ACLED Regional Overview – Southeast Asia (10 – 16 November 2019)

Posted to the Relief Web (Nov 16, 2019): ACLED Regional Overview – Southeast Asia (10 – 16 November 2019)

REPORTfrom Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project
Published on 16 Nov 2019 —View Original

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Last week, in Southeast Asia, key developments included: ongoing clashes between the military and ethnic armed groups in Myanmar; separatist violence against civilians in Thailand; continued clashes between state forces and the New People’s Army (NPA) in the Philippines; and labor protests in Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand.

Clashes continued in Myanmar between the military and the United League of Arakan/Arakan Army (ULA/AA) in Rakhine state and between the military and the Palaung State Liberation Front/Ta’ang National Liberation Army (PSLF/TNLA) in Shan state. Both groups are members of the Northern Alliance, an alliance of four ethnic armed groups that have not signed the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA). The government recently announced that peace talks with the alliance have been postponed for the foreseeable future (Myanmar Times, 14 November 2019).

Meanwhile, in Thailand, suspected separatists reportedly shot and killed two civilians and injured one child in Pattani province. This comes after arrest warrants had been issued following the deadly 5 November attacks by separatists in Yala which left 15 dead (Benar News, 15 November 2019).

In the Philippines, the government’s campaign against the communist New People’s Army (NPA) continued with six government soldiers and one NPA rebel reportedly killed in Eastern Samar. As “leftist organizations” continue to be targeted for alleged links to the NPA rebels in a practice known as “red-tagging,” many such organizations held a protest in Quezon City against the government’s ongoing harassment.

Labor protests were reported last week in Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand. In Cambodia, a two-day protest was held by textile factory workers angry over the firing of two workers for their union activities. Construction contractors in Thailand held a protest against the Department of Highways over unpaid expenses. Oil palm workers demonstrated for higher salaries in Sarawak in Malaysia. As well, protests took place in multiple locations in Indonesia calling for a higher minimum wage as the government set its budget for 2020 (ASEAN Briefing, 14 November 2019).

Finally, a rare protest was reported in Vietnam **as police officers who participated in a housing scheme demonstrated when the houses they paid for were not constructed. A planned protest in **Laos by pro-democracy activists was canceled as authorities detained the organizers. Critics of the government in Laos are often deemed to be threats to national security and face significant harassment for any political dissent (Human Rights Watch, 16 November 2019).

https://reliefweb.int/report/cambodia/acled-regional-overview-southeast-asia-10-16-november-2019

Sison: Gov’t anti-insurgency programs milking cows of corrupt officials

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 20, 2019): Sison: Gov’t anti-insurgency programs milking cows of corrupt officials



Jose Maria Sison, founding chairman of the Communist Party of the Philippines. File photo from the Philippine Daily Inquirer

Exiled Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria “Joma” Sison, said the government’s counter-insurgency programs have become milking cows for corrupt military and civilian officials.

“The corrupt military and civilian officials would rather make money on fake development and fake community support projects and fake surrenders, and fake casualties for pure psywar, thus further bankrupting the reactionary government,” Sison said in a statement from in Utrecht in the Netherlands on Wednesday.

He said the alleged “fakeries” have also reduced the number of military and police personnel for the battlefield.

“But even if these were increased in the so-called focus areas, they are kept blind and deaf by the people’s support for their own people’s army,” Sison said referring to CPP’s armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.

To escape the continuous government anti-insurgency attacks and civil-military operations, Sison said the Maoist-inspired Red fighters have also “skillfully used the tactics of shifting from areas under concentrated enemy attack, concentrating elsewhere to attack the weak points of the enemy and dispersing to do mass work.”

He scoffed at Duterte’s publicly declared goal to crush the communist insurgency calling it “pipe dreaming with fentanyl.”

Duterte had been taking “fentanyl,” believed to be 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine, for recurring pain caused by a spinal injury suffered from a motorcycle accident in the past.

“Absurdly, he (Duterte) keeps on decreeing the impossible extermination of the CPP, NPA and the oppressed and exploited people who support the CPP and NPA,” Sison said.

On Monday, during a joint command conference with the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, President Duterte stressed the need to focus on conflict-prone communities to ensure that the roots of the communist insurgency would be addressed through enhanced programs and harmonized efforts in providing for basic needs such as housing, water, education, and health.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1192198/govt-anti-insurgency-programs-milking-cows-of-corrupt-officials

NPA rebel, 16, surrenders in Bukidnon

From the Philippine Star (Nov 20, 2019): NPA rebel, 16, surrenders in Bukidnon

A 16-year-old fighter of the New People’s Army (NPA) has surrendered to the military in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

Identified only as Bulaw, the minor turned over a Carbine rifle and a hand grenade.

Eastern Mindanao Command chief Lt. Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. condemned the NPA for using minors in their effort to overthrow the government.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/11/20/1970251/npa-rebel-16-surrenders-bukidnon












“This is a clear gross violation of children’s rights. Do not rob their future. Allow them to explore their potential freely and let children be children,” Santos said.

The teenager said he was recruited to join the NPA after he was invited to undergo an orientation on the rights of the youth.


The surrender of the minor was coordinated with the local social welfare office for psychosocial intervention.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/11/20/1970251/npa-rebel-16-surrenders-bukidnon

Soldier slain in Northern Samar clash with NPA rebels

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 20, 2019): Soldier slain in Northern Samar clash with NPA rebels

TACLOBAN CITY –– A soldier was killed in an encounter with alleged members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Las Navas town, Northern Samar on Tuesday morning.

The fatality was identified as Private Gabriel Pacal, whose group engaged the rebels in a 10-minute firefight in Barangay San Francisco.
Government troops immediately pursued the rebels.

The Philippine Army in the region, headed by Major Gen. Pio Diñoso III, has identified Las Navas as having an active presence of insurgents.
Last Nov. 11, six soldiers were killed, and 24 others were wounded when NPA rebels ambushed them in Borongan City.

In a statement, the Efren Martires Command called on all NPA units in Eastern Visayas to “widen and intensify” their offensives against the government troops.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1192259/soldier-slain-in-northern-samar-clash-with-npa-rebels

AFP-CRS: Philippine Army files motion of reconsideration for the release of activists in Bacolod City

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Nov 19, 2019): Philippine Army files motion of reconsideration for the release of activists in Bacolod City



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2845507548801284/?type=3&theater

Philippine Army files motion of reconsideration for the release of activists in Bacolod City

The military has appealed the release of 31 activists who were arrested in a recent joint operation in Bacolod City.

Read more here:
https://www.manilatimes.net/2019/11/18/news/top-stories/army-appeals-release-of-31-activists/656764/

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

#SupportELCAC #EndCommunistInsurgency

[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: Philippines-Australia strengthens defense cooperation against terrorism

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Nov 19, 2019): Philippines-Australia strengthens defense cooperation against terrorism



Philippines-Australia strengthens defense cooperation against terrorism

The Australian government has vowed to further strengthen its defense cooperation with the Philippines to address the perennial problems of terrorism in the country; the recent was several cases of suicide bombings in Sulu.

Read more here:https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/11/17/australia-ph-vows-strengthened-defense-cooperation-amid-bomb-attacks-in-mindanao/

#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.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: Activist turned full-time NPA member wounded in Nueva Ecija clash

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Nov 18, 2019): Activist turned full-time NPA member wounded in Nueva Ecija clash



Activist turned full-time NPA member wounded in Nueva Ecija clash

A former activist from Pampanga was one of the wounded New People's Army (NPA) rebels during an encounter with government troops in Barangay Estrella, Rizal, Nueva Ecija.

The military identified rebel as Redsa Balatan, 33, alias Lea/Sinin/Julia who is the political instructor of Kilusang Larangang Guerilla Sierra Madre operating in Northern Nueva Ecija and parts of Aurora.

Read more here: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086142

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

#SupportELCAC #EndCommunistInsurgency

[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: Bingawan town in Iloilo creates TF ELCAC and declares cpp-NPA as Persona-Non-Grata

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Nov 18, 2019): Bingawan town in Iloilo creates TF ELCAC and declares cpp-NPA as Persona-Non-Grata



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2845341455484560/?type=3&theater

Bingawan town in Iloilo creates TF ELCAC and declares cpp-NPA as Persona-Non-Grata

The Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) is no longer welcome in the town of Bingawan, Iloilo.

This, after the local government of Bingawan formed its Municipal Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) and subsequently passed a resolution declaring the CPP-NPA as persona-non-grata

Read more here: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086163

#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.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: Tribal leaders declare CPP-NPA persona non grata in Davao del Norte

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Nov 18, 2019): Tribal leaders declare CPP-NPA persona non grata in Davao del Norte



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2845349155483790/?type=3&theater

Tribal leaders declare CPP-NPA persona non grata in Davao del Norte

Tribal leaders of Talaingod and Sto. Tomas towns in Davao del Norte on Saturday signed a resolution declaring the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) persona non grata.

The declaration was held during the IP Leaders Forum in Sitio Talos, Barangay San Jose, Sto. Tomas town, where a total of 10 tribal leaders of Ata-Manobo from Talaingod, Davao del Norte and three Indigenous People (IP) Mandatory Representatives made the decision.

Read more here: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086272

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

#SupportELCAC #EndCommunistInsurgency

[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: NPA uses female combatants as sex slaves

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Nov 18, 2019): NPA uses female combatants as sex slaves



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2845328125485893/?type=3&theater

NPA uses female combatants as sex slaves

On the observance of the 18-day campaign to end Violence Against Women (VAW) this month, the 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division, Philippine Army condemns the CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) leadership for their continuous sexual abuses against their own female NPA combatants.

Read more here: https://www.kalinawnews.com/npa-uses-female-combatants-as-sex-slaves/
Civil Relations Service AFP | 4th Infantry "Diamond" Division, Philippine Army

#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.]

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

AFP-CRS: Farmers information led to the recovery of anti-personnel mine in Agusan del Sur

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Nov 19, 2019): Farmers information led to the recovery of anti-personnel mine in Agusan del Sur



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2845515828800456/?type=3&theater

Farmers information led to the recovery of anti-personnel mine
in Agusan del Sur

Farmers discovered a claymore-type improvised explosive device (IED) by the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) in their farmlands at Purok 7, barangay Mabuhay, in Prosperidad town in Agusan del Sur on Saturday, Nov. 17, and immediately reported it to the military for detonation.

Read more here: https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/11/18/farmers-discover-landmine-in-agusan-del-sur/

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

#SupportELCAC #EndCommunistInsurgency

[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/

Kalinaw News: Eastern Mindanao Command slams CTG’s use of minor

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 19, 2019):  Eastern Mindanao Command slams CTG’s use of minor



NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – The Eastern Mindanao Command slammed the Communist Terrorist Group’s (CTG) continuous use of minors in their effort to overthrow the government, after a 16-year old member of their group surrendered to authorities on the evening of November 16, 2019, at St. Peter, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

“This is a clear gross violation of children’s rights. Do not rob their future; allow them to explore their potential freely and let children be children,” Lt. Gen. Felimon T. Santos Jr., Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command said.

The minor who is considered under the Children Situation in Armed Conflict (CSAC) was identified as alias BULAW, a member of an NPA group being monitored in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

In his surrender, he brought with him a cal. 30M1 Carbine rifle and a hand grenade.

Accordingly, he was deceptively invited to undergo an orientation on his rights as a youth. However, he came to know that he is being forced to join the armed group. He tried to leave the group but was threatened.

He was able to run away from the group after five months of being with them.

The surrender of the minor was properly coordinated with the local Social Welfare Office for proper disposition and psychosocial intervention.

Source: Eastern Mindanao Command 

[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/emc-slams-ctgs-use-of-minor/

Kalinaw News: JTFC Troopers seized NPA encampment and recovered firearms in Sultan Kudarat

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Nov 19, 2019): JTFC Troopers seized NPA encampment and recovered firearms in Sultan Kudarat



CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao – Troops of the 37IB seized a New People’s Army (NPA) encampment at Sitio Kuden, Brgy Batang Bagras in Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat last Saturday, November 16, 2019 while conducting combat operations.

The troops were also able to recover an arms cache of assorted firearms in the encampment.

Recovered in the said camp were one Colt M16 rifle, 1 Bushmaster M16 rifle, one improvised M79 and one .22 caliber rifle.

“I commend the troops for their successful recovery of these war materiel as well as the communities for their full support to our governments’ thrust to end this decades long insurgency. Our efforts to end this cycle of tyranny of the NPA that is hampering our nation’s progress will not stop until this terrorist group is eradicated in JTFC AO. Major General Diosdado C. Carreon, Joint Task Force Central Commander said.



Source:  37th Infantry Battalion

[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/jtfc-troopers-seized-npa-encampment-and-recovered-firearms-in-sultan-kudarat/

Ex-rebel slain, another missing in Samar ambush

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 19, 2019): Ex-rebel slain, another missing in Samar ambush

TACLOBAN CITY –– A former member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed while another was missing after their former comrades allegedly ambushed them in a remote village in Matuguinao town, Samar province on Monday.

Killed during the ambush in Barangay Inubod was Dennis Diaz, while his cousin, Carlos Diaz, remained missing, said town Mayor Aran Boller in a phone interview.

Boller quoted the police as saying the victims, together with their three companions, were on their way home to Barangay Nagpapacao about 3 p.m. when around 30 NPA members ambushed them.

According to Boller, Dennis died on the spot. His cousin remained missing, while their three companions escaped.

He said the victims were former rebels who surrendered to him last year.

The Philippine Army had identified Matuguinao as one of the areas in Samar with a strong rebel presence.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1191761/ex-rebel-slain-another-missing-in-samar-ambush

NPA’s child combatant surrenders in Bukidnon

From the Mindanao Times (Nov 20, 2019): NPA’s child combatant surrenders in Bukidnon

The Eastern Mindanao Command slammed the New People’s Army for continuing to use child combatants in the attempt to overthrow the government.

Just recently, a 16-year-old surrendered to authorities in St. Peter, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon on Nov. 16.
“This is a clear gross violation of children’s rights. Do not rob their future. Allow them to explore their potential freely and let children be children,” Lt. Gen. Felimon T. Santos Jr., commander of Eastern Mindanao Command, said.

Santos identified the teenager as alias Bulaw, who was part of the communist group that is operating in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. In his surrender, he brought with him an M1 Carbine rifle and a hand grenade.

Accordingly, he was recruited to be part of the regular NPA guerrilla unit after he was indoctrinated by a youth group. He tried to leave many times but became afraid when the threats came. After five months, he saw a chance to escape and took it.

The minor was endorsed to the local social welfare office for assessment.

http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/11/20/npas-child-combatant-surrenders-in-bukidnon/

Army chides NPA for turning blind eye on rape of members

From the Mindanao Times (Nov 20, 2019): Army chides NPA for turning blind eye on rape of members

The 4th Infantry Division condemned New People’s Army for tolerating the abuses perpetrated against its female combatants by the communist leaders.

Maj. Regie Go, the 4th ID spokesperson, said alias Wilma, 20, a former NPA medic from Magpet, North Cotabato revealed that she was raped by their commander.

Go said alias Saisai, 32, a former NPA medic, married, a resident of Agusan Del Norte was also raped by his NPA commander. She got pregnant but suffered a miscarriage due to stress and hardship in the mountain.

“I was raped and threatened that he will kill my husband if I will inform the committee,” Sasai recounted. “I wanted to kill him for repeatedly abusing me sexually, he should be executed.”
The repeated abuses made her decide to leave the organization.

Go said that the troops of 88th Infantry Battalion based in Maramag Bukidnon recovered some contraceptive pills, condoms, and pornographic materials inside an NPA hideout in the forested area of Barangay Kibongkog, San Fernando, Bukidnon last Oct. 22, 2019.

Meanwhile, he said the 18-day campaign to end VAW is annually observed from Nov. 25 to Dec. 12 to raise awareness to the public about the susceptibility of women to abuse.

Maj. Gen. Franco Nemesio Gacal, the commander of the 4th ID said, “For 50 years, the NPA commanders have been violating their female combatants. They must respect the rights of our women and stop treating them as sex slaves.”

“I urge all female NPA combatants to surrender and save yourself from these abuses,” Gacal said.

http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/11/20/army-chides-npa-for-turning-blind-eye-on-rape-of-members/

PH, US in 'low-level discussion' on reviewing Mutual Defense Treaty

From CNN Philippines (Nov 19, 2019): PH, US in 'low-level discussion' on reviewing Mutual Defense Treaty



Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, November 19) — The Philippines and US are still in "low-level discussion" on Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana's proposal to amend the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT).

Lorenzana himself revealed the status of the review during a joint media briefing with US Secretary of Defense Mark Esper on Tuesday. It was Esper's first visit to Manila as defense chief.

"We are actually in discussion, low level discussion first, about my proposal and I think in one of these [Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board] meetings sometime this year it will be taken up," Lorenzana said.

Esper reiterated the US commitment to the 68-year-old treaty, which states that the two allies would assist each other should either of them be attacked by a foreign force.

"It's always good to look at these things from time to time, to review, and to clarify and strengthen it based on changes in the environment and the world situation," Esper said.

He stressed that the treaty applies to the entire Pacific region, including the disputed South China Sea. The U.S. is not a claimant to the global waterway, but it has criticized the alleged militarization of China, which claims almost the entire sea, rejecting the arbitral ruling that recognized the Philippines' sovereign rights to some of these areas.

China's incursions prompted the US to conduct more freedom of navigation operations in the South China Sea this year, Esper said, without citing statistics. These operations are aimed at urging China to abide by international law, which guarantees freedom of navigation and overflight in the high seas.

"The US rejects attempts by any nation to use coercion or intimidation to advance its national interests at the expense of others," Esper said.

Lorenzana first floated the idea of reviewing the MDT in December 2018, saying it does not provide a clear answer to whether or not the US would come to the Philippines' rescue in case tensions escalate in the South China Sea.

READ: Scrapping Mutual Defense Treaty with U.S. an option – Lorenzana

He said in February this year that a top-level panel of representatives from the US will come to the Philippines to discuss the review of the treaty, but no updates have been made public since then.

President Rodrigo Duterte invoked the pact in July following the sinking of a Filipino boat by a Chinese vessel near Recto Bank, an underwater feature in the West Philippine Sea also being claimed by China. Manila calls areas it claims and occupies in the South China Sea as the West Philippine Sea.

Malacañang later clarified that the President was just being sarcastic and is fully aware that the MDT can only be enforced if there's an "armed assault or attack" against any of the parties in the treaty. Article 4 of the MDT states, "Each Party recognizes that an armed attack in the Pacific area on either of the Parties would be dangerous to its own peace and safety and declares that it would act to meet the common dangers in accordance with its constitutional processes."

"[An] armed attack on either of the Parties is deemed to include an armed attack on the metropolitan territory of either of the Parties, or on the Island territories under its jurisdiction in the Pacific Ocean, its armed forces, public vessels or aircraft in the Pacific," the agreement further states.

READ: Top PH officials disagree on need to review U.S. defense treaty

https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2019/11/19/delfin-lorenzana-mark-esper-mutual-defense-treaty.html

US, PH press revision of 68-year old Mutual Defense Treaty

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 19, 2019): US, PH press revision of 68-year old Mutual Defense Treaty

Amid the increased aggression of China in the South China Sea, the United States (US) and Philippines are planning to revise the 68-year-old mutual defense treaty (MDT) to adapt to the ‘changing’ environment and ensure peace and stability in the Asia Pacific region.



Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, right, talks with his US counterpart Mark Esper, during a press conference at the Philippine Department of National Defense in Quezon city, metropolitan Manila, Philippines Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2019. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila / MANILA BULLETIN)

This was one of the topics highlighted during a top-level meeting between US Defense Secretary Mark Esper and Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Tuesday.

“I was actually the one who first put forth the idea of revisiting the MDT because in my opinion, it has been made at the height of the Korean war and the situation then compared to now is different. We are actually in discussion first on what to look out for in my proposal,” Lorenzana said.

The country’s Defense chief said the talks will be further discussed in one of the meetings between the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) sometime this year.

“That has to be taken up [MDT revision]. I don’t know what will be the outcome, it will be a joint cooperative endeavor,” Lorenzana noted.

The MDT was signed in 1951 between the US and Philippines, with the overall accord saying both countries shall support each other if either were to be attacked by another country.

The proposal to revise the MDT comes amid mounting criticisms on the ambiguity of some of its provisions, one of which is the definition of the term “metropolitan Philippines.”

In the MDT, it was stated that an attack on the metropolitan Philippines will trigger the MDT, but it was not clearly defined what part of the Philippines it covers.

Lorenzana earlier proposed that the term includes territories that are being claimed by the Philippines in the disputed West Philippine Sea. The proposal to revise the MDT was announced in 2018.

For his part, Esper cited the overwhelming reaction of most participants in the ASEAN Defence Minister’s Meeting (ADMM) held in Bangkok, Thailand recently where they expressed concern on China’s “excessive claims” in the region.

“The Secretary [Lorenzana] and I came back from Bangkok where we have a very important meeting of the ADMM plus members if you will, and the general theme that I took from our formal plenary discussion is that most participants in that room are very concerned about China’s excessive claims in the region,” Esper said.

“There are lack of compliance with international laws and norms, and they are concerned about the course of tactics used by Beijing throughout the region to advance their interests,” he added.

The US Defense Secretary pointed out that affected countries should take a “very public posture” to assert its sovereign rights and emphasize the importance of international law in the region.

“The signal that we are trying to send is that we all stand with intl laws and I think China should abide by them as well that acting collectively is the best way to send that message,” Esper said.

Aside from that, Lorenzana and Esper also emphasized the importance of the Philippines and US’ strengthened partnership.

Both secretaries discussed proposals to support US’ efforts to help modernize the Armed Forces of the Philippines, improve maritime security capabilities and domain awareness, and provide rapid humanitarian assistance.

Both secretaries also reaffirmed commitment to counter-terrorism and violent extremism.

Esper’s visit in the country forms part of his voyage to select countries in the Indo-Pacific region, starting last November 13.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/11/19/us-ph-press-revision-of-68-year-old-mutual-defense-treaty/

NegOr peace cluster inks plan vs insurgency

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 19, 2019): NegOr peace cluster inks plan vs insurgency

NEGROS ORIENTAL, Nov.16 (PIA) -- Members of the Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support (PLEDS) Cluster of Negros Oriental Task Force to End the Local Communist Armed Conflict (NOTF-ELCAC) signed their Implementation Plan to unite efforts in addressing the insurgency problem and attain lasting peace in the province.

Representing the Department of National Defense (DND), the 302nd and 303rd Infantry Brigade (IB) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) led the signing of the PLEDS cluster plan to work with other agencies in the prevention of terrorism and resolution of insurgency issues.

This is to synchronize and harmonize all the programs and efforts in the convergence/interagency operations in doing the key task areas of anti-criminality, maritime security, legal cooperation, intelligence operations, and public communication relations to topple the communist terrorist groups in the province.

LTC. Rommil Abayon, brigade executive officer of 302IB, said terrorism is a growing threat that confronts local security and even terrorizing civilians.

PNP Provincial Director Col. Julian Entoma (w/ mic) expresses his support to the Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support (PLEDS) Cluster. Photo also shows (l-r) Brigade Commander LTC. Noel Baluyan of 302nd IB and a representative from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). (PIA Negros Oriental)

“This is a battle that we cannot afford to lose and this is not just a provincial issue but a clear and present danger to national peace security and development,” said Abayon.

He strongly believes the combined strength and commitment of other government agencies play a critical role to end conflict and achieve peace and economic growth in the area.

Signatories to the implementation plan include officials from National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA-7), Philippine National Police (PNP), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Dumaguete District Office, Philippine Information Agency (PIA), National Commission for Indigenous People (NCIP), and Coast Guard Station Negros District.

“I hope that we can provide peace, enforcing counter terrorist operations and development programs with clear mandates backed with predictable and sustainable support. Most important of all, this joint provincial task force PLEDS Cluster signing agreement among us is needed and appreciated more than ever,” said Abayon.

For his part, Brigade Commander LTC. Noel Baluyan said partly the peace cluster is in charge to clear the guerilla front of CPP-NPA to alert their politico-military infrastructure in the red areas.

“In doing so, we need to conduct an inter-security operations and anti-criminality campaign because NPAs have been declared as simple terrorists," Baluyan explained.

However, according to Baluyan, what matters most is the collective effort of the local task forces or different law enforcement agencies in the fight against insurgency.

With the formal acceptance of support, PNP Provincial Director Col. Julian Entoma expressed his appreciation to the members, saying “in union there is strength, in unison we will have to end this insurgency problem in the province. The Philippine Army has the primary responsibility and we at PNP are secondary. But with regards to anti-criminality, we are the primary. However, this is not about who’s first but rather left and right hands, it is a balanced effort."

In 2014, the province was declared conflict manageable and development ready, however, it is indicated that CTGs are deliberately conducting terrorist activities such as harassments of police and military forces and civilians in the area.

With this, the local task force cited that it is urgent to prevent the enemy from harming the populace’s lives and properties in the area, most specifically in areas considered as affected by conflict in the cities of Canlaon and Guihulngan City, in the towns of Valencia, Zamboanguita, Siaton, and Sta Catalina in Negros Oriental. (jct/PIA7 Negros Oriental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1030333

4ID condemns NPA for using female combatants as sex slaves

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 19, 2019): 4ID condemns NPA for using female combatants as sex slaves (By 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Nov. 19 – The 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division (4ID), Philippine Army condemns the CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) leadership for their continuous sexual abuses against their female combatants.

Alyas Wilma, 20, a former medic of the New People's Army (NPA) from Magpet, North Cotabato revealed her sad experience as a victim of sexual abuse from their NPA commander. “I joined the NPA because I am against sexual abuse and female exploitation, however, our NPA commander sexually abused us and neglected our rights as a woman,” Wilma exposed.

Alyas Saisai, 32, a former NPA medic, married from Agusan Del Norte was also raped by his NPA commander. She got pregnant but suffered miscarriage due to stress and hardship in the mountain. “I was raped and threatened that he will kill my husband if I will inform the committee.” I wanted to kill him for repeatedly abusing me sexually, he should be executed by death," she said.

I went lie-low due to sexual abuses and injustices in the NPA organization,” Saisai added.

Sexual abuses were also confirmed when the troops of 88th Infantry Battalion based in Maramag Bukidnon recovered some contraceptive pills, condoms and porn materials inside an NPA hideout in the forested area of Barangay Kibongkog, San Fernando, Bukidnon last October 22, 2019.

MGen Franco Nemesio Gacal, commander of the 4ID emphasized that "for 50 years, NPA commanders have been violating their female combatants."

They must respect the rights of our women and stop treating them as sex slaves,” he said.

He also urged all female NPA combatants to surrender and save themselves from these abuses. "Together with the government, we will ensure that the female former rebels undergo the healing and reconciliation process through the help of DSWD and other concerned government agencies for them to recover emotionally and psychologically and prepare them to return to mainstream society,” Gacal further said.

In the Philippines, the days between 25 November and 12 December are observed annually as the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) to spur public awareness on the forms of violence against women and girls and the ordeal of VAW victims/survivors.

The campaign supports the government’s goal in protecting the rights of women and young girls by upholding the commitment to address all forms of gender-based violence as enshrined in the 1987 constitution.

This year's observance is anchored on the theme “VAW-free community starts with me." (4ID,PA)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1030409

Sowing the seeds of peace — the CSR way

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 19, 2019): Sowing the seeds of peace — the CSR way (By 1st Special Force Battalion)

MANOLO FORTICH, Bukidnon, November 19 — “Reaching the poor, even in the most challenging conditions is the key to ending extreme poverty. We need to focus on empowering the individual so that each one of us becomes an agent of peace,” said Vicente T. Mills Jr, president of the Rotary Club of Makati during the awarding of P950,000 livelihood grant to the Indigenous Peoples (IP) groups.

Through the Philippine Army, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the livelihood grant was turned over to five people’s organizations of Libona, Manolo Fortich, and Sumilao towns all in Bukidnon province.

During the signing of Memorandum of Understanding at Alomah’s Place in Dahilayan, Manolo Fortich, Mills said this is not the end of the cooperation but just the beginning.

Lt.Col. Sergio Macarandan Jr., commander of the 1st Special Force Battalion, thank Vicente Mills Jr, President of Rotary Club of Makati, for supporting the government's whole-of-nation approach of ending local armed conflict.

“This is a long term process. Let’s work together to make this endeavor a milestone,” he said.

The undertaking, known as the Rotary Peace Project, will cover around 700 IPs. It seeks to contribute to poverty reduction and mobilize the marginalized and the poor who are often left out from micro-credit schemes.

Further, the project will help enhance a community-driven approach that will allow beneficiaries to collectively identify, prioritize, plan, and implement their development needs, which is in support of the government’s whole-of-nation approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict or ELCAC as specified in President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order No. 70 (EO 70).

Beneficiaries include former rebels who are vulnerable and defenseless to any violence pulled off by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) terrorists.

DOLE Bukidnon chief Raul Valmores said the five IP organizations, having been registered, are now entitled to all rights and privileges of legitimate workers such as mutual aid, sustainable livelihood grants, and protection of its members, among other privileges in accordance with its constitution and by-laws. These five IP group recipients are: I Love Bagalangit - Manolo Fortich; I Love Licoan - Sumilao; I Love Lupiagan - Sumilao; I Love Ocasion - Sumilao; and I Love Capihan - Libona.

As part of the core group to sustain the project, Marcos Arbole, Vice President of Rotary Club of Northern Mindanao and Crispulo G. Vidad Jr., Past Assistant Governor of Rotary Club of Northern Mindanao District 3870, pledged to monitor the progress of the three approved ventures namely Beads making, Textile and Dressmaking (tribal attire), and Organic vegetable farming.

Corporate participation in peacebuilding

During a Forum on Corporate Social Responsibility Communications Secretary Martin Andanar emphasizes the important role that CSR plays in attaining mutual understanding and peace in conflict-affected areas.

“All of us, everyone, the whole nation is dutifully responsible for peace. We produce peace from our homes, we pursue it outside our homes, and we preserve it in the whole of the nation for all the time and for all,” said Communications Secretary Martin Andanar as he spoke before stakeholders of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) in a forum on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in October at Cagayan de Oro City.

He emphasized the important role that CSR plays in attaining mutual understanding and peace in conflict-affected areas.

Secretary Andanar, who is the designated Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security for Northern Mindanao (CORDS-X), urged the business sector to continue promoting the culture of peace through resolve and action.

He also cited the private sectors’ contributions—through their respective CSRs—for doing their part in providing relief packs for victims of calamities, construction of classrooms, creating homes for Filipino families, and for helping the government make our nation a better place to live.

Chaired by President Duterte himself, the National Task Force-ELCAC’s mission is to ensure inter-agency convergence in project implementation to address causes of armed conflict at the local level. The task force works towards ensuring that social services, employment opportunities and improved quality of life should be spread out in areas experiencing clashes with communist rebels.

Working effectively with indigenous communities

The 1st Special Forces Battalion helped in linking up people’s organizations, the national government agencies, and civil society organizations through its Community Support Program (CSP) in conflict-affected areas and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

With the implementation of EO 70 as an institutionalized whole-of-nation approach in ending local communist armed conflict, the regional banner dubbed as Convergence Areas for Peace and Development (CAPDev) launched programs and projects epochal to the community.

The 3K (Kaon, Kalipay, Kalinaw) Program of 403rd Infantry “Peacemaker” Brigade and the Special Forces Combined Actions of Re-engineered Efforts and Services (SF CARES) had been the unit's counterpart to the community development program.

Gratified by the spirit of generosity, the unit’s commanding officer, Lt. Colonel Sergio P. Macarandan Jr, bowed his beret to the people behind the Rotary Peace Project.

“My applause to the generosity of the Rotary Club of Makati. The launching of this phase created a great impact on the welfare and progress of the IPs. You have provided the avenue to generate income and taught them to value the skills they have acquired to support the financial needs of their families. Furthermore, the sustenance of this project lies not only to the people atop the flow chart but also to the people on the ground—the real maneuvers of the cycle. Sustenance comes from your efforts to hold it away from the cliff. Make it work and strive for sustainability,” Lt. Col. Macarandan said. (Maj. Frankjo C. Boral/1stSF Bn/PIA-10)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1030374

Tagalog News: Mga komunistang grupo sa OccMin, hinimok magbalik-loob sa pamahalaan

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 19, 2019): Tagalog News: Mga komunistang grupo sa OccMin, hinimok magbalik-loob sa pamahalaan

Ang mga armas na isinuko ng mga rebeldeng nakatalaga sa bayan ng Sablayan. Ayon sa pamahalaan, may katumbas na halaga ang mga baril at balang isu-surrender ng mga rebeldeng nagbabalik-loob sa pamahalaan na maari nilang gamitin sa kanilang pagbabagong-buhay. (Lt Jun Sacares/CMO 76th IB)

SAN JOSE, Occidental Mindoro, Nob 19 (PIA) -- Dapat na ring magbalik-loob sa pamahalaan ang iba pang mga kasapi ng communist-terrorist groups (CTG), ayon kay Lt Jun Sacares, opisyal ng Civil-Military Operations (CMO) ng 76th Infantry Battalion (IB)-Philippine Army (PA), na nakabase sa lalawigan.

“Ito ang tamang panahon upang magbagong buhay,” saad ni Lt. Sacares. Aniya, higit na kumprehensibo ang programa ng pamahalaan ngayon para sa mga nagbabalik-loob upang makapagsimulang muli bilang mga karaniwang miyembro ng lipunan.

Inihalimbawa ng opisyal ang dalawang kasapi ng New People’s Army (NPA) na sumuko kamakailan sa Barangay Pagasa, Sablayan at ngayon ay isinailalim na sa Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). Ayon kay Sacares, sa ilalim ng E-Clip ay makakatanggap ang mga benepisyaryo ng cash at livelihood assistance, gayundin ng iba pang mga serbisyo ng pamahalaan gaya ng medikal at edukasyon.

“Noong ika-12 ng Nobyembre, sila mismo ang lumapit sa atin upang sumuko. Itinuro rin nila ang nakatagong dalawang M14 rifle na may kasamang mga magazine at bala sa Sityo Danao, Brgy Pagasa,” kwento ni Lt Sacares. Paliwanag ng opisyal, pangunahin din sa programa ng pamahalaan ang pagbibigay ng kaukulang halaga para sa mga baril na isinusuko ng maka-kaliwang grupo. “Ang halaga ng perang kapalit ng bawat isinukong armas ay depende sa kalidad at kalibre nito,” ayon pa rito.

Binigyang-diin ng opisyal na ang pagsuko ng mga aktibong kasapi, gayundin ng mga taga-suporta ng NPA, ay senyales na naniniwala ang mga ito na tapat ang hangarin ng pamahalaan sa pagsusulong ng pangmatagalang kapayapaan.

Samantala, sinabi ni Sacares na magpapatuloy ang Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) sa lalawigan upang mabigyan ng pansin ang mga conflict-affected communities.

“Aalamin natin kung ano ang mga problema sa kumunidad at idudulog natin sa mga tamang ahensya upang mabilis na matugunan,” saad pa ng opisyal. (VND/PIA MIMAROPA/Occ Min)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1030270

11K uniformed personnel, force multipliers to ensure peaceful SEAG

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 19, 2019): 11K uniformed personnel, force multipliers to ensure peaceful SEAG

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga, Nov.19 (PIA) -- Approximately 11,000 uniformed personnel and force multipliers are now deployed to ensure peace and security for events of the 30th South East Asian Games (SEA Games) in Central Luzon.

“From this figure, about 6,000 police personnel will be tasked to contribute to the goal of zero incident during the conduct of the SEA Games,” Acting Police Regional Director and Task Group (TG) Central Luzon Commander PBGen. Rhodel Sermonia said during Tuesday’s send-off ceremony which was led by Philippine National Police Officer-In-Charge PLtGen. Archie Gamboa.

Sermonia told his men and women on the ground to do their work with utmost diligence and due regard for public safety.

Approximately 11,000 uniformed personnel and force multipliers are now deployed to ensure peace and security for events of the 30thSouth East Asian Games (SEA Games) in Central Luzon. The 30th SEA Games officially opens on November 30 at the 55,000-seater Philippine Arena at Ciudad de Victoria in Bocaue, Bulacan. New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac will be hosting the Aquatics and Athletics events while Subic a number of outdoor events including Triathlon, Sailing and Beach Volleyball. (Police Regional Office 3)

“I assure the public that we are ready to ensure the safety and security of all the delegates and other spectators who will attend even if we have not monitored any threats to the SEA Games,” the official added.

Philippine National Police Officer-In-Charge PLtGen. Archie Gamboa attends the send-off ceremony of the uniformed personnel and force multipliers deployed for the 30thSouth East Asian Games in Central Luzon. (Police Regional Office 3)

“No Fly Zone” and “No Sail Zone” will also be implemented during the duration of the biennial meet particularly in Clark and Subic.

“While all security preparations are covered by TG Central Luzon, we appeal for full support and cooperation of the public through timely reports of any suspicious activity to prevent any eventualities or unfortunate incidents,” Sermonia added.

The 30th SEA Games officially opens on November 30 at the 55,000-seater Philippine Arena at Ciudad de Victoria in Bocaue, Bulacan. New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac will be hosting the Aquatics and Athletics events while Subic Bay Freeport Zone a number of outdoor events including Triathlon, Sailing and Beach Volleyball. (CLJD-PIA 3)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1030439

459 rebels, supporters surrender in Central Luzon in span of 2 weeks

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 19, 2019): 459 rebels, supporters surrender in Central Luzon in span of 2 weeks

FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija, Nov.19 (PIA) -- A total of 459 members of the New People’s Army (NPA) and their supporters voluntarily surrendered to the folds of the government in just a span of two weeks.

This was done through the efforts of the 48th Infantry Battalion, 69th Infantry Battalion, 84th Infantry Battalion and 91st Infantry Battalion all under the 703rd Brigade.

A total of 459 members of the New People’s Army and their supporters voluntarily surrendered to the folds of the government in just a span of two weeks. This was done through the efforts of the 48th Infantry Battalion, 69th Infantry Battalion, 84th Infantry Battalion and 91st Infantry Battalion all under the 703rd Brigade. (7th Infantry Division)

“From November 6- 19, 81 NPA members, 19 Militia ng Bayan members and 359 NPA supporters yielded to the government. This was possible through the full support and cooperation of local government units, national government agencies and the residents of Central Luzon,” 703rd Brigade Commander Col. Andrew Costelo said.

He directed his Battalion Commanders to continue to collaborate with concerned government agencies and other civil society organizations for the necessary interventions, privileges and other assistance under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program to be given to the surrenderees.

“We are grateful that our government came up with EO 70, which is the Whole-of-Nation Approach to end insurgency in our country. We can also say that EO 70 is very much effective that our misguided fellow countrymen were enlightened and finally decided to lay down their arms and abandon their armed struggle because of the hardships and difficulties that they have experienced while in the underground movement. With their decision to return back to the folds of the law, they could at last enjoy a life free from fear and hiding. We will help them achieve that full kind of life,” Costelo added.

A total of 459 members of the New People’s Army and their supporters voluntarily surrendered to the folds of the government in just a span of two weeks. This was done through the efforts of the 48th Infantry Battalion, 69th Infantry Battalion, 84th Infantry Battalion and 91st Infantry Battalion all under the 703rd Brigade. (7th Infantry Division)

In a statement, 7th Infantry Division Commander Major General Lenard Agustin said he is very proud of the troops who made the immense volume of surrenderees possible.

“I am urging all the remaining members of the NPA, their Underground Movement and their supporters to return to the folds of the law and in response, we will do our duty to facilitate them to the mainstream of society and have peaceful lives. In doing so, they would contribute in attaining Peace and Development in Region 3,” Agustin furthered. (CLJD-PIA 3)

A total of 459 members of the New People’s Army and their supporters voluntarily surrendered to the folds of the government in just a span of two weeks. This was done through the efforts of the 48th Infantry Battalion, 69th Infantry Battalion, 84th Infantry Battalion and 91st Infantry Battalion all under the 703rd Brigade. (7th Infantry Division)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1030440

4 soldiers dead, 7 others hurt in Samar road crash

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 19, 2019): 4 soldiers dead, 7 others hurt in Samar road crash



ROAD TRAGEDY. A wing van truck that collided with a sports utility vehicle carrying soldiers in Apolonia village, Paranas, Samar on Tuesday morning (Nov. 19, 2019). At least four soldiers died and seven were injured during the incident. (Photo courtesy of Philippine National Police)

At least four soldiers died and seven others were injured on Tuesday when their sports utility vehicle collided with a truck on a highway in Apolonia village, Paranas, Samar.

Initial reports reaching the Philippine National Police (PNP) regional office in Palo, Leyte identified the casualties as Staff Sgt. Crisostomo Gabuay, Sgt. Sherwin Antonio, Sgt. Romel Ombrog, and 2nd Lt. Sharefe Cabanog.

The injured were identified as Lt. Col. Edgar Allan Orbito, Sgt. Nixon Abadiano, Mat Raymond Barante, Warren Dabut, Janica Obidos Baco, Jella Bacay Baccol, and Sheryl Sayasa Maurillo.

The soldiers are engaged in civil-military operations based in Hinabangan, Samar.

Based on the police report, the wing van truck heading to Catbalogan City slightly bumped into a tricycle loaded with four students, injuring both its driver and the passengers.

The truck moved to the opposite side of the highway and hit a moving Toyota Hilux, carrying the soldiers.

All the four soldiers died on the spot while all those wounded were rushed to Samar Provincial Hospital in Catbalogan City.

This is the second road crash involving soldiers this year in Samar province.

Last May, a soldier died while three of his companions were injured when the military vehicle they were riding in crashed into a parked truck in San Isidro village in Sta. Rita, Samar.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086419

Village councilman slain in NoCot ambush

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 19, 2019): Village councilman slain in NoCot ambush



Google map of Kabacan town, North Cotabato.

Unidentified gunmen shot dead a village councilor in Kabacan, North Cotabato on Monday, a police official said.

Col. Maximo Layugan, North Cotabato police director, identified victim as Freddie Balansiawan, 49, a village councilor in Barangay Cuyapon in Kabacan.

Layugan, quoting a report from the Kabacan police station, said Balansiawan was riding his motorbike when waylaid along a dirt road in Barangay Lower Paatan, also in Kabacan at about 3:30 p.m.

“The victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds in the head and body,” Layugan said.

Witnesses told police investigators that they saw four men leaving the crime scene after the shooting.

Police recovered empty shells for cal. 45-caliber pistol at the scene.

“Motive and identities of the suspects are still being determined while our investigation continues,” Layugan said.

Kabacan Mayor Herlo Guzman Jr. condemned the attack on Balansiawan and ordered the police to dig deeper and bring the perpetrators before the bar of justice.

While police are looking at “rido” (family feud) as a possible motive behind the ambush, Guzman wanted the police to explore further to determine what motivated the suspects to kill the village official.

At least three village officials have been separately murdered in Kabacan this year. Not one has been arrested yet to answer for the crimes.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086416

Samar farmer killed, village official hurt in NPA attack

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 19, 2019): Samar farmer killed, village official hurt in NPA attack



NPA ATTACK. The site in Inubod village in Matuguinao, Samar where the New People's Army (NPA) attacked a village official and a farmer on Monday (Nov. 18, 2019). The farmer died and the village official was slightly wounded. (Google image)

A farmer was killed and a village official was slightly wounded when 30 members of the New People’s Army (NPA) attacked them in the upland Inubod village in Matuguinao, Samar on Monday afternoon.

Killed was Dennis Diaz, a farmer residing in Nagpapacao village, Matuguinao town. Slightly injured was Edwin Velarde, a village council member of Nagpapacao.

“They were fired upon by a group of armed men believed to be members of the communist terrorist group armed with high powered long firearms. Unfortunately, Diaz was hit on his right biceps that resulted in his instantaneous death,” the Philippine National Police (PNP) said in a report released to reporters on Tuesday.

The incident was only reported to the police station the day after since residents have to hike for hours to the town center from Inubod village.

Several villages in Matuguinao town has been tagged as NPA-threatened due to poor road networks from the town center and the high poverty incidence.

Matuguinao is a fifth-class town in Samar province with a population of 7,288 people. The town is 105 kilometers from Tacloban City, the regional capital.

About 60 percent of the population is living in poverty, based on the 2015 survey of the Philippine Statistics Authority.

The local government of Matuguinao recently declared the NPA as persona non grata in their area.

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/1086441

Transfer of 63 NoCot villages to BARMM set

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 19, 2019): Transfer of 63 NoCot villages to BARMM set



IT’S A GO. Minister Naguib Sinarimbo (right) of the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government – Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MILG – BARMM) answers a query from a Cotabato reporter about the scheduled Nov. 20 turnover of 63 villages of North Cotabato to the BARMM supervision. The BARMM official said all is set for the day-long turnover ceremony that will be held at Shariff Kabunsuan Complex, the provisional seat of the BARMM in Cotabato City. (Photo by PNA – Cotabato)
COTABATO CITY -- All is set for the official transfer of 63 North Cotabato villages to the supervision of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, with ceremonies to be held at Shariff Kabunsuan Complex, the provisional seat of the BARMM here, on Wednesday (Nov. 20).

“Officials of North Cotabato will be coming over to be part of the momentous event,” lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo, chief of the BARMM Ministry of the Interior and Local Government, said during the weekly Kapihan sa BARMM on Tuesday.

Heading the group of North Cotabato officials would be Vice Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza, the acting provincial governor, in place of Governor Nancy Catamco who is yet to complete her 90-day suspension on Nov. 21, 2019.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has earlier imposed a 90-day preventive suspension on Catamco, which began on Aug. 21, 2019, upon orders of the Sandiganbayan in connection with a graft and malversation case.

Sinarimbo said BARMM Chief Minister Ahod “Murad” Ebrahim, meanwhile, would lead Bangsamoro officials in a two-part ceremony – the accepting of the 63 North Cotabato villages in the morning and the reporting to the BARMM parliament of the turnover in the afternoon.

Of the 63 villages, 13 are from the town of Midsayap; Carmen , seven; Pigcawayan, 12; Kabacan, seven; Pikit, 22; and Aleosan, two. These North Cotabato villages opted to join the expanded BARMM set-up through a plebiscite held in February this year.

Sinarimbo said despite their transfer to BARMM, the 63 villages will continue to receive their Internal Revenue Allocation directly from the Department of Budget and Management.

“We will be putting up ministries in the BARMM’s North Cotabato set-up later so the delivery of basic government services would go unhampered,” he added, amid plans to create a special geographic cluster pending the creation of a new province for the area.

Sinarimbo said an invitation has been sent to DILG-Manila but did not say if DILG Secretary Eduardo Año would attend the event.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086429

DPWH chief inspects Bulacan military camp’s facilities

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 19, 2019): DPWH chief inspects Bulacan military camp’s facilities



INSPECTION. Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar (center) with Bulacan 2nd District Engineering Office district engineer Ramiro Cruz (extreme right), DPWH assistant regional director Denise Ayag (second from right) and Edgardo Pingol (second from left), chief of DPWH Maintenance Section inspect the construction of infrastructure facilities at Camp Tecson in San Miguel, Bulacan on Tuesday (Nov. 19, 2019). The construction is part of the government’s goal to show support to soldiers by modernizing and providing more capable facilities for their proper usage. (Photo courtesy of Bulacan 2nd DEO)

SAN MIGUEL, Bulacan — Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Mark A. Villar inspected on Tuesday the ongoing construction of infrastructure facilities inside a military camp here.

The projects being implemented inside Camp Tecson are under the Department of National Defense (DND)-DPWH Convergence Projects or the "Tatag ng Imprastraktura para sa Kapayapaan at Seguridad" (TIKAS).

Villar said the projects are part of the government’s effort to modernize the First Scout Ranger Regiment (FSRR) of the Philippine Army Special Operations Command, a unit specializing in anti-guerrilla jungle warfare, raids, ambushes, close-quarters combat, urban warfare and sabotage.

“There is an urgent need to equip the FSRR’s training school by constructing new facilities such as a multi-purpose building and transient quarters that will certainly boost the morale of our soldiers undergoing training here in Camp Tecson,” he said.

A total of four projects amounting to PHP59 million are ongoing and in various stages of implementation while six projects worth PHP83 million will be undertaken in year 2020 as part of the government’s continuous support to the soldiers.

Other improvements being undertaken by the Bulacan 2nd District Engineering Office (DEO) are the improvement and asphalt overlay of the camp’s perimeter road and the construction of a clubhouse.

DPWH regional director Roseller A. Tolentino, citing the report of district engineer Ramiro Cruz, said the construction of the administrative/battalion liaison office building, additional motor pool with vehicle repair shop, barracks and a multi-purpose center is set to be completed next year.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086434

4ID chief calls on female NPA rebels to yield, avoid exploitation

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 19, 2019): 4ID chief calls on female NPA rebels to yield, avoid exploitation



SEXUAL EXPLOITATION. The contraceptive pills, condoms, and porn materials recovered by government forces inside a New People's Army hideout in Barangay Kibongkog, San Fernando, Bukidnon on October 22 this year. Maj. Gen. Franco Nemesio Gacal, chief of the Army's 4th Infantry Division, has called on female NPA members to surrender to avoid becoming sex slaves of their leaders in the communist rebel movement. (Photo courtesy of the Army's 4th Infantry Division)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The chief of Army's 4th Infantry Division (4ID) has called on remaining female New People's Army (NPA) members to surrender to avoid becoming sex slaves of the communist rebel movement.

Maj. Gen. Franco Nemesio Gacal issued the call on Monday in line with the 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) organized by the Philippine Commission on Women.

Gacal said that for 50 years, NPA commanders have been violating their female combatants.

"They must respect the rights of our women and stop treating them as sex slaves," he said.

Gacal urged female NPA combatants to surrender "in order to be saved from sexual abuses."

"Together with the government, we will ensure that the female former rebels undergo the healing and reconciliation process through the help of DSWD (Department of Social Welfare and Development) and other concerned government agencies for them to recover emotionally and psychologically and prepare them to return to mainstream society,” the 4ID commanding general said.

The 18-day Campaign to End VAW is observed from November 25 to December 12 every year to raise awareness on women's rights. This year’s observance is anchored on the theme “VAW-free community starts with me."

According to Gacal, 4ID has recorded cases of sexual exploitations against female NPA members perpetrated by their senior male cadres.

4ID cited the case of alias Wilma, 20, a former NPA medic from Magpet, North Cotabato, who revealed her experience as a victim of sexual abuse from an NPA commander.

“I joined the NPA because I am against sexual abuse and female exploitation. However, our NPA commander sexually abused us and neglected our rights as women,” Wilma was quoted as saying.

Alias Saisai, 32, also former NPA medic from Agusan del Norte was also raped by his NPA commander, 4ID said. Saisai evetually got pregnant but suffered miscarriage due to stress and hardships in the mountain.

"I was raped and threatened that he will kill my husband if I will inform the committee. I wanted to kill him for repeatedly abusing me sexually, he should be executed by death. I went lie-low due to sexual abuses and injustices in the NPA organization” Saisai was quoted by the Army as saying.

According to 4ID, sexual abuses were also confirmed when the troops of the Army's 88IB based in Maramag, Bukidnon recovered some contraceptive pills, condoms, and porn materials inside an NPA hideout in the forested area of Barangay Kibongkog, San Fernando, Bukidnon on October 22 this year.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086459

AFP not surprised by Zarate’s refusal to dialogue

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 19, 2019): AFP not surprised by Zarate’s refusal to dialogue



Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson (PNA File photo)

While hoping that Bayan Muna Party-list Rep. Carlos Zarate will accept the military's offer to explain the real agenda of the insurgency campaign of the government, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it is not actually surprised by the former's decision to reject the dialogue offer.

"We hoped they will but (we) are not actually surprised that the good Bayan Muna Representative Carlos Zarate refused to accept our offer for well-meaning individuals and groups to sit down with the Armed Forces of the Philippines in a meaningful engagement for the sake of fellow Filipinos and the future of our children," AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, said in a statement forwarded to reporters Monday.

He said the possible refusal of Zarate to participate in the proposed dialogue may stem from the fact that he does not want to be confronted with mounting documentary and testimonial evidence that will bolster the government's findings of the communist terror group (CTG)'s infiltration of sectoral groups.

Arevalo said this includes the transfer of funds from foreign funding agencies to the CTG through witting or unwitting left-leaning organizations as conduits; deceptive recruitment and exploitation of minors and indigenous peoples to be New People’s Army (NPA) cadres and fighters; exploitation of issues involving women and children; and the alleged abuses of human rights.

He added that an outright refusal from Zarate is more palatable to the military than initially accepting it but will eventually not show up.

"We nonetheless make our continuing offer for people and organizations who genuinely desires to know why we in the AFP assert that 'red-tagging', 'vilification', 'crackdown', 'planting of evidence' among the many terms they used are merely for purposes of propaganda meant only to court sympathy," he said.

Words like "fascists" and "human rights violators" used by the communist rebels, he said, are meant to demonize soldiers who sacrificed their lives saving minors from the clutches of the NPA and fall prey to their treacherous attacks.

Compare this to the NPA rebels who willfully destroy heavy equipment used to build roads, bridges, and school buildings, Arevalo added.

"We reiterate our invitation to other like-minded groups, organizations, or individuals who desire to seek the truth on the activities, the cunning and the design of the CTG," he said.

He added that the military is making the same offer for institutions or individuals truly aspiring for lasting peace and inclusive development reign supreme for the nation's children.

"It will be a betrayal of trust for the AFP and for those who know who the real enemies are but fail to educate our people who were the wolves in sheep's clothing," Arevalo said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086405

Group hits Dutch embassy's silence on call to bring Joma home

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 19, 2019): Group hits Dutch embassy's silence on call to bring Joma home



RELENTLESS. Even with the cold response from the Dutch embassy, anti-communist group Liga Filipinas Independencia still pushes for its demand to have the embassy cooperate in bringing back Communist Party of the Philippines founder Jose Maria Sison here. The group's spokesperson, Nolan Tiongco, said they are set to take bolder actions and communicate directly with the Dutch government's parliament. (PNA file photo by Christine Cudis)

An anti-communist group believes the Embassy of the Netherlands in the Philippines "already has their bias" on their call to help bring Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria Sison back home.

In an interview on Tuesday, Liga Filipinas Independencia spokesperson Nolan Tiongco expressed dismay over the move of the Dutch embassy to ignore their protests outside its building in Makati City.

“Tingin ko po dyan sympathizer sila ni Joma Sison, kaya malamig ang response nila sa amin (I think, they are sympathizers of Joma Sison, that’s why they are responding coldly to us),” he said.

The Dutch embassy, in an e-mail last Nov. 12, said “the Embassy of the Kingdom of The Netherlands acknowledges receipt of your message and does not wish to comment to the press on the series of protests held in front of its office.”

Tiongco added that given this, their group is more determined to continue with the protest.

“The public’s support is making us go back here every time. And the group is getting bigger with the participation of parent groups who also want Sison to face his charges,” he said.

Parent organizations Hands Off our Children and League of the Parents of the Philippines also shared the group’s demand to bring Sison back to the country so "they may get justice".

“It is justice for us, our children who have been deceived into joining the leftist organizations Kabataan and Anakbayan that support CPP and New People’s Army (NPA),” Remy Rosadio said in a phone interview.

The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

Tiongco, meanwhile, said they are sending a letter to a member of the parliament of the Dutch government.

The group, he said, will stage a rally on Wednesday (Nov. 20), this time, with a “stronger statement.”

The group has held multiple protests in front of the Dutch embassy since April 2019, as they seek the embassy's cooperation to bring back Sison to the Philippines.

On August 28, the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 32 ordered Sison's arrest for his alleged involvement in a multiple murder case filed in 2007 related to the alleged purge of his communists.

Maj. Gen. Antonio Parlade, Armed Forces of the Philippines Deputy Chief-of-Staff for Civil-Military Operations, said Sison made the call to kill thousands of the communists after he thought they were deep penetration agents of the government.

Former Philippine National Police chief Oscar Albayalde, on September 10, revealed plans to ask the Netherlands to drop Sison's asylum on the basis of the new arrest warrant against him.

Albayalde was also set to ask the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) to issue a red notice against the CPP founder.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086447

US-PH alliance strong, adaptable to challenges: Sec. Esper

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 19, 2019): US-PH alliance strong, adaptable to challenges: Sec. Esper



US DEFENSE CHIEF IN PH. US Defense Secretary Mark Esper exchange pleasantries with ranking security officials upon his arrival in Manila on Tuesday (Nov. 19, 2019). Esper met with his Filipino counterpart, Department of National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, to discuss issues of mutual concern including on security. (Photo courtesy of the US Secretary Defense Facebook page)

The alliance between the United States and the Philippines is strong and continues to adapt to meet the challenges of the future.

"The alliance between the United States and the Philippines is deep-rooted and founded in our shared and common values. Our alliance remains strong and it continues to adapt to meet the challenges of the future.," US Department of Defense (DOD) Secretary Mark Esper said on Tuesday.

Esper discussed a range of shared security interests and issues with his Filipino counterpart, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

During the meeting, he reiterated Washington's commitment to the Philippines' 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty whose applicability to the entire Pacific Region include the South China Sea.

"It is crucial that we stand together to preserve freedom of navigation and overflight and other lawful uses of the sea. The United States rejects attempts by any nation to use coercion or intimidation to advance its national interests at the expense of others," Esper added.

Also, the DOD chief said both countries must continue to work closely together to uphold the security and prosperity experienced by the alliance in the past 70 years.

Esper also maintained that counter-terrorism cooperation between the US and the Philippines remains an important part of the defense relations between the two countries.

He cited the example of Operation Pacific Eagle Philippines which he said continues to successfully counter Islamic State affiliates and other violent extremist organizations threatening the country.

"We stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in fighting terrorism. The United States remains committed to supporting the Philippines' continued efforts to deny terrorist groups a safe haven in the region," Esper added.

The DOD chief said that he also discussed with Lorenzana a number of other areas to strengthen defense cooperation including helping modernize the AFP and improving the country's maritime security in domain awareness.

"We look forward to train in future joint air and maritime patrols to improve our interoperability and to demonstrate our commitment to upholding the long-standing international rules and norms. We also discussed opportunities to enhance our joint military exercises, to strengthen cyber-security awareness and to improve defense infrastructure to further implementation of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement," he added.

Esper said he was also very pleased with the outcome of Tuesday's meeting, adding that the US' alliance with the Philippines is absolutely vital to the security and stability of Indo-Pacific which is their priority region.

"I'm confident that as we continue to work closely together we will meet the challenges of the future and preserve the gains that both our nations have worked so hard to achieve," he said.

Meanwhile, Lorenzana said the more than 70 years of friendship between the US and the Philippines defense establishments have continued to grow stronger despite some setbacks between the overall bilateral relations.

He, however, said such matters are normal in any partnership and despite this, defense relationship between the two countries have proven enduring through the years.

"The Philippines and the US have shared long history spanning more than 70 years as friends, partners and allies. and those years cooperation has spanned in the areas of political, economic and socio-cultural relations in our ties including that, between our defense establishments have continued to grow stronger," Lorenzana said.

Esper left the US last week to attend the 51st US-Republic of Korea Security Consultative Meeting before heading towards Thailand to participate in the ASEAN-Defense Minister Meeting Plus.

After his visit to the Philippines, the US Defense Secretary will proceed to Vietnam to discuss the regional security environment and how to further boost the defense relations between the two countries.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086462