U.S. and Philippines Reaffirm Alliance at Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board

Posted to the US Embassy Manila Website (Sep 13, 2019): U.S. and Philippines Reaffirm Alliance at Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board

Adm. Philip Davidson, Commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, and Philippine Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr., Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, led the 2019 Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, on Sept. 13.

Manila, September 13, 2019 — Adm. Philip Davidson, Commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, and Philippine Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr., Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, led the 2019 Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, on Sept. 13.

The Mutual Defense Board, which was started in 1958, and the Security Engagement Board, which was started in 2006, act as the central forum for the U.S. and Philippine armed forces to coordinate and plan military activities for the year ahead.

“Today, we addressed regional security challenges together as friends, allies, and partners,” said Adm. Davidson. “We will continue to stand together on the foundation of common interests and values. Our national security, including economic security, is reliant on a free and open Indo-Pacific and a rules-based international order.”

At the MDB-SEB, the U.S. and the Philippines reaffirmed their continuing and close relationship by enhancing cooperation in counterterrorism, maritime security, cyber security, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and many others. At the conclusion of the event, Gen. Madrigal was presented with the Legion of Merit for his outstanding contributions to the U.S.-Philippine alliance. The Legion of Merit is the highest U.S. military decoration that may be awarded to foreign military personnel.

“The enhancement of our defense cooperation is the only way for us to move forward and be prepared for the challenges of this ever-evolving world,” said Gen. Madrigal.

This year’s meeting resulted in more than 300 planned security cooperation activities for 2020, as compared to 281 from 2019.

While in the Philippines, Adm. Davidson also traveled to Puerto Princesa in the province of Palawan to receive a command brief and tour from Philippine Vice Adm. Rene V. Medina, commander of Western Command. Adm. Davidson also traveled to the historic island of Corregidor.

https://ph.usembassy.gov/us-and-philippines-reaffirm-alliance-at-mutual-defense-board-and-security-engagement-board/

AFP-CRS: CPP-NPA Death Bed Ready in Central Luzon

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 13, 2019): CPP-NPA Death Bed Ready in Central Luzon



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2697198530298854/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

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

AFP-CRS: Army Bares Gains on Terrorism & Insurgency in Cagayan Valley

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 13, 2019): Army Bares Gains on Terrorism & Insurgency in Cagayan Valley



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2697203246965049/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

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

AFP-CRS: Nanz Sawadjaan Patay sa Engkwentro sa Sulu

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 13, 2019): Nanz Sawadjaan Patay sa Engkwentro sa Sulu



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2697204706964903/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

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

AFP-CRS: 65 CPP-NPA Surrender in Sorsogon

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 13, 2019): 65 CPP-NPA Surrender in Sorsogon



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2697205973631443/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

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

Kalinaw News: 38 Ex-NPAs in Northern Mindanao Join Phil Army; Graduate from ALS

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 13, 2019): 38 Ex-NPAs in Northern Mindanao Join Phil Army; Graduate from ALS

MALAYBALAY CITY, September 13, 2019 – Alternative Learning System (ALS) focal person Rey Butch Mahinay of DepEd Region X led the awarding of ALS diploma to 38 former NPA rebels who were recently enlisted into the Philippine Army as soldiers. The graduation ceremony, arranged by DepEd Division of Schools in Malaybalay, was held at the 4th Division Training School (4DTS), Camp Osito Bahian, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

The 38 ALS graduates are former members of the rebel New People’s Army (NPA) of various ethnicity in Northern Mindanao and Caraga which include: Higaonon, Manobo, Talaandig, Banwaon, Umayamnon, Surigaonon, Mamanwa and Cebuano. 15 of them completed the elementary curriculum while 23 graduated the High School program.

The 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, in compliance to the order of President Duterte, trained and enlisted the former NPA rebels who surrendered to the government. To ensure that they would satisfy the academic requirement for soldiery, 4ID sought the assistance of DepEd Region X by enrolling them into the Alternative Learning System (ALS) program. In response, ALS instructors from DepEd held instructional sessions inside the military camp, even convening night classes to make sure the students would be able to take the Assessment and Evaluation (A&E) exam. The 38 graduates are among the 110 ALS students who passed the A&E. The rest will be taking the same exam soon as they become academically prepared.

“Ang NPA ang hinungdan nganong wala mi kahuman ug eskwela, sulod sa 20 kapin ka tuig nga pagpangalagad nako sa NPA ilang giguba ang among kaugmaon. Dako ang among pagpasalamat sa gobyerno ilabi na kang Tatay Digong nga gitagaan mi ug chance nga masugid ug bag-ong panginabuhian. Bisag 34 nako proud ko nga finally nakadawat nako sa akong diploma, akong bahandi nga dile na makawat nako” an emotional Marila Taquin said on her speech. Taquin is a former NPA Cadre, who’s sister was murdered by the NPA three days after giving birth.

“Mao sa ubang gahunahuna ug apil ug suporta sa NPA, ayaw na, wa moy kaugmaon ug ensakto nga panginabuhian ug dadto mo mag-uban sa mga terorista, tiwasa inyong eskwela, mabuhi tag malinawon kay dunay gobyerno nga galantaw sa atoa” added Taquin who is the only female member of the graduating class.

“Makita sila nga naka toga bisag edaron na sila, nakahilak gyud ko nga finally naabot nila ang edukasyon ug makadawat na silag diploma” said one of the relative of the graduates.

“Salamat nila maam Ronnamie, Merilyn ug Merlie nga grabe ug pasensya ug kakugi sa pag tudlo sa amoa, dile mapalit ang ako kalipay” said Jupiter Macrojon, who is the oldest graduate at 43.

Brigadier General Edgardo De Leon, Commander of Army’s 403rd Brigade in Bukidnon who delivered a message during the graduation ceremony said “habang ang nagrerecruit ng estudyante ang mga komunistang kadre sa mga eskwelahan, ang gobyerno naman ay patuloy na magliligtas sa mga naligaw ng landas upang maibalik sila sa paaralan at makapagtapos ng kanilang kurso. Ang inyong pagtatapos sa araw na ito ang magsisilbing pruweba na ang pangako ng Pangulo na bagong buhay para sa mga rebeldeng nag surrender ay may katotohanan.”

In his message to the FR-Soldiers, 4ID Commander Major General Franco Nemesio Gacal said: “Ang inyong pagsuko ay isang bagong simula. At ngayong araw ng inyong pagtatapos, hindi ko mapigilan ang aking lubos na pagkatuwa sa inyong tagumpay. Bilang inyong Division Commander, inaasahan ko na kayo ay magsisilbi ng tapat para itaguyod ang demokrasya at kapayapaan laban sa baluktot na prinsipyo ng mga komunistang NPA. Tumulong kayo sa paghikayat ng mga dati nyong kasamahan na magbalik-loob sa ating gobyerno para mamuhay ng mapayapa”.

Present also during the ceremony are representatives from the Provincial Local Government of Bukidnon, DepEd Bukidnon Division of Schools, ALS teachers and Implementers, media, family and friends of the graduates, and trainors from the 4th Division Training School.

403rd Infantry "Peacemaker" Brigade 4 Infantry Division Philippine Army
Cpt Marcelito Quijano
CMO Officer, 403Bde, 41D, PA
Malaybalay City, Bukidnon
09564177497

[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.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/38-ex-npas-in-northern-mindanao-join-phil-army-graduate-from-als/

Kalinaw News: Higaonon Tribe in AgNor Disowns CPP-NPA-NDF: Provoke Mass Surrender

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 13, 2019): Higaonon Tribe in AgNor Disowns CPP-NPA-NDF: Provoke Mass Surrender

BUENAVISTA Agusan del Norte – A mass surrender yields seven (7) NPA Regulars, fourteen (14) Militia ng Bayan (MB) and Sixty-five (65) members of Underground Mass Organizations (UGMOs) surrendered to the government on September 11, 2019 in Barangay Lawan-lawan, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte.

The surrenderors also turned-in three (3) high-powered firearms. These are composed of One (1) M16, one (1) Carbine and one (1) Garand rifles.

The surrender was followed by burning of CPP-NPA Flag which signifies that they will not be deceived by the group anymore. It was subsequently followed by the declaration of Persona Non Grata against the CPP-NPA-NDF and its Allied Organizations.

The declaration was made by the Barangay Council, Tribal Council and members of CADT 118, Higaonon Tribe of Barangay Lawan-lawan, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte through a Tribal Resolution Number 11 (series of 2019).

Datu Bawang Eddie Ampiyawan, Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representattive of Agusan del Norte, stressed that “I salute you for returning to the government and helping in attaining peace. I am thankful to the Tribal Leaders of Higaonon who united for peace. When there is peace, there will be no hindrance to development. The NPAs are weak without the support of the IPs. Without the support of the IPs, the armed revolutionary movement of the NPAs will be gone.”

Moreover, Mayor Avelina S. Rosales of Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte states that “You were once deceived by the propaganda and false ideologies of the CPP-NPA-NDF. Now that you are enlightened about the program of the government, I hope that you will continue and be sincere in going back to the folds of the law so that you can live peacefully with your family.”

Lieutenant Colonel Francisco L Molina, Commanding Officer, 23rd Infantry Battalion said “With the efforts of our National and local government and the sincere participation of our Tribal Leaders in ending local communist armed conflict, we expect for influx of Regular CNTs, MBs and UGMO members to surrender to the government and to express their support for peace and development in their respective community.”

23rd Infantry Battalion Philippine Army
1LT ROEL T MAGLALANG
CMO Officer, 23IB, 4ID, PA
Mobile Nr. 09171440972
Facebook Page: 23rd Infantry Battalion @ TeamMasigasig23
http://m.me/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.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/higaonon-tribe-in-agnor-disowns-cpp-npa-ndf-provoke-mass-surrender/

NDF/Sison: China-controlled cell towers in AFP camps will infuriate more patriotic officers

Jose Maria Sison propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP or NDF) Website (Sep 13, 2019): China-controlled cell towers in AFP camps will infuriate more patriotic officers

Comment on Chinese Telco Building Cell Towers in AFP Military Camps

Jose Maria Sison, 

NDFP Chief Political Consultant

September 13, 2019

Crazed by his own corrupt interests, Duterte has allowed the China-controlled telco operated by Duterte’s dummy Dennis Uy to build cell towers inside military camps of the AFP and to avail of the military as security guards for the avowedly private enterprise which is in fact controlled by the Chinese state and its intelligence system.

Duterte is playing with fire. He is mixing up in the same military camps the Chinese telco facilities with the US military facilities also being built under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). The mix-up of facilities of two competing imperialist powers is incendiary and is confusing the mainly pro-US military minions of Duterte.

As a matter of fact, there has long been a rising resentment among the patriotic-minded elements in the military over Duterte’s traitorous sell-out of Philippine sovereign rights to China in the West Philippine Sea. This is now aggravated by Chinese telco facilities being implanted in military camps.

To add insult to the injury to what they consider as national security, the military minions of Duterte are now at public expense the security guards for the snooping facilities of China, which masquerade as private enterprise. An increasing number of junior military officers consider it their patriotic duty to withdraw military support from Duterte and his fellow crooks in power.###

https://www.ndfp.org/china-controlled-cell-towers-in-afp-camps-will-infuriate-more-patriotic-officers/

CPP/NPA-NEM: CAA-AFP detachments are sanctuaries for criminals; Jasmen Acevedo’s bandit gang have long been active members and bask under its protection

NPA-Northeast Mindanao (NEM) propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Sep 13, 2019): CAA-AFP detachments are sanctuaries for criminals; Jasmen Acevedo’s bandit gang have long been active members and bask under its protection

ARIEL MONTERO

NPA-NORTHEASTERN MINDANAO

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

SEPTEMBER 13, 2019

The much-ballyhooed surrender on September 4 of notorious bandit chief Jasmen Acevedo together with his armed band before a smirking PNP-Surigao del Sur is farcical and deceptive. Indeed, Acevedo and his gang, despite standing warrants of arrest for three counts of robbery with homicide, have long been on active duty at the CAA-36th IB detachment in Brgy. Umalag, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur. Local government and police officials in San Miguel town have long been aware of Acevedo’s whereabouts, and they could have had him arrested anytime long before his so-called “voluntary surrender.”

Acevedo’s bandit group is notorious for crimes committed in the municipality of San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, such as robbery, murder, land grabbing, forcible exaction from poor farmers especially during harvest season and extorting from small-scale miners in the area. This has been a great worry for many residents there. However, since this group is under the protection of the AFP and the PNP, they remain free to continue with their vile criminal activities, threatening the very lives of residents in the area.

Clearly, CAA-SCAA-AFP detachments in Caraga have become sanctuaries for criminals. Aside from the army detachment in Brgy. Umalag, other examples include: the CAA-3rd SFB detachment in Sitios Inagawan ang Gakub in Brgy. La Purisima and Brgy. Sta. Irene in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur where Calpit Egua’s bandit group thrive; the CAA-36th IB detachment in Brgy. Panikyan, Carrascal, Surigao del Sur which serves as a base for the bandit Bagani group; and, the CAA-3rd SFB detachment in Brgy. Bolhoon in San Miguel, where Emerson Cuarteron’s criminal gang hide out.

Moreover, AFP and PNP officials connive with these bandit groups in running illegal small-scale mines as a cash cow. The same military officials also illicitly rent out AFP firearms to these criminal gangs in defense of their illegal mining activities.

These criminal groups are purposely left intact and unpunished for the AFP’s and PNP’s continuing campaign of repression against people’s struggles. The AFP and PNP heavily depend on these criminals for their ruthlessness as rabid counter-revolutionaries.

Thus, such machinations by the AFP and PNP must be widely exposed and opposed. Strongly push for the complete dismantling of these groups and punish the criminals on the actual weight of the heinousness of their crimes. The NPA must launch tactical offensives against these fascist troops as punishment for their crimes and render justice for the victims of these criminals who currently enjoy the protection of the AFP and PNP.###

https://cpp.ph/statement/caa-afp-detachments-are-sanctuaries-for-criminals-jasmen-acevedos-bandit-gang-have-long-been-active-members-and-bask-under-its-protection/

Philippines, US plan 300 'security cooperation activities' in 2020

From the Philippine Star (Sep 13, 2019): Philippines, US plan 300 'security cooperation activities' in 2020

US Indo-Pacific Command commander Adm. Philip Davidson (left) and Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr. (right) led the 2019 Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Sept. 13, 2019.  US Embassy/Released

The Philippines and the United States have agreed to conduct more than 300 security cooperation activities next year.

This was the result of the recently-concluded 2019 Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) at military headquarters Camp Aguinaldo.

Although no specifics on the activities were given, the embassy said the Philippines and the US reaffirmed their alliance through enhancing cooperation in counterterrorism, maritime security, cyber security, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

Adm. Philip Davidson, commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command, said the two allies addressed regional security challenges in the meeting.

"We will continue to stand together on the foundation of common interests and values. Our national security, including economic security, is reliant on a free and open Indo-Pacific and a rules-based international order," Davidson said.

Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr. said the enhancement of defense cooperation between the two countries is the only way to move forward and prepare for challenges.

The MDB started in 1958, a few years after the two countries signed the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty while the SEB was formed in 2006.

The board serves as a central forum for the armed forces of both countries to coordinate and plan military activities for the upcoming year. 

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2019/09/13/1951508/philippines-us-plan-300-security-cooperation-activities-2020

PH Army captain cleared of P2.1M liability in communist terrorist ambush

From Politiko Mindanao (Sep 12, 2019): PH Army captain cleared of P2.1M liability in communist terrorist ambush



Philippine Army Captain Jonathan Zulueta was cleared of his liability over P2.1 million in supplies lost during a terrorist ambush in 2013.

“[T]here being no indication from the facts and circumstances of the case that the loss occurred through the negligence of the (Zulueta), this Commission rules to grant the request for relief from property accountability,” the Commission on Audit Commission Proper (COA-CP) ruled in a decision promulgated August 22.

On October 21, 2013, an army vehicle was ambushed in Tulunan, North Cotabato by 50 fully-armed members of the Communist Party of the Philippines, New People’s Army and National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF). Zulueta, the former Disbursing Officer of the 38th Battalion, 6th Infantry Division, was on board.

Soldies were reportedly forced to retreat, leaving behind ordnance items, personal properties and Civilian Active Auxiliary Subsistence Allowance totaling P2.1 million.

On September 20, 2017, Zulueta filed a request for relief from money accountability, endorsed by the COA regional director, which is the issue tackled by COA-CP in the present case.

In their decision, COA-CP granted the captain’s request for relief, citing Section 105 of Presidential Decree No. 1445:

“Every officer accountable for government property shall be liable for its money value in case of improper or unauthorized use or misapplication thereof, by himself or any person for whose acts he may be responsible. He shall likewise be liable for all losses, damages, or deterioration occasioned by negligence in the keeping or use of the property whether or not it be at the time in his actual custody,” the decision read.

Zulueta, according to COA-CP, cannot be faulted for negligence because the loss was caused by “ambush and bombing incidents initiated by the members of CPP-NPA-NDF” which are beyond his control.

The three-man panel is composed of Chairperson Michael Aguinaldo and Commissioners Jose Fabia and Roland Pondoc.

https://politics.com.ph/ph-army-captain-cleared-of-p2-1m-liability-in-communist-terrorist-ambush/

Questions raised over NDF consultant’s arrest

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 13, 2019): Questions raised over NDF consultant’s arrest



GONE A-COURTING NDF consultant Vicente Ladlad greets his wife, Fides Lim, with a kiss at the Quezon City Regional Trial Court which is hearing the case against him. —NIÑO JESUS ORBETA

As the trial for the illegal firearms charges against National Democratic Front of the Philippines consultant Vic Ladlad and two others began on Thursday, the defense maintained that the cases were fabricated and irregularities were committed in their arrest.

During the hearing at the Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 93, the prosecution presented as its first witness the police officer who prepared the medical report after he examined Ladlad and couple Alberto and Virginia Villamor after their arrest in November.

No external signs

In his reports, medico-legal officer Chief Insp. Raleigh Herbert Ampuan of the Philippine National Police’s Crime Laboratory certified that “there were no external signs of recent application of any form of trauma” on the accused.

The individual medical reports on Ladlad and the Villamors were all certified at 7:11 a.m. on Nov. 8 and contained only their blood pressure levels, all at 140/90.

Ladlad’s wife, Fides Lim, and defense lawyers from the Public Interest Law Center, however, insisted the three were not subjected to a comprehensive medical check.

Rachel Pastores, one of the defense lawyers, said in an interview that the prosecution merely wanted to prove that the accused were not tortured.

“But during the crossexamination, we noted that there were many irregularities in the procedures of the medical officer,” she added.

One question raised by defense lawyers was why the physical exam was conducted by a police officer.

“There was no medical examination taken. If there was a physical exam, why didn’t the officer note that Virginia Villamor could not even stand up because of a pelvic fracture?” Lim asked.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1164072/questions-raised-over-ndf-consultants-arrest

Duterte repeats rants vs Reds, says peace talks ‘hypocrisy’

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 12, 2019): Duterte repeats rants vs Reds, says peace talks ‘hypocrisy’

President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday, Sept. 12, repeated his rant against communist rebels, with whom he had good relations when he was still Davao City mayor, saying talking peace with the rebels would be “pure hypocrisy.”
At the inauguration of the Bataan Government Center and Business Hub, Duterte repeated his accusation against New People’s Army, the armed wing of Communist Party of the Philippines, of torturing four policemen during a clash in Negros Oriental last July. The rebels repeatedly denied the torture claim, saying the policemen died in a gunfight.

At his speech, Duterte again narrated his story about how the NPA held the policemen hostage and used “Gillette”, a razor commonly used to shave, to torture the policemen.

“That’s why I said, this is hopeless. I am sad and I am angry,” said Duterte. “I do not think we can have talks again with Sison,” he said, referring to Jose Maria Sison, the founder of CPP and acknowledged patriarch of the rebel movement.

“Because they don’t obey the law,” Duterte said of the rebels, who had gone underground precisely to fight a government that they refused to recognize.

“They always invoke Geneva Convention,” Duterte said, referring to an international law that governs war actions and lists down punishments for torture and other war crimes.

Duterte had already announced earlier this year that he was closing the door to peace talks with the rebels, saying the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, the umbrella organization of underground leftist groups, should just “talk to the next President.”

Duterte, however, gave an all-out war order against rebels to the military, instructing his generals to finish off the insurgency during his term and giving orders to also target noncombatant communist sympathizers.

He offered money, housing and education for rebels who would lay down their arms. He also challenged the rebels to emulate China, once thought to be supporting the Maoist struggle, which Duterte said is now a capitalist nation and has turned its back on socialism.

READ: Duterte shuts door on peace talks: Talk to the next President

The government also sought the declaration of the communist movement as a terrorist group although the CPP had long been on the United States’ list of terror groups.

A Manila court had issued an arrest order for Sison and other rebel leaders for their alleged involvement in a supposed purge of government spies in the 1980s.

Sison dismissed the arrest order, saying he is protected in the Netherlands, where he is on self-exile, as a political refugee.

READ: Panelo prods Joma to go home: ‘Unchain’ self from exile, ‘face the music’

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1164053/duterte-repeats-rants-vs-reds-says-peace-talks-hypocrisy

Isabela village watchman dead in gun attack

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 12, 2019): Isabela village watchman dead in gun attack

SAN MARIANO, Isabela –– A 37-year-old village watchman, suspected of having links with the New People’s Army (NPA), was killed during an attack by unidentified armed men inside their house here on Wednesday evening.

Police Capt. Frances Littaua, Isabela police spokesperson, identified the victim as Sammy Pohayon, a resident of Del Pilar village.

Pohayon’s wife, Phyliz, 25, was hurt during the attack and was taken to Faustino Dy Sr. Memorial Hospital in Ilagan City, police said.

Jomar Lamug, a village councilor, said Pohayon was suspected of aiding NPA rebels who frequently visit their forested sitio.

Police have yet to identify the motive and identities of the killers.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1163907/isabela-village-watchman-dead-in-gun-attack

Former BIFF members begin journey back to mainstream society

From the Philippine Star (Sep 13, 2019): Former BIFF members begin journey back to mainstream society



The 14 former BIFF members each received initial aid and financial assistance from BARMM's Rapid Emergency Action on Disaster Incidence, or READI contingent, under Sinarimbo’s office.
via John Unson

MAGUINDANAO, Philippines — Fourteen former members of an Islamic State-inspired group have taken the first steps to reintegrating into mainstream society with the help of the military and the Bangsamoro government.

Alimudin Malang of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and his 13 followers turned over their firearms on Thursday to Army Major Gen. Diosdado Carreon and Local Government Minister Naguib Sinarimbo of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

The 14 also renounced their membership in the BIFF and promised to reform for good.

Carreon is commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, which operates in the adjoining North Cotabato, Maguindanao and Sultan Kudarat provinces where there are BIFF forces.

The symbolic event was held late Thursday at Camp Siongco, command center of 6th ID, in Datu Odin Sinsuat town in Maguindanao.

The 14 former BIFF members each received initial aid and financial assistance from BARMM's Rapid Emergency Action on Disaster Incidence, or READI contingent, under Sinarimbo’s office.

Carreon said the group of Malang agreed to return to the fold of law through the intercession of officials of the Army's 33rd Infantry Battalion and the 601st Infantry Brigade, both under 6th ID.

Malang said he and his followers yielded when they realized it is better to support Malacañang’s peace process with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, whose leader, Al-Haj Ahod Ebrahim, is now appointed chief minister of BARMM.

Malang told reporters Thursday while at Camp Siongco that he is thankful to officials of the 33rd IB for helping enlighten them on the benefits of bolting from the BIFF for the sake of their families.

The BIFF, blamed for all deadly bombings in central Mindanao in the past six years, was established in 2010 by the radical cleric Ameril Ombra Kato, who started as commander of the MILF’s 105th Base Command.

Kato was booted from the MILF in 2009 for abuses and, subsequently, organized the Jihadist BIFF, at first comprised of small bands of gunmen led by commanders wanted for criminal offenses.

Carreon said a senior BIFF commander, Samad Simpal, and his followers returned to the MILF early on through the efforts of local officials in the second district of Maguindanao.

Sinarimbo said the BARMM can embark on regional programs that can help hasten the rehabilitation of former BIFF members wishing to return to the fold of law.

“The government doesn’t have a program yet for them like the one being implemented for former members of the New People’s Army but we can initiate certain measures that can help reforming members of either the BIFF, or the Maute, or the Abu Sayyaf,” Sinarimbo said.

More than 40 BIFF members have surrendered to the 6th ID in batches since 2017, many of them now engaged in farming in their hometowns in Maguindanao and fishing in safe areas in central Mindanao’s 220,000-hectare Liguasan Delta.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/09/13/1951529/former-biff-members-begin-journey-back-mainstream-society

Suicide bombs new terror norm in the Philippines

Posted to the Asia Times (Sep 13, 2019): Suicide bombs new terror norm in the Philippines (By Richard Javad Heydarian)

Islamic State-linked groups deploy new extreme tactic that authorities want more legal powers to combat

Philippine investigators examine evidence collected at the 1st Battalion Combat Team in headquarters in Indanan town after two suicide bombers detonated explosives, June 29, 2019. Photo: Philippine military/ Western Mindanao Command

The Philippines is grappling with a string of suicide bombings carried out by Islamic State-affiliated groups bent on establishing a caliphate in the archipelagic nation’s southern region.

The tactic, frequently deployed in Middle Eastern and South Asian conflicts but until now unseen in the Southeast Asian nation, is fast changing the complexion of Philippine terrorism as long-running, low-intensity insurgent conflicts become increasingly internationalized.

Most recently, a female suicide bomber authorities described as “Caucasian-looking” attempted a daring suicide attack on a military checkpoint this month in Indanan, Sulu, a region long wracked by insurgency and terrorism.

“The way she walked, she seemed confused, as though uneasy, and she was alone,” said Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana, Western Mindanao Command chief, after soldiers foiled the attack.

“She was holding the trigger mechanism, so we really can say that it was a suicide bombing,” Sobejana added, confirming perhaps the first known female suicide terror attack attempt on Philippine soil.

Islamic State fighters in a radicalization video clip targeting the Philippines. Photo: Youtube

Philippine authorities believe the captured perpetrator was operating under the command of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), one of the region’s most notorious Islamic State-aligned terrorist organizations.

ASG’s leader, Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan, is widely believed to be positioning himself to become Islamic State’s next designated emir in Southeast Asia. Security agents suspect he is trying to score high profile terrorist hits, including through suicide attacks, to bolster his candidacy with the international terror group’s chief leaders.

Islamic State’s previous emir in Southeast Asia, Isnilon Hapilon, also of the ASG, was killed during the months-long 2017 siege of Marawi, the Philippines only majority Muslim city.

Philippine Islamic State leader Benito Marohombsar, also known as Abu Dar, was also killed in the clashes, according to DNA tests Philippine security officials said were confirmed by US counterparts.

The Philippine military’s costly victory at Marawi scattered the terror operatives across the country. That, analysts say, raises questions about whether Islamic State’s aligned groups’ new use of suicide attacks is a sign of strength or weakness.

This month’s attempted attack marked the third suicide bombing operation by Islamic State-affiliated groups in the Philippines this year, according to official information.

In January, an Indonesian couple self-detonated inside a Catholic cathedral in Jolo, Sulu, during a Sunday service, killing 23 and injuring more than 100 others. In late June, two men, including a Filipino, blew themselves up at an army camp in Indanan, killing seven individuals.



Though jihadist groups have been active in the southern Philippines for decades, they had until now largely shunned extreme tactics such as suicide bombings.

Officials and experts had chalked that up to the region’s largely moderate brand of Islam, which has mostly shirked Islamic jurisprudence and fundamentalist interpretations of the Koran.

But Islamic State’s recent entry to the region has brought with it more extreme views and violent tactics.

On July 31, 2018, Islamic State operatives conducted the first-ever suicide bombing operation in the Philippines, when a suspected foreign militant drove a van that exploded at a military checkpoint at the outskirts of Basilan in Sulu, killing ten including a child.

Just months earlier, an Indonesian family including four teenage children, carried out simultaneous suicide bombings in three churches in Surabaya, Indonesia, killing 13 and wounding 41 individuals.

Philippine officials say they are now on high alert for more suicide attacks that target major cities across the country. As one military official asked this writer, “How can you stop someone who is determined to die?”

As Islamic State-aligned groups escalate their terror tactics, including through suicide bombings, Philippine officials are weighing potentially extreme countermeasures, including tougher laws that could curb certain rights and liberties.

Those curbs are already in place in Mindanao, where martial law was imposed during and after the Marawi siege. The provision, which imposes curfews and suspends various civil liberties, is now under an official review after being extended indefinitely to combat terrorist threats.

Civil society groups, business leaders and opposition statesman have all argued to lift martial law, arguing that the restrictions have undermined business confidence, dented the local economy and built local resentments.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte (in video screen) salutes along with soldiers during the 121st founding anniversary of Philippine army at the army headquarters in Manila on March 20, 2018. Photo: AFP/Ted Aljibe

“We cannot tolerate an unlimited martial law,” said Senate minority leader Franklin Drilon in late July while highlighting the law’s detrimental economic and social impacts.

“As I said before, martial law is like an antibiotic, and when an antibiotic is used excessively it becomes ineffective,” he added.

The uptick in more extreme terror attacks, including suicide bombings, is nonetheless strengthening the hands of officials who favor a tougher approach to counterterrorism.

“Whether to extend or not, it’s too early for me to tell…I have to hear the assessment of the police and the military,” Interior Secretary and former military chief Eduardo Año told the author last month in a mix of English and Tagalog.

“For me, I’m open to lifting martial law in some areas that we can say are safe, with stable peace and order.”

However, Año said that newly elected mayors he spoke with in the region have asked him to maintain martial law until the situation stabilizes. “I think they’re already tired of violence in Mindanao,” he said in the interview.

In that direction, Philippine officials are pushing for new counterterrorism legislation to strengthen the hands of security agencies, including in their ability to deal with suicide bomb threats.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, for one, is pushing for amendments to existing legislation, including the Human Security Act, to allow for easier wiretapping and detention of suspected terrorists.

Other senior officials, including Duterte’s Cabinet secretary Karlo Nograles, have called for legislative amendments to give counterterrorism laws “more teeth” and thus will “not require an extension of martial law” to combat extremist threats.

https://www.asiatimes.com/2019/09/article/suicide-bombs-new-terror-norm-in-the-philippines/

ISIS weaponizes social media to 'glorify' suicide bombing in Philippines: analyst

From ABS-CBN (Sep 13, 2019): ISIS weaponizes social media to 'glorify' suicide bombing in Philippines: analyst

The Islamic State militant group is using social media to "glorify" suicide bombing, a tactic used last weekend in the southern province of Sulu, an analyst said Friday.

A suspected suicide bomber was killed in the Sept. 8 attack near a military detachment in Sulu, a stronghold of the Abu Sayyaf, a band of militants that had pledged allegiance to ISIS. It was the fourth suicide bombing in Mindanao since 2017.

Suicide terrorism in the Philippines traces its roots to the Tausug of Mindanao who used the attack to fend off Spanish and American colonizers, said Rommel Banlaoi, president of the Philippine Society for Intelligence and Security Studies.

Extremists attempted to revive the tactic during a 2000s ferry bombing in Lamitan, Basilan, "but there was a conventional knowledge that Filipinos were not yet prepared to sacrifice their lives -- until ISIS emerged," said Banlaoi.

"ISIS changed everything and made it (suicide attacks) like the most effective, most favored... because [it's] high-impact, easy. It can resonate to others that offering your life is a worthwhile endeavor. You will be martyred," he told ANC.

"The most convincing way to convert people to embrace the idea of suicide terrorism is the social media. They started sharing a lot of literature and narratives glorifying suicide terrorism," he added.

The youth, especially the out-of-school and those who have family problems, are the most vulnerable to extremist indoctrination, said Banlaoi.

Countering extremism cannot be done through military might alone, but needs a "narrative that will destroy the idea of suicide terrorism as an act of martyrdom" through programs for education, livelihood and promoting a culture of nonviolence, he said.

The Bangsamoro, a new autonomous region for the Muslim minority in Mindanao, "ideally could be an antidote to violent extremism if [it] can perform, can really meet the expectations of the people," said Banlaoi.

The region, however, "is having difficulty in the transition process" because it "does not have enough material resources," including funds and human resources.

Mindanao is troubled by banditry and armed rebellions that keep large parts of the region mired in poverty and instability.

President Rodrigo Duterte has vowed to wipe out Abu Sayyaf and has intensified military operations in its strongholds, though bombings targeting civilians and military have continued unabated.

https://news.abs-cbn.com/video/news/09/13/19/isis-weaponizes-social-media-to-glorify-suicide-bombing-in-philippines-analyst

Armed men torch construction company’s heavy equipment

From Panay News (Sep 13, 2019): Armed men torch construction company’s heavy equipment

These cement mixers of a construction company were torched by suspected rebels in Guimbal, Iloilo late night on Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2019. Police investigators believed the company resisted the rebels’ extortion attempts. IAN PAUL CORDERO/PN

ILOILO – Armed men believed to be members of the New People’s Army (NPA) set on fire the heavy equipment of a construction company on Wednesday night in Barangay Igcocolo, Guimbal town.

The torching at the motorpool of Wilkinson Construction was carried out at around 10:45 p.m., according to Police Lieutenant Nelson Caro, Guimbal police chief.

The men, who introduced themselves as rebels, ordered the people at the motorpool to step aside and not resist, said Caro.

“Ang kompanya lang amon,” the men told the motor pool people, added Caro.

Burned down were two mixers and a backhoe. They cost an estimated P16 million.

“The men left the construction company’s employees unharmed. Perhaps the firm did not pay revolutionary taxes,” said Caro.

Wilkinson Construction had been receiving extortion letters from the New People’s Army since 2017, the police chief revealed.

“The NPA is the only group with the capacity to do such acts (extortion and arson),” said Caro.

The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) condemned the arson in Guimbal.

The real victim, said PRO-6 spokesperson Joem Malong, is not Wilkinson Construction but the public.

“There would be delays in ongoing infrastructure projects,” she said.

https://www.panaynews.net/armed-men-torch-construction-companys-heavy-equipment/

Cops arrest ‘rebel’ in Himamaylan

From the Visayan Daily Star (Sep 13, 2019): Cops arrest ‘rebel’ in Himamaylan

A suspected member of the New People’s Army, who has a pending arrest warrant for frustrated murder, was apprehended Wednesday by the police and Army soldiers in Sitio Pisok, Brgy, Buenavista, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental.

PLt. Col. Ervin Glenn Provido, Himamaylan City police chief, yesterday said that the apprehended suspect he identified as Joel Casusa, who was turned over to them by the Philippine Army Wednesday night, was endorsed to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology.

The Himamaylan Regional Trial Court Branch 55 has recommended P200,000 bail for Casusa, Provido said.

Lt. Col. Egberto Dacoscos, 62nd Infantry Battalion commander, reported that Casusa, alias Aming, is a member of Squad 1 of the Sentro De Grabidad Platoon of the Central Negros Front 2.
Dacoscos added that Casusa was involved in an encounter with his troops on April 7, 2017 in Sitio Cunalom, Brgy. Carabalan in Himamaylan City.

The arrest of Casusa was made, while the combined government troops composed of 62IB and the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company of the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office, were visiting the area, and were informed by residents of his presence in the place.

Dacoscos expressed his appreciation for the timely information relayed to them by Buenavista barangay residents, that led to the arrest of Casusa.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/September/13/topstory8.htm

RPA-ABB called ‘collaborator’

From the Visayan Daily Star (Sep 13, 2019): RPA-ABB called ‘collaborator’

The New People’s Army Apolinario Gatmaitan Command in Negros Island yesterday debunked military claims that the surrender of the Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (Tabara Paduano Group) to the government is an example of successful implementation of the localized peace talks, and described it as a “perfect example of capitulation and collaboration”.

Ka Juanito Magbanua, spokesman of the Apolinario Gatmaitan Command, claimed in a statement he issued that there is nothing revolutionary with the RPA-ABB, that he described as renegades turned bandits, and armed mercenaries allegedly involved in heinous crimes and other anti-people activities.

Magbanua also dismissed the surrender of 271 firearms of the RPA-ABB to the government as “nothing but a farce”, claiming also that they had long been used by the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte to glamorize what he calls “ futile efforts” to the end the Philippine revolution.

LASTING PEACE

Maj. Gen. Dinoh Dolina, 3rd Infantry Division commander, had earlier said that the surrender of firearms by RPA-ABB members and their abandoning the armed struggle indicated that just and lasting peace in Negros and Panay is within reach.

This is a classic example of a successful localized peace talk and a breakthrough to the government’s peace campaign that manifests its sincerity to help those who took the wrong path, but have chosen to return to the fold of the law, Dolina added.

President Duterte is expected to lead the formal demilitarization of 310 former RPA-ABB combatants at Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz on September 19.

Magbanua recalled that the RPA-ABB already signed a peace pact with the Estrada government in 2000, and he further claimed that the Arroyo administration recognized them as a paramilitary unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in 2002.

In March 2010, the Joint Enforcement and Monitoring Committee (JEMC) with the Tabara-Paduano Group adopted a Strategic Action Plan that defined the concrete activities and all deliverables of the Peace Agreement that included the provision on disposition of firearms and forces, he added.

FUNDING FOR PROJECTS

The succeeding Aquino administration set aside P100 million for socio-economic projects for the RPA-ABB, while the Duterte administration P500 million for the transition plan, which includes social protection programs, livelihood and employment assistance, Magbanua said.

Even more comical is that the RPA-ABB allegedly surrendered their firearms in exchange for government-issued ones as soon as they complete the 45-day candidacy training of the Community Defense Unit, he added.

Theirs is not an example of a successful implementation of localized peace engagement but a perfect example of capitulation and collaboration, Magbanua said.

What the RPA-ABB deserves is disbandment and condemnation, he added.

Capt. Cenon Pancito III, Public Affairs Office chief of 3ID, said that the President will mark the start of the “decommissioning process” of the former RPA-ABB combatants.

As part of the decommissioning process, Pancito said the former combatants will stay at the 3ID headquarters for at least two months to undergo training under the Army.

The doctrines they received from the rebels will be taken away and replaced by the military way of peace and security operations, he added.

CONCERNS FOR SURRENDERING

"One of the concerns why they refused to surrender their firearms (before) is that they said they will be prone to the abuse of their former comrades in the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army,” he said.

After the training, Pancito said the former combatants will be issued firearms to become Special Civilian Active Auxiliary members.

The RPA-ABB is a breakaway group of the CPP-NPA. They separated from CPP-NPA in 1996 due to ideological differences.

“With the instruction of the President to terminate the national peace talks, we have intensified our localized peace negotiations with this group and in just a short period of time, we were able to accomplish much,” he said.

Localized peace talks had paved the way for the achievement of peace as it attacks concerns on the local level. “We can reach to their respective commanders or leaders to address the issue,” Pancito said.

FOR GENUINE PEACE

Veronica Tabara, chairperson of the group, assured the full transformation of her members and gave assurance to continue to help the people and the government in attaining genuine peace in their communities.

The 310, who pledged allegiance to the government, are 100 percent recognized members of the RPA-ABB, Pancito said.

The group is said to have an influence on 100 villages in the country, 91 of which are in Western Visayas.

Pancito said the rest of the rebel groups should “take a cue” from the RPA-ABB and also return to the folds of the law.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/September/13/topstory6.htm

More PH-U.S. security cooperation activities lined up in 2020

From Rappler (Sep 13, 2019): More PH-U.S. security cooperation activities lined up in 2020

Armed Forces of the Philippines chief General Benjamin Madrigal is presented with the Legion of Merit, the US' highest military decoration awarded to foreign military personnel



HIGHEST HONOR. AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr is presented with the Legion of Merit by US Indo-Pacific Commander Adm. Philip Davidson during the 2019 Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, on September 13. Photo from the US Embassy in Manila

The Philippine and US militaries drew up plans for more security cooperation activities in 2020 during this year’s Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Friday, September 13.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief General Benjamin Madrigal Jr and US Indo-Pacific Command chief Admiral Philip Davidson led the yearly forum in which the treaty allies plan and coordinate military activities for the year ahead.

From 281 in 2019, the two militaries plan to hold 300 joint activities in 2020.

The Philippines and US "reaffirmed their continuing and close relationship by enhancing cooperation in counterterrorism, maritime security, cybersecurity, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and many others,” the US Embassy in Manila said in a media release.

“We will continue to stand together on the foundation of common interests and values. Our national security, including economic security, is reliant on a free and open Indo-Pacific and a rules-based international order,” Davidson said.

"The enhancement of our defense cooperation is the only way for us to move forward and be prepared for the challenges of this ever-evolving world,” said Madrigal.

During the event, the Philippine military chief was presented with the Legion of Merit for his "outstanding contributions to the U.S.-Philippine alliance.”

The Legion of Merit is the highest U.S. military decoration that may be awarded to foreign military personnel. Other Filipino recipients were General Alfredo Santos in the 1950s and former President Fidel Ramos in 1990.

The MDB was started in 1958 and the SEB, in 2006.

The Philippines and the US have reaffirmed the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty on at least two occasions this year: US Secretary Mike Pompeo’s Manila visit in March, and the Bilateral Strategic Dialogue between ranking diplomats in July.

The US has been rekindling alliances in Southeast Asia with naval visits and military exercises perceived to be a show of force against an increasingly dominant China.

Washington has recently ramped up its criticism of Beijing’s moves to dominate the Asia-Pacific region, particularly the South China Sea that includes Manila's exclusive economic zone known to Filipinos as the West Philippine Sea.

Although the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte initially scaled down on the yearly Balikatan Exercises with the US, both countries’ militaries have persisted with most of the drills.

The US maintains a rotational presence in several Philippine military bases under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement.

On Wednesday, September 11, the AFP signed a deal with China-backed Mislatel consortium to allow its Dito Telecommunity to set up facilities in military camps.

A security expert said this could make the US wary of dealing with the AFP.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/239881-afp-mislatel-sign-deal-build-facilities-military-camps

Local terrorist member surrenders to military

From the Mindanao Daily News (Sep 13, 2019): Local terrorist member surrenders to military



A member of Dawlah Islamiya (DI) Lanao group surrendered to the military, around 12 noon on Wednesday (September 11) in Barangay Poblacion Bayabao, Butig town, in Lanao del Sur.

Through the local government unit of Butig and the Joint Ceasefire Monitoring Post of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (JCMP-MILF), 19-year old Amer Ador Gandawali, a resident of Barangay Sandab in Butig, was brought to the Advance Command Post of the 49th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army.

Gandawali also surrendered his rocket-propelled grenade (RPG).

Lt. Col. Edgar Allan Villanueva, commander of 49IB, said Gandawali is under the group formerly led by Ali Aminato, known as Commander White Lawaan, whose group was first encountered by the military during the series of combat operations in Butig town in 2016.
Commander White Lawaan has surrendered to the government forces in the early parts of 2018 according to Villanueva.

Gandawali was not among the active combatants of White Lawaan’s group but he was the trusted member who will deliver food, firearms and ammunition supplies during the combat operations.

“He was also part of the reserve forces of the terrorist group but as per information he was not able to actively participate in the operations,” Villanueva said.

On August 28, a former member of White Lawaan, identified as Hadji Soaib Ander, has also surrendered to 49IB. He also surrendered his US KG9 semi auto pistol and several ammunitions.

Ander had a son identified only as Hadip, recruited by the Maute brothers who led the Marawi siege in 2017. Hadip was killed during the siege in September 2017.

http://mindanaodailynews.com/news/front-page/latest-headlines/local-terrorist-member-surrenders-to-military

14 BIFF members yield

From MindaNews (Sep 13, 2019): 14 BIFF members yield

DATU ODIN Sinsuat, Maguindanao – Fourteen members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters surrendered Thursday with their high-powered firearms, the military said.

The BIFF surrenderers with military and BARMM officials. MindaNews photo by FERDINANDH CABRERA

The surrenderers were led by Alimudin Malang of the BIFF 4th division and mostly came from the marsh area in Sultan sa Barongis town in Maguindanao.

Community dialogues and outreach missions by the Bangsamoro regional government led to the surrender, according to Lt. Col. Elmer Boongaling, battalion commander of the 33rd Infantry Battalion.

Joint Task Force Central commander Maj. Gen. Diosdado Carreon said the decommissioning process for the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front inspired some BIFF members to surrender or rethink their position.

Carreon cited the earlier case of one Commander Simpal who returned to his unit in the MILF, adding he expected more BIFF members to do the same.

Malang said he and his followers realized it was better to surrender and support the Bangsamoro government.

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is offering programs under its convergence initiative HELPS (Health, Education, Livelihood, Peace Governance and Synergy) to boost the rehabilitation of former BIFF members, BARMM Interior Minister Naguib Sinarimbo said.

The BIFF broke away from the MILF in 2011 over disagreement on the handling of the peace process with the government.

In March 2014, the government and the MILF signed the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.

In January and February this year, the law creating BARMM was ratified in a plebiscite.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/09/14-biff-members-yield/

Stakeholders support peace, security efforts in Zambo

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Sep 13, 2019): Stakeholders support peace, security efforts in Zambo

THE ULAMA COUNCIL reiterated its strong support to the peace and security efforts of the local government and authorities in Zamboanga following a meeting held recently at City Hall.

Stakeholders agreed for a strong collaboration to thwart lawlessness and other security threats.

The Ulama Council said it is committed to support security measures being implemented in Zamboanga and stressed that it is now bridging the gap and correcting the narratives or wrong notion about and against Islam by including in their Friday sermons certain Islamic teachings with regard to killings and even suicide bombing.

Mayor Beng Climaco said the local government will help reproduce pamphlets of the Ulama Council on basic Islamic teachings that have been misconstrued or misunderstood by some.

The meeting was also attended by Colonel Joseph Thomas Martir, the city police chief; Colonel Antonio John Divinagracia, commander of the Joint Task Force Zamboanga; Councilor Josephine Pareja, and Climaco’s Executive Assistant on Muslim Affairs Yah-Yah Abdusalam, and other police and military officials. (Zamboanga Post)

https://mindanaoexaminer.com/stakeholders-support-peace-security-efforts-in-zambo/

86 NPA, supporters surrender to gov't

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 13, 2019): 86 NPA, supporters surrender to gov't (By 23IB Philippine Army)

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte -- Seven New People's Army (NPA) regulars, 14 Militia ng Bayan (MB) and 65 members of Underground Mass Organizations (UGMOs) surrendered to the government on September 11, 2019, in Barangay Lawan-lawan, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte.

The surrenderers also turned-in three high-powered firearms composed of one M16, one Carbine, and one Garand rifle.

The surrender was followed by the burning of CPP-NPA flag which signifies that they will not be deceived by the group anymore. It was subsequently followed by the declaration of persona non grata against the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and its allied organizations.

The declaration was made by the barangay council, tribal council and members of CADT 118, Higaonon tribe of Barangay Lawan-lawan, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte through a tribal resolution number 11 (series of 2019).

Datu Bawang Eddie Ampiyawan, Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative of Agusan del Norte, thanked the tribal leaders for their support in attaining peace. "I salute you for returning to the government and helping in attaining peace. I am thankful to the tribal leaders of Higaonon who united for peace," he said.

"When there is peace, there will be no hindrance to development. The NPAs are weak without the support of the IPs. Without the support of the IPs, the armed revolutionary movement of the NPAs will be gone," Datu Ampiyawan added.

"You were once deceived by the propaganda and false ideologies of the CPP-NPA-NDF, now that you are enlightened about the program of the government, I hope that you will continue and be sincere in going back to the folds of the law so that you can live peacefully with your family,” said mayor Avelina S. Rosales of Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Francisco Molina, Commanding Officer, 23rd Infantry Battalion said that with the efforts of the national and local government and the sincere participation of the tribal leaders in ending local communist armed conflict, "we expect for influx of NPA regulars, MBs and UGMO members to surrender to the government and to express their support for peace and development in their respective community." (1Lt Roel T. Maglalang, CMO Officer, 23IB, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1027279

'Dagyawan' tackles local concerns in Guihulngan City

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 13, 2019): 'Dagyawan' tackles local concerns in Guihulngan City

GUIHULNGAN CITY, Negros Oriental –- Over 500 barangay residents from 10 barangays identified as insurgency-conflict areas in Guihulngan City and officials from different national and local government agencies participated in the Dagyawan sa Barangay: Talakayan para sa Mamamayan held yesterday in Guihulngan City Gymnasium.

DILG-7 Regional Director Leocadio Trovela (3rd from left) turning over to Guihulngan City Mayor Carlo George "Guido" Reyes (in white shirt) the “basket of services" as a symbol of the government’s commitment to address the concerns of barangay residents. (PIA Negros Oriental)

Negros Oriental is the first in the country to initiate the conduct of Dagyawan sa Barangay that aims to provide an avenue where locals can raise their issues and concerns directly to government agencies for the improvement of the delivery of basic services in their communities.

This is also part of the strategies in addressing insurgency issues in the area through the Negros Oriental Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NOTF-ELCAC) by responding to the basic needs in the vulnerable areas in the province.

“We cannot win peace by bullets or armed struggle, but we can win peace by winning the hearts and minds of the people, and this is what we are going to do bringing the basic services and programs to the people is the best way to end local communist armed conflict," said Gov. Roel Degamo in his message during the event.

Dagyaw, which is a Hiligaynon term for Bayanihan, is designed to raise awareness on vital government programs that would address access to information, enhance civil society participation, and public accountability.

The common issues raised during the dialogue revolved around infrastructure or farm-to-markets roads, potable water, electricity, peace and order or insurgency coming from residents of barangays Tacpao, Trinidad, Binobohan, Sandajao, Humay-humay, Planas, Hinakpan, Malusay, Imelda, and Poblacion.

Regional Director Leocadio Trovela of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) called on the government agencies concerned to respond to the issues according to their mandate and to help the Duterte administration in its fight against insurgency.

Trovela said Dagyawan also hopes to show unity and “malasakit” for the service of the people.

“This is just part of a series of activities bringing the government services closer to the people in the barangays and become more meaningful if we bring Dagyawan to the community kung saan mas nangangailangan,” he said.

Representatives from the barangays during the Dagyawan were also urged to actively participate in the dialogue and air their concerns.

Right after dialogue, Guihulngan City Mayor Carlo George Joan Reyes and Trovela led the ceremonial turnover of “basket of services” from various government agencies as a symbol of the government’s commitment to provide the necessary basic services and programs to the barangays.

Government officials present during the Dagyawan also expressed their commitment of support to directly engage and collaborate with the local communities in the province to promote transparency, empower the citizens, and strengthen grassroots participation. (jct/PIA7 Negros Oriental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1027187

Tagalog News: Pagbuo ng task force kontra-armadong pakikibaka, pinaplano na sa Palawan

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 13, 2019): Tagalog News: Pagbuo ng task force kontra-armadong pakikibaka, pinaplano na sa Palawan

Nagpupulong ang bumubuo ng Strategic Communication Cluster (Stratcom) sa Palawan para sa planong pagbuo ng Provincial Task Force to End the Local Communist Armed Conflict (PPTF-ELCAC), bilang suporta sa Executive Order No. 70 ni Pangulong Rodrigo R. Duterte na naghahangad na wakasan ang armadong pakikibaka ng lokal na komunistang teroristang grupo. (Larawang ni Leila B. Dagot/PIA-Palawan)

PUERTO PRINCESA, Palawan -- Nagpulong kamakailan ang bumubuo ng Strategic Communication Cluster (Stratcom) sa lalawigan ng Palawan upang lumikha ng Provincial Task Force to End the Local Communist Armed Conflict (PPTF-ELCAC).

Dito, nilatag ni Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Penetrante, acting public affairs officer ng Western Command (WesCom) ang panukalang komposisyon ng PPTF-ELCAC na ang uupong tagapangulo ay ang provincial information officer (PIO) sa katauhan ni dating Board Member Winston Arzaga, at magiging kaagapay nito ang mga information officer ng Joint Task Force (JTF) Peacock at National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA).

Magiging bahagi rin ng PPTF-ELCAC ang iba’t ibang ahensiya ng pamahalaan na may malaking papel na ginagampanan sa pagbibigay ng ayuda sa mga komunidad

Hangad sa hakbangin na makalikha ng 12 grupo sa pambansang lebel na siya namang tutularan sa hanay pang-rehiyon, panlalawigan, panlungsod, pang-bayan hanggang sa mga barangay.

Samantala, ang pagpupulong ay pinangunahan ng WesCom at pamahalaang panlalawigan ng Palawan upang suportahan ang pagpapatupad ng Executive Order No. 70 ni Pangulong Rodrigo R. Duterte na naglalayong wakasan ang gawain ng rebeldeng grupong Communist Party of the Philippines- New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

Hiniling ni Penetrante ang atensiyon ng pamunuan ng National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP)- Palawan na tutukan upang mabigyan ng giya ang mga katutubo sa lalawigan at mai-iwas sa panghihikayat ng makakaliwang grupo.

Sa pagpupulong, nilinaw ni Provincial Director Rey Maranan ng Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) – Palawan na sa ‘whole of nation approach’, ang mahusay ng pamamahala ang siyang magiging makinarya upang mailapit ang mga mamamayan sa pamahalaan. (LBD/PIAMIMAROPA-Palawan)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1027248

Cordillera region a result of successful peace talks

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 13, 2019): Cordillera region a result of successful peace talks



SUPPORT TO AUTONOMY. Former President Fidel V. Ramos, who was among the participants in the exchange of tokens (Sipat) between former President Corazon Aquino and rebel priest Conrado Balweg on September 13, 1986 at Mount Data Hotel in Bauko, Mountain Province, signs the board with the message of support for the Cordillera’s continuing clamor for autonomy during the anniversary celebration at the PICC in 2018. The Cordillera Administrative Region was created by virtue of Executive Order 220 that came after the exchange of tokens, marking the start of the end of hostilities in the Cordillera. (Screenshot from PIA-CAR video)

The creation of the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) is one of the most successful results of the talks between the government and rebel fighters, one that embodies a sense of sincerity by both parties to talk peace.

“We responded to the call for peace of then President Cory (Aquino),” said Sadanga, Mountain Province Mayor Gabino Ganggangan in an interview with Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Thursday.

Ganggangan was 24 years old and among the secretariat members when former President Corazon “Cory” Aquino and Cordillera People’s Liberation Army (CPLA) head, former rebel priest Conrado “Ka Ambo” Balweg, met for the traditional "sipat" or exchange of tokens on September 13, 1986. It marked the start of the end of hostilities in the mountains where the Igorots live.

The tokens exchanged include a Bible, a rifle, and a rosary from Aquino to Balweg. Cory received a spear, shield, bolo and a head ax from Balweg on September 13, 1986 at Mount Data Hotel in Bauko, Mountain Province.

The agreement led to the issuance of Executive Order 220 on July 15, 1987 that created the CAR.

The Cordillera region, especially in Kalinga province, recognizes the indigenous way of settling dispute they call "bodong". "Sipat" is the initial stage when the warring parties exchange tokens composed of items important to them, given to the leader who will continue with the process, leading to the final settlement of a dispute or the agreement called the "pagta".

“We responded to the call for peace, dialogue by the President because that was our nature as a tribe. By nature, we want to resolve things peacefully and nobody likes war forever, at least when the new government said let us stop war, let us talk on how we can resolve your problem in a peaceful manner. Sino ba naman ang ayaw nun [peace] (Who would not want peace),” Ganggangan said.

Ganggangan said there was nationwide unrest in 1986. In the mountainous provinces in northern Luzon, known as the Cordillera, hostilities caused by the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army (CPP-NPA) plagued the area, Ganggangan recalled.

He said this part of the region was then disturbed by several issues, including the construction of the Chico Dam in Kalinga, the cellophil project in Abra, and the indigenous peoples’ right to their land and resources.

The mayor said “with the coming in of a new government, there was a new hope and the pronouncement to talk enticed Balweg and his group.”

Balweg served as leader of the group in the region and continued the fight against the government for self-determination and right over their land and resources after separating from the NPA.

The split was due to the differing treatment of the issues fought for by Balweg’s group, which resulted in crippling the NPA's armed struggle in the mountains of northern Luzon.

“We separated from the CPP-NPA at that time, because iba nga (it was different) how they look at the problems of the Cordillera and their supposed solution. We deferred from it that is why we separated," Ganggangan said.

For him, the “Sipat", which happened 33 years ago, remains to be the most successful peace negotiation, and perhaps the first ever.

“After 33 years from the time the CPLA and Balweg raised the 26-point demand to the government which is summarized in one word -- autonomy, the Cordillera people still live up to the peace which is what drives the region’s leaders to continue towards attainment of self-determination through peaceful means," he said.

Ganggangan shared that Balweg was invited by former President Fidel V. Ramos to witness the signing of a peace agreement with Nur Misuari's faction of the Moro National Liberation Front and was told: “Alam niyo, how we succeeded in the peace negotiation with the MNLF, we learned a lesson from the CPLA.”

Ganggangan said Ramos also witnessed the “Sipat” agreement.

Andres Ngao-I, a member of the "Sipat" secretariat, said without the "Sipat", there would have been no Cordillera Administrative Region.

“In this commemoration, let the national government be reminded of the agreement and the successful peace talks which we Cordillerans uphold until now and peacefully clamors for the national government to give to us -- the autonomy,“ he said.

Ngao-I, a private sector representative in the Cordillera Regional Development Council, was the proponent of the resolution to make the day of the “Sipat” a special non-working holiday in the region.

One of the signatories of the 1986 Sipat agreement, Leonardo “Musling” Bun-as of Tinglayan, Kalinga recalled in an earlier interview the day the peace agreement was signed.

"We were happy when President Cory said that it should not be guns that must talk. We should be on the table talking to solve the problem and our demands,” Bun-as said in the local dialect.

“I was feeling happy then because the peace talks came out positive and there would be no more fighting,” he said.

Malacañang issued Proclamation 802 declaring September 13, 2019 as special non-working holiday in the CAR in commemoration of the "Sipat".

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1080306

Village chair shot dead in Cagayan

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 13, 2019): Village chair shot dead in Cagayan



A 60-year-old village head in Tuao town, Cagayan province was shot and killed by two motorcycle-riding gunmen in his village on Friday morning, police said.

In a phone interview, Police Capt. Sharon Mallillin, Cagayan provincial police spokesperson, identified the victim as Remegio Dela Cruz, barangay chairman of Bugnay.
Probers said dela Cruz was driving his white Hilander car (UMV-904) at about 8:45 a.m. in his village when he was shot at by two motorcycle-riding gunmen, who wore jackets and helmets. The victim was declared dead on arrival at the nearest hospital.
Police, who have yet to ascertain the type of gun used and the assailants in the killing, have been focusing on dela Cruz’s job as a village head or a personal grudge as the possible motives.

Mallillin said the Tuao police had immediately deployed checkpoints and coordinated with neighboring police stations to possibly track down the killers.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1080386

Samar town forms team vs. Reds

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 13, 2019): Samar town forms team vs. Reds



TO END INSURGENCY. Calbiga, Samar Mayor Melchor Nacario talks to members of the newly-formed municipal task force to end local communist armed conflict during its organizational meeting on Thursday (September 12, 2019). Calbiga is the second town in Samar province to form the task force to help end insurgency. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army 46th Infantry Batallion)

Local officials in Calbiga, Samar, where the New People’s Army (NPA) has launched its first tactical operation 45 years ago, formed a task force to help end insurgency in their communities.

Lt. Col. Rhomel Langcauon, acting commander of the Philippine Army 46th Infantry Battalion, said the municipal task force to end the local communist armed conflict (MTP-ELCAC) gathered at the town hall on Thursday for their organizational meeting and orientation.

The group, led by Mayor Melchor Nacario, is composed of members of the local police station, Bureau of Fire Protection, municipal council members, 11 village chiefs, local government unit department heads, and school officials.

The formation of the municipal task force operationalizes Executive Order 70 issued by President Rodrigo Duterte on Dec. 4, 2018.

The directive also institutionalizes a “whole-of-nation approach” in attaining an “inclusive and sustainable peace.”

“This is a positive development since we need the support of local government officials as our community support program teams work hard to address issues in villages exploited by insurgents. We want to eventually end local communist armed conflict without using any single bullet,” Langcauon said in a statement issued on Friday.

Among the key officials, who oriented task force members are Imelda Bonifacio, area manager of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, and lawyer Enrico Banario from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.

Langcauon said the organization of the task force is very crucial since there are still 11 villages in the town identified as affected by activities of the communist terrorist group.

Calbiga is the second town to form the MTP-ELCAC after nearby Pinbacdao town.

Some of the villages in Calbiga have been known as sites of clashes between government troops and armed rebels. One of the bloodiest gun battles was on April 23, 2019, where six soldiers died and six others were hurt.

“Calbiga has the highest number of NPA-affected areas in Samar province, which is the target for immersion of retooled community support program (CSP) team,” he added.

The CSP deployments aim to facilitate the government’s development programs by hearing issues and concerns of vulnerable villagers and bring them to the attention of concerned government offices.

Samar Island is considered as one of the strongholds of armed rebels due to its densely-forested mountainous areas, high poverty incidence, and the issue of widespread landlessness, based on a 2013 study of William Norman Holden of the University of Calgary in Canada.

The NPA launched its first tactical operation in the country in Calbiga, Samar in 1974, when its members ambushed an Army scout patrol and seized a number of weapons.

In 1976, the NPA gained popular support among the people of Samar following its actions against cattle-rustling gangs.

The NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, 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/1080400

16 LGUs in MisOr declare NPA as persona non grata

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 13, 2019): 16 LGUs in MisOr declare NPA as persona non grata

More towns and cities in Misamis Oriental have rejected the Communist Party of the Philippines- New People’s Army (CPP-NPA), with the number of local government units declaring the rebel group as persona non grata increasing to 16 as of Friday.

This was according to the Army's 4th Infantry Division, which lauded the provincial government and local government unit (LGUs) for cooperating with the national government's objective of putting an end to the 50-year old communist rebellion.

In a press release on Friday, the Cagayan de Oro-based 4ID said at least 16 of Misamis Oriental's 24 cities and municipalities have already issued formal declaration to reject the CPP-NPA and its front organizations.

A total of 182 out of the province's 424 barangays, meanwhile, have also passed barangay council resolutions to declare the CPP-NPA persona non grata.

According to the 4ID, the 16 LGUs that have already moved against the communist rebel group are the Alubijid, Balingasag, Binuangan, Claveria, El Salvador City, Initao, Jasaan, Lagonglong, Libertad, Magsaysay, Manticao, Medina, Opol, Tagoloan, Talisayan, and recently, the town of Laguindingan.

The Army division lauded the provincial government and the LGUs for heeding President Rodrigo Duterte's call for a "whole-nation" approach to ending the 50-year old insurgency.

"The LGUs are fed up with incessant atrocities perpetrated by the CPP-NPA against civilians and destruction of civilian properties," the 4ID statement said.

"The local chief executives are one in rejecting the entry of CPP-NPA terrorists in their respective localities for they are the once creating instability that drives potential investors away," it added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1080405

NegOr village chiefs push for more roads to address insurgency

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 13, 2019): NegOr village chiefs push for more roads to address insurgency



GROUNDBREAKING. Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo (3rd from left) leads the groundbreaking of a PHP380-million farm-to-market road that connects the villages of Trinidad and Hilaitan in Guihulngan City. This is part of the activities of the Negros Oriental Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NOTF-ELCAC), in line with President Rodrigo Duterte's Whole of Nation approach to achieve inclusive peace and sustainable development. (Photo courtesy of 303rd Brigade, Philippine Army)

Many village chiefs in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, are pushing for the building of more roads to benefit the poor, usher in development, and help end insurgency.

This, as the provincial government embarked on a multi-million-peso farm-to-market road project connecting Barangays Hilaitan and Trinidad in Guihulngan, a city besieged by the communist insurgency problem.

Governor Roel Degamo on Wednesday led the groundbreaking and inauguration of the PHP370-million farm-to-market road that stretches about 22 kilometers between the two villages.

This is part of the series of activities undertaken by the Negros Oriental Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NOTF-ELCAC) in relation to President Rodrigo Duterte’s Whole of Nation approach to attain inclusive peace and sustainable development.

The project will directly benefit some 12,000 residents in the two barangays, according to the 303rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army in a media release Thursday.

The road will also connect Guihulngan to neighboring Moises Padilla also in Negros Occidental, which is seen to improve the delivery of basic services in remote areas affected by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

Guihulngan Vice Mayor Ernesto Reyes, Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, 303rd Infantry Brigade Commander, and Col. Rizalito Gapas, the OIC provincial police director, accompanied Degamo during the ceremony.

The governor reiterated his promise to the people to open up more roads in the hinterlands to speed up development, by providing access to areas that are hard to reach.

During Tuesday’s “Dagyawan sa Barangay: Talakayan ng Mamayan” held in the city proper, village chiefs and other barangay officials aired their concerns to the different government agencies, with high hopes of getting a positive response and immediate action.

Majority of the concerns were on roads and other infrastructure such as water connection.

Diwani Baynas, the village chair of Barangay Imelda, disclosed that contractors of a road concreting project a few years ago had backed out because of the insurgency problem, leaving behind an unfinished road concreting project.

Tacpao barangay chair Rosalie Emerca also confirmed an unfinished road-concreting project in her area due to threats from the New People’s Army.

Village chair Elmer Tatong of Binobohan said he would not mind if his barangay hall is dilapidated, as long as they have a good road. Binobohan is only about seven kilometers from the city proper but due to bad roads, it takes about one hour to reach the area.

Hinakpan barangay captain Nanie Absin said farmers in her barangay are complaining that “igo ra iplete sa habal-habal ang abot sa ilang mga utanon paingon sa ubos (income derived from produce sold in the lowlands is only enough to pay for the habal-habal or motorcycle-for-hire) due to bad roads”.

Barangay Trinidad head Luciana Montecino wants additional detachments of the Philippine Army in her village even as a police substation and another Army detachment had already been established there.

For farmers in Barangay Malusay, genuine land reform is what they need, as well as electrification in the sitios or sub-villages, according to village chief Vicky Hinabe.

Livelihood projects, swine dispersal, water system, irrigation and opening of new roads are being requested by Planas village chief Randy Flores. He confirmed the presence of insurgents in his barangay and requested for the Army’s presence there.

All of these concerns are being noted down by the concerned agencies, which are expected to take action as part of the ongoing efforts to end the insurgency via the NOTF-ELCAC.

Ten barangays in Guihulngan City were identified as priority, namely, Trinidad, Binobohan, Tacpao, Sandayao, Humayhumay, Poblacion, Imelda, Planas, Malusay, and Hinakpan.

Some of the services rendered during the Dagyawan included the issuance of driver’s licenses by the Land Transportation Office, issuance of birth, marriage and other certificates by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), distribution of seedlings, technical and financial assistance to farmers by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), distribution of fishing boats and fingerlings by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), medical and dental services from the Department of Health (DOH), Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Navy and the Philippine National Police.

Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) scholars and soldiers from the 94th IB of the Philippine Army also extended free haircuts while the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) personnel helped to facilitate job-matching.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1080412