Saturday, October 19, 2019

AFP-CRS: Agusan Norte creates task force to end communist armed conflict

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 19, 2019): Agusan Norte creates task force to end communist armed conflict

To ensure coherence in the realization of Executive Order Number (EO) 70, series 2018, or the whole-of-nation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace, the province of Agusan del Norte has created the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) and its Executive Committee during the recent joint Provincial Development Council (PDC) and Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) meeting held in Butuan City.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

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[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.]

AFP-CRS: Army sends delegates to Seoul ADEX 2019

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 19, 2019): Army sends delegates to Seoul ADEX 2019

FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – The Philippine Army sent a delegation to attend the 2019 Seoul International Aerospace and Defense Exhibition (ADEX) in Korea that runs from October 14-20, 2019.

ADEX is a biannual event where the latest aerospace and defense innovation and technology is being showcased by about 400 exhibitors from at least 30 countries.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com



[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.]

AFP-CRS: Army commemorates 2nd Marawi Liberation anniversary

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 19, 2019): Army commemorates 2nd Marawi Liberation anniversary

In a ceremony held last October 17, the Philippine Army commemorated the 2nd anniversary of the Liberation of Marawi at the Libingan ng mga Bayani.

“Today we pay tribute to the heroism of our fallen troops who paid the ultimate price in defense of our country. We remember [in this gathering] the spirit of victory and triumph of freedom,” said former Joint-Task Force Marawi Commander and now Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rolando Joselito Baustista as he graced the event.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

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[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.]

AFP-CRS: Ranking NPA leader arrested in Sarangani

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 19, 2019): Ranking NPA leader arrested in Sarangani

Another ranking leader of the New People’s Army who led the burning of P35
million worth of construction equipment in Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat
in 2015 was arrested.

Jonie Calaba, 25 a resident of Kalamansig town, Sultan Kudarat, is the vice commander of the NPA’s Guerilla Front 73 and reportedly headed the Platoon Cherry Mobile of Front 73, which operates in Barangay San Jose here; Banga, Tupi, Polomolok, Lake Sebu, and T’boli towns in South Cotabato; and Kiamba in Sarangani.

He has a standing warrant of arrest for arson, with no bail recommended

Read more here: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1083542

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[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.]

AFP-CRS: Influx of NPAs surrender continues in Southern Bukidnon

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 19, 2019): Influx of NPAs surrender continues in Southern Bukidnon

A total of 9 regular NPAs members and 8 MBs of SYP5, Coy Thunder, SRC2, NCMRC, surrendered while 19 communist terrorist group (CTG) supporters withdraw their support and laid down their arms to the troops of 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion at Headquarters, Maramag, Bukidnon.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

Civil Relations Service AFP | 88th Infantry "Maringal" Battalion, Philippine Army

Reade more here: https://www.kalinawnews.com/influx-of-npas-surrender-continues-in-southern-bukidnon/



[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.]

AFP-CRS: 80th DND Founding Anniversary

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 19, 2019): 80th DND Founding Anniversary



#BaliktanawSaKagawaran: Office of Civil Defense

The National Civil Defense Administration (NCDA) was the forerunner of today's Office of Civil Defense, established through the Civil Defense Act of 1954.

Unfortunately, the NCDA, as a planning body under the Office of the President, was financially constrained and unable to carry out disaster preparedness and prevention programs. It was only after the catastrophe from a major earthquake in 1968 and the ravages of a typhoon in 1970 when the different instrumentalities of the government took action and re-configured the civil defense system of the country.

In 1972, the NCDA was abolished, its functions and personnel and that of the National Disaster Control Center was transferred to the new agency, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD). Pursuant to Letter of Implementation No. 19, s. 1972, the OCD was placed under the Department of National Defense.

Gen Jonas Victoria AFP (Ret) took the helm of the OCD in 1974 as its first Civil Defense Administrator, after having served as the Acting Administrator of the former NCDA. Prior to this, Gen Victoria also served as the 5th Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force from 1962 to 1964. #DNDat80 #OneDefenseTeamPH

Photo courtesy: Civil Defense PH



[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.]

AFP-CRS: Army in Bicol, hosts regional summit for IP leaders

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 18, 2019): Army in Bicol, hosts regional summit for IP leaders

With the continuous efforts of the government to bring them the services they need especially right now that the implementation of Executive Order No. 70 is in full swing, JTFB believes that it will leave no room for communist terrorists’ ill motives.

It can be recalled that thru EO 70 or the Whole-Of-Nation Approach, the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) or Task Force Katuninongan asin Kauswagan was created.

Read more at: https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-in-bicol-hosts-regional-summit-for-ip-leaders/

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

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[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.]

AFP-CRS: Kalinga NPA fighter surrenders

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 18, 2019): Kalinga NPA fighter surrenders

According to reports, the said surrenderee was convinced to give up arms after several discussions initiated by the Kalinga PPO and personnel of the military based in the province.

Read more at: https://tribune.net.ph/index.php/2019/10/18/kalinga-npa-fighter-surrenders/

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

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[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.]

AFP-CRS: Albay town declares CPP-NPA ‘persona non grata’

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 18, 2019): Albay town declares CPP-NPA ‘persona non grata’

The Sangguniang Bayan of Polangui town in Albay province has declared the Communist Party of the Philippine-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) and its front groups and affiliates “persona non grata.”

The eight members of the town legislative council presided by Vice Mayor Restituto Fernandez passed Resolution Number 217 unanimously.

Read more at: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1178596/albay-town-declares-cpp-npa-persona-non-grata

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

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[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.]

AFP-CRS: NPA couple surrender to Army

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 18, 2019): NPA couple surrender to Army

Tired of running away from government forces, a couple from Barangay Kalabugao, turned themselves in to the 8th Infantry Battalion.

The couple identified as Alias Robert, 32 years old, and his legal wife Alias Nicole, 31 years old, were former Team Leader and Medic of the Squad 1, Platoon 1, of the Sub-Regional Sentro de Grabidad “PEDLER” Sub-Regional Committee 2 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Command.

Read more at: https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028883

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

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[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.]

AFP-CRS: Ex-NPA officer nabbed in Bulacan

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 18, 2019): Ex-NPA officer nabbed in Bulacan

A former high-ranking officer of the New People's Army (NPA) and coordinator of the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) in this province was arrested inside the Our Lady of Fatima Parish Church in Meralco Village, Barangay Lias, Marilao town, Bulacan.

Read more at: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1083482

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

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https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2772144816137558/?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/

AFP-CRS: Coast Guard deploys anti-terror unit, vessel in Mindanao

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 18, 2019): Coast Guard deploys anti-terror unit, vessel in Mindanao

Commodore Joseph Coyme, PCG–Southwestern District commander, led the sendoff ceremony at the Zamboanga International Port.

He said the PCG unit would help not only in strengthening maritime security efforts but also in intensifying security numbering of motorized pumpboats.

Read more at: https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/10/18/1961101/coast-guard-deploys-anti-terror-unit-vessel-mindanao#X4vTIdXFprkwr6Ff.99

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

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[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.]

AFP-CRS: Army uncovers CPP-NPA food depot in Surigao Sur

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 18, 2019): Army uncovers CPP-NPA food depot in Surigao Sur

Government troops belonging to the Army's 36th Infantry Battalion uncovered a food depot of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in a remote area in Surigao del Sur.

The discovery was made possible through the information provided by a former rebel who surrendered to the government and with the support of the civilians in the area.

Read more at: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1083529

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com



[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.]

AFP-CRS: PH soldiers bag silver medal in UK Cambrian Patrol

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 18, 2019): PH soldiers bag silver medal in UK Cambrian Patrol

Eight Philippine Army (PA) Scout Rangers, who participated in the United Kingdom's Exercise Cambrian Patrol 2019 (Ex CP 2019) held in Wales, were awarded the Silver Medal for their feat.

This year, around 130 teams from different countries participated in the exercise. They also underwent a 21-day pre-training before the exercise proper that started last October 14.

Read more at: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1083537

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

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[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.]

AFP-CRS: 22 NPAs Surrender 10 firearms in Quezon

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 18, 2019): 22 NPAs Surrender 10 firearms in Quezon

Aside from the 10 firearms, the former rebels yielded ammunition and other war materiel including explosives that they use as landlines which is contrary to numerous internationally accepted conventions in the conduct of war.

For his part, Lt Gen Gilbert I Gapay, Commander of Southern Luzon Command, lauded the professionalism and interoperability of the combined police and military personnel in attaining their common objective of achieving peace across the country.

Read more at: https://www.kalinawnews.com/22-npas-surrender-10-firearms-in-quezon/

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

Image may contain: 1 person, text


[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.]

AFP-CRS: Top 3 most wanted person nabbed in Sultan Kudarat

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 18, 2019): Top 3 most wanted person nabbed in Sultan Kudarat

Combined elements of the AFP and PNP conducted a support law enforcement operation that resulted in the apprehension of the top 3 most wanted person in Sultan Kudarat.

Troops of the Alpha Company of the 37th Infantry Battalion and Kalamansig Municipal Police Station captured Gina Ciano in Barangay Sangay, Kalamansig.

Read more here: http://www.westmincom.com/top-3-most-wanted-person-in-sultan-kudarat-nabbed/

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

Image may contain: 1 person, text


[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.]

AFP-CRS: PH Army beefing up cyber-defense capabilities

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 18, 2019): PH Army beefing up cyber-defense capabilities

This was emphasized during the conduct of the 2nd Gat Andres Bonifacio Colloquium on Monday, with the theme, “Building Resilience in the Age of Disruption: Strengthening the Army’s Cyber Defense Capabilities”.

Read more here: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1083303

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

Image may contain: 1 person, text


[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.]

Kalinaw News: Lianga Surigao del Sur declares NPAs Unwelcome

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 19, 2019): Lianga Surigao del Sur declares NPAs Unwelcome


Bayugan City , Agusan del Sur – You (NPAs) are not welcome. Lianga Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) and Municipal Anti-Drug Abuse Council (MADAC) declare Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) persona non-grata through joint resolution no.1 series of 2019 signed in the Sangguniang Bayan Office, Lianga, Surigao Del Sur last June 10 and officially made public today.

The resolution states that MPOC and MADAC adopt and affirm the motion to declare in accordance with the present national leadership of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, in reference to Executive Order No. 70 aiming to quell the communist armed conflict in the country and Proclamation No. 374 of the Republic Act No. 10168, The Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012.

Lianga, particularly barangay Diatagon, houses the Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural and Livelihood Development (ALCADEV) and Tribal Filipino Program in Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS), the alleged breeding grounds of the communist rebels and militants. These are the alleged counterparts of Salugpungan schools in Davao City.

Honorable Novelita M. Sarmen, Mayor of Lianga expressed her sincerest desire to end local communist armed conflict in the area. Prior to the Community Support Program in Kilometer 9, she urged her fellow Indigenous People (IP) constituents to embrace the government programs and services intended for them and not to resort in irrelevant and unnecessary activities that will not help in addressing their issues.

“I already told the people that it is not the right time (during my term) to do this (Bakwit). There is no reason to conduct this Bakwit because it does not solve any of our issues,” Mayor Sarmen, said.

Hawudon Jumar Bucales known as Datu Nahikyad, the IP Mandatory Representative said that declaring the CNTs persona non-grata in Lianga will boost their initiatives to reunite their tribe that the CNTs divided through forcefully instilling the communist ideology which violated their culture and tradition.

“Tongod to pahilo to pang honahona to Manobo na yagak yagak on to mongo tongod kay paggamet koy para ug padomahan to nia. (Dahil sa paglason sa isip ng tribo, nagkawatak-watak ang tribo dahil ginamit nila kami para irekrut sa armado), “Bucales revealed.

“Sugod sa pagdatong to NPA, nadaot on to pag onog noy to tawagon noy (Simula ng dumating ang mga NPA sa ming komunidad, nasira na an gaming tradisyon),” Bucales added.



[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]

Kalinaw News: Bunawan LGU, Army, PNP created the Municipal Task Force to End Insurgency in Agusan Sur

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 19, 2019): Bunawan LGU, Army, PNP created the Municipal Task Force to End Insurgency in Agusan Sur



BISLIG CITY, Surigao del Sur-Camp Jaime N Ferrer Sr, Brgy Maharlika, Bislig City (Stn) – The 75th Infantry “Marauder” Battalion, together with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Bunawan, Agusan del Sur created the Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) during the joint Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) and Municipal Development Council (MDC) meeting held at the Municipal Hall, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur on October 18, 2019.

Lieutenant Colonel Warren C Munda, Commanding Officer of 75IB presented the concept of Executive Order No. 70, otherwise known as institutionalizing the Whole-Of-Nation Approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace and development, creating a National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict to be adopted by Bunawan in creating a Municipal Task Force (MTF) to harmonize and sustain the delivery of basic services and development agenda in pursuit of country’s peace and development.
The creation of MTF-ELCAC was moved and seconded by the joint MPOC and MDC members during the meeting.

The meeting presided by Hon. Sylvia B Elorde, Municipal Mayor of Bunawan, ADS and attended by the members of Municipal Peace and Order Council and the Municipal Development Council, 75IB, PNP, and other stakeholders.

Hon. Sylvia B Elorde, Municipal Mayor of Bunawan supported the creation of MTF-ELCAC for the people of her town. “We must work together in implementing this Whole of Nation Approach (WNA), and there is no impossible for the peace and the progress we aim for.” Mayor Elorde said.

Likewise, Lt. Col. Warren C Munda, Commanding Officer of 75IB said. “With good governance and the synchronization of effort by every agency, definitely we’ll obtain a great outcome behind those efforts. With this MTF-ELCAC, the people will live happily together with their family in a peaceful and progressive community. “Lt. Col. Munda 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.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]

CPP: Shooting of Bukidnon teachers is handiwork of military agents

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 19, 2019): Shooting of Bukidnon teachers is handiwork of military agents



The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) denounces the dastardly shooting of teachers Zhydee and Ramil Cabañelez last October 16.

According to reports, four armed men barged into the Dalit Elementary School in Sitio Dalit, Barangay Lumbayao in Valencia City, Bukidnon and started shooting at the Cabañelez couple. The shooting was carried out in plain view of young students. Zhydee sustained several gunshot wounds and was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. Ramil was unscathed.

The shooting is clearly the handiwork of military agents, specifically those linked to the AFP’s 4th Infantry Division. These military agents and death squads have targeted activists in Northern Mindanao. In the province of Bukidnon, at least 16 activists, mostly peasant leaders, have been murdered this year alone.

The Valencia shooting is part of the nationwide campaign of suppression and violence against the democratic people’s organizations active in fighting for people’s rights and welfare.

The Cabañelez couple are members of the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) which recently has been actively campaigning for salary increases.

https://cpp.ph/2019/10/19/shooting-of-bukidnon-teachers-is-handiwork-of-military-agents/

PHL, US level up drive vs terrorists

From the Business Mirror (Oct 20, 2019): PHL, US level up drive vs terrorists

First counterterrorism center in Southeast Asia to rise in Silang, Cavite

THE Philippines and the United States are ramping up their cooperation and joint effort in fighting terrorism as the country struggles to deal with the effects of violent extremism and radicalism in Mindanao.

More than a week ago, the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the US Embassy in Manila broke ground for a regional counterterrorism center at the compound of the PNP Academy in Silang, Cavite, with the center expected to rise before the end of this year.

The training facility, the first of its kind in the region, will not only benefit the country, but even other states in Southeast Asia which, like the Philippines, are also coping with problems posed by Islamic militancy.


The center, which will train and capacitate members of law-enforcement agencies in the Philippines and even from its neighbors, is a much-needed boost for the government, which is dealing with the Islamic State (IS) and its continuing recruitment in the country.

The Philippine government and the people of Marawi still have to rebuild from the damage wrought by homegrown but IS-inspired terrorists who wreaked havoc on the once-progressive Islamic City in 2017, putting it under siege for months.

On the ground, the IS operates through the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) under Hadjan Sawadjaan in Sulu, the Maute Group in Lanao del Sur and the three factions of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Central Mindanao, particularly in the province of Sulu.
Multimillion-dollar facility

The center would be built and equipped from a P350-million ($6.7 million) funding, which is part of the P520-million ($10 million) US counterterrorism money obtained to establish and jointly operate the facility with the US.

The US Embassy said the US Department of State secured the $10 million in the form of counterterrorism partnership funds to construct and jointly operate and maintain the facility.

The initialization of the project was made before former PNP chief General Oscar Albayalde gave up his post as top policeman of the country. He considered putting up the regional training center as another expression of support by the US in its counterterrorism commitment to the country.

“For years, the US government [has] always [been] ready to help the PNP’s campaign to strengthen our mechanism for our counterterrorism efforts,” he said.

The US Embassy said that once the facility is constructed, it will provide counterterrorism training for law-enforcement units and other personnel from the country and from regional partner nations.
Complementing effort

The operation of the center is seen to back up the current initiatives of the government in dealing with the problems of terrorism, violent extremism and even radicalism in Mindanao, which, since last year, has recorded at least four cases of suicide bombings, one of which was perpetrated by a local Moro.

Other than conducting military operations in Western and Central Mindanao against IS-allied local groups and allowing the Moros to exercise a semi-independent government through the Bangsa­moro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, the government has put forward the National Action Plan on Countering and Preventing Violent Extremism.

Government officials hope that the action plan would stop radicalism in southern Philippines.

The establishment of the modern regional counterterrorism center in the country came following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the PNP and the US Embassy in August this year.

“We believe this program will enhance and boost our capabilities to address threats posed by domestic and transnational terrorism,” Albayalde said.

“The establishment of this center reflects the US’s enduring commitment to support Philippine counterterrorism efforts and work together to address threats to peace and security in the region,” the US Embassy, on the other hand, said.

Other counterterrorism support

The creation of the state-of-the-art facility was but part of the assistance that the US had been providing the country in an effort to boost its counterterrorism capability.

In September last year, the US provided more than five million rounds of ammunition worth P117.4 million to the military for its specialized units’ counterterrorism training.

The ammunition, funded as a grant through the US Counterterrorism Train and Equip Program, was provided primarily for the use of the Army’s Light Reaction Regiment and the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Joint Special Operations Group.

In July this year, the US also announced that it will provide $26.5 million for the next two years to boost the counterterrorism effort of the Philippine government.

The money will fund assistance to a wide array of projects that include training, equipment and other support to build “comprehensive law-enforcement capacity within a rule of law framework to deny terrorist operations, funding and movement.”

It will also support programs, including boosting the capability of Filipinos to investigate and prosecute terrorism cases and counter violent extremism and radicalization.

“This support for non-military rule-of-law approaches to addressing terrorist threats will complement our sustained commitment to building the counterterrorism capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” it said.

Infra sparks abaca farmer’s hope in remote Leyte village

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 19, 2019): Infra sparks abaca farmer’s hope in remote Leyte village



FAR-FLUNG VILLAGE. Provincial government workers ride a payloader heading for Kagbana village, one of the most remote villages in Leyte Island, some 40 km. from the town center of Burauen. The village has nearly 300 residents, including 50 Mamanwa tribe members. (PNA photo by Sarwell Meniano)

BURAUEN, Leyte -- The development efforts of the provincial government in the upland village of Kagbana come as a big relief to abaca farmers who have been suffering the brunt of a decade-long disease infestation.

Resident Reyniel de Paz, 32, said the ongoing road project and the recently completed hanging bridge funded by the local government are very helpful in bringing the abaca farmers’ products to traders in San Vicente village, which is 8 km. away from their community.


Carrying the abaca fiber to traders needs extra caution when farmers cross the chest-deep river to keep their products dry.

“Before, we had to cross the river to bring our products to San Vicente. Some suffered swollen legs due to long hikes while carrying the 40 (kg.) to 60 kg. of abaca like a huge backpack,” de Paz, a farmer for the past 15 years, told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Friday.

A kilogram of abaca is traded at PHP52 in Kagbana village but is worth PHP57 in San Vicente village.

The income from abaca is way higher than coconut farming. The price of copra, a traditional by-product of coconut went down to PHP13 per kg. in the past three years.

Abaca fibers are extensively used in producing ropes, woven fabrics, and tea bags, among others. It is also called biodegradable and sustainable fiber.

It is considered the strongest of natural fibers, being three times stronger than sisal fiber, and is far more resistant to saltwater decomposition than most vegetable fibers.

De Paz, a father of two, said only in the past two years have they seen the recovery of their abaca plantations after a decade-long infestation of destructive abaca mosaic and bunchy-top diseases.

“We are happy to see the ongoing road opening project. This motivates us to maintain and expand our abaca plantations,” he said. Poverty and distance from his school had prompted him to quit secondary school after two years.

Kagbana is one of the remotest villages in Leyte province. It is 40 km. away from the town center of Burauen. To get there, one has to take a one-hour motorcycle ride and a two-hour hike. The village has nearly 300 residents, including 50 Mamanwa tribe members.

Leyte’s provincial government has already spent PHP30 million to open the access road to the village. Another PHP20 million is on the pipeline for the road opening and concreting this year.

On top of this, multi-million funds have been set aside for the road construction under the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) program of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process.


Even with the pending completion of the road project, residents seem satisfied knowing that they don’t have to cross the chest-deep water of Marabong River. This, after the September inauguration of the PHP5.63 million hanging bridge funded by the provincial government that would assure safe passage for residents of remote Kagbana village during bad weather.

During the rainy season, the village used to be completely isolated.

Marilyn Gloria, 28, a community store owner shared that since the hanging bridge was built and some portion of the road has become accessible to motorcycles this year, the cost of hauling products has significantly decreased.

From PHP350 to PHP400 pay for every hauler of goods from Lanawan village, she now spends only PHP150.

“The road and hanging bridge help my small business a lot. I have higher income now because the transportation cost has been reduced,” Gloria said.

For her, the bridge and the road will not just benefit farmers and store owners, but also children who want to continue studying after completing their elementary education. The nearest secondary school is about 40 km. away from the village.

“This means a lot to our children. What we failed to obtain when we were young, these can be achieved by our children. We know how important education is,” she added.

Mary Jane Amat, a public school teacher assigned to Kagbana, said children would be encouraged to pursue secondary and even college education because they don’t have to cross the chest-deep river.

“When I studied high school and tertiary education, I just came home once a month because it was so inconvenient to get here. We had to walk for three to four hours across mountains and rivers,” Amat said.

Kagbana village used to be a hotbed of the New People’s Army, considering its strategic location near the mountains of Baybay City and Ormoc City.

Amat’s father, Ponciano, who served as village chief for decades until 2007, was killed by a group of eight NPA fighters in 2009 on suspicion of being a part of the military intelligence network.

The NPA was last sighted in Kagbana in 2017.


The military established a detachment in the village in 2018. Since then, the improved peace and order situation has allowed national and local government workers to implement development projects in the area.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1083644

Editorial: Trouble looms in the paradise island

From Catanduanes Tribune (Oct 19, 2019): Editorial: Trouble looms in the paradise island

Last week, a few days after local officials in Panganiban town officially challenged the report of the Philippine Army that it killed two members of the New People’s Army in the alleged encounter in barangay Taopon in the early morning of Sept. 22, 2019, the Joint Task Force Bicolandia finally issued a statement on the controversial incident.

Majpr General Fernando Trinidad, commander of the JTFB, maintained its claim that the encounter was legitimate and promised that the military would cooperate in the investigation “to clear the cloud of doubts about the incident.”

The task force “explicitly” said that the two San Miguel residents killed in the incident – Lito Aguilar and Christopher Abraham – may have been abaca farmers but insisted they were “lured by the armed guerillas who took advantage of their situations and endangered their lives.”

The press release cited a “record” that shows farmers, the youth and women are sectors being targeted by the recruitment schemes of CTGs (communist terrorist group).


MGen. Trinidad pointedly stated that the investigation “will also be an opportunity to know if there are government officials who support the communist terrorists and their illegal activities,” citing Pres. Duterte’s directive to the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) to look into left-leaning government officials who are against efforts to finally resolve the insurgency problem in the country.

On Monday, the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, led by Acting Vice Governor Lorenzo Templonuevo Jr. met with the three survivors of the alleged encounter as well as officials of the Army unit in Catanduanes as well as the local police command to look into the incident.

As one official who was present in the executive session described it, nothing substantial came out of the hearing.

The police has yet to present the results of investigation, particularly the details of the victim’s injuries, whether one of them fired or handled the AR15 rifle found at the scene, or whether the five persons involved really went to the area to catch eels and fish.

It is claimed that the Army officers at the hearing claimed the troops involved did not find at the site any evidence such as caught eels or fish as well as the electro-fishing equipment.

It was also pointed out that the SP investigation, if ever it is done, would not be in aid of legislation at the provincial level as the insurgency is a national concern.

It is also doubtful if the PNP would be able to present a report that would erase any doubts as to its fairness and truthfulness, as several members of its mobile force company were part of the combat team in Taopon.

None of the members of the section involved have been identified and both the Army and the police did not give any indication that it restricted them to quarters, confiscated their firearms for ballistic examination and individually interviewed them regarding their actions during the purported encounter.

This development does not augur well for the objective of the SP to get to the bottom of the incident, despite the AFP and PNP’s vow to cooperate in the probe.

Already, the commander of the JTFB has fired a shot, a cheap one at that, at local officials – most likely PBM Robert Fernandez and Panganiban Mayor Cesar Robles – who are questioning the government troop’s version of the event.

MGen. Trinidad’s thinly-disguised hint that the two officials could be supporting the “communist terrorists and their illegal activities” has already poisoned the atmosphere at the hearing.

There may be no other option but to ask the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) to step in and conduct its own investigation.

But this is no guarantee that the families of the two victims in the Taopon “encounter” would get justice if it is proven by the CHR that they were indeed not NPA members. Nor does this assure that the government, especially the Army and the police, would accept the results as even Malacanang itself does not think highly of the CHR in the light of its criticism of the drug war.

Despite this dim outlook, majority of the peace-loving people of this island would like to see this matter brought to a proper conclusion. Otherwise, the deaths of Aguilar and Abraham could spark a resurgence in the communist guerillas’ activities, an unfortunate development in the light of local government’s effort to attract more tourists to this paradise island.
http://www.catanduanestribune.com/article/42I9

Ex-NPA leader falls

From Panay News (Oct 20, 2019): Ex-NPA leader falls


PHOTO BY ROLAND NEVEU/GETTY IMAGES

A former commander of the New People’s Army (NPA) based in the province of Antique was arrested.

Ramie Agustin alias “Ka Bal” of Poblacion, Sebaste, Antique had been hiding from authorities for about 10 years.

He was arrested on the strength of an arrest warrant on Oct. 18 in Sitio Marabong, Barangay Batong Buhay, Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro.


Judge Nicvani Marin of the Regional Trial Court 6th Judicial Region Branch 13 in Culasi, Antique issued the warrant in relation to multiple murder, multiple attempted murder and multiple frustrated murder charges Agustin faces. The court recommended no bail bond for the suspect’s temporary liberty.

Police investigations revealed that Agustin was a former regional commander unit of Northern Front, KR Panay with the rank of major and he was the suspects in some encounters when he was still active.

Agustin was now detained in the lockup cell of the Sebaste police station after he was turned over yesterday.

On the other hand, Captain Cenon Pancito III, spokesperson of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division said that Agustin’s arrest was the through the help of the community who are now changing their mindset and trust the government forces.

“The community plays a vital role and we acknowledge their efforts to help us in our fight against the terrorists and to end armed conflicts,” Pancito said.

https://www.panaynews.net/ex-npa-leader-falls/

Leyte environment exec shot dead

From the Philippine Star (Oct 19, 2019): Leyte environment exec shot dead

Police still have no leads in the killing of the municipal environment and natural resources officer of Albuera, Leyte on Friday.

Teofilo Granada, 51, had just driven his Toyota Hilux out of his garage when one of the gunmen opened fire.

Granada managed to get out of his vehicle, but another gunman who was waiting several meters away from his house shot him several times.


The assailants fled on a motorcycle.

Five bullet shells for a caliber .45 pistol and note, which warned politicians and government officials against allowing quarrying and illegal cutting of trees, were recovered at the scene.


Probers are looking at the involvement of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in the killing.

4 slain in Negros

In Negros Oriental, four persons were killed in gun attacks in Bayawan City and Siaton town on Thursday night.

Heide Rio, 60; Richard Villalos, 29, and John Anthony Bormelado, 17, were riding a motorcycle when they were shot in Barangay Banga by unidentified men riding another motorbike, police said, quoting witnesses.

When the victims fell from their motorcycle, two of the gunmen finished them off with more shots. They were pronounced dead on arrival at the Bayawan District Hospital.

Nine bullet shells for a caliber .45 pistol, a bag which contained two cellular phones and P900 in cash were among those recovered at the scene.

On the same day, suspected NPA rebels shot dead Rosalina Elpidal, 49, in Barangay Napacao, Siaton.

Elpidal was riding a motorcycle driven by his son Jetro when they were flagged down by two men and shot her in the head.

The fatality was said to be a military informant.


https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/10/20/1961721/leyte-environment-exec-shot-dead

Four suspected NPAs kill Manjuyod town’s truck driver

From the Cebu Daily News (Oct 19, 2019): Four suspected NPAs kill Manjuyod town’s truck driver



Artilano Gomez, truck driver of Manjuyod town government, died after he was shot in the head by four suspected rebels in Barangay Candabong, Manjuyod town at past a.m. of October 19. | Photo courtesy of Manjuyod PNP

A government worker was shot to death by four unidentified armed men believed to be members of the New People’s Army (NPA) while having breakast at an eatery in Barangay Candabong, Manjuyod, Negros Oriental, 8:30 a.m., October 19, 2019.

Police Captain Antonio Jabar, Manjuyod Police chief, identified the fatality as Artilano P. Gomez, of legal age, married, truck driver of the local government unit of Manjuyod and a resident of Barangay Tupas of the municipality.

Of the four suspected rebels three were armed with M16 Armalite rifles and a caliber .45 pistol.

Jabar said the rebels were wearing fatigue uniforms and rain boots.


According to Jabar based on the initial investigation of the shooting incident, the victim was eating breakfast at an eatery owned by a certain Isoy Academia.

Jabar, in an interview, said that the four suspected insurgents were looking for the driver of the truck parked outside the eatery.

The victim went out and without apparent reason one of the suspects fired upon Gomez twice hitting the victim at the forehead, Jabar said.

The victim died on the spot.

Jabar said that after the shooting one of the four suspects shouted “Mabuhay ang NPA.”

While retreating the four suspects were joined by 10 armed men waiting about 30 meters from the crime scene and believed to be the backup of the suspects.

The 10 men were armed with long firearms, said Jabar.

Read more: Joint police-military force clash with suspected NPAs in Kabankalan City

Ask what was the possible motive in the killing of the driver, Jabar said “usa sa atong makita nga motibo … gaduda sila nga gihimong asset sa gobierno ang biktima kay mao man ang iyang trabaho pagsige ug pagsaka sa bukid.” (One of the motives that we saw … they suspected that the victim was a government asset because his work is to go up the mountains.)

Jabar said that the victim was the driver of the truck of the LGU used to transport the produce of the farmers in the mountain barangays during market day.