Wednesday, November 20, 2019

NDF/Sison: Fakery is the name of the game for Duterte government and military

Jose Maria Sison propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Froont (NDFP or NDF) Website (Nov 19, 2019): Fakery is the name of the game for Duterte government and military



Comment on Duterte’s NTC-ELCAC and Pipedream
By Jose Maria Sison

Because of the militarization and fascisation of the reactionary government under the NTF-ELCAC, civil and military personnel and resources are being misallocated and bureaucratic and military corruption IS HEAVILY FED.

The corrupt military and civilian officials would rather make money on fake development and fake community support projects and on fake surrenders and fake casualties for the purpose of pure psywar, thus further bankrupting the reactionary government.
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These fakeries reduce 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.

The NPA has 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.

Duterte is crazed by too much power for his little brain and is pipedreaming with Fentanyl. Absurdly he keeps on decreeing the impossible extermination of the CPP, NPA and the oppressed and exploited people who support the CPP and NPA

https://ndfp.org/fakery-is-the-name-of-the-game-for-duterte-government-and-military/

NDF/NPA-Negos Island: RPA-ABB long-standing henchmen of the AFP

NPA-Negros Island propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Froont (NDFP or NDF) Website (Nov 19, 2019): RPA-ABB long-standing henchmen of the AFP

The Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) is blowing its own trumpet i claiming that the 266 Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Bongcayao Brigade (RPA-ABB) members who graduated from their Community Defense Unit training in Camp Macario Peralta at Jamindan, Capiz last November 5 are an addition to its forces. The AFP is lying anew by saying that the RPA-ABB recently joined their ranks. Their deception is clear as day, this criminal and mercenary group has long betrayed the people and cooperated with the reactionary government. Fascist-terrorist Rodrigo Duterte has been using them as trophy of the localized peace talks against the revolutionary movement.

The RPA-ABB has become a machinery of the ruling class and the AFP; used as goons, blue guards of landlords and big bourgeois compradors and used as apparatus for killings, harassments, threats, and other criminal and anti-people activities. It openly attacks peasants, workers and others oppressed and exploited in society. Apart from being henchmen of the ruling class, they are like puppies with tight collars dragged around by the AFP and Philippine National Police (PNP) utilizing them as auxiliary forces.

The RPA-ABB claims its collaboration with the AFP is for so-called peace and development of the country but this is only a red herring of the bandit group. The training they are so proud of exhibits the declining forces of the police and military to hold back the advancing revolutionary movement. The same goes for the 254 new soldiers to be stationed by the Philippine Army in Central and Western Visayas. The weakening AFP/PNP troops in the wake of the guerrilla warfare launched by the New People’s Army (NPA) is why the RPA-ABB and the newly recruited soldiers are being trained to become bait for the counterrevolutionary campaign.

The P25,000 per KAPATIRAN member, P50,000 livelihood sustainable grant and housing projects are empty promises. These are all for show and are guarantees from corrupt, deceptive and bloodthirsty AFP officials who only care about their personal interests. All rewards will go to the generals’ pockets and they will take the credit.

Ambitious, servile and discontented top officials of the AFP/PNP are taking advantage of the RPA-ABB’s cooptation. The barbaric AFP/PNP generals like Clement, Arevalo, Sinas and Vinoya are competing with each other to become Duterte’s top lapdog. They vie for the most number of arrests, murders and schemes. Their contest furthers the disintegration of their ranks and each will do everything to win the highest rank. There is no peace and development for the oppressed and exploited people under the Duterte regime who is the main instigator of decadence and worsening violation of human rights especially of innocent civilians.

They peddle terms as “kapayapaan (peace),” “kapanatagan (stability),” “whole-of-nation,” “peace and development,” “community support,” and others, however, the AFP/PNP cannot whitewash that the programs and laws of the regime is for war and oppression. There is no program that responds to the people’s demand for genuine land reform and national industrialization. This validates that Duterte and his clique along with the AFP/PNP and its paramilitary forces like the RPA-ABB are the real terrorists.

The AFP can fool the RPA-ABB but never the NPA. The Red fighters will not exchange the people they fully and wholeheartedly serve. The NPA will not surrender its armed strength for the awards and medals of AFP/PNP officials.

While the people suffer the semicolonial and semifeudal system, its NPA and the revolutionary movement will continue the armed struggle, implement agrarian revolution and build organs of political power.

The genuine army of the people will fight for social justice. With the surging and broadening masses, the NPA will confront the challenge of the 3rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army of more combat operations. Through protracted people’s war the NPA is ever ready to withstand the ruthless fascist troops of the reactionary state and carry forward to a higher stage the people’s democratic revolution.

To the AFP and PNP, the NPA will not turn our backs on the sustained operations in Negros Island. There will be no peace and justice without a just war. You are only after your salary and position. The Red fighters will fight for the land and life you have grabbed from the oppressed and exploited people. The real fighters of the people will grow stronger and further mount tactical offensives.

Ka Juanito Magbanua
Spokesperson Apolinario Gatmaitan Command
New People’s Army – Negros Island

https://ndfp.org/rpa-abb-long-standing-henchmen-of-the-afp/

NDF/Sison: Joma to Duterte: Resign, get medical treatment and rest

Jose Maria Sison propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Froont (NDFP or NDF) Website (Nov 20, 2019): Joma to Duterte: Resign, get medical treatment and rest



COMMENT ON THE ILLNESSES OF DUTERTE AND HIS GRAVE DISSERVICE TO THE PEOPLE (By Jose Maria Sison)

I am glad that Duterte admits what has become undeniable, his serious illnesses, long absences and failure to appear on important occasions and sessions even during international meetings. These illnesses take a toll on his mental and working capacity.

My friendly advice to him is to resign, receive sustained medical treatment and take a long rest. This is the best service that he can render to the people now. It is grave disservice to the people that he insists on staying in his position and is limited to making occasional psywar antics with regard to his bogus war on drugs and his futile war against the revolutionary movement and the people.

The people see through his rabid anti-communism as a bloody anti-people and anti-democratic effort to perpetuate the ruling system dominated by imperialism, feudalism and bureaucratic capitalism. These are the current big problems that inflict oppression and exploitation on the people. It is foolish for him to bark at the far future of communism and try to obscure the people’s current demand for national liberation and democracy.

He will always fail to destroy the people’s revolutionary movement and aspirations for full national independence, democracy, social justice, genuine development through national industrialization and land reform, expanded social services and just peace. Neither socialism nor communism is in the immediate agenda of the Communist Party of the Philippines.###

https://ndfp.org/joma-to-duterte-resign-get-medical-treatment-and-rest

CPP/NPA-Eastern Visayas: NPA vows more tactical offensives after Borongan ambush rattles Duterte, 8th ID

Southern Tagalog propaganda publication posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 19, 2019): NPA vows more tactical offensives after Borongan ambush rattles Duterte, 8th ID

KARLOS MANUEL
SPOKESPERSON
NPA-EASTERN VISAYAS
EFREN MARTIRES COMMAND
NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY
NOVEMBER 20, 2019

The Efren Martires Command (New People’s Army-Eastern Visayas) today congratulates the Red fighters in Eastern Samar on their triumphant tactical offensive against the fascist troops of the 14th Infantry Battalion-Philippine Army in Sitio Bangon, Barangay Pinanag-an, Borongan City last November 11.

The victory of the Sergio Lobina Command (NPA-Eastern Samar) is a timely and fitting response to the intensifying fascist attacks on the people by the Duterte regime. It serves as a warning to Rodrigo Duterte and his fascist dogs in the AFP and PNP that their abuses cannot continue. For as long as the people have their true army, their crimes will not go unpunished.

This victory is also a slap to the face of Major General Pio Diñoso III of the 8th Infantry Division, who earlier claimed that the only choice for the NPA in Samar is to surrender or be killed. The only choice for Diñoso and his troops is to heed the call of the people by taking down their weapons and withdrawing their support from the fascist Duterte. Or they can waste more lives and resources defending their ailing commander-in-chief as the NPA intensifies its tactical offensives and heads for total victory.

Being true hypocrites, the 8th ID brings up international law against the use of command-detonated explosives only to malign the NPA while dismissing the victims of military abuses. For the record, the protocols of war permit the use of CDX against combatants; dropping 200-kilo bombs in peasant communities is not.

The Efren Martires Command calls on all units of the NPA in Eastern Visayas to widen and intensify their tactical offensives against the rising fascism of the US-Duterte regime. By this victory, let us be inspired to bravely face and frustrate the Duterte regime’s all-out war against all opposition.

https://cpp.ph/statement/npa-vows-more-tactical-offensives-after-borongan-ambush-rattles-duterte-8th-id/

CPP/Eastern Visayas: Larab | Nobyembre 16, 2019

Southern Tagalog propaganda publication posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 19, 2019): Larab | Nobyembre 16, 2019


2019 Eastern Visayas Larab Publications Regions

Download PDF

https://cpp.ph/2019/11/20/larab-nobyembre-16-2019/

CPP/Southern Tagalog: Kalatas | Oktubre 2019

Southern Tagalog propaganda publication posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 19, 2019): Kalatas | Oktubre 2019


2019 Kalatas Regions Southern Tagalog

Download PDF

https://cpp.ph/2019/11/19/kalatas-oktubre-2019/

Kalinaw News: Two NPA members apprehended, Convicted

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 20, 2019): Two NPA members apprehended, Convicted


November 20, 2019, LUPON, DOR – Following their refusal to surrender to the government despite of the unending call from our troops to lay down arms, two (2) members of the WGF 18 of the New People’s Army (NPA) who were arrested by the troops was finally convicted.

Certain Lovely Jane Serono alyas “Jamaica”, a Platoon Medic and Ricardo R Visaya alyas “Jonas”, a Team Leader of the WGF 18 of the New People’s Army (NPA) who has pending warrant of arrest for Murder, Kidnapping and Robbery issued by the Lupon Regional Trial Court (RTC) was apprehended through a joint law enforcement operation last 04 October 2019 at Sitio Camarine, Brgy Napnapan, Pantukan, CVP. Said operation was made possible after a concerned citizen who was threatened by the presence of the NPAs in their community sought help from the 28th Infantry (KAMAGONG) Battalion.

Team Kamagong under LTC ALEXANDER D BANATAO together with the Lupon Municipal Police Station, Pantukan Municipal Police Station and the 71IB was able to plan out a deliberate action to swiftly nab the suspects. The two were immediately brought to the Lupon Municipal Police Station for proper documentation and has undergone thorough medical examination prior to inquest proceedings as a standard operating procedure.

Said NPA members were given due process following their arrest however, alyas “Jonas” and alyas “Jamaica” upon arraignment and by reading the information and the cases filed against them in a language they knew and understood, has entered into a plea bargaining agreement which was agreed by the complainant, lowering their charges to Homicide, Slavery and Robbery.

A court order was then released by the Lupon RTC last 21 October 2019 sentencing alyas “Jonas” to suffer imprisonment of Four (4) Years and Two (2) months of prision correccional as minimum to Eight (8) years and One (1) day as maximum for SLAVERY and Six (6) months of arresto mayor as minimun to One (1) year, Eight (8) months and Twenty one (21) days as maximum for THEFT. He was also ordered to pay the private complainant 50,000php as actual damages.

Another court order was also released by Lupon RTC last 11 November 2019 sentencing alyas “Jamaica” together with alyas “Jonas” to serve Four (4) years and Two (2) months of prision correccional as minimum to Eight (8) years and One (1) day as maximum for HOMICIDE. The court also ordered them to pay jointly the heirs of the victim a total of 150,000php for civil indemnity, moral and actual damages.

Ltc Banatao lauded the harmonious relationship and close coordination of the different units of the Philippine Army and the PNP leading to the success of this operation.


Source: 28th 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]

NPA weakens further in C. Luzon due to mass surrender of members

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2019): NPA weakens further in C. Luzon due to mass surrender of members



WANING STRENGTH. Col. Andrew D. Costelo, commander of the 703rd Infantry Brigade, says the mass surrender of members of the New People's Army (NPA) and their supporters in Central Luzon resulted in the continued downfall of the terrorist group. In an interview on Wednesday (Nov. 20, 2019), he said a total of 459 NPA terrorists and supporters in Central Luzon have voluntarily surrendered to the government from November 6 to 19 this year. (Photo by Jason de Asis)

BALER, Aurora -- The already waning strength of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Central Luzon is on further decline as a result of the mass surrender of its members and supporters in the past weeks.

Col. Andrew D. Costelo, commander of the 703rd Infantry Brigade, in an interview on Wednesday said the recent surrenders show the continued downfall of the NPA’s main source of support, their mass organizations, and indicate the effectiveness of the whole-of-nation approach to end the insurgency problem.

So far, a total of 459 NPA terrorists and their supporters in Central Luzon have voluntarily surrendered to the government from November 6 to 19, this year.

Out of the total surrenderers, 81 are NPA rebels, 19 are Militia ng Bayan members and 359 are rebels’ supporters.

“This is through the efforts of our soldiers with the full support and cooperation of the local government units (LGUs) and the people in Central Luzon. The recent development is a big blow to the NPA terrorist group,” he said.

Costelo asked the military troops to continuously collaborate with concerned government agencies and other civil society organizations for the necessary interventions and other assistance under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) for surrenderers to become productive citizens.

He particularly cited the case of the recent surrender of alias "Robin", a supply officer under Platoon Uno of Komiteng Larangang Guerrilla (KLG) Sierra Madre, who is entitled to receive PHP15,000 initial assistance, PHP50,000 livelihood assistance and firearms remuneration of PHP100,000 for surrendering two M16 rifles.

“He is also entitled, if qualified, to avail of benefits being offered by government agencies such as the National Housing Authority, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Justice and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). In addition, LGUs also have incentives in store for NPA surrenderers,” Costelo said.

Maj. Gen. Lenard T. Agustin, commander of Army’s 7th Infantry Division, said he is very proud of the military troops who made the immense volume of surrenderers possible.

“I am urging all the remaining NPAs, underground mass organizations as well as its supporters to return to the fold of the law and in response, we will do our duties to reintegrate them to mainstream of society and live peaceful and productive lives. In doing so, they could contribute in attaining peace and development in Central Luzon,” Agustin said.

Kids in NegOr conflict areas benefit from Christmas project

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2019): Kids in NegOr conflict areas benefit from Christmas project



WISH UPON A STAR. The Oriental Negros Children's Advocacy Network (ONCAN) in partnership with Robinsons Place shopping mall in Dumaguete is targeting 250 indigent children from insurgency-affected areas to benefit from the “Wish Upon A Star” program this Christmas. The annual Christmas tree-lighting and launching of the program was held on Friday (Nov. 15, 2019) at the shopping mall's lobby. (Photo by Judy Flores Partlow)

DUMAGUETE CITY - The “Wish Upon A Star” program of the Oriental Negros Children’s Advocacy Network (ONCAN), along with its partners and donors, continues to benefit indigent grade school children from different communist insurgency-affected areas in the province of Negros Oriental.

Marietta Jambora, who heads the ONCAN, said on Tuesday with 250 children identified as beneficiaries in this year’s activity, the total number has now reached 25,000 since the program was launched in 2010.

ONCAN is an umbrella network of groups advocating for the rights and welfare of children. It seeks to “fulfill the Christmas wish” of each child on its list yearly, in partnership with the Robinsons Place shopping mall here, the Philippine Army and Philippine National Police.

The Philippine Army identifies 250 poor children from conflict areas who are six to eight years old. Their names and their Christmas wishes and other family background information are then submitted to ONCAN.

ONCAN, in turn, will print the photo of each child, with his or her name, age, and wish on a paper, to be attached to a star ornament. The stars are later on hung on a Christmas tree at the lobby of the Robinsons Place mall, Jambora said.

Regular sponsors and others who are interested would pick a star or stars, depending on how many children they would like to help, and make the kids' wishes come true by buying what the child hopes for this Christmas, she added.

The stars that have been chosen will be transferred to another Christmas tree next to the first one.

Some of the children’s wishes include toys, school shoes, backpacks, and clothes, among others.

During this past weekend, the ONCAN and Robinsons Place launched this year’s "Wish Upon A Star" with a Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the mall lobby and a short program and gift-giving to 10 pre-school children from Calindagan and Tinago.

Lea Manuela Lopez, mall operations officer, said they are happy to be chosen as a partner and provide the venue for the outreach program that not only brings joy to the children but also because it is part of their corporate social responsibility.

“Actually, we are getting stronger each year with our commitment with ONCAN for the poorest of the poor children in the mountains, and hopefully we can do this in another 10 more years,” she said.

Jambora said on Dec. 15, the Philippine Army will bring the children from the conflict areas, mostly remote and hinterland barangays, to the mall for the “meet and greet” with the kind-hearted donors and for some activities, such as providing them with meals and games.

The PNP will also be on hand to help out on this day, she said.

She thanked the sponsors for their support, noting that while the limit for the wishes of each child is up to only three, some sponsors have given more.

Over the years, regular sponsors for the “Wish Upon A Star” continue to increase and Jambora thanked them for their whole-hearted support, noting that a wish come true for the children means so much to them especially at Christmas time.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086548

Army files 'landmark' case vs. NPA for IHL violation

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2019): Army files 'landmark' case vs. NPA for IHL violation

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The Army's 403rd Infantry Brigade (403Bde) has officially filed charges against the communist New Peoples Army (NPA) for various atrocities against civilians and their properties.

Through Bukidnon province's public prosecutor Rommel Alonto, the Army sued the local NPA leadership for violation of Republic Act 9851, or the Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law (IHL), Genocide, and Other Crimes Against Humanity.

The case was in connection with the attack carried out by the NPA fighters in Sitio Aurora, Barangay Santo Niño, Manolo Fortich town on May 28 this year, said Brig. Gen. Edgardo de Leon, 403Bde commander.

The 403Bde covers the areas of Bukidnon, Cagayan de Oro, and Misamis Oriental.

The case was filed before the Regional Trial Court Branch 25, the court designated by the Supreme Court to hear IHL-related cases here.

During the attack, authorities said insurgents fired on the village watchmen, and captured one of them and allegedly treated the latter inhumanely, as the guerrillas proceeded to burn the company's equipment, de Leon said.

De Leon pointed out that the incident was admitted by the rebels through a statement made by Pia Paraiso, an NPA spokesperson in the province.

He said witnesses were also able to identify the perpetrators when shown photos of the suspects.

“The NPA, as a party to the armed conflict, must comply with the IHL, foremost of which is the protection of civilian lives and properties. They (NPA) must not violate the IHL. Everything they do must be in compliance with the IHL,” he told reporters during a press conference right after submitting to the court the prosecutor’s resolution.

The Army official said the filing of the case was just the first as the military has also compiled reports on the NPA’s alleged IHL violations in the past few months, including the destruction of private properties and farm equipment and vehicles in Bukidnon and other areas.

“We have documented those incidents, we have witnesses. We showed photos to victims and they identified the assailants. They owned up to these atrocities, these attacks on non-military targets. They must answer to these accusations,” de Leon said.

Meanwhile, Alonto identified the respondents in the IHL case as NPA leaders identified as Omben, who has the aliases Ronron and Jhon; Lino Namatidong alias Dahun; Mylen Colita alias Maymay; and Toto Taquin alias Jepoy.

Alonto said the suspects are said to be under the NPA's sub-regional committees 1 and 2, and Guerrilla Front 89 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee.

Alonto identified the complainant as Ramiro Melgo, a member of the barangay tanod in Sto. Niño, who was handcuffed and maltreated by the NPA fighters during the May 28 attack.

“He (Melgo) was not armed and not part of the conflict. But he was subjected to cruel and inhumane treatment,” Alonto said.

He said they are preparing more cases against the NPA fighters accused of violating the IHL.

Also on Wednesday, a group of placard-holding men and women, some of them wearing face masks, stood outside the Hall of Justice in Upper Carmen, to condemn the NPA.

If proven guilty, the accused NPA personalities are facing 20 years in jail or possible life imprisonment.

De Leon also called on other victims of NPA exploitations to report them to authorities so that more criminal charges will be filed in court.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086570

Army slams NPA for series of landmine attacks in Samar

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2019): Army slams NPA for series of landmine attacks in Samar



INNOCENT VICTIM. The lifeless body of a boy after the New People's Army detonated a landmine in San Miguel village, Las Navas, Northern Samar on April 17, 2019. The military condemned the NPA for using landmines in its attacks, which shows disrespect to basic human rights. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army 20th IB)

TACLOBAN CITY -- The Philippine Army has condemned the frequent use of anti-personnel mines by the New People’s Army in Samar Island, victimizing soldiers and civilians.

The military reported on Tuesday the communist terrorist group used explosives six times this year as they attacked soldiers and policemen. Mines detonated by rebels this year took the lives of 13 soldiers and one boy.

The use of explosives has wounded 45 soldiers and two civilians in separate attacks in Samar provinces.

“That’s really barbaric because that does not discriminate any target. In Las Navas, Northern Samar, a boy was killed and in Borongan City, a civilian was wounded,” Brig. Gen. Ramil Bitong, assistant division commander of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division told reporters on Tuesday.

In Las Navas town, rebels detonated a landmine near a temporary patrol base of the Army’s 20th Infantry Battalion, Charlie Company last April 17 to harm soldiers but instead killed a Grade 3 pupil.

Last Nov. 11, a civilian was wounded in Pinanag-an village in Borongan City, Eastern Samar. The landmine attack and gun battle killed six soldiers and wounded 24 others.

In Pinabacdao, Samar, two civilians tasked to deliver a police car from Metro Manila to Mindanao were hurt in a landmine explosion planted by rebels.

The other three incidents were recorded in San Jorge, Samar where 11 soldiers were injured last January 12; in Calbiga, Samar where six soldiers and six others were wounded last April 23; and in Basey, Samar where a soldier perished and six of his comrades were hurt.

The military repeatedly condemned the NPA for using landmines in their attacks, which shows disrespect to basic human rights. The rebels also disregarded the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law.

The NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, 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/1086559

Isabela residents walk for peace, reject CPP-NPA

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2019): Isabela residents walk for peace, reject CPP-NPA



CONDEMNATION. Residents of Isabela, Negros Occidental join the walk for peace to denounce the atrocities and reject the presence of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in their municipality on Tuesday (Nov. 19, 2019). Mayor Irene Montilla and Vice Mayor Renato Malabor Jr. led the ceremonial signing of the resolution declaring the terrorist group persona non grata in the central Negros municipality. (Photo courtesy of 62nd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

BACOLOD CITY -- Some 1,000 residents of Isabela, Negros Occidental joined a walk for peace and rejected the presence of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in their municipality, in a gathering held at the town plaza on Tuesday.

Led by Mayor Irene Montilla and Vice Mayor Renato Malabor Jr., the participants, who included barangay officials, teachers, students, and law enforcers, denounced the atrocities of the CPP-NPA and its political front, the National Democratic Front (NDF), in their united call for peace.

“This is the time to end the chaos and damage brought by these groups with false ideology. To my constituents, we should never again allow ourselves to be deceived by the NPA. Let us stand by our guided principle, which is to bring peace to this municipality,” Montilla said.

Thanking her constituents for their cooperation, she said that peace is needed to draw investors and help bring progress to the central Negros town.

During the program, municipal and barangay leaders were joined by officials of the Philippine Army, various government agencies, and representatives of the religious sector in the ceremonial signing of the resolution declaring the CPP-NPA-NDF persona non grata.

The resolution, approved by the Municipal Council on October 18, stated that the constituents of Isabela condemn all forms of terrorism, uphold their allegiance and support to the government in its fight against terrorism, and renounce the association and affiliation of some of its members with the CPP-NPA.

“The peace-loving people of Isabela must take a stand against the presence of communist terrorist groups to show our sincerity and support to the call of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to once and for all, end the communist insurgency in our country,” it added.

“The CPP-NPA-NDF is now officially condemned and deemed unwelcome in Isabela, Negros Occidental because of their atrocities, criminal acts, and violations of international humanitarian laws,” according to the resolution.

Also part of the ceremony was an oath for peace led by Councilor Elsa Candelario and the oath of allegiance to the country, by Lt. Col. Egberto Dacoscos, commander of the 62nd Infantry Battalion, as well as candle lighting and burning of CPP-NPA-NDF flags. The program was capped by the release of white balloons and doves.

Brig. Gen. Benedicto Arevalo, commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, said Isabela town showed great cooperation and holistic effort to help end the local communist armed conflict.

“The mayor herself is very dedicated in the advocacy of eradicating the presence these groups in the municipality to execute the President’s mandate of a 'whole of nation' approach,” Arevalo added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086619

Ex-rebels in Pangasinan hail gov’t counter-insurgency programs

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2019): Ex-rebels in Pangasinan hail gov’t counter-insurgency programs



REBEL-RETURNEES. Some 26 former members and supporters of the CPPA-NPA formally pledge allegiance to the national government during a turn-over ceremony at Mabini, Pangasinan on Wednesday (Nov. 20, 2019). During the event organized by the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office, they received farm equipment/ machineries and other government services from different government agencies. (Photo by Hilda Austria)

MABINI, Pangasinan -- Some 26 former members and supporters of the CPP-NPA (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army) have lauded the efforts of the national government in reaching out to them with government services, livelihood programs, and encourage other rebels to return to mainstream society.

“Salamat sa mga ahensya ng gobyerno. Maraming nabigay na tulong sa amin lalo na at ang buhay namin ay mahirap na mahirap. Ito yong matagal na naming hinahanap sa gobyerno. Malinaw na ang pamamalakad ng gobyerno ngayon sa pamamalakad ni Presidente Rodrigo Duterte (We thank the government agencies. They have given us so much help especially that we are very lacking in this life. This is what we have been looking for the government to do. The government now has a clear direction under President Rodrigo Duterte),” Romulo Manzano, a former rebel and now the president of the Barlo Farmer’s Association here, said in an interview Wednesday.

He said they gave up their lives as rebels during the time of former President Fidel Ramos but they felt the support of the government via various counter-insurgency programs.

“Mas maganda kung babalik na sila sa pamahalaan para hindi na magulo. Andito na suporta ng pamahalaan para hindi na kami babalik sa pamumundok. May isang hiling na lang kami sa pamahalaan na sana maipamahagi na sa amin ang indibidwal na titulo ng aming agrarian reform lands (It is better for the rebels to surrender to the government so that there will no longer be armed-conflict. The support of the government is here now so that we don’t have to go back to the mountains. There is just one request we ask and that is for the individual land titles of the agrarian reform lands to be distributed to us),” Manzano said.

Life as a rebel in the mountains, Manzano said, was never easy to which the other rebel-returnees agreed.

In a turn-over ceremony held on Wednesday at the town plaza, the rebel-returnees received farm machineries or implements from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Ilocos regional office, food packs from the Department of Social Welfare and Development, among others.

“We intend to give more to them as they are also in need of livelihood assistance, especially next year that we have fresh funds,” DOLE-1 regional director Nathaniel Lacambra said.

Pangasinan provincial police director, Col. Redrico Maranan said the Technical Skills and Development Authority will also provide skills training to the former rebels while the Philippine Health Insurance Incorporated enrolled them as beneficiaries.

The Philippine Postal Corporation, through the municipal government, provided identification card for them while the provincial government of Pangasinan provides PHP1 million worth of agricultural package to the returnees who are mostly farmers, he said.

“This is all of government approach involving all agencies. This is just the first batch of rebel-returnees to receive support and services from the government,” he said.

The Pangasinan Police Provincial Office and the Philippine Army (702nd Infantry Brigade), he added, will continue to account for rebel-returnees who are from threatened barangays or those under geographically isolated and disadvantaged area (GIDA).

“They are those from far-flung barangays that are not easily reached or cannot easily access government services thus, are vulnerable to recruitment of the rebel-group. Before they are even recruited (back), we will let them know of the available government services and programs they could avail,” Maranan said.

Pangasinan has been insurgency-free in the past years under given parameters but some still support the ideology of the CPP-NPA, he added.

Maranan said the accounting of former rebels in the province remains a challenge since they do not want to be exposed.

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

Meanwhile, Governor Amado Espino III said the provincial government will continue to help the returnees to ensure they can better take care of themselves and of their family’s welfare.

“We are here for you and we promise we will not leave you. We will continue to help you,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086583

Pangasinan town declares CPP-NPA persona non grata

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2019): Pangasinan town declares CPP-NPA persona non grata


CPP-NPA DECLARED PERSONA NON GRATA. Pangasinan Police Provincial director, Col. Redrico Maranan (2nd from right) and 702nd Brigade deputy commander, Col. Angel Madarang sign the resolution declaring CPP-NPA as persona non grata during the ceremonial signing in Mabini, Pangasinan on Wednesday (Nov. 20, 2019). The resolution also condemned the atrocities of the terrorist group. (Photo by Hilda Austria)

MABINI, Pangasinan -- The Sangguniang Bayan (SB) here has passed a resolution declaring the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) as persona non grata and condemning their atrocities.

“It has been observed that the CPP-NPA terrorist including its leaders, members, and supporters continue to state atrocities, violent attacks against vulnerable targets in the community conduct extortion activities against civilians and business establishments, conduct arson or burning incidents that affect government projects and continuously infiltrate the youth and labor sectors that can be utilized possibly to commit crime and other forms of lawlessness and harassment in the whole municipality,” read the resolution approved by all local officials.

In an interview Wednesday, Pangasinan police provincial director, Col. Redrico Maranan said Mabini is the first local government unit (LGU) in the province to declare CPP-NPA as persona non grata.

“We hope the other LGUs will soon follow in denouncing the CPP-NPA in their areas of jurisdiction,” he said.

Mayor Ariel de Guzman, in an interview, said the resolution is in compliance with President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order 70 institutionalizing the “whole-of-nation approach” in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace, and directive from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

EO 70 mandates the establishment of task forces in regional and provincial levels in the country to end local communist conflicts to pave way for the development interventions in communities and achieving lasting peace.

“We don’t want the former rebels here to go back to their former ways so we are doing our part as the local government unit (LGU),” de Guzman said.

He said the LGU, along with the other government agencies, provide livelihood programs for the rebel-returnees here.

“Solution to insurgency is not only military, it’s a social problem. We help them in enhancement of their lives so that they will not join since one of the reasons they are encouraged to join is poverty, and they are disgruntled over the national government. We improved government services to help in counter-insurgency,” he added.

Pangasinan Police Provincial Office kicked off its Oplan Panagsubli in this town on Wednesday, which is part of their counter-insurgency measures.

Some 26 rebel-returnees from Barangay Barlo here, who are mostly farmers, received farm machineries and other services from different government agencies and the provincial government of Pangasinan.

The rebel-returnees also signed pledge of allegiance and the resolution declaring CPP-NPA as persona non grata.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086597

Third Quarter 2019 Social Weather Survey: Net trust for China falls to “Bad” -33; Net trust stays “Excellent” for the United States, “Good” for Australia and Japan, and “Moderate” for Singapore

From the Social Weather Stations (Nov 20, 2019):

Third Quarter 2019 Social Weather Survey: Net trust for China falls to “Bad” -33; Net trust stays “Excellent” for the United States, “Good” for Australia and Japan, and “Moderate” for Singapore

by  Social Weather Stations  |  Nov 20, 2019  03:47:38 PM




  • Net trust falls to “Neutral” for Vietnam
SWS Special Report (printer-friendly version here)

Of the six specific countries tested for public trust, the Third Quarter 2019 Social Weather Survey, done on September 27-30, 2019, found net trust ratings (% much trust minus % little trust) at "excellent" +72 for the United States, "good" +37 for Australia, "good" +35 for Japan, "moderate" +26 for Singapore, "neutral" net zero for Vietnam, and "bad" -33 for China [Chart 1].

The SWS terminology for Net Trust Ratings: +70 and above, "excellent"; +50 to +69, "very good"; +30 to +49, "good"; +10 to +29, "moderate"; +9 to -9, "neutral"; -10 to -29, "poor"; -30 to -49, "bad"; -50 to -69, "very bad"; -70 and below, "execrable."

Net trust falls to "Bad" for China

Net trust fell from poor to bad for China, at -33 (21% much trust, 54% little trust) in September 2019, down by 9 points from -24 in June 2019. This is the lowest since the bad -35 in June 2018 [Table 1].

Net trust in China has been positive in only 9 out of 51 surveys since SWS first surveyed it in August 1994. It reached as high as a moderate +17 in June 2010 and as low as a bad -46 in September 2015.

Net trust stays "Excellent" for the United States

Net trust stayed excellent for the United States, at +72 (80% much trust, 8% little trust), no different from +73 in June 2019 [Table 2].

Net trust in the United States has been positive since SWS first surveyed it in December 1994, ranging from a moderate +18 in May 2005 to an excellent +82 in December 2013.

Net trust stays "Very Good" for Australia and Japan

Net trust rating stayed good for Australia, at +37 (54% much trust, 17% little trust) in September 2019, although down by 9 points from +46 in June 2019 [Table 3].

Net trust in Australia was a moderate +11 when SWS first surveyed it in April 1995. It ranged from neutral +3 to moderate +25 from September 1995 to March 2008. It rose to good +31 in September 2008, and has since then been at +30 and above, except for the moderate +19 in September 2009.

Net trust also stayed good for Japan, at +35 (56% much trust, 22% little trust, correctly rounded) in September 2019, although down by 10 points from +45 (63% much trust, 18% little trust) in June 2019 [Table 4].

SWS first surveyed public trust in Japan in December 1994, and found neutral net ratings from December 1994 to December 1996, ranging from -2 to +9. It rose to a moderate +17 in June 1997, and stayed at moderate to good levels until it reached a very good +54 in December 2017. It fell to moderate +28 in September 2018 and rose to good levels from December 2018 to September 2019, ranging from +34 to +45.

Net trust stays "Moderate" for Singapore

Net trust stayed moderate for Singapore, at +26 (48% much trust, 21% little trust, correctly rounded) in September 2019, although down by 3 points from the record-high +29 (47% much trust, 17% little trust, correctly rounded) in December 2017 [Table 5].

Net trust in Singapore was a moderate +14 when SWS first surveyed it in August 1994. It fell from poor to very bad levels from October 1995 to June 1997, ranging from -21 to -59. It recovered to moderate levels of +29 in December 2017 and +26 in September 2019.

Net trust falls to "Neutral" for Vietnam

Net trust fell from moderate to neutral for Vietnam, at net zero (31% much trust, 31% little trust) in September 2019, down from +13 (34% much trust, 21% little trust) in December 2017 [Table 6].

Net trust in Vietnam used to be at bad levels from March 1995 to June 1997, ranging from -32 to -48. It rose to poor levels of -11 in June 2014 and -14 in September 2015. It reached a record-high moderate +13 in December 2017, and fell to neutral net zero in September 2019.

Survey background

The September 2019 Social Weather Survey was conducted from September 27-30, 2019 using face-to-face interviews of 1,800 adults (18 years old and above) nationwide: 600 each in Balance Luzon and Mindanao, and 300 each in Metro Manila and the Visayas (sampling error margins of ±2.3% for national percentages, ±4% each for Balance Luzon and Mindanao, and ±6% each for Metro Manila and the Visayas).

The area estimates were weighted by Philippine Statistics Authority medium-population projections for 2019 to obtain the national estimates.

The Social Weather Survey items on public trust in selected countries are non-commissioned. These items were included on SWS's own initiative and released as a public service.

The exact questions on public trust in selected countries are as follows: "Pag-usapan po natin ang tungkol sa ilang bansa. Sa mga sumusunod, maaari po bang sabihin ninyo kung ang pagtitiwala ninyo sa (bansa) ay Napakalaki, Medyo malaki, Hindi tiyak kung malaki o maliit, Medyo maliit, Napakaliit, o Wala pa kayong narinig o nabasa kahit na kailan tungkol sa (bansa)? Pakisabi ang sagot ninyo sa pamamagitan ng paglagay ng mga kard sa naaangkop na lugar sa rating board na ito (SHUFFLE CARDS). [Let's now talk about some countries. For the following, please indicate if your trust/faith in (country) is Very much, Somewhat much, Undecided if much or little, Somewhat little, Very little, or You have not heard or read anything about the (country) ever? You may indicate your answers by placing each card on the appropriate box on this rating board (SHUFFLE CARDS).]"

Q109.  UNITED STATES OF AMERICA OR USA

Q110.  CHINA

Q111.  JAPAN

Q112.  AUSTRALIA

Q113.  SINGAPORE

Q114.  VIETNAM

The SWS terminology for Net Trust Ratings: +70 and above, "excellent"; +50 to +69, "very good"; +30 to +49, "good"; +10 to +29, "moderate"; +9 to -9, "neutral"; -10 to -29, "poor"; -30 to -49, "bad"; -50 to -69, "very bad"; -70 and below, "execrable". SWS considers the movement from one classification to another as either an "upgrade" or "downgrade.
SWS employs its own staff for questionnaire design, sampling, fieldwork, data-processing, and analysis, and does not outsource any of its survey operations. This report was prepared by Leo S. Laroza.
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Chart 1


Table 1




Table 2









Table 3






Table 4




Table 5


Table 6


https://www.sws.org.ph/swsmain/artcldisppage/?artcsyscode=ART-20191120154738

Filipinos' trust in China falls to 'bad' as U.S. keeps 'excellent' rating

Posted to the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 20, 2019): Filipinos' trust in China falls to 'bad' as U.S. keeps 'excellent' rating

A September 2019 Social Weather Stations survey also shows Japan and Australia maintaining its 'very good' trust ratings



LACK OF TRUST. Protesters burned an image of the Chinese dragon and an image of President Duterte during a protest during the 3rd anniversary of the Hague ruling on July 12, 2019. File photo by Maria Tan/Rappler

Defying President Rodrigo Duterte's preferences, Filipinos' trust in China sank lower to "bad" while it remained "excellent" for the United States in a recent survey by polling firm Social Weather Stations (SWS).

A survey released by SWS on Wednesday night, November 20, showed Filipinos' trust in China fall from "poor" to "bad," with a net trust rating of -33 in September 2019. This was 9 points lower than the -24 in June 2019.

SWS said the net trust rating of -33 for China was the lowest it has been since it received a "bad" -35 net trust rating in June 2018.

The US maintained its "excellent" net trust rating of +72 as of September this year. The SWS said this was "no different" from the +73 it received in June 2019.

The survey was conducted from September 27 to 30 through face-to-face interviews with 1,800 adults aged 18 years old and above nationwide. The polling firm asked respondents to respond to the following statement: "For the following, please indicate if your trust/faith in (country) is Very much, Somewhat much, Undecided if much or little, Somewhat little, Very little, or You have not heard or read anything about the (country) ever?"

The survey items on countries were non-commissioned, which means they were "included on SWS's own initiative and released as a public service."

The margin of error was ±2.3% for national percentages.

Meanwhile, the same survey showed Japan and Australia maintain its "very good" trust ratings at +35 and +37, respectively.

Trust ratings likewise stayed "moderate" for Singapore at +26. Filipinos' trust, however, fell to "neutral" for Vietnam at net 0 as of September – down from its +13 in December 2017.

Under the Duterte administration, the Philippines has fostered a so-called "independent foreign policy," which saw the country pivot from traditional long-time allies such as the United States to countries like China and Russia. 

(READ: CHINA AT 70: 'Fantasy of cordial relations' with the Philippines)

Duterte and his administration's officials likewise continue to draw flak for seeking friendlier ties with China in exchange for loans and grants. Warming ties have also failed to stop the Asian giant's incursions and aggressive tactics in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

https://www.rappler.com/nation/245417-sws-survey-filipinos-trust-china-bad-us-excellent

PHL-Indonesia committees to revisit border security plan

Posted to the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 20, 2019): PHL-Indonesia committees to revisit border security plan

The Republic of Philippines and Republic of Indonesia vow to strengthen their cooperation on border security.

The 38th Republic of the Philippines-Republic of Indonesia Border Committee Chairmen’s Conference, hosted by the Philippine Government through the Eastern Mindanao Command, was held at the Waterfront Insular Hotel in Lanang on Nov. 19, 2019. The event will culminate today.

Lt. Gen. Felimon Santos Jr., the EastMinCom commander, said the activity aims to strengthen the diplomatic relations of the two countries, especially on border crossing security.


“It seeks to review and strengthen the existing measures to ensure the safe passage of the respective nationals of both countries, to include the protection of fisher folks in the border areas en route to the fishing grounds at high seas,” Santos said.

Both committees agreed to continuously intensify the conduct of coordinated patrol operations, seeking to ensure security and maritime control in both countries’ common borders.

Considering the porous shorelines of the archipelagic domains, both committees also looked into the continuous operationalization of the Border Crossing Stations (BCS) to provide a systematic scheme in closely monitoring the entry and exit of the nationals of both countries.

It is also the intent of both committees to jumpstart the review of the 1975 Border Patrol and Border Crossing Agreements. They seek to recommend amendments of the provisions to be attuned to the prevailing situation in maritime security and terrorism in both countries.

Rifles, subversive docs found at encounter site

Posted to the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 20, 2019): Rifles, subversive docs found at encounter site

Four high-powered firearms, war materiel, and subversive documents were recovered by soldiers of the 28th Infantry Battalion following an encounter with the New People’s Army (NPA) in Sitio Bato-bato, Barangay Tubaon, Tarragona at past 2 p.m. on Monday.

Lt. Col. Alexander Banatao, the 28th IB commander, told TIMES that soldiers encountered members of the Pulang Bagani Command 8 of the NPA after residents reported the presence of the group in the area.


Upon receiving information, Banatao sent his troops to conduct a military operation against the rebels.

A 45-minute gunfire ensued before the rebels escaped. He also believed that many members of the NPA group scattered and were wounded during the clash as they found bloodstains at the countered site.

For now, troops are still conducting clearing operations in the area.

Meanwhile, the battalion commander lauded his troops for their dedication and sacrifice to protect the community from the NPA.

Army hopes for mass surrender of NPA supporters in Region 1

Posted to the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 20, 2019): Army hopes for mass surrender of NPA supporters in Region 1

SAN FERNANDO CITY, Nov. 18 (PIA) -- An official from the Philippine Army hopes that supporters of New People’s Army (NPA) in the Ilocos Region will follow suit the mass surrender that happened in Region 3 recently.

Major General Lenard T. Agustin, commander of the army’s 7th Infantry Division (7ID), made his call during the Re-Organizational Meeting of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC-1) on Nov. 13 at the La Union Provincial Capitol, this city.

“The 7ID's mission for the first semester was to principally dismantle Kilusang Larangang Gerilya (KLG) Caraballo in Region 3, and we are glad to inform everybody that we were just able to do that,” said Agustin.


Major General Lenard T. Agustin, commander of the army’s 7th Infantry Division (7ID), presides over the re-organizational meeting of the Regional Peace and Order Council-1 which is attended by heads of government agencies and provincial governments in Region 1 on Nov. 13, 2019 at La Union Provincial Capitol, San Fernando City, La Union.

Agustin said the mass surrender of the NPA rebels and supporters in Nueva Ecija and Aurora was considered the biggest accomplishment of their unit in a single day since the start of the End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) campaign.

For the remaining of their campaign for this year until the first quarter of 2020, he said “Our focus now has shifted to KLG South Ilocos Sur (SIS).”

“Here in Region 1, we can help each other convince our long lost brothers and sisters to finally come down and go back to the folds of the law,” he said.

He also said the area of responsibility of 7ID is vast and informed that their division covers not only Region 1 but the whole of Region 3 and some parts of Region 2 and Cordillera Administrative Region.

“Much as we we would like to focus our efforts here in Region 1, we just can’t do so for an added reason that some of my units are based in Mindanao. So, with those limitations, we certainly need the help of everybody,” he said.

He particularly asked for the support of the local chief executives and heads of government agencies in the region because as he said, “the answer to all the problems we are having now is plain and simple – good governance.”


Major General Lenard T. Agustin, commander of the army’s 7th Infantry Division (7ID), asks for the support of local chief executives and heads of government agencies in Region 1 to end local communist armed conflict in the region.

“We were able to obtain the support and cooperation of all government agencies and LGUs in Region 3 that led to the successful dismantling of KLG Caraballo that’s why I don't see any reason why we can’t have the same kind of cooperation here in Region 1,” Agustin said.

He added that there can never be a sustainable development if there is no inclusive peace in our hand.

Agustin presided over the RPOC re-organizational meeting on behalf of RPOC-1 chairperson and La Union Governor Francisco Emmanuel R. Ortega III. (JCR/JND, PIA La Union)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1030356

EV media converge to help gov't end insurgency

Posted to the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 20, 2019): EV media converge to help gov't end insurgency

TACLOBAN CITY, Nov. 19 (PIA) -- Members of the private media coming from the six provinces in the Eastern Visayas Region have converged in this city with the common objective in mind- to help the government in the strategic communication campaign versus the insurgents' propaganda.

PIA Regional Director Erlinda Olivia P. Tiu, head of the Strategic Communication Cluster in Eastern Visayas, emphasized in her opening remarks that the convergence of media practitioners in the region "seeks to find collaboration and unity" as a way of intensifying community advocacy.

"The Stratcom cluster identifies challenges to win the hearts and minds of the Filipino masses," Tiu said and adding this can be done by effectively countering propaganda against the masses.


Radyo Pilipinas Reporter, Penelope Pomida interviews PIA Regional Director Erlinda Olivia P. Tiu at the EO 70 Media Briefing at Hotel Alejandro, Tacloban City, the event gathered and won the support of some 77 media people from the whole region 8. (Photo by Pen Pomida/RP)

She also called on the EV media practitioners attending the Region 8 Media Briefing on EO 70 held at Hotel Alejandro in Tacloban City on November 19, to always tell the truth and that both sides of the issue is taken of.

RD Tiu reported that the EV Regional Development Council and the Regional Peace and Order Council, have jointly passed a resolution in June this year in support to EO 70 institutionalizing the Whole-of-Nation-Approach creating the Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) to attain a "just and lasting peace."

The lady regional communication's chief also pointed out that attaining a just and lasting peace is one of the 10 socio-economic indicators geared towards realizing the the Ambisyon Natin 2040.

In closing, the StratCom cluster chief left a strong reminders to media to "tell the truth and shame the devil." (PIA-8/Biliran)

Sixteen Former Rebels received Financial Assistance under E-CLIP

Posted to the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 20, 2019): Sixteen Former Rebels received Financial Assistance under E-CLIP (By Capt Pueblas, Operations Officer, CMOBn)

Camp Daza, Hinabangan, Samar, Nov. 19 –Sixteen former rebels (FRs) from the province of Eastern Samar received their cash assistance under the Enhanced Comprehensive Localized Program (E-CLIP) on Monday, November 18, 2019 at the Provincial Capitol, Borongan City, Eastern Samar.

Eastern Samar Provincial Vice-Governor Hon. Maria Caridad S Goteesan handed over a total of P945,500.00 cash assistance to sixteen FRs who surrendered to 801st Infantry Brigade as part of the provincial government’s peace initiatives.

Goteesan said it will enable the beneficiaries to fully reintegrate to the society and live a peaceful and normal life.

The hand-over ceremony was witnessed by Engr. Visitacion V. Giva, CESE, DILG Provincial Director; Mr. Mauricio T. Labado Jr., E-CLIP Program Manager; Col. Lenart M. Lelina, Deputy Brigade Commander, 801st Bde; LTC Jasper Justino M. Pecson, Pecson, Commanding Officer,14IB; LTC Edgar Allan B. Orbito, ACO, 8CMOBn; PIA Eastern Samar and Media Este News personnel.

Aside from the cash assistance, the FRs also went through a series of psycho-social interventions as part of their reintegration process to prepare them back to the community.

“These FRs are victims of circumstances and exploitation by the local communists whose desire is to grab political power at the expense of our indigent brothers and sisters. The local communist leaders deprived our people of the opportunity to improve their lives,”Col. Camilo Ligayo, 801st Infantry Brigade Commander said.

Ligayo said the program is designed for FRs to get back to their normal lives and help them “regain the dignity of a human being.”

He further lauded the Provincial Government for the cash aid given to the FRs. “It will entice more rebels to surrender, hoping that other provinces will replicate such kind of initiative,” Ligayo said.

Meanwhile, Col. Lelina said, “We need the cooperation of everyone so that we can have a peaceful community and have a comfortable family you need to work hard for.”

“A NPA member may approach any conduits such as barangay officials, priests, media workers or other community leaders. Then the conduits will accompany them to the army or the police for enrollment to E-CLIP program, subject to validation procedures.” Lelina added.(PR)

LGU E. Samar gives out E-CLIP benefits to former rebels

Posted to the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 20, 2019): LGU E. Samar gives out E-CLIP benefits to former rebels

BORONGAN CITY, Nov. 20 (PIA)—Eastern Samar Vice Governor Maricar Sison Goteesan together with DILG Provincial Director Visitacion Giva, and officers from the 14th Infantry Battalion and 801st Brigade led the distribution of E-CLIP (Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program) assistance to 16 Eastern Samar Former rebels and Militia ng Bayan at the Provincial Governor's Conference Hall, Capitol Bldg, on November 18, 2019.

Of the former rebels, two received P 65,000.00 each (P 15,000.00 immediate assistance and P 50,000.00 livelihood assistance) while the other Militia ng Bayan received immediate assistance worth P 15,000.00 after completing the required processes.


Eastern Samar Vice-Governor Maricar Sison-Goteesan with DILG E. Samar PD Visitacion G. Giva award a check to a former rebel who decided to return to the government. (Photo by Pen Pomida)

E-CLIP is one of the flagship programs of the Duterte administration that seeks to address social healing and national unity towards the higher objective of having just and lasting peace.

It aims to provide social equity to former members of the CPP-NPA-NDF and the Militia ng Bayan to reintegrate them into mainstream society.

Unlike the previous government’s reintegration programs, the E-CLIP provides a wide array of benefits based on the particular needs of the former rebels and their families such as financial assistance, shelter, education, skills training, healthcare and legal assistance through a convergence of various national and local government agencies.

In her message, Vice Governor Goteesan who represented Governor Ben P. Evardone said, "We are happy that you decided to return to mainstream society, the government is ready to accept anyone who will surrender."

“These FRs are victims of circumstances and exploitation by the local communists whose desire is to grab political power at the expense of our indigent brothers and sisters. The local communist leaders deprived our people of the opportunity to improve their lives,” said Col. Camilo Z. Ligayo, Commander of the 801st Bde.

Ligayo said the program is designed for FRs to get back to their normal lives and help them “regain the dignity of a human being.”

Ligayo also lauded the Provincial Government for the cash aid given to the FRs.

“It will entice more rebels to surrender, hoping that other provinces will replicate such kind of initiative,” Ligayo added.

Deputy Brigade Commander of the 801st Brigade Col. Lenart M. Lelinea welcomed the fomer rebels, “Welcome back to a peaceful life, we need the cooperation of everyone so that we can have a peaceful community.”

The 14th IB Commander LtCol. Jasper Justito M. Pecson meanwhile appealed to other rebels out there to make peace with the government.

Other witnesses to the event were Mauricio T. Labado Jr., E-CLIP Program Manager, LTC Edgar Allan B. Orbito of the 8CMOBn, PIA Eastern Samar Samuel D. Candido and Radyo Pilipinas reporter Penelope Pomida. (SDC/PIA 8 Eastern Samar with reports from Pen Pomida/RP)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1030457

PTF-PRLEC conducts livelihood training in Abra village

Posted to the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 20, 2019): PTF-PRLEC conducts livelihood training in Abra village

Featured Image

BANGUED, Abra, Nov. 20(PIA) --The Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) is set to conduct various livelihood trainings to armed conflict-affected barangays of the three priority municipalities in the province.

Chaired by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the Cluster already held swine production training for 29 indigenous peoples of Barangay Alangtin in Tubo.

The participants were trained by Reginaldo Turqueza of Mt. Carmel Agri-Tourism and Training Center on the core competencies such as handling breeders, maintaining a healthy animal environment and the application of bio-security measures for poultry.

The swine production training was conducted in cooperation with the Tubo local government unit under Mayor Guilbert Ballangan.

The trainees also underwent entrepreneurship trainings conducted by Department of Trade and Industry-Abra to help them put up their businesses or apply for employment.



Senior Technical Education and Skills Development Specialist Freddie Baroña reported that out of the 29 trainees, 16 of them are also scholars of TESDA Special Skills Training Program.

Baroña said the PRLEC targets to conduct more livelihood trainings in the municipalities identified as priority areas namely Malibcong, Lacub, and Tubo.

The PRLEC is one of the 12 clusters of the National Task Force ELCAC under President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order No. 70 institutionalizing a “Whole-of-Nation” approach in battling insurgency towards the attainment of sustainable peace. It is tasked to address poverty through livelihood trainings to effectively counter the propaganda of communist-terrorist groups.

Aside from TESDA and DTI, the PRLEC is composed of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, National Commission on Indigenous People, Dept. of Labor and Employment, Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources and Abra Schools Division Office. (JDP/CAGT- PIA CAR, Abra)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1030500

US, PH open to Mutual Defense Treaty review

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2019): US, PH open to Mutual Defense Treaty review



DEFENSE TREATY REVIEW. Department of National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (right) and his US counterpart, Mark Esper (left) pose for a photo opportunity in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Tuesday (Nov. 19, 2019). During their meeting, the two defense chiefs said they are amenable to the need to review the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) between Manila and Washington. (Photo courtesy of US Embassy in Manila)

The defense chiefs of the Philippines and the United States are both open to the need of reviewing the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) between the two countries.

Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, in a joint press briefing at the DND main building in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Tuesday, said the review is needed as the MDT was crafted and signed during the height of the Cold War, a completely different situation compared to now.

He added that he was the one who called for the review.

The Cold War refers to the period of geopolitical tension between the US and its allies and those of the then former Soviet Union and its satellite states.

It officially began in 1947 and ended in 1991 with the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

The DND chief said the MDT review will be tackled in the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board which will be held sometime this year.

"I don't know what will be the outcome, it will be a joint cooperative endeavor," Lorenzana said.

Meanwhile, the US Department of Defense (DOD) Secretary Mark Esper welcomed the move to review the treaty.

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

Esper also highlighted the new US national security defense strategy requiring them to look at the world differently and to build different capabilities and reposition themselves.

"So I think for all those reasons, it could do so and I think the fact that we're such strong and capable allies and we've such great friendship between our militaries and our peoples that this is something we could do together," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086518

Duterte, Moon to discuss regional security during meeting

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2019): Duterte, Moon to discuss regional security during meeting



BILATERAL MEET. President Rodrigo Duterte and Republic of Korea President Moon Jae-in shake hands after they declare their joint press statement following the successful bilateral meeting at the Blue House in Seoul on June 4, 2018. The two leaders are set to hold another bilateral meeting during the Asean-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit in Busan, South Korea on November 25 to 27. (Presidential photo of Toto Lozano)

President Rodrigo Duterte and Korean President Moon Jae-in will discuss regional “security matters” among other top concerns when they meet in Busan, South Korea next week.

The Duterte-Moon bilateral meeting will take place during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) - Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit in Busan on November 25 to 27.


“Well, security matters. One, security. And it’s obvious. It is now the equilibrium of geopolitics,” Duterte said in a media interview in Malacañan Palace late Tuesday night.

He said the South Koreans are also against the occupation of the South China Sea and the claim of China.

“This will be taken up because one day, when we decide to really go for it, it will be the Western powers plus Seoul, plus Tokyo, and Australia. I’m not sure of Malaysia, if they’ll join the fray,” Duterte said.

South Korean Ambassador to the Philippines Han Dong-man said the Philippines and South Korea are scheduled to sign at least four agreements during the Duterte-Moon bilateral meeting – those on social security, educational cooperation, fisheries, and tourism.

Also up for discussion are ways to increase trade volumes and conclude the free trade agreement between the Philippines and Korea, defense and logistics cooperation, and efforts to enhance people-to-people exchange.

Aging-associated ailments

The 74-year-old President, meanwhile, allayed concerns over the state of his health and whether or not he would be able to travel to Busan despite suffering from several ailments.

“When I decided to travel outside, it presupposes that I think kaya ko (I can manage). But to worry about … I’ll give you one advice. Things beyond your control, do not worry about it. You’re just wasting your time. There are things in life beyond your control. So do not kill yourself thinking about it,” he said.

Despite advice from his doctors to take a break from work, Duterte said he could not rest because of the amount of paperwork he had to do.

He urged the public anew to refrain from asking questions about his health, noting that senior citizens experience several aging-associated ailments.

“Huwag na ninyo akong tanungin na kung may sakit ba ako. Kasi lahat ng 74 years old dito sa Pilipinas -- except for a few --- lahat may sakit na 'yan (Don’t ask me if I have any ailment because all 74-year-olds in the Philippines -- except for a few -- all of them have ailments),” Duterte said. “'Yung lahat ng sakit na 'yan, nandito na sa akin. Matanda na ako. Pero nakakapagsalita pa naman ako (All of the ailments, I have them. I am already old. But I can still speak).”

The public, he said, could call out his attention if his poor health prevents him from performing his functions as President.

“When I'm no longer coherent, if I cannot articulate now the things that I want to relay to you, then it's about time that you call the attention of my family, Inday, and (say) that your father is no longer capable of being President of this republic,” Duterte said. “Why? Because he’s not good anymore. Then if my family would say, ‘You retire. Do not wait for the expiration.’”

Duterte suffers from muscle spasms due to a minor motorcycle incident on October 16.

He has also complained about migraines and has Buerger's disease, an inflammation of small- and medium-sized blood vessels.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086534

TWG for creation of Marawi military camp formed

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2019): TWG for creation of Marawi military camp formed



Malacañang has approved the creation of a technical working group (TWG) that will be responsible for the establishment of a military camp at Kapantaran village in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur.

The TWG for the establishment of a military camp in Marawi City was formed through Memorandum Order (MO) 41 signed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea on November 15.


The signing of the memorandum was in line with President Rodrigo Duterte's directive to study the establishment of the military camp in an effort to reinforce the government's current efforts to secure Marawi City and its neighboring areas.

To recall, Islamic State-affiliated Maute terror group laid siege to Marawi City on May 23, 2017, resulting in a five-month armed conflict that left destruction in many buildings in the southern city and leaving hundreds of thousands of individuals displaced.

Marawi City was liberated from the hands of the terrorists in October 2017.

In November 2017, the President revealed his plan to install a new military camp in the war-torn city.

"For this purpose, a Technical Working Group is hereby created," the memorandum, which takes effect immediately, read.

Member-agencies of the TWG are the Department of National Defense, the Office of the Executive Secretary, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Land Registration Authority, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government.

The memorandum mandates the working group to conduct a census for the identification of those who will be affected by the establishment of the military camp.

The TWG is also mandated to consider the institution of three detachments composed of three battalions dispersed at the boundaries between Marawi City and its contiguous municipalities.

It is also directed to resurvey the area to reestablish the metes and bounds of the proposed military camp, as well as to ascertain the status of ownership and possession of the lands proposed to be included in the military camp in Kapantaran village.

The memorandum also orders the TWG to expedite the titling and registration of the affected parcels of land, without prejudice to private rights, upon final determination that they will form part of the military camp.

The working group is also expected to assist in the resettlement of the individuals and families who may be displaced from their residences and communities as a result of the acquisition of lands for the military camp.

Under MO 41, the TWG is also tasked to provide administrative and technical support to all affected local government units; enlist the support of other government agencies and instrumentalities; and, submit periodic reports to the Office of the President relative to the establishment of the military camp.

The Marawi siege prompted the President to place the whole of Mindanao under martial rule until December 31, 2019, in an effort to give Philippine troops more time to end insurgency in the southern Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086621

Duterte reorganizes national cybersecurity inter-agency panel

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2019): Duterte reorganizes national cybersecurity inter-agency panel



President Rodrigo R. Duterte

President Rodrigo Duterte has signed an executive order reorganizing the National Cybersecurity Inter-Agency Committee (NCIAC).

Under Executive Order No. 95 signed by Duterte on Nov. 15, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary was designated as co-chair of NCIAC, replacing the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary.

The DICT Secretary will co-chair the NCIAC with National Security Council (NSC) Director General while DOST Secretary was relegated as one of the members of the inter-agency body.

The NCIAC will be chaired by the Executive Secretary, the EO read.

Other members of the Committee are Secretaries of Energy (DOE), Finance (DOF), Foreign Affairs (DFA), Interior and Local Government (DILG), Justice (DOJ), National Defense (DND), Transportation (DOTr), and Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO).

Also members are the Commissioner of the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), Chairman of the National Privacy Commission (NPC), Executive Director of the Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC), Executive Director of the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), and Governor of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

Former President Benigno Aquino III signed Republic Act No. 10844 that created the DICT in May 2016, eight months after the NCIAC was established through EO No. 189.

The new EO also renamed the defunct Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) to Department of Transportation.

It pointed out that it is the state’s policy to “ensure universal access to quality, affordable, reliable and secure ICT services.”

The NCIAC is mandated to assess the vulnerabilities and risks of the country’s cybersecurity, issue updated security protocols to all government employees, for the proper handling, distribution, and storage of all forms of documents, and communication.

It is also tasked to enhance the public-private partnership to deter cyberattacks, minimize cyber risks, and increase cyber resiliency.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086632

PRRD vows to sustain DND modernization

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2019): PRRD vows to sustain DND modernization




President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday vowed to sustain the modernization program of the Department of National Defense (DND) as he thanked the country’s troops for defending the country against threats.

During the 80th anniversary of the DND at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City, Duterte said his administration would support its modernization programs by working with Congress to enact legislative measures that will enhance the department’s capabilities.


“On behalf of a grateful nation, I extend my sincerest thanks to you, the brave men and women of the DND, for successfully carrying out the sacred mandate to defend our country against external and internal threats and ensure peace and security,” Duterte said.

The President said the DND has been an important contributor in national development by ensuring public safety and protecting territorial integrity and sovereignty.

He also praised the DND for their “indispensable” participation in humanitarian and disaster response, peace and development, socio-economic growth, and nation-building.

“The Filipino nation will always remember you in their hearts for pursuing this noble task that puts you at the forefront of combating elements that threaten our freedom and democratic way of life,” he added.

Duterte, meanwhile, expressed hope that troops would be inspired to work harder to ensure a “safer and more prosperous society” for future generations.

“Be assured that the entire Filipino nation is behind you as we advance the common good and pursue genuine reforms for our motherland,” he added.

Upon the President’s arrival, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana briefed him on newly-purchased firearms and ammunitions prepositioned at the Tejeros Hall.

The anniversary program also recognized outstanding personnel by conferring the Outstanding Achievement Award to Col. Joel Paloma of the Philippine Army and Lt. Colonel Maria Consuelo Castillo of the Philippine Air Force.

Also present during the event were former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, former Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, and former Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086640