Monday, July 15, 2019

MILF: Lanao Young leaders commemorate youth contributions to Bangsamoro Peace Processes

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Jul 15, 2019): Lanao Young leaders commemorate youth contributions to Bangsamoro Peace Processes



COTABATO CITY - The United Youth for Peace and Development (UNYPAD) Ranao region has observed the 14 years of chapter existence since it was organized in 2005, a year after the inception of UNYPAD in 2004 through commemorating the gains of their contributions on peace building in troubled Southern Philippines.

The UNYPAD Ranao Region marks the 13th day of July their "Ivory Anniversary" as they gathered their chapters from Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, and Lanao Del Norte in a team-building held at Timoga, Iligan City on Saturday.

Ansary Diamaoden, Vice President for External Affairs of the UNYPAD said that this activity aimed at strengthening further the brotherhood and sisterhood of officers and members of the organization.

"We came from different places in Lanao and many of our newly organized chapters didn't know our colleagues in other areas, so this is the day to strengthen our camaraderie," Diamaoden said.

Diamaoden remembered the time when he was not yet part of the organization, that, his only role every time there was a meeting by UNYPAD is to become a messenger in buying food for meal.

"I am not expecting that I could be part of UNYPAD who is one of the Bangsamoro youth thinking for better life of fellow Bangsamoro," he stressed.

Diamaoden announced during the program the appointment of the new chapter chairman of Lanao Coastal Provincial chapter.

The Vice President for Internal Affairs Tu Alid Alfonso who graced the activity said "If you will be chosen as leader of your chapter, do your best to perform your duties and responsibility because we will be surely rewarded by Allah on every effort that we contribute.

Alfonso said, “Leadership is 'amanah' (trust). It is who Allah who gives this to whom He may want to become a leader. "It is amazing that once you become a leader because of that trust you will be followed and respected by your colleagues without reservation, and you can enjoy that one here in UNYPAD," Alfonso said.

However, if someone becomes leader it must be coupled by responsibility and accountability, he said.

Alfonso acknowledged the contributions of UNYPAD Ranao region to the development and achievements of the whole UNYPAD.

Alfonso thanked the Meranaw youth despite of the devastation of their communities from wars, they are still resilient to its negative effect both on the lives of Meranaw people and their socioeconomic condition.

Dr. Anwar Saluwang, UNYPAD Deputy Secretary-General emphasized that the Bangsamoro struggle is not yet over. "We have only achieved 75% of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro and the remaining 15% of that agreement is our responsibility on how it will be observed and be implemented."

The BARMM is only a small portion of the whole pie that the Bangsamoro people has achieved for our Right to self-determination, Saluwang said.

"Let us protect the gains of the peace process, let us work, unite towards achieving long lasting peace in BARMM region," Saluwang appealed.

The UNYPAD is monitoring and observing the implementation of all agreements between the government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) through the Third Party Monitoring Team (TPMT).

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1848/lanao-young-leaders-commemorate-youth-contributions-to-bangsamoro-peace-processes

MILF: U-Report launched in BARMM, Philippines

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Jul 15, 2019): U-Report launched in BARMM, Philippines



In photo- (seated left) Andrew Morris, UNICEF Philippines, Chief of Field Office in Mindanao, Dr. Marjanie Mimbamtas Macasalong, Executive Director of OBYA (seated right) during the launching of U-Report at SKCC, BARMM, Cotabato City

COTABATO CITY – The U-Report is a social messaging tool and data collection system to improve adolescent and youth citizen engagement, inform leaders, and foster positive change was launched in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) on Thursday, July 11 at SKCC, OCM Compound, Cotabato City.

U-Report is an online platform developed and used globally by UNICEF, Voluntary Services Overseas (VSO) Philippines, and will be partnered with the BARMM Office Bangsamoro Youth Affairs (OBYA) and other organizations to support adolescents and youth engagement in raising issues and concerns in BARMM region.

This platform uses polls and alerts, collecting real-time responses for raising adolescents and young people’s voices that can guide in policy development and social accountability.

“U-Report will now give adolescents and young people opportunity to make their views known in a much more powerful way,” Andrew Morris, UNICEF Philippines, Chief of Field Office in Mindanao, said during the launching ceremony.

Morris said, “For UNICEF, we know that the passion, the ideas, and innovations of young people can transform the Bangsamoro’s future. We know that. But if young people like to do that, they need to be involved, consulted, empowered, and be equipped”.

The U-Report platform has reached communities in 54 countries around the worlds with almost seven million responders globally since it was first launched in 2011. 



“Your voice matters. Sign up to U-Report and take part on the weekly polls,” Morris stressed.

The launching of U-Report in the Philippines comes as UNICEF Philippines and partners celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of Child (CRC), the most widely ratified human rights treaty in history that has helped transform Children’s lives around the world.

Dr. Marjanie Mimbantas Macasalong, Executive Director of OBYA said “U-Report is an exciting innovation to help us understand the concerns of youths and adolescents in BARMM, especially now that we are developing the Bangsamoro youth agenda.”

“This tool can foster open communication and make sure that we prioritize issues that children and youth passionate about,” Macasalong emphasized.

Salic Macaraob, a youth leader in Marawi City, who participated in the launching program was delighted when he heard the positive response of Macasalong that their voice be heard in the BARMM.

Aleem Pangalian Solaiman, Bangsamoro Parliament Deputy Chief Minister said that this endeavor in partnership with UNICEF, VSO and other local organizations is very much welcome and he committed to uphold the young people so that their voices will make difference in BARMM.

The Ministry of Social and Development Services headed by Atty. Raissa Jajurie is very supportive to the new innovations, her ministry according to Jajurie will find ways to respond on concerns pertaining to work of their ministry to help the young people.

To become a U-Reporter, Bangsamoro youth only need to do is to log in into Facebook accounts, look for the U-Report Philippines page, open the messenger app, and click “join”. Upon joining, U-Reporters can start participating in polls and send reports.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1846/u-report-launched-in-barmm--philippines

MILF: MILF Peace Panel Chair IQBAL meets with representative of Geneva Call

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Jul 15, 2019): MILF Peace Panel Chair IQBAL meets with representative of Geneva Call



COTABATO CITY | Ms. Katherine Kramer of Geneva Call paid courtesy call this morning to Minister Mohagher Iqbal of the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Geneva Call is an international humanitarian organization that advocates the protection of civilians particularly in conflict-affected areas.

It is presently undertaking a world-wide research study that aims to improve the policies and guidelines of the protection of civilians in armed conflicts.

During their conversation, Minister Iqbal who was delighted on the visit of Ms. Kramer responded to the queries in regard to the MILF policies, guidelines and experiences in the history. These include the subjects and issues on humanitarian assistance, displacements and due processes.

The MILF chair of peace implementing panel minister Iqbal have had numerous meetings and encounters with several INGO/NGO’s that advocate and promote the safety of civilians and humanitarian development.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1849/milf-peace-panel-chair-iqbal-meets-with-representative-of-geneva-call

MILF: Duterte, CM Ebrahim meet over concerns on Sec. Piñol’s appointment as Point Man in BARMM

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Jul 15, 2019): Duterte, CM Ebrahim meet over concerns on Sec. Piñol’s appointment as Point Man in BARMM



BTA Chief Minister Murad Ebrahim updates President Rodrigo Duterte on the BARMM. Malacañang file photo

Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao— Philstar reported on July 12 that President Duterte met with Bangsamoro Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Chief Minister Al Hajj Murad Ebrahim over their concerns on the appointment of resigned agriculture secretary Emmanuel Piñol as head of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA).

“We are trying to fine-tune. That is why the truth of the matter is I really transferred Piñol to assist them. This is not husbandry. It’s there already,” Duterte told Philstar in a chance interview at Malacañang on July 11.

Duterte emphasized that Piñol’s role would focus on overseeing the development in the region to speed up progress there since he feels it has not jumpstarted yet despite the creation of the new independent entity.

I don’t have a point man who was born and raised there, said Duterte.

I’m sure he can help the BARMM and the government to fast track everything,” Duterte added.

He also told Philstar during the interview that he is focused on improving the welfare of the Moro people who have been longing for peace and progress in the region.

In a televised interview recently, CM Ebrahim said Piñol remains to be “very unpopular among the Bangsamoro people,” even with his efforts to help the region.

“Despite Piñol expressing support to the Bangsamoro region even when he was still agriculture secretary, he is still not okay for some other people,” Ebrahim said.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1845/duterte--cm-ebrahim-meet-over-concerns-on-sec--pi--ol---s-appointment-as-point-man-in-barmm

MILF: Editorial - Mourning the death of ‘one of the heroes’ of Mindanao peace process

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Jul 15, 2019): Editorial - Mourning the death of ‘one of the heroes’ of Mindanao peace process

The Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) has recently lost a member.

Atty. Abdul M. Dataya succumbed to a heart ailment at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Davao Doctors’ Hospital in Davao City on July 9, 2019.

Dataya was a member of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) and chairman of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front - Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (MILF-AHJAG).

He was the Provincial Executive Officer of the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) in Maguindanao.

After having been admitted to the Philippine Bar on March 9, 1971, he worked as the Regional Director of the Regional Anti-Smuggling Action Center (RASAC), Region XI and later as the Regional Director of the Economic Intelligence and Investigation Bureau (EIIB), Region XII.

When he retired from the government service, he served the office of the erstwhile chairman of the MILF, Ustaz Salamat Hashim, in various capacities.

As chairman of the MILF-AHJAG, Dataya played a vital role in the peace process between the government and the MILF.

General Carlito Galvez Jr., the secretary of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) referred to Dataya as ‘one of the heroes’ of Mindanao peace process.

Galvez, in a statement, said:

“On behalf of the men and women of the Office of Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), it is with deepest sorrow that we learn of the passing of BTA member and MILF-AHJAG Chair Atty. Abdul Dataya, whom I considered as one of the heroes of the peace process in Mindanao.”

“And even with his fragile health, Atty. Dataya continues to contribute as a member of the BTA to ensure that the Bangsamoro people will have a smooth transition period in the newly-established Bangsamoro regional government,” Galvez said.

The Institute for Autonomy and Governance (IAG), in its message, described Dataya as “up to the end, a revolutionary.”

The IAG said:

“The IAG grieves the demise of Atty. Abdul Dataya, BTA member and partner in promoting party-based politics. We were shocked to receive the news during the BTA training that he was scheduled to attend. He is up to the end, a revolutionary, pushing his ideals in a democratic setting.”

O Almighty Allah, we pray that You forgive and have mercy upon Atty. Abdul M. Dataya. Excuse him and pardon him. Admit him into the Jannat ul-Firdaus (Paradise), and protect him from the punishment of the grave and the torment of the hellfire.’

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1847/mourning-the-death-of----one-of-the-heroes----of-mindanao-peace-process

AFP-CRS: CPP-NPA recruit minors aged 10 to 14.

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Jul 15, 2019): CPP-NPA recruit minors aged 10 to 14.


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AFP-CRS: Former rebel Ka Dindo attests to CPP-NPA lies

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Jul 16, 2019): Former rebel Ka Dindo attests to CPP-NPA lies

Deception and false promises remain to be utilized by communist terrorist groups to entice people on joining armed rebellion. Former rebels such as Ka Dindo attest to the lies fed to them by rebel groups.

#ECLIP
#BalikLoob
#BalikPamilya
#UniteForPeace


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AFP-CRS: DepEd orders closure of 55 Salugpungan schools in Davao region

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Jul 16, 2019): DepEd orders closure of 55 Salugpungan schools in Davao region



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2581525385199503/?type=3&theater

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AFP-CRS: CPP-NPA member neutralized in Negros clash

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Jul 16, 2019): CPP-NPA member neutralized in Negros clash

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https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2581525755199466/?type=3&theater

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

Kalinaw News: NPA rapidly disintegrates in 4ID AOR

From Kalinaw News (Jul 16, 2019): NPA rapidly disintegrates in 4ID AOR

NPA rapidly disintegrates in 4ID AOR 1

NPA rapidly disintegrates in 4ID AOR 2

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – The Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) continues to crumble as the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division relentlessly conducts focused-military operations in Regions 10 and CARAGA.

On July 10, 2019, an NPA terrorist was found dead after an encounter between the troops of 3rd Special Forces Battalion under LTC Joey Baybayan in Brgy. Mabuhay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur. The unidentified NPA terrorist was believed to be intentionally left behind by his comrades along with one (1) M16 rifle, one (1) Improvised Explosive Device (IED), one (1) backpack with personal belongings, one (1) commercial radio, cell phone and gallons of gasoline.

Meanwhile, the troops of 23rd Infantry Battalion under LTC Francisco Molina Jr, seized an NPA hideout after an encounter in Brgy Guinabsan, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte last July 12, 2019. The encounter resulted after some weary residents reported the presence and whereabouts of the CNTs who were regularly conducting atrocities at the said town.

The next day, a pressured NPA leader surrendered also to the 23rd IB and pinpointed the location of three (3) High-powered firearms in Sitio Malague, Brgy Guinabsan, Agusan del Norte. @Belly, Vice Commander, Squad 1, SPP Kingdom assisted the troops in the recovery of One (1) 5.56mm M16 rifle (COLT), two (2) M4A1 carbine rifles, magazines, medicines, food supplies, assorted backpacks, hammocks, civilian clothing and subversive documents.

Further, 4 other NPA terrorists died in a clash with the government troops in Barangay Bunawan Brook, Agusan del Sur on 2 separate encounters yesterday July 14, 2019. Troops of the 75th Infantry Battalion under LTC Jaime Datuin responded to the reports of NPA extortion activities which resulted in the death of four (4) terrorists and the recovery of two Norinco AK 47 rifle, two M16A1 rifle, one Cal. 45 pistol, one hand grenade, empty magazines, backpacks and personal items.

On the other hand, a certain Loreto Rinsulat Celosia @Oloy/Oscar/Anas, former Team Leader of GF21A, NEMRC was apprehended through a joint AFP/PNP law enforcement operation by the troops of the 3rd SF Battalion and Agusan del Sur PNP at Purok 4, Brgy Wawa, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur yesterday, July 14, 2019. @Oloy is facing a criminal case of Multiple Attempted Murder, Attempted Murder and Rape while the authorities recovered from his possession one (1) cal .45 pistol with one (1) magazine loaded with seven (7) rounds ammunition and nine (9) rounds ammunition wrapped in a plastic cellophane.

Furthermore, a total of seventy (70) NPA members and supporters comprising of 29 Milisya ng Bayan, two (2) Sangay sa Partido sa Lokalidad (SPL), and 39 Hingpit na Organisadong Masa (HOM) members who were radicalized through lies and deceptions by cadres of CPP’s Sub-Regional Committee 5 (SRC5) of North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) withdrew their support from the local communist movement and voluntarily surrendered to 65th Infantry Battalion under LTC Benjamin Pajarito, yesterday July 14 in Brgy San Rafael, Talakag, Bukidnon.

Maj Gen Franco Nemesio Gacal, Commander of the 4th ID said, “I laud the Diamond troopers for upholding our mandate of protecting the people. Continue pursuing the NPA remnants that are hiding in the mountains of Regions 10 and CARAGA to finally stop their 5-decade long atrocities.” “We are calling on to the NPA terrorists to surrender and return to the folds of the law and avail of the E-CLIP while you still can”, Gacal added

“I am also asking for the sustained support of all the LGUs, LGAs and other stakeholders in order to finally address the root causes of insurgencies through the conduct of sustained delivery of basic services and social development packages in Conflict Affected Areas and Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas. Let us stop the vicious cycle of death by ending the local communist armed conflict and attaining sustainable peace and inclusive growth and development”, Gacal ended.




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

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

Kalinaw News: NPA Supporters continue to surrender to government troops in Caraga

From Kalinaw News (Jul 16, 2019): NPA Supporters continue to surrender to government troops in Caraga

NPA Supporters continue to surrender to government troops in Caraga 1

NPA Supporters continue to surrender to government troops in Caraga 2

NPA Supporters continue to surrender to government troops in Caraga 3

BANCASI, Butuan City – Sixty-two (62) former Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army Terrorist (CNTs) and Underground Mass Organizations (UMO) supporters surrendered to the elements of 30IB last July 8, 2019 at Brgy Sta Cruz, Placer, Surigao del Norte.

The trend of surrenders from the communities deceived by Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army Terrorist (CNTs) continues as another group of community consists of seven (7) mass supporters from Brgy Macopa, four (4) from Brgy Poblacion, and one (1) from Brgy Honrado all in the municipality of San Francisco, Surigao del Norte together with other fifty (50) individuals who are members of Underground Movement Organizations (UGMOs) coming from Brgy Danao, Surigao City surrendered to the troops of the 30IB and pledged their allegiance anew to the government.

They exposed the CNTs scheme on how they were deceived thru false promises, agitation and exploitation on the issues of what is lacking in their community. Furthermore they added that they were utilized by the CNTs as food couriers, messengers, logistics safe keeper and as eyes and ears to monitor the movement of government forces.

“We are expecting influx of more individuals to surrender as former rebels, leaders and supporters expressed discontent inside the CPP-NPA. They are dissatisfied and frustrated with the false promises and the deception of the CNTs”, Lt Col Tomas said.

For the second quarter of this year alone, a total of one-thousand one-hundred twenty–six (1, 126)UGMO and Mass Supporters have surrendered, shifted support and took an oath of allegiance towards the government while one-hundred seventy-eight (178) CNTs composed of twenty-three (23) NPA regulars and one-hundred fifty-five Milisya ng Bayan (MB) have yielded to the government troops.

“Meanwhile, Col Maurito L Licudine, 402nd Brigade Commander said, “these people were deceived and exploited out of the social issues they experienced in their communities. With the government’s efforts to address the issues thru the creation of Regional Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict under the Executive Order No. 70, people have realized that social issues and problems are best resolved in an environment of peace”.

“The public should be wary of the machinations of the left leaning groups for their own vested interest in advancing their armed and political struggle. Let us all join hands together with other stakeholders to bring solutions to our problems”, Col Licudine added.

Qualified surrenderers will be processed for enrolment to E-CLIP while those who will not be qualified will be linked to the different agencies and shall be included in the sustainment programs under the government assistance and regular programs.



402nd Infantry Brigade, 4th Infantry Division Philippine Army
CPT FRANCISCO P GARELLO JR (INF) PA
402nd Bde Civil Military Operations Officer
Contact Number:0915-054-3439/0948-641-6783
Add us on Facebook at: RAJAH KULAMBO (Stinger)

[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: Troops seize NPA hideout in Agusan Norte

From Kalinaw News (Jul 16, 2019): Troops seize NPA hideout in Agusan Norte

Troops seize NPA hideout in Agusan Norte 1

Troops seize NPA hideout in Agusan Norte 2



BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – Troops of the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion seized a CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) hideout after an encounter in Brgy Guinabsan, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte on July 12, 2019 at around 1:20 in the afternoon.

The NPA hideout that can accommodate more or less forty (40) CNTs was seized by the troops of 23IB after an encounter against more or less thirty (30) CNTs believed to be members of Sandatahang Yunit Pamproganda (SYP) SIKOP of Guerrilla 4A of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) at the hinterlands of Brgy Guinabsan of same municipality.

The encounter lasted for about twenty (20) minutes and the enemy scampered towards different directions leaving behind traces of bloodstains, war material, medicines, terrorists’ documents and personal belongings.

During an interview with the residents, they confessed that they were extorted with money and food by the CNTs and threatened to be killed once they will report to the authorities.

Lt Col Francisco L Molina Jr, Commanding Officer of 23IB lauded the courage of the residents of Buenavista that despite the threat, they were able to provide information on the presence of the CNTs.

“The CPP-NPA Terrorists brought hardships and misery to the people. They destroy families, hamper peace, and prevent development. However, your 23IB will never get tired in fulfilling its mandate to protect the people and secure the land”, Lt Col Molina said.

On his part, Col Maurito L Licudine, 402nd Brigade Commander said, “the success of our security operations in Guinabsan came from the reports of weary residents about the CNT presence who according to them have caused them fear for the longest time. With the people themselves wanting to drive away the CNTs, we will be even more relentless in pursuing these terrorist until they cease from their terroristic activities”.

“The bloodstains seen at the encounter site indicates that the CNT members suffered severe wounds during the encounter. This scenario either being wounded and killed or captured will come to the remaining CNTs unless they surrender. Armed struggle is futile. Stop using violence to further your agenda that brought senseless death and suffering to our people. We hope that they take advantage of the E-CLIP offered by the government, rest assured that we will ensure their safety and be reunited with their love ones”, Col Licudine ended.



23rd Infantry Battalion Philippine Army
1LT ROEL T MAGLALANG
CMO Officer, 23IB, 4ID, PA
Mobile Nr. 09171440972
Facebook Page: 23rd Infantry Battalion @ TeamMasigasig23

[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: 20 Former rebel’s surrender anew, pledge allegiance to the government – Army

From Kalinaw News (Jul 16, 2019): 20 Former rebel’s surrender anew, pledge allegiance to the government – Army

20 Former rebel's surrender anew, pledge allegiance to the government - Army 1

20 Former rebel's surrender anew, pledge allegiance to the government - Army 2

20 Former rebel's surrender anew, pledge allegiance to the government - Army 3

20 Former rebel's surrender anew, pledge allegiance to the government - Army 4

20 Former rebel's surrender anew, pledge allegiance to the government - Army 5

TAGO, Surigao del Sur, July 15 – A total of 20 Former rebels (FR’s) surrender anew and pledge allegiance to the government yesterday, July 14, 2019, at Brgy Hinapuyan, Carmen, this province.

The mass surrender is composed of eight (8) regular members, one (1) couriers, two (2) organizers, one (1) medic, one (1) collector, and seven (7) contact members who withdrew their support from the Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) and voluntarily surrendered to the
Community Support Program (CSP) team of Charlie Company under 1Lt Emmanuel Magsanoc of the Army’s 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion (36IB) in close collaboration with the Local Government Unit of Carmen.

The NPA members and supporters are all residents of Municipality of Carmen, Surigao del Sur.

“For the longest time, we thought that the NPA will help us. But, we’re just deceived, we were made to believe that supporting the terrorist NPA will improve our lives. Instead, they used us as accessories to their futile armed struggle. We thanked the Army CSP for opening our eyes on the deceptions and lies of the CPP-NPA-NDF organizations,” one of the surrendered NPA said.

Hon. Jane Plaza, town Mayor of Carmen administered the pledge of allegiance to the government with Ltc Xerxes Trinidad, Commanding Officer, 36IB together with Dir. Adshary Banto, Regional Director (RD), TESDA who after which assisted the distribution of assorted food packs to the twenty former rebels.

In her statement, Hon Jane Plaza, stressed that the people of Carmen are already awakened on the deception of NPA.

“The pledge of allegiance manifests the peace-loving Carmenanon’s withdrawal of support and rejection of the NPA terrorists from the communities,” town chief said.

“The growing numbers of surrenders and shift of support of the masses to the government is a manifestation that the government is sincere in its plight to preserve and protect the people against the NPA,” Ltc Trinidad said.

“We urge remaining CNT members to finally lay down their arms and live a peaceful and normal life together with their loved ones embrace the government and avail the E-CLIP,” Ltc Trinidad ended.

The 20 FRs will be processed and validated for their enrollment to E-CLIP, a government intervention package for Former Rebels. (1Lt Jonald Romorosa, CMO, 36IB, PA)



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.]

SOLCOM: NPA member surrenders

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Facebook Page (Jul 11, 2019): NPA member surrenders 

ANOTHER NPA MEMBER RETURNS TO OUR MAINSTREAM SOCIETY AND DESPISES THE COMMUNIST TERRORISTS GROUP

A verified member of a “Milisyang Bayan” (MB), a para-military force being employed by the NPA, submitted himself to military and police authorities in Macalelon, Quezon. The surenderer was identified as Demetrio R. Reporma also known as @Deme, a member of the Milisyang Bayan in Brgy. Malabahay, Macalelon, Quezon under PLTN SOL SRMA-4B of the Apolonio Mendoza Command, operating in Quezon province. He surrendered last July 8, 2019 to the Joint Elements of 85IB under the supervision of 1LT NOBLEZA, MPS Macalelon led by PSMS Abecilla, personnel of 3rd Platoon, 2nd QPMFC led by PSSG Alonzo and the barangay officials of Brgy. Malabahay, Macalelon, Quezon.

Reporma also turned over one (1) set of NPA uniform, numerous subversive documents and some personal belongings.

As he opted to go back to our mainstream society, he will be able to avail of the benefits of the national government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). 85IB facilitated the coordination with the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office for the assistance of the said surrenderer.

Under this program, former rebels will receive immediate cash assistance and livelihood assistance, firearms remuneration, and other access to government aid such as housing loans, employment, medical assistance, legal assistance and skills training among others.

Accordingly, Reporma and his group were brainwashed by the misleading propaganda of the NPA that is why several NPA members are deciding to return to the fold of the law upon learning that their former comrades who have surrendered were already living peaceful lives with their families and loved ones.

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SOLCOM: Gov't troops encounter NPA at Baranga La Medalla, Tinambac, Camarines del Sur

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Facebook Page (Jul 15, 2019): Gov't troops encounter NPA at Baranga La Medalla, Tinambac, Camarines del Sur

GOV'T TROOPS ENCOUNTERED COMMUNISTS TERRORISTS GROUP AND RECOVERED IMPROVISED EXPLOSIVES DEVICES AND HIGH POWERED FIREARMS

Government troops from 83IB, 22IB CamSur PPO, 97MICO acting on reports from the populace encountered more or less ten members of the communists terrorists group NPA at Brgy La Medalla, Tinambac CamSur early morning of July 14.

The government troops recovered M16 rifles and bandoliers of magazines and ammunition. Also recovered on the encounter site are improvised explosives devices and materials for making IED such as blasting caps, detonation cords batteries and wires, and other subversive items.


IEDs are banned because this can victimize unsuspecting civilians such as farmers and children. Work animals can also be victimized by IEDs. However these communists terrorists group NPA are still using it indicating their wanton disregard to Human Rights.



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SOLCOM: Capabilities of the CPP-NPA have been significantly weakened in Southern Luzon

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Facebook Page (Jul 15, 2019): Capabilities of the CPP-NPA have been significantly weakened in Southern Luzon

SOLCOM, PNP, OUR LGUS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS HAVE SIGNIFICANTLY WEAKENED THE CAPABILITIES OF THE COMMUNISTS TERRORISTS NPA IN SOUTHERN LUZON.

Since the start of the year, we have neutralized some 272 NPA members, 136 firearms and had cleared almost fifty baranggays as a result of Implementing Plan "KAPAYAPAAN TIMOG LUZON".
What's interesting is that these results are mostly from our "non combat" efforts. These are CTs that return to the folds of law as a result of our engagement with different stakeholders, engaging in a whole of nation approach which offers economic assistance to rebel returnee as well as bringing into the mostly far-flung affected areas the government services. 

The Focus Military Operations also contributed in neutralizing high ranking members of the communists terrorists NPA.

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SOLCOM: CPP-NPA-NDF Persona Non-Grata

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Facebook Page (Jul 15, 2019): CPP-NPA-NDF Persona Non-Grata

Ipinabatid ng mga opisyales ng barangay ng Brgy San Miguel Dao, Lopez, Quezon na hindi nila tangap sa kanilang barangay ang Communist Party of the Philippines, New Peoples Army at National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF). Isang resolusyon ang kanilang pinagtibay na nilagdaan ng mga barangay opisyales sa pamumuno ni Punong Brgy Villeno G Almarez noong ika 19 ng Hunyo, 2019 na nag papahayag na Persona Non Grata ang CPP-NPA-NDF sa kanilang barangay.

SOLCOM: CPP-NPA losing strength and capability in Southern Luzon

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Facebook Page (Jul 16, 2019): CPP-NPA losing strength and capability in Southern Luzon

With gratitudes to the PNP, LGUs, NGOs and other significant stakeholders and the people of Southern Luzon

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https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/photos/a.1503968379863230/2306950379565022/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/

WESCOM: MLBT Tres All-in-One Medical Mission, Roxas, Palawan

Posted to the Western Command (WESCOM) Facebook Page (Jul 13, 2019): MLBT Tres All-in-One Medical Mission, Roxas, Palawan

July 13, 2019 - All in One Medical
Mission, Roxas Palawan, Municipality

Roxas, Palawan - Mblt Tres in our 2 weeks in our Area of Responsibility conducted the All in One Mission in partnership with our stakeholders from Iloilo, the Redeeming the Nation Foundation Incorporation and Team Jesus have bring their services to the local populace of Brgy Minara, Brgy Sandobal and Brgy Nicholas, all of Roxas Municipality. Together with our activity are the presence of MDRRMO, Local Government Units spearheaded by very supportive Hon.Mayor Sabando.


The activity covers the Medical consultation, Free giving of medicines, Tooth extraction, Operation tuli, Free gupit, Distribution of hygiene kits, Spiritual enlightenment counselling, Distribution of school supplies, Blood typing, Uric acid testing, and Giving of hearing aid. The activity went very successful in which beneficiaries are very happy in these basic and social services of the unit in reaching their demands.

#Mblt3areyourPartners
#AFPyoucanTrust

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WESTMINCOM: NCMF taps WestMinCom in its peace initiatives

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Website (Jul 16, 2019): NCMF taps WestMinCom in its peace initiatives



The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) will work with Western Mindanao Command in its lineup of peace initiatives in Mindanao, said Commissioner Yusuf Roque Morales during his visit at Hqs, WMC on July 15.

Commissioner Morales said: “We hope to launch a WMC area-wide network of moderate religious leaders.” He categorized that the influence of religious sector is an important factor in our peace efforts.



The commission likewise, according to Morales, is working on the development of an Active Citizenship Module for the ROTC program.

Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana, commander of Western Mindanao Command, on the other hand, said: “The gesture of NCMF is something that complements our various peace initiatives. A synchronized and coordinated actions translate to the achievement of our common goals and objectives.”

Among the activities that are being planned by NCMF in collaboration with WMC are Brigada Hariraya and the Eid’l Adha celebration.



http://www.westmincom.com/ncmf-taps-westmincom-in-its-peace-initiatives/

NPA squad leader dies in gunbattle

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jul 15, 2019): NPA squad leader dies in gunbattle

A suspected member of the New People’s Army died Saturday in an encounter with 62nd Infantry Battalion soldiers at the boundary of Brgy. Carol-an in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental and upper Carol-al in Ayungon, Negros Oriental.

1Lt. Maria Allein Veluz, 62IB Civil Military Operations officer, said yesterday that the firefight between Army soldiers and about 15 NPA rebels lasted for 20 minutes, after which the communist guerillas fled, leaving behind their slain comrade identified as a certain Ka Emjay, a squad leader of the Sandatahang Yunit Pamproganda of the NPA Central Negros Front.

Veluz said 62IB troopers also recovered an M-16 assault rifle ,an improvised explosive device, two improvised black bandoleers, 237 rounds of ammunition for an M-16 rifle, two rifle grenades, 10 rounds for an AK 47 assault rifle, a 40mm live ammunition for a M-203 grenade launcher, four back packs containing personal belongings and subversive documents and three firearm magazines.

No casualty was reported on the government side, according to the military.

Veluz said the encounter ensued after troopers responded to information about the presence of armed rebels in their community.

The encounter in the boundary of Kabankalan City and Guihulngan was the fourth gunbattle between government forces and the NPA within three weeks in central Negros.

In the same period, three suspected NPA rebels were killed, while Army soldiers thwarted plans of attack with the use of the homemade landmines and improvised explosives in Manjuyod and Bindoy, Negros Oriental, the military also said.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/July/15/topstory4.htm

Makabayan bloc seeks probe into DepEd closure of 55 Lumad schools

From Rappler (Jul 15, 2019): Makabayan bloc seeks probe into DepEd closure of 55 Lumad schools

The lawmakers accuse the Department of Education of violating the rights of the Lumad schools' administrators, teachers, staff, and students

CONGRESSIONAL PROBE. Representatives France Castro, Sarah Elago, and Arlene Brosas are among the Makabayan legislators who filed House Resolution No. 58 on July 15, 2019. File photo from Makabayan bloc

CONGRESSIONAL PROBE. Representatives France Castro, Sarah Elago, and Arlene Brosas are among the Makabayan legislators who filed House Resolution No. 58 on July 15, 2019. File photo from Makabayan bloc

Six legislators forming the progressive Makabayan bloc in the House of Representatives are calling for a congressional investigation into the temporary shutdown of 55 Lumad schools in Southern Mindanao.

The following legislators filed House Resolution (HR) No. 58 on Monday, July 15:
  • Eufemia Cullamat, Carlos Zarate, and Ferdinand Gaite, Bayan Muna; 
  • France Castro, Alliance of Concerned Teachers
  • Arlene Brosas, Gabriela Women's Party
  • Sarah Elago, Kabataan
According to the lawmakers, the Department of Education's (DepEd) temporary closure of 55 schools catering to indigenous peoples in Southern Mindanao is a "flagrant violation" of the rights of Salugpungan Ta’ Tanu Igkanogon Community Learning Centers, which owns and operates the schools. 

(INFOGRAPHIC: Who are the Lumad?)

"The suspension order was issued in flagrant violation [of] the due process rights of Salugpungan, its administrators, teachers, staff, and students," said the Makabayan bloc in HR No. 58.

They also slammed the DepEd for releasing a copy of the suspension order to the media before informing Salugpungan first.

"It is not only unjust and unethical, but clearly smacks of discrimination against the Lumad of Salugpungan,” said the legislators.

The DepEd based its closure order on the report of National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr, who chairs the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

According to the task force, the Lumad schools allegedly deviated from the curriculum set by the DepEd, and school officials supposedly required learners to join anti-government rallies. The task force also claimed that the schools teach students to rebel against the government.

President Rodrigo Duterte himself had made the same allegation against the Lumad schools, and even threatened to "bomb" the schools.

The Makabayan lawmakers, however, slammed the continuous red-tagging of Lumad schools.

"The administrators, students, teachers, and staff of the Lumad schools, particularly the Salugpungan schools, have been continuously subjected to red-tagging, vilification, and harassment for several years, according to the Save Our Schools Network," said the legislators.

"The threat arising from the red-tagging and the actual occupation of military forces of school buildings caused its intermittent closures in the past years," they added.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/235466-makabayan-bloc-seeks-probe-deped-closure-lumad-schools

PH, top U.S. officials hold talks on security, rule of law

From Rappler (Jul 15, 2019): PH, top U.S. officials hold talks on security, rule of law

The 8th Philippines-US Bilateral Strategic Dialogue is the first one to be held in Manila since the start of the Duterte administration

DIALOGUE. Top US officials along with U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim (center) attend the 8th Philippines-US Bilateral Strategic Dialogue. Photo from the Department of Foreign Affairs

DIALOGUE. Top US officials along with U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim (center) attend the 8th Philippines-US Bilateral Strategic Dialogue. Photo from the Department of Foreign Affairs

As the Philippine government reviews its ties with the United States following tirades from President Rodrigo Duterte, top officials from the US State Department arrived in Manila for high-level talks with Philippine officials.

They discussed issues pertaining to defense, economics, rule of law, and regional diplomacy on Monday, July 15.

The talks are part of the 8th Philippines-US Bilateral Strategic Dialogue (BSD) between Washington and Manila, scheduled to take place from Monday to Tuesday, July 16.

Annual dialogue: According to the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the 8th BSD will focus on counter-terrorism, defense and security, economics, law enforcement, and criminal justice.

The BSDs take place yearly and are done to tackle the "full range" of political, security, and economic cooperation between the two countries.

The 8th BSD is the first one to be held in Manila since the start of the Duterte administration and comes against the backdrop of the Philippines' warming ties with China. The last time a BSD was held in Manila was in January 2015, under the administration of former president Benigno Aquino III.

The talks come after Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana earlier called for a review of the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) between the long-allied countries. At the time, Lorenzana said he saw it fit to review the MDT because of its "vagueness."

Lorenzana earlier said the fast-evolving security environment was "so vastly different and much more complex than the bipolar security construct of the era when the MDT was written." Thus, a review of the treaty was needed, he said, "to make it stronger." (READ: Despite new friends, Philippines sticks it out with U.S. in 2018)

On Monday, Lorenzana met with US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim, US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs David Stillwell, and Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs Randall Schriver. Kim tweeted that the meeting sought “to explore ways to deepen our military partnership.”

The 8th BSD also takes places weeks after a Chinese vessel rammed and abandoned a Filipino fishing boat on June 9 near Recto Bank, drawing attention to, and heating up, the dispute once more. The US hit the intimidation at sea after the Philippine boat sinking.



DISCUSSIONS. DFA Undersecretary for policy Enrique Manalo (center) and Defense Undersecretary for operations Cesar Yano are among representatives of the Philippines co-chairing the 8th Philippines-US Bilateral Strategic Dialogue. Photo from the Department of Foreign Affairs

Who else is attending? On the Philippine side, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for policy Enrique Manalo and Defense Undersecretary for operations Cesar Yano are among those co-chairing the talks.

For the US, Kim, Stillwell, and Schriver were joined by US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for South and Southeast Asia Joseph Felter, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Economic and Business Affairs Hugo Yon, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Jorgan Andrews, and Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Southeast Asia Mark Clark.

Prior to this year's BSD, the last discussion between the Philippines and the US was held from November 30 to December 1, 2017 in Washington DC.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/235455-philippines-top-us-officials-hold-talks-on-security-rule-of-law