got his Medal of Valor in Jan. 13, 995, after he and fellow Scout Rangers figured in a fierce firefight with about 150 Abu Sayyaf bandits in Basilan, where they killed 30 terrorists

In the four-hour firefight, Sobejana was wounded multiple times but still carried on with the fight until he and his men were reinforced by other military units.*

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/June/27/topstory13.htm

Misuari wants travel bond back: ‘Di na ako aalis ng ‘Pinas!

From Politiko Mindanao (Jun 27, 2019): Misuari wants travel bond back: ‘Di na ako aalis ng ‘Pinas!



Former Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) governor Nur Misuari has asked the Sandiganbayan 3rd Division to return his P920,000 travel bond.

The founding chairman of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) sought his travel bond which he posted for his recent travel to Saudi Arabia.

In his manifestation, Misuari explained to the anti-graft court he has no plan of going abroad in the foreseeable future.”

Misuari is facing before the court two counts of graft and two counts of malversation through falsification.

Under the charges, he is accused of being allegedly involved inanomalous purchase of educational materials from 2000 to 2001 when he was still ARMM governor.

https://mindanao.politics.com.ph/misuari-wants-travel-bond-back-di-na-ako-aalis-ng-pinas/

NPA rebel couple yield to military in Bukidnon

From the Mindanao Times (Jun 28, 2019): NPA rebel couple yield to military in Bukidnon

A New People’s Army (NPA) couple surrendered to the 8th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Poblacion, Impasugong, Bukidnon on Tuesday, June 25.

Alias Jomel and his wife, Jelyn, surrendered to Lt. Col. Ronald Illana, the 8th IB commander. Jomel, 23, was the team leader of ABE Squad 1, Staff Platoon, Sentro de Gravidad, Sub-regional Command 2, Northern Central Mindanao Regional Command.

Meanwhile, his wife is a medic of the same group and both are residents of Barangay Kalabugao, Impasugong.

“We wanted to live in peace and have a family, we could not bear that our children will be experiencing the same struggle that we’re facing,” Jomel said.

He said they were already discouraged after seeing most of their friends surrender. Also, they realized the futility of the struggle, especially since they could see the sincerity of the government in reaching out to the far-flung communities and help improve the lives of the people.

“By and large, our brothers and sisters who are the victims of deception are starting to see the reality of the CPP-NPA terrorist’s ideologies,” Illana said.

“Through the launch of the E-CLIP (Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program) for the former rebels, the number of surrendering victims of the CPP-NPA has fortunately increased to our advantage,” he further said.

http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/06/28/npa-rebel-couple-yield-to-military-in-bukidnon/

Army touts gains vs. NPA in Northern Mindanao, Caraga

From the Mindanao Times (Jun 28, 2019): Army touts gains vs. NPA in Northern Mindanao, Caraga

The 4th Infantry Division has made significant gains in its anti-insurgency campaign in Northern Mindanao and Caraga regions during the first semester of 2019.

Maj. Gen. Franco Nemesio M. Gacal, the commander of the Cagayan de Oro-based Army division, said they neutralized 1,104 members of the CPP-NPA during the first six months.

These include 1,062 surrenders, 25 killed in armed encounters, and 17 captured through the joint security and law enforcement operations.

During that span, they also seized 67 assorted firearms during encounters while former rebels handed over 168 firearms.

Influx of surrenders

The last two quarters saw a sharp increase in the number of surrenderees in the two regions.

In Region 10 (Northern Mindanao), 359 regular members of Milisya ng Bayan (People’s Militia), Underground Mass Organization (UGMO) members, and supporters have surrendered to various military units. Meanwhile, Region 13 (Caraga) had 763 surrenders during the same period.

He attributed it to the implementation of Community Support Programs in conflict- affected and conflict-vulnerable communities. The program helps enhance the delivery of basic services to the people.

Local Integration

The massive turnout of surrenders in both regions can be attributed to the serious implementation of the national government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip).

The said program offers livelihood and financial assistance to all NPA members who surrender to the government. Additional remuneration is given to former rebels who turn in their guns.

Gacal reported that 999 former rebels have been enrolled in the E-Clip. The program has so far distributed P10 million worth of assistance to 209 beneficiaries.

Persona Non Grata

Efforts to rid communities of communist-rebels influence is rapidly paying off as one city, 10 municipalities, and 115 barangays have declared the CPP-NDF-NPA and its front organizations as persona non grata.

Local government officials and community leaders including tribal chieftains have expressed their full support for the government by withdrawing any kind of support for the NPA.

Whole-of-Nation approach

Meanwhile, Gacal expressed confidence that Whole-of-Nation (WNA) approach being pushed by the national and local government is crucial in finally putting an end to the communist insurgency.

Caraga region has already taken the lead by adopting the peace and development zone as its banner program in achieving sustainable peace and development. Northern Mindanao’s Convergence Areas for Peace and Development (CAPDev) is also gaining headway as the region’s flagship program in ending all forms of armed conflict by addressing the root causes of insurgency.

Both programs are now being eyed by the National Task Force to End the Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) as successful models that can be replicated in other regions.

Gacal said, “We all want to create conflict resilient communities and put an end to the armed conflict which has plundered our country for five decades.”

“The next six months are crucial in our campaign. However, at the rate things are going with our convergence efforts, our collective dream of peace and development is fast turning into reality,” he further said.

http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/06/28/army-touts-gains-vs-npa-in-northern-mindanao-caraga/

CORDS to address poverty, insurgence issues in regions

From PTV News (Jun 27, 2019): CORDS to address poverty, insurgence issues in regions

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar expressed confidence that the Duterte administration is able to mitigate poverty in Northern Mindanao with the launch of an anti-insurgency program.

During his meeting with the Cagayan de Oro Press Club on Thursday, June 27, 2019, Secretary Andanar shared the government’s new efforts to address poverty and issues of insurgency in the country through the newly-formed Cabinet Officers for Regional Development and Security (CORDS).

“The purpose of this is to accelerate the development of our barangays here in Region X — to end the local communist armed conflict,” Sec. Andanar said, who was designated as the CORDS for Region X.

Andanar said that CORDS Region X is set to make history, as it is the first region to launch a banner program in addressing the root causes of internal armed conflict and insurgency called Convergence Areas for Peace and Development (CAPDev).

“The CORDS here in Region X is one of the most active CORDS in the entire country…Tomorrow will be the first time that the CORDS will be meeting and presiding. both the Regional Development Council (RDC) and Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC),” Sec. Andanar said.

The CAPDev program aims to promote the establishment of durable peace and development while empowering communities in the priority focus areas through peacebuilding and reconciliation, socio-economic transformation, good governance, and institution building.

The program espouses a focused, coordinated, and sustained delivery of the government’s basic services as well as social development packages in poor, conflict-affected and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas in the region.

“We are very confident that under the Duterte Administration we will be able to lessen and we will be able to address the poverty problems of the region,” Andanar said.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte approved an executive order (EO) earlier this month formalizing the designation of Cabinet secretaries as CORDS.

Under the CORDS initiative, Cabinet members may be assigned to discharge their functions, duties, and responsibilities to a particular region in addition to their regular duties.

An offshoot of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), CORDS is committed to take a whole-of-nation approach to address the issues of insurgency in the country.

Andanar said that the CAPDev will be launched in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, to be joined by the NTF-ELCAC co-chair Hermogenes Esperon Jr., Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Eduardo M. Año, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Sec. Rolando Bautista, National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Region X Dir. Mylah Faye Aurora B. Cariño, Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar Moreno, and Bukidnon Governor Jose Maria Zubiri Jr., Regional Task Force- ELCAC chair BGen Franco Nemecio M. Gacal.

http://ptvnews.ph/cords-to-address-poverty-insurgence-issues-in-regions/

Army apprehends NPA couriers after clash in SurSur town

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jun 27, 2019): Army apprehends NPA couriers after clash in SurSur town

LANUZA, Surigao del Sur – Six alleged food couriers for the New People’s Army were apprehended by the 36th Infantry "Valor" Battalion (36IB) in Surigao del Sur on June 22, a military official said.

According to 36IB Civil Military Operations officer Lt. Jonald Romorosa, prior to the incident, they received a report from the residents of the presence of the NPA Terrorist conducting extortion activity.

The 36IB troopers immediately responded, and a clash happened between the government troopers and more or less six members of NPA Terrorist at the vicinity of Sitio Bibian, in Barangay Barangay Mampi that lasted for about 10 minutes.

Romorosa said while they were conducting pursuit and blocking operations against the fleeing rebels when they intercepted two habal-habal (motorcycle-for-hire) carrying a food cache believed to be owned by the NPA and six alleged food couriers.

They were identified as Lisa Bacor Clorina, Isagani De Castro Nazareno; Gino De Castro Nazareno; Cyrel Nazareno; Juan De Castro Nazareno; and Chery Mae Maquiling, all from Barangay Gamuton in Lanuza town.

The troops have seized four cartons corn beef, one box bihon, one gallon cooking oil, one gallon soy sauce, one gallon vinegar, four trays fresh egg, one pack biscuits, 24 pieces noodles, four empty containers, 36 tins sardines, five pads notebooks and pencils, and assorted ingredients.

The military formally turned-over the apprehended personalities to Lanuza Municipal Police Station for proper investigation of their involvement and participation in the said incident.

Meanwhile, 36IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Xerxes Trinidad has strongly condemned the extortion activity conducted by the members of the NPA Terrorist victimizing innocent civilians.

“It is disheartening that the CPP-NPA Terrorist threatens the civilians and use them as their courier for their futile cause,” Trinidad said. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1023645

Another NPA member arrested in NegOcc

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 27, 2019): Another NPA member arrested in NegOcc

ARRESTED. Jasper Aguyong, a member of the local party branch of New People’s Army Central Negros Front Komiteng Rehiyong-Negros, was arrested at his residence in Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental on Thursday (June 27, 2019). He is the seventh member of the communist rebel group arrested in two days from the same village. (Photo courtesy of 62nd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

BACOLOD CITY -- A member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was arrested at his residence in Sitio Candi-is, Barangay Buenavista in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental on Thursday morning, a report from the Philippine Army said.

The suspect was identified as Jasper Aguyong, a member of the local party branch of Central Negros Front (CNF), Komiteng Rehiyong-Negros (KR-N).

He is the seventh member of the communist rebel group arrested in two days by the joint police and military personnel after the first six apprehended on Wednesday in three separate operations also in the same village.

Aguyong was arrested based on the warrant of arrest for six counts of frustrated murder issued by Judge Rodney Magbanua of Regional Trial Court Branch 61 in Kabankalan City.

He was alleged to be involved in the wounding of six soldiers during the encounter between government troops and communist rebels at Sitio Bunsad, Barangay Tan-awan in neighboring Kabankalan City in May last year.

On Wednesday, the six arrested were identified as Rodrigo Medez “Salvo”, secretary of local party branch of CNF, KR-N, and member of Yunit Militia, along with Jimmy Teves, Jodito Montecino, JP Romano, Eliseo Andres, and Roger “Jack” Sabanal, also unit Yunit Militia members.

They are facing two counts of murder and six counts of frustrated murder for the deaths of two soldiers and the injury of six others during the same clash in Barangay Tan-awan.

The warrants of arrest were served by personnel of the 2nd Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office Mobile Force Company and the Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion in the respective homes of the suspects in Sitios Bito, Balatugan and in Dawhan.

Teves, Montecino, and Romano were arrested just before 8 a.m.; Medez and Andres, at 11:45 a.m., and Sabanal at 3 p.m.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1073473

Support pours in for burnt school in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 27, 2019): Support pours in for burnt school in Maguindanao

JOINT EFFORT. Soldiers, police and former Moro rebels worked side by side to rebuild a burnt building of the Pageda Elementary School in Talitay, Maguindanao Wednesday (June 27, 2019). A fire of still unknown origin razed one of the two four-classroom, single story buildings of the school. (Photo courtesy of Talitay MPS)

TALITAY, Maguindanao -- Soldiers, policemen, and even former Moro rebels joined hands Wednesday to help put up temporary learning centers and rebuild a four-classroom building destroyed by fire.

Mohagher Iqbal, head of the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), announced that the Pageda Elementary School has received an outpouring of support from various organizations after the June 6 mysterious fire that destroyed one of its two buildings.

The school has some 200 elementary students sharing two four-classroom, single-story buildings.

During a “special Brigada Eskwela” exclusively for Pageda Elementary School on Wednesday, Iqbal handed over temporary learning spaces (TLS), 12 blackboards, hand washing facilities, hygiene kits to school administrators, and learning materials and school bags to pupils.

“Hundreds participated in the ‘bayanihan’ (communal) activity, including uniformed police, soldiers and members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF),” Iqbal said.

Iqbal assured school officials and parents that the BARMM will continue to help the pupils not only in Talitay but also across the region.

Aside from BARMM, the Unicef Philippines, Save the Children Philippines, and the Australian government through its Education Pathways to Peace in Mindanao Program have joined the efforts to rebuild the damaged school.

Iqbal said all schools in the BARMM are zones of peace "and everyone -- including the police, soldiers, educators, and parents -- must help ensure all children are safe."

Saligan Dulia, an MILF member, said he came over to extend a helping hand since his children are studying in the damaged school.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1073433

2 village watchmen shot dead by 'NPA hit squad' in NegOr

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 27, 2019): 2 village watchmen shot dead by 'NPA hit squad' in NegOr

Suspected communist New People’s Army (NPA) hitmen allegedly shot and killed on Thursday two barangay tanod (village watchmen) of Buenavista and T-Hill in Guihulngan City, northern Negros Oriental in separate incidents just hours apart.

The Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office (NOPPO) identified the victims as Lito Tabolong Itao, 49, chief tanod and resident of Sitio Culasi in Barangay Buenavista; and Ever Absin Pelenio, 57, a barangay tanod and resident of Sitio Kandaislan in Barangay T-Hill.

Initial police investigation disclosed that at around 10 a.m., three unidentified men approached and shot Pelenio who was then reading the Bible at the porch of his house.

The suspects were believed to be members of the NPA’s liquidation squad, the Special Partisan Unit (SPARU), the police said.

Pelenio was brought to the Guihulngan Hospital where he was declared dead on arrival.

Recovered from the crime scene were two fired cartridge cases of cal.45.

At around 3:45 p.m., Itao was shot by two unidentified motorcycle-riding suspects while he was sitting outside the store of Alvaro Estender, with his neighbors, Junior Abrea and Archie Estrao.

The backrider drew a gun and shot the victim several times, hitting him on different parts of the body.

The victim managed to run several meters before falling to the ground.

He was declared dead on arrival at the Guihulngan District Hospital.

Police recovered two fired cartridge cases of caliber .45 and a magazine with five ammunition of the same caliber from the scene of the crime.

No motive has yet been determined for the twin shooting incidents, the police said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1073521

MBLT-3 troops bid farewell to Mindanaoans

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 27, 2019): MBLT-3 troops bid farewell to Mindanaoans



SEND-OFF CEREMONY. Lt. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, presides over the send-off ceremony of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-3 (MBLT-3) at the port of Zamboanga City Thursday, (June 27, 2019). The MBLT-3 has been reassigned to Northern Palawan under the West Command from the province of Sulu. (Photo courtesy of Westmincom Public Information Office)

ZAMBOANGA CITY -- The Marine Battalion Landing Team-3 (MBLT-3) bade goodbye to Thursday after almost three years of service in the province of Sulu.

The MBLT-3 troopers sailed to their new destination aboard BRP-Davao del Sur following a send-off ceremony around 8:30 a.m. Thursday at the local port.

Lt. Gen. Arnel dela Vega, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, who presided over the send-off ceremony, said: "I am sure that you will do well in your new venture as you did a great job in fighting against terrorism in Sulu,” Dela Vega told the MBLT-3 troops."

The MBLT-3 is set to take responsibility for the internal security operations (ISO) in Northern Palawan under the West Command. Known as the “Tamed but Fierce Battalion”, the battalion is one of the units of the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC).

The unit managed to conduct a total of 104 major operations, 1,976 minor operations, 3,528 small unit operations, 77 seaborne patrols, and 14,399 security patrols since the battalion was deployed to fight the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in Sulu on September 9, 2016.

Dela Vega awarded a plaque of merit to the battalion during the send-off ceremony as a sign of gratitude for the outstanding performance and valuable service rendered that contributed to the accomplishment of Westmincom’s mission.

Lt. Col. Ramil Holgado, MBLT-3 commander, received the plaque of merit.

Dela Vega lauded the MBLT-3 troopers for their significant contributions both in focused and civil-military operations that resulted in the success of the unit’s mission.

“Carry on your good work by doing the right things and doing the things right,” he added.

The MBLT-3 was replaced by the MBLT-7, which was based in Maguindanao.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1073476

PDEA-BARMM bares plot to kill anti-narcotics agents

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 27, 2019): PDEA-BARMM bares plot to kill anti-narcotics agents

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA-BARMM) bared Thursday a plot to kill anti-narcotics personnel.

Director Juvenal Azurin of PDEA-BARMM said the plot is being hatched by a drug group and some unnamed narco-politicians and that the information came from an “A-1 source.”

Azurin said the series of anti-drug operations that resulted in the arrest of high-value targets and confiscation of huge volumes of illegal drugs could be the reasons why criminals would want to get back at PDEA agents.

“They are planning to retaliate by plotting the assassination of PDEA-BARMM personnel,” Azurin said in a statement.

Azurin said details about the plot have been shared with other government security agencies like the police, military and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA).

Despite the plot, Azurin assured that the PDEA will continue to perform its mandated duty to protect the country, the people and prosecute those engaged in illegal drugs and activities.

“For those who seek to harm us, we vow that for every life you take, we will grow stronger by ten-folds,” Azurin said, adding that “We will not rest until this is over and we will not be threatened by your criminal acts.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1073467

PRRD dares Western countries to help PH claim its territories

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 27, 2019): PRRD dares Western countries to help PH claim its territories

President Rodrigo Duterte and Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (Presidential Photo)

President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Wednesday night challenged three Western countries to help the Philippines make a stand against China and claim its territories in the disputed South China Sea.

Duterte posed this challenge to the United States, Great Britain, and France after clearly being frustrated by criticism that he has failed to confront China over its aggression in the contested waters.

He has also been criticized for seemingly lacking empathy for the 22 fishermen whose boat sunk after allegedly being rammed and abandoned by a Chinese vessel at the Recto Bank (Reed Bank) in the West Philippine Sea.

“Ito ang hamon ko, ang hamon ko sa America, Britain, France, mag-assemble tayo dito sa Palawan tapos diretso na tayo doon sa Spratly. Agawin na natin kung maagaw natin (This is my challenge, my challenge to America, Great Britain, France is that we assemble in Palawan and go straight to Spratly. Let’s claim it if we can),” Duterte said in his speech during the 122nd founding anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at Malacañang Park.

Duterte, however, said he did not want to endanger the lives of millions of Filipinos by going to war against China.

“Ah kung maubos tayo lahat… Sabihin nila (If we all perish…They’ll say), ‘Duterte is not protecting the interest of the Filipino.’ You’re a g****** s***. You want me to put the lives of 110 million Filipinos by going into trouble?” Duterte said.

“My God, I am not willing to sacrifice any soldier or policeman to die na walang kalaban-laban (without standing a chance),” he added.

He shrugged off critics who claimed going to war against China was too far-fetched, warning that conflict was bound to arise if the Philippines continued to push.

“Bakit giyera lang ano? Talagang giyera ‘yan (Why do I assume there will be war? It’s because it will really be a war),” Duterte said.

“Anything that is -- that would force anybody to act contrary to his will is always offensive. As a matter of fact sa (in) law, that is what’s called compelling anybody is a crime. Why will I go there and prohibit them na (when) the only way to stop them is talagang gamitan mo ng ngipin ‘yan (really showing some teeth)?"

Not afraid

Duterte dismissed claims he was afraid, but pointed out that the three Western countries should also be able to face China if they were sincere in helping.

“Hindi ako sa hindi natatakot. Kung gusto nila, sabi ko nga, mag-imbita sila kay hindi naman talaga natin kaya ‘yang --- p*** karami ng armas diyan ngayon (It’s not that I’m scared. If they want, I said, they can invite others because we really don’t stand a chance--they have lots of weapons),” Duterte said.

Amid calls for him to ban China from fishing within the Philippines Exclusive Economic Zone, Duterte said he could not enforce it even if he wants to, noting that even a powerful country like the US does not want to confront China.

“Kung i-prohibit ko (If I prohibit them), how do I enforce my desire? Takot nga ang America. Ayaw nga mag-confront, tapos ako pa ang ipusta nila (America is even afraid. They don’t want to confront, then they want me to take the risk)?” Duterte said.

Duterte, meanwhile, reiterated that he has no way of stopping China from fishing within the EEZ because the latter has insisted its claims on the area despite the arbitral ruling in favor of the Philippines.

“We cannot drive them away because they have insisted na kanila (that is theirs). Tayo, idinemanda natin ang China panahon ni Aquino, which was right. Nanalo tayo, sabi ng arbitral court, ‘sa Pilipinas ‘yan’ (We filed a case against China during the time of Aquino, which was right. We won and the arbitral court ruled ‘that belongs to the Philippines')," Duterte said.

Despite the arbitral ruling, Duterte said that the Philippines was not given sovereignty and that “no country in the world has sovereignty over their EEZ.

“Hindi ibinigay sa atin ‘yung (We were not given) sovereignty. Our sovereignty is only 12 miles. Ang (The) economic zone, wala tayong (we don’t have) sovereignty. No country in the world has sovereignty sa kanyang (within its) economic zone --- exclusive. It is not a question of sovereignty,” Duterte said.

Mutual agreement

According to Duterte, another reason why the Philippines could not stop China from fishing within the Philippine EEZ is because of their previous agreement to allow both Chinese and Filipinos to fish in the area.

“Kasi nagtanong sila (Because they asked), ‘Will you allow the Chinese to fish? Sabi ko (I said) ‘Of course, ‘yan ang pinag-usapan namin noon (that was what we agreed upon),” Duterte said.

“‘Yan ang pinag-usapan namin noon, kaya tayo naguusap eh (That’s what we agreed on before, that’s why we are talking). And that was we were allowed to fish again. It was a mutual agreement,” he added.

Moreover, Duterte said that several infrastructure agreements between the Philippines and China have also been signed after the two countries decided to delay talks on the arbitral ruling.

“Ang usapan natin, huwag na muna ngayon pagusapan, mag-kaibigan lang muna tayo. Pagbigyan ko kayo ng armas, ano pang gusto ninyo(The deal is, let’s not talk about this issue now, let’s be friends first. I’ll give you arms, what else do you want)?” Duterte said.

“Ang mga projects ngayon. Kita mo naman (The projects now, as you can see). You from Luzon. Kita mo ‘yung highway ngayon? Kita mo ‘yung mga… Tapos gusto mo lang na pilitin na umalis sila doon (Do you see the highways now? Then you just want to force them to leave the area)?” he added.

Sideswiped

Duterte also raised the possibility that the Filipino fishing vessel, which sank off Recto Bank, may not have been rammed but “sideswiped” by the Chinese vessel last June 9.

“Halos kami ngayon are agreed na-sideswipe. Hindi talaga yung binunggo. Kung binunggo, nasa ilalim na ‘yun (Almost all of us are somewhat convinced that it was sideswiped. That the boat was not really rammed. If it was rammed, it might have gone underneath),” Duterte said.

He pointed out that critics who insist that the Chinese vessel “intentionally” rammed the Filipino fishing boat should await the results of the investigation.

“Na-sideswipe. ‘Yun ang tawag diyan. Ngayon sabihin mo sinadya (That’s what it’s called. Now, if you say it was done intentionally) then let us have an investigation,” Duterte said.

Duterte said he still has cards up his sleeves--findings from the Bureau of Customs and Philippine Navy--but withholding them until Chinese authorities release their own report on the incident.

“Tinatago ko 'yung aking baraha. Meron nang Customs, meron nang Navy. Tinatago ko for the final report kasi gusto ko tingnan yung ano sa China (I’m saving my cards. There are findings from Customs, from Navy. I’m withholding them for the final report because I want to see the results of China first),” Duterte said.

The President further said that whether or not the Philippine government was contented with China’s explanation that the Chinese fishermen were “afraid of being besieged by other Filipino fishing boats”, it was something they could not do anything about.

“Whether that is a good answer or not, that is their answer. Wala tayong magawa (We cannot do anything about it). You cannot force another answer kung ayaw niya (if China doesn’t want to),” Duterte said.

At present, Chinese authorities have yet to release the results of their investigation on the maritime incident.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1073423

PH, Russian execs meet anew for security cooperation talks

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 27, 2019): PH, Russian execs meet anew for security cooperation talks

National Security Adviser and Director General of the National Security Council (NSC) Secretary Hermogenes C. Esperon Jr. (File photo)

In line with the ongoing efforts to expand the country's foreign relations, the Philippines and Russian Federation moved closer in strengthening its ties with the successful conclusion of talks between ranking national security officials in Moscow on June 21.

Heading the Philippine inter-agency delegation was National Security Adviser and Director General of the National Security Council (NSC) Secretary Hermogenes C. Esperon Jr. and Secretary Nikolay P. Patrushev of the Security Council of the Russian Federation (SCRF).

“While much had been achieved in past years towards the enhancement of security cooperation between the security and law-enforcement agencies of both countries, more avenues were nonetheless explored, including the conduct of regular dialogues at various levels, information-sharing, and capacity-building activities. We also took the occasion to exchange views on regional and international issues,” Esperon said.

Philippine officials met with their Russian counterparts to follow through on key framework agreements reached in 2017 on security, defense, law enforcement, and intelligence exchange cooperation, particularly in the fight against violent extremism, drug-trafficking, transnational crimes, as well as other hybrid threats, including cyber-crimes, among others.

Esperon was also joined by Philippine Ambassador to Russia Carlos Sorreta; NSC Deputy Director General Vicente Agdamag; Undersecretary Adrian Sugay of the Department of Justice; Assistant Secretary Manuel Felix of the Department of the Interior and Local Governments; Assistant Director General Restituto Santos of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency; Commodore Rolando Punzalan of the Philippine Coast Guard; and Colonel Rodolfo Hernandez of the Philippine National Police.

The June 21 meeting is the third edition of the continuing NSC-SCRF consultations. The first of such consultations was held in Davao City on February 15-17 2017, followed by the talks held in Moscow on May 16-18, 2018.

Prior the Moscow meeting, Esperon also attended the 10th Meeting of High-Level Officials Responsible for Security Matters held in the City of Ufa, Russia on June 18-20. Discussions on the conference were focused on responses to the emerging hybrid threats and cooperation in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1073418

David named head of Fleet Marine Warfare Center

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 27, 2019): David named head of Fleet Marine Warfare Center

Captain Richard David has been appointed to head the Philippine Navy (PN)'s Fleet Marine Warfare Center (FMWC) located at the Naval Station Jose Francisco, Taguig City.

Captain Jonathan Zata, PN spokesperson, in a message to the Philippine News Agency Thursday, said David was named FMWC chief last June 24. Assumption ceremonies took place at Acero Hall, Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown of the said facility.

David replaced Marine Col. Francisco Domingo R. Fernandez, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1991, who was transferred to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Command Center in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Rear Admiral Allan Ferdinand Valdez Cusi, Naval Education, Training and Doctrine Command (NETDC) chief, presided over the ceremonies.

Cusi, in his speech, lauded Fernandez for his exemplary leadership at the FMWC, adding that David "had big shoes to fill".

But he added that he has confidence in David due to the latter's credentials and good military accomplishments.

Fernandez took up his Command and Staff Course at the United States Marine Corps Command and Staff College and his Master in Military Studies at the Marine Corps University, both in Quantico, Virginia, USA.

In 1998 he completed his Master in Business Management Course at the Asian Institute of Management.

After his last field duty billet, he was consequently assigned to various positions at different units/offices at the Headquarters, Philippine Marine Corps; Headquarters Philippine Navy; and General Headquarters, AFP.

Fernandez assumed the post as the third FMWC commander in September 2017.

Meanwhile, David, who hails from Tarlac, is a member of PMA Class 94 and prior to his new post was the assistant chief of Fleet Staff for Plans, F-5 at the headquarters Philippine Fleet.

He is also served a tour-of-duty as commanding officer of BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602) which participated in the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise last year.

He is a recipient of numerous military awards and commendations and has been constantly at the top bracket of all education and training courses that he has attended since his plebe days at PMA.

The FMWC is one of the three research and development units that was activated in 2014 as part of the Navy’s commitment to becoming a bastion of innovation under the Islands of Good Governance Agenda.

The other two R&D units are the Office of Naval Strategic Studies and the Naval Research and Technology Development. The FMWC was integrated as a sub-unit of the NETDC in February.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1073445

Lacson backs PRRD's call on Western allies to help PH vs. China

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 27, 2019): Lacson backs PRRD's call on Western allies to help PH vs. China

Senator Panfilo Lacson

Senator Panfilo Lacson on Thursday backed President Rodrigo Duterte’s call for the United States and other Western countries to help the Philippines make a stand against China and claim its territories in the disputed South China Sea.

In a statement, Lacson said Duterte’s call on western allies to help check on China in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) is “proper” given the prevailing circumstances, contrary to critics’ claims that such move is a “sure formula” for war.

“Maintaining the balance of power in the WPS will prevent rather than ignite a war. Why? No two superpowers would go to war in this day and age of nuclear technology for the simple reason of its ‘zero-sum’ outcome,” Lacson said.

Duterte challenged the United States, Great Britain, and France to “assemble” and help the country assert its claim over the WPS after clearly being frustrated by criticism that he has failed to confront China over its aggression in the contested waters.

Lacson also said it is a good development that the President has corrected himself by saying he cannot prevent incursions of foreign fishing vessels within the country’s exclusive economic zone.

“Because even if he wants to, we don’t have the capability nor the capacity to do it, not to mention that the arbitral ruling is unenforceable in the first place; and that the Philippines merely exercises sovereign right, not sovereignty over the areas within the EEZ,” Lacson said.

“I agree with the President in this regard. Having said that, to allow is not the same as not being able to prevent,” he added.

Duterte has reiterated that he has no way of stopping China from fishing within the EEZ because the latter has insisted its claims on the area despite the arbitral ruling in favor of the Philippines.

“We cannot drive them away because they have insisted na kanila (that is theirs). Tayo, idinemanda natin ang China panahon ni Aquino, which was right. Nanalo tayo, sabi ng arbitral court, ‘sa Pilipinas ‘yan’ (We filed a case against China during the time of Aquino, which was right. We won and the arbitral court ruled ‘that belongs to the Philippines')," Duterte said.

Despite the arbitral ruling, Duterte said the Philippines was not given sovereignty and that no country in the world has sovereignty over their EEZ.

“Hindi ibinigay sa atin ‘yung (We were not given) sovereignty. Our sovereignty is only 12 miles. Ang (The) economic zone, wala tayong (we don’t have) sovereignty. No country in the world has sovereignty sa kanyang (within its) economic zone -- exclusive. It is not a question of sovereignty,” Duterte said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1073453

Enlightened LGUs behind persona non grata spree vs. Reds

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 27, 2019): Enlightened LGUs behind persona non grata spree vs. Reds



More local government units (LGUs) are getting enlightened against the lies and acts of deception by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA), hence the spate of persona non grata declarations against the communist rebels.

This was the reply of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief, Col. Noel Detoyato when asked to comment on the matter Thursday.

"LGUs who declared the CPP-NPA-NDF (National Democratic Front) persona non grata are those who are enlightened on the negative effects of the terror group," Detoyato said in a message to the Philippine News Agency.

Also, the decision to declare the CPP-NPA persona non grata can be attributed to the communist rebels' negative impact on the business climate.

"(The LGUs decision to declare the CPP-NPA also has something to do) on its impact on the growth and business climate of their communities," Detoyato stressed.

Earlier, Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy said the CPP-NPA has kept the poor poorer and the Philippines in deep chaos.

Speaking before members of the US-Philippines Society (USPHS) headed by its executive director Hank Hendrickson and president Ambassador John Maisto, the lady official emphasized that the communist terrorist group has wounded the Filipinos’ psyche by teaching the language of hate and mistrust against even the most sincere and hardworking public servants.

“And they do this because in agitating us, in keeping the poor stuck in poverty, and by obstructing progress are where they stand to gain the most," Badoy said in a forum at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, DC.

She said the extensive organizational structure of the CPP-NPA and the National Democratic Front has infiltrated all sectors of Philippine society such as women, youth, farmers, media, church, indigenous peoples (IPs), and even the United Nations system.

“And that now spans continents and is in 39 countries including North America via its legal fronts, which have used the poorest among Filipinos and their indigenous brothers and sisters as their milking cow, asking for funds from unwitting international organizations and governments which are fed patent lies about the country to get those funds,” she added.

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.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1073459

Retired general appointed as PhilHealth board member

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 27, 2019): Retired general appointed as PhilHealth board member

President Rodrigo Duterte has appointed retired Army general Ricardo Morales as board member of the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth).

In his appointment paper signed by Duterte on June 25 and released to the media on Thursday, Morales will serve as member of the PhilHealth Board of Directors, representing the indirect contributors.

His appointment comes almost one month after Duterte named him as member of the board of trustees of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS).

Reports earlier claimed that Morales was going to be named PhilHealth president and Chief Executive Officer after Duterte sought the resignation of Roy Ferrer over “bogus kidney dialysis treatments.”

Aside from Morales, Duterte appointed Amable Aguiluz V as Special Envoy of the President to the Gulf Cooperation Council from July 1, 2019 to June 2020.

Duterte also appointed Lourdines dela Cruz as Deputy National Statistician at the Philippine Statistics Authority; Allan Iral as jail director of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology; and Jon Castro as member of the board of directors of the Clark Development Corp. to serve until June 30.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1073464

Duterte wants another meeting with Misuari

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 27, 2019): Duterte wants another meeting with Misuari

PRRD-MISUARI MEETING. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte discusses matters with Moro National Liberation Front Founding Chairman Nur Misuari during their meeting at the Malacañan Palace on February 25, 2019. Duterte said he is trying to set up another meeting with Misuari to discuss peace. (Presidential Photo)

President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday night bared that he is trying to set up another meeting with Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chairman Nur Misuari.

Duterte said he wanted to offer Misuari “the same arrangement” he gave the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) which led to the creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

He took pride in being able to convince MILF chair Al-Hajj Murad Ebrahim, who is now BARMM interim Chief Minister.

“Central Mindanao medyo nagkalma na (has calmed down). We were able to really convince those guys sila Murad,” Duterte said during the 122nd founding anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at Malacañang Park.

“I'm trying to set up a meeting with Nur Misuari. I would concede the same arrangement,” he added.

On March 26 this year, Duterte said he is “in a hurry” to strike a deal with Misuari to end Moro rebellion and achieve lasting peace in Mindanao.

Duterte bared this after he met with Misuari in Malacañang on March 20 to discuss the shift to federalism, which the MNLF founder was pushing for.

The President and Misuari also met in Malacañang on Feb. 25, 2019.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1073512

New anti-insurgency plan seen to address poverty in N. Mindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 27, 2019): New anti-insurgency plan seen to address poverty in N. Mindanao

ANTI-INSURGENCY PROGRAM. Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar explains the new anti-insurgency program called Convergence Areas for Peace and Development (CAPDev) during his meeting with members of the Cagayan de Oro Press Club on Thursday (June 27, 2019). To be launched on Friday (June 28, 2019) in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, CAPDev is seen to address poverty and other root causes of internal armed conflict and insurgency. (Photo courtesy of PCOO)

With the launching of the new anti-insurgency program in Northern Mindanao on Friday, Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar expressed confidence that the Duterte administration will be able to address poverty in the region.

Andanar, designated Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) in Region 10, said Northern Mindanao is the first region to launch a banner program called Convergence Areas for Peace and Development (CAPDev) which seeks to address the root causes of internal armed conflict and insurgency.

“The purpose of this is to accelerate the development of our barangays here in Region 10 -- to end the local communist armed conflict,” Andanar said in a meeting with members of the Cagayan de Oro Press Club on Thursday.

“The CORDS here in Region 10 is one of the most active CORDS in the entire country. Tomorrow will be the first time that the CORDS will be meeting and presiding both the Regional Development Council (RDC), and Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC),” he added.

CAPDev aims to promote the establishment of durable peace and development while empowering communities in the priority focus areas through peace building and reconciliation, socio-economic transformation, good governance, and institution building.

The launch in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon will be joined by the the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) co-chair Hermogenes Esperon Jr., Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Eduardo M. Año, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rolando Bautista, National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Region 10 Director Mylah Faye Aurora B. Cariño, Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar Moreno, Bukidnon Governor Jose Maria Zubiri Jr., and Regional Task Force- ELCAC chair Brig. General Franco Nemecio M. Gacal.

Earlier this month, President Rodrigo Duterte approved an executive order (EO) formalizing the designation of Cabinet secretaries as CORDS heads.

Under the CORDS initiative, Cabinet members may be assigned to discharge their functions, duties, and responsibilities in a particular region, in addition to their regular duties.

CORDS, an offshoot of the NTF-ELCAC, takes on a whole-of-nation approach to address the issues of insurgency in the country.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1073500

Air Force will take over NAIA if security doesn’t improve: PRRD

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 27, 2019): Air Force will take over NAIA if security doesn’t improve: PRRD

President Rodrigo Duterte warned that if security at the four terminals of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is not improved, the Air Force will take over.

Duterte made this warning during the 122nd founding anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at Malacañang Park on Wednesday night.

“At naga-warning lang ako na if (And I just warning) that NAIA is not --- the security is not improved there --- I will order the Air Force to take over,” Duterte said in his speech.

Earlier this month, Duterte conducted a surprise inspection at the NAIA Terminal 2 following reports of flight cancellations and delays.

Duterte then ordered the transfer general aviation or domestic flights to Sangley Air Base in Cavite City by November this year.

The President also wanted airport security to be handled by a single entity, either from the military or civilian force to ensure passengers’ safety.

Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade said aside from Sangley, his agency will also be looking at Clark Airport in Pampanga and the Bulacan Airport to ease congestion at NAIA.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1073524