CPP/NDF-ST: Hinggil sa pagkakatalaga kay Año upang pamunuan ang PNP

NDF-Southern Tagalog (ST) propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jan 7, 2020): Hinggil sa pagkakatalaga kay Año upang pamunuan ang PNP

PATNUBAY DE GUIA

NDF-SOUTHERN TAGALOG

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES
JANUARY 07, 2020

Mariing kinokondena ng National Democratic Front of the Philippines-Southern Tagalog (NDFP-ST) ang pagkakatalaga ni Duterte kay Secretary Eduardo Año, kasalukuyang kalihim ng Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), bilang pinuno ng Philippine National Police (PNP).

Sa pagkakatalaga kay Año bilang bagong pinuno ng Philippine National Police, lalong pinatalas ni Duterte ang pangil nito sa paghahasik ng teror at lagim sa sambayanang Pilipino.

Hinirang si Año ni Duterte sa kalagayang wala diumano siyang napupusuan sa mga nakahanay na matataas na mga opisyal na tatayong pinuno ng PNP kapalit ng maagang nagretirong “ninja cop” na si General Oscar Albayalde noong Nobyembre 2019.

Ginawang dahilan ni Duterte ang kawalan niya ng tiwala sa integridad ng mga nakahanay na matataas na opisyal ng PNP para maipwesto si Año sa katungkulan.

Dapat paghandaan ng taumbayan ang pagharap at paglaban sa lalong pagtindi ng panunupil ng estado sa kanilang mga demokratikong karapatan at kalayaang sibil ngayong itinalaga na ni Duterte na mamuno sa PNP ang isang militarista, mabalasik at masugid na anti-komunista at tanyag sa pagiging pasistang si Secretary Eduardo Año. Si Secretary Año ang isa sa pangunahing may kinalaman sa pagdukot at pagkawala ni Jonas Burgos, isang agrikulturista ng Kilusang Magbubukid sa Pilipinas (KMP) noong Abril 2007 na pinaniniwalaang pinaslang ng grupo nina Año habang tumatayong pinuno ng kinakatakutang Intelligence Service Group ng Philippine Army (ISG-PA). Hanggang sa kasalukuyan ay hindi pa rin natatagpuan ang mga labi ni Jonas Burgos.

Sa tabing ng di umano’y paglilinis at pagpapatupad ng mga kinakailangang reporma sa hanay ng PNP, mas pinili at itinalaga ni Duterte si Secretary Eduardo Año, upang pakawalan ang buong lupit ng terorismo ng estado sa sambayanang Pilipino tulad ng mga operasyong Synchronized Enhanced Managing Operation (SEMPO)/Oplan SAURON sa Negros at mga katulad na operasyon sa Samar at Kabikulan.

Sa pamamagitan ng kontrol sa AFP at PNP, mapapakilos ni Duterte ang mga ito bilang kanyang pribadong “makinarya ng kamatayan” sa mga extra judicial killings at panunupil sa demokratikong karapatan ng mamamayan kabilang ang mga kritiko at pampulitikang oposisyon.

Asahan na magpapatuloy ang walang kasing-lupit na mga pagpatay at pagdanak ng dugo sa pagpapatupad ng pasistang rehimen ng anti-mamamayan at anti-demokratikong panunupil sa mamamayan sa tabing ng pekeng kampanya laban sa iligal na droga. Makailang beses na sinabi ni Duterte sa kanyang mga pahayag sa publiko na magpapatuloy nang walang humpay, madugo at katatakutan ang kanyang kampanya laban sa iligal na droga.

Sa ilalim naman ng pamumuno ni Año, asahan din ang higit na paglobo ng bilang ng mga biktima ng pang-aabuso at paglabag sa karapatang pantao, korapsyon at pamamayagpag ng mga sindikatong kriminal sa loob ng PNP. Titindi ang mga pag-atake sa masang magsasaka, mga manggagawa, maralitang tagalunsod at sa mga progresibong grupo at organisasyon katulad sa nangyari sa ilang bayan sa Negros Oriental na sabayang pinagpapatay ang pitong mga walang kalaban-laban na mga magsasaka at drayber ng habal-habal at ng iligal na mga pag-aresto sa mga inosenteng sibilyan sa pamamagitan ng SEMPO o mas kilala sa tawag na Oplan Sauron ng PNP. Hindi malayong maulit ang ganitong pangyayari ngayong si Año na ang may tuwirang hawak sa poder ng PNP.

Asahan din ang lalong pagdami ng bilang ng mga kakasuhan at ipakukulong batay sa mga gawa-gawang kaso at pagtatanim ng mga ebidensya ng PNP laban sa mga indibidwal na kasapi ng mga progresibong organisasyon, mga kritiko at oposisyon na masugid na tumutuligsa at lumalaban sa pasista at tiranikong paghahari ni Duterte. Nagawa nang maipwesto ang mga galamay ng PNP sa hudikadura na instrumento sa paglalabas ng search warrants para halughugin at taniman ng ebidensya ang bahay ng mga kilalang lider at aktibista pati mga opisina ng mga progresibong organisasyon.

Walang ibang dapat gawin ang taumbayan kundi ang ihanda ang sarili, higit na palakasin ang hanay at matatag na labanan ang inaasahang matitinding pag-atake sa bayan ng pasista at mersenaryong PNP ngayong si Año na ang may tuwirang kontrol dito. Hindi dapat tayo matakot at masindak sa anumang ihahasik na teror ng administrasyong Duterte. Kailangan ang patuloy at ibayong pagsisikap na pukawin, organisahin at pakilusin ang pinakamalawak na bilang ng mamamayang lalaban at bibigo sa karahasan ng estado.

Ang patuloy na pagsidhi ng kahirapan ng sambayanang Pilipino at ang matinding panunupil ng pasistang rehimeng US-Duterte sa kanilang mga demokratikong karapatan at kalayaang sibil ang magsisilbing matabang lupa para pagsibulan ng disgusto, pagkamuhi at paglaban mula sa mga di-mulat at nahuhuling seksyon ng mamamayang Pilipino at magtutulak sa kanila na sumama at mapabilang sa mga grupo at organisasyong lumalaban sa pasistang rehimen.

Kayang gawin ng taumbayan ang pagpapabagsak sa kapangyarihan ng pasistang rehimeng US-Duterte tulad ng nangyari sa diktador at tiranikong si Ferdinand E. Marcos na pinabagsak ng popular na pag-aalsa sa EDSA. Walang magagawa ang AFP at PNP na hadlangan ang daluyong ng rumagaragasang mga tao sa kalsada na nananawagan ng pagpapatalsik sa kapangyarihan ng isang traydor, korap, kriminal at mamamatay tao na si Duterte.

Samantala, ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan sa Timog Katagalugan (TK) ay patuloy na gagawa ng mga hakbang para singilin at papanagutin ang mga pasista at mersenaryong tropa ni Duterte na patuloy na gumagawa ng krimen laban sa bayan. Titiyakin ng NPA sa rehiyon, sa pamamagitan ng mga ilulunsad nitong mga taktikal na opensiba, na patamaan sa maraming bahagi ang mga isinasagawang focused military operations (FMO) ng AFP at PNP at ng armadong komponente ng Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) na isinasagawa ng DILG sa balangkas ng whole-of-nation approach to end local communist armed conflict. Uuwi ang mga berdugo at palalong kaaway sa kanilang mga kampo na duguan at bitbit ang kanilang mga kaswalti sa labanan.

Patuloy na hahanapin upang mapanagot at magawaran ng angkop na kaparusahan ang sinumang indibidwal mula sa hanay ng AFP, PNP, CAFGU at iba pang pwersang para-militar ng estado na nakagawa ng krimen laban sa bayan at rebolusyonaryong kilusan. Makakaasa din ang taumbayan sa patuloy at walang humpay na pagsisikap ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan sa TK sa pagtataguyod at pagtatanggol sa interes at kapakanan ng mga mamamayan ng rehiyon. ###

https://cpp.ph/statement/hinggil-sa-pagkakatalaga-kay-ano-upang-pamunuan-ang-pnp/

CPP/CPP-Bicol: Tilamsik | Hunyo 2019

Bicol region propaganda publication posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jan 7, 2020): Tilamsik | Hunyo 2019

JANUARY 07, 2020

2020 Bicol Publications Regions Tilamsik ng Dakilang Apoy

Download PDF

https://cpp.ph/2020/01/07/tilamsik-hunyo-2019/

CPP/CPP-Eastern Visayas: Larab | January 4, 2020

Eastern Visayas region propaganda publication posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jan 7, 2020): Larab | January 4, 2020

JANUARY 07, 2020

2020 Eastern Visayas Larab Publications Regions

Download PDF

https://cpp.ph/2020/01/07/larab-january-4-2020/

Judge dismisses raps vs. 6 activists

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jan 7, 2020): Judge dismisses raps vs. 6 activists (By Carla P. Gomesz)

A Bacolod Regional Trial Court judge has dismissed cases for violation of the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Act filed by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group against six activists arrested in raids in Bacolod City on October 31 last year.

RTC Branch 54 Judge Eduardo Sayson, in his joint resolution dated January 3, a copy of which was furnished the DAILY STAR yesterday,said the criminal cases against Roberto Dorio Lachica, Romulo Tapalla Bito-on, Mermalyn Mendieta Bito-on, Albert dela Cerna, Noly Lacerna Rosales and Proceso Quiatchon are deemed dismissed without prejudice to their refilling.

Lachica is out on bail while the five others are detained at the Negros Occidental District Jail in Bago City, Karapatan -Negros secretary general Clarizza Singson-Dagatan said yesterday.

The judge, in his joint resolution, said government authorities in custody of the accused are directed to immediately release them as they have been languishing in detention since Oct. 31, 2019 unless they are held for some other lawful causes.

The six have pending cases before other RTC branches, Dagatan said.

Sayson, in his joint resolution, said the six were accused for violations of Republic Act 10591 of the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Act.

He said records show that after the service on October 31 of the search warrants issued by Quezon City Regional Trial Court Judge Cecilyn Burgos-Villavert, the six were arrested, inquest cases were filed against them on November 4 and the cases were raffled off to his court on November 6.

Sayson said as early as Nov. 11, 2019 he issued an order giving the Bacolod City Prosecutor’s Office 10 days until Nov. 22 to submit the records of the applications for search warrants, affidavits of witnesses and the transcript of stenographic notes with searching questions and answers.

The trial court prosecutor requested for a 30-day extension until December 18 which the court granted, Sayson said.

The judge, on January 3, said 64 days later the prosecutor has failed to comply with the order of the court and confirmed non-compliance of the search warrant applicant.

Thus he finds insufficient probable cause to issue a commitment order against all “inquested” accused for violation of RA 10591, the judge said.

He remanded the information and case folders of the cases to the office of the Bacolod City Prosecutor for “regular preliminary investigation.”

Sayson also ordered that a .38 caliber revolver without serial number, .45 caliber pistol, ammunitions, and a fragmentation grenade be forfeited in favor of the government.*

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/January/07/topstory3.htm

Opinion: Defense and Foreign Policy Outlook: The Administration’s reluctant partner in appeasing China

Opinion piece posted to Business World (Jan 7, 2020): Defense and Foreign Policy Outlook: The Administration’s reluctant partner in appeasing China (By Dr. Renato de Castro)


Thinking Beyond Politics




The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is the administration’s reluctant partner in its appeasement policy on China. The Philippine military has been very wary of closer Philippine-China economic relations in particular, and on the so-called “pivot to China” in general. The wariness stems from the fact that it has a long and close relationship with United States Armed Forces.

For seven decades, the US armed services and the AFP has been training and consulting each for combined combat and humanitarian operations. These military exercises have provided opportunities for the AFP to enhance its readiness in developing relevant and responsive military forces across the various mission areas and promote cooperation and interoperability between the Philippines and US armed forces. Interoperability in terms of military doctrines and common strategic outlook and mindset has also been developed aside from equipment, intelligence, navigation, and communications.

Consequently, in several instances, the Philippine military has pushed back at President Rodrigo Duterte’s efforts to effect the Philippines’ “separation” from the United States, such as his plans to remove US Special Forces from Mindanao, decrease the number of joint military exercises, and to terminate joint naval patrols between the Philippine and US navies in the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ). In addition, the perceived “comprehensive, strategic cooperation” under the 29 Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs) signed by President Xi Jinping to promote closer cooperation between the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and the AFP have not materialized.

WARNING ABOUT CHINA’S GROWING NAVAL PRESENCE

On Aug. 15, 2019, Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana announced the incursion of several Chinese warships into the country’s territorial waters without prior coordination with the AFP. He opined that China was taunting the Philippines because the Chinese warships’ Automatic Identification System (AIS) was switched off and they ignored the radio communications from the AFP units monitoring their passage in Sibutu Straits in Tawi-Tawi. He also maintained that the People’s Liberation Army’s Navy (PLAN) violated an earlier commitment from the Chinese ambassador in Manila that the Philippines will be informed in advance of any movement of Chinese naval vessels in the country’s territorial waters.




A month earlier, Secretary Lorenzana revealed that Chinese warships transited through the Sibutu Straits in four instances at the start of 2019 without informing the Philippines. The Philippines requires foreign navies to seek diplomatic clearance from the Philippine government when they pass through the country’s territorial waters, and that historically, the world’s major navies have observed this protocol — until this incident with the PLAN ships. Consequently, the defense secretary recommended the filing of a diplomatic protest by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) following the series of suspicious and unauthorized transits of Chinese warships in Philippine waters including the passage of two Chinese survey ships in the country’s EEZ.

Secretary Lorenzana’s strong statement on the unauthorized passage of PLAN ships was triggered by the report of Lieutenant General Cirilto Sobejana, commander of the AFP’s Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom). General Sobejana reported, during a regular Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) operation in the southern Philippine island of Tawi-Tawi, that four Chinese warships passed through the country’s porous southern backdoor. These Chinese naval vessels were not hostile when the Philippine Air Force (PAF) planes and Philippine Navy (PN) ships approached and observed them. However, the ships’ sailing pattern appeared to be highly suspicious, zigzagging and not sailing straight as civilian ships should do during an innocent passage.

Then AFP Chief-of-Staff, General Benjamin Madrigal, Jr., commented that this series of unauthorized passages of PLAN ships in Sibutu Straits and in other territorial waters of the Philippines is a national security concern that could lead to confrontations between China and the Philippines.

PUSH BACK AGAINST APPEASEMENT?

In the face of the Philippine military’s apprehensions about Chinese actions in the South China Sea, President Duterte said that he would not provoke China into war. He wondered aloud what would happen to the Philippines should war erupt in the South China Sea and whether the US would protect the Philippines. He argued that the more feasible solution was to forge a joint exploration pact with this regional power.

The two clashing views of the Duterte Administration and the defense/military establishment reflect the country’s strategic dilemma on how to deal with China’s maritime expansion in the South China Sea. After almost three years of pursuing a policy of appeasement on China, the Philippines is incrementally shifting to “limited hard balancing” to constrain China’s revisionist agenda. Specifically, this strategy entails building up the Philippine military’s territorial defense capabilities, maintaining its alliance with the US, and forging security partnerships with Japan and Australia. These are manifestations that the Philippines, despite its appeasement on China, is standing up (albeit hesitantly) to the Chinese challenge in the South China Sea.

[Dr. Renato de Castro is a Trustee and Convenor of the National Security and East Asian Affairs Program, Stratbase ADR Institute.]

https://www.bworldonline.com/defense-and-foreign-policy-outlook-the-administrations-reluctant-partner-in-appeasing-china/

U.S. embassy in PH issues security alert following rising tension in Middle East

From Rappler (Jan 7, 2020): U.S. embassy in PH issues security alert following rising tension in Middle East (By Sofia Tomacruz)

The United States Embassy says heightened tension in the Middle East may bring security risks to Americans living abroad



ALERT. The US Embassy in the Philippines advises Americans in the country to keep a low profile. File photo by AFP

MANILA, Philippines – The United States Embassy in the Philippines on Tuesday, January 7, issued a security alert to its citizens living here, warning them of "security risks" that may follow heightened tension in the Middle East.

"There is heightened tension in the Middle East that may result in security risks to U.S. citizens abroad. The Embassy will continue to review the security situation and will provide additional information as needed," it said.

The embassy told Americans in the Philippines to keep a low profile, be aware of surroundings, and stay alert in tourist locations. It also urged US citizens to review personal security plans, ensure travel documents were up to date and easily accessible, and access the State Department's smart traveller enrolment program for updates.

Why the alert? The advisory is the latest in a series of alerts issued by different US embassies around the world following the US' targeted killing of Iran commander Major General Qasem Soleimani.

Soleimani's assassination sparked fears of all-out conflict in the region and has heightened tensions in the already volatile region, with President Donald Trump warning of "major retaliation" if Iran makes good on its threat to take "severe revenge."

Among the embassies which have issued security alerts to its citizens included Israel, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Iraq, and Poland.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines earlier said it was on lookout for threats to embassies of Iran and the US.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/248729-us-embassy-security-alert-rising-tension-middle-east

Engaging in another peace talks with Reds ‘pointless,’ Esperon says

From GMA News (Jan 7, 2020): Engaging in another peace talks with Reds ‘pointless,’ Esperon says (By ANNA FELICIA BAJO)

For National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr., engaging in another round of peace negotiations with communist rebels is pointless.

"We have had many attempts to end the conflict with the communist terrorist group since 1986 with over 40 rounds of peace talks conducted and with the same people as negotiators," Esperon said in his position paper on Tuesday.

"But for the longest time, the peace talks were only used as a period to rest when badly beaten, seek reinforcements, and initiate recruitment. Engaging in another round of peace talks after all these years and all our efforts without significant changes is therefore pointless," he added.
Esperon clarified that his objection to the peace talk was not because of the report that he was included in the supposed "kill list" of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) nor because of the attacks of the communist rebels in the security forces' posts.

"What is objectionable is when the NPA (New People's Army), surely under the command of NDF (National Democratic Front) and CPP, attacks or ambushes civilians as they did in Barangay Libuton, Borongan City, Eastern Samar last December 13, 2019," Esperon said, adding that this act was clearly a violation of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/721344/engaging-in-another-peace-talks-with-reds-pointless-esperon-says/story/

Duterte peace adviser, ex-AFP chief Galvez says NPA behind lumad leader’s murder

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jan 7, 2020): Duterte peace adviser, ex-AFP chief Galvez says NPA behind lumad leader’s murder (By Froilan Gallardo)

A former armed forces chief now advising the President on the peace process sought to pin the blame for the murder of a lumad leader on Saturday on communist rebels.

Carlito Galvez, former AFP chief and now peace adviser to President Rodrigo Duterte, said New People’s Army (NPA) members launched the attack that killed the lumad leader.

The rebels, Galvez said, were also behind the burning of an indigenous people’s livelihood center at the village of Panansalan in Compostela, Davao de Oro last Dec. 30.

“By and large, these attacks run counter to the cessation of hostilities declared between the Reds and government during the holiday season,” Galvez said in a statement.

The government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) declared a 15-day holiday ceasefire from Dec. 23, 2019, to Jan. 7, 2020.

In a directive heeding the truce, the NDFP ordered NPA units to stand down and not launch attacks on government targets for 15 days.

There was no mention of civilians or those suspected of spying for the military, in the NDFP directive.

Datu Sammy Diwangan, 45, an Umayamnon leader and IP representative of the village of Canangaan, Cabanglasan town in Bukidnon was killed while cutting wood in his farm last Jan. 4.

Lt. Col. Ronald Illana, commander of the Army’s 8th Infantry Battalion, said Diwangan was with his nine-year-old son and another companion when the rebels waylaid them and killed the IP leader.

The NPA has not issued any statement claiming responsibility for the murder of Diwangan.

Illana said the municipal government of Cabanglasan has convened a fact-finding team to look into the murder.

“Diwangan has been receiving death threats for helping the Army thwart the NPA expansion in the mountains of Cabanglasan,” Illana said.

Illana added that the military has repeatedly warned Diwangan not to venture out of his farm because of these threats.

He said Diwangan believed he would not be harmed by the NPA because there was an ongoing ceasefire.

Illana said the NPA had accused Diwangan of leading a notorious anti-communist paramilitary group called Alamara.

“Clearly, these acts of terrorism are meant to instill fear, anger and hatred in the hearts and minds of the people, particularly among our lumad brothers and sisters,” Galvez said.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1210123/duterte-peace-adviser-ex-afp-chief-galvez-says-npa-behind-lumad-leaders-murder

Peace adviser condemns murder of Lumad leader in Bukidnon

From MindaNews (Jan 7, 2020): Peace adviser condemns murder of Lumad leader in Bukidnon
By FROILAN GALLARDO

CAGAYAN DE ORO (MindaNews / 07 January) — Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Valdez condemned the January 4 killing of a Lumad leader in Cabanglasan, Bukidnon and other atrocities allegedly perpetrated by the New People’s Army (NPA).

Galvez also blamed communist rebels for burning a livelihood center of the Lumads (Indigenous Peoples or IPs) in Barangay Panansalan in Compostela, Compostela Valley last December 30.

“By and large, these attacks run counter to the cessation of hostilities declared between the Reds and government during the holiday season,” Galvez said in a statement on Monday, a day before the 16-day ceasefire between government (GRP) and the National Democratic Front (NDF) ends. The NDF represents the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People’s Army in the peace negotiations (CPP-NPA).

The two parties each declared a unilateral and mutual ceasefire on December 22 for the period from 00:00 on December 23, 2019 to 11:59 p.m. on January 7, 2020.

Under the NDF’s ceasefire declaration, NPA units are forbidden from attacking Army, police and Cafgus during the 15-day period. It did not however, mention civilians or those identified as paramilitary units helping the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Datu Sammy Diwangan, 45, an Umayamnon leader and Mandatory IP Representative of Barangay Canangaan, was killed while cutting wood in his farm last Jan. 4.

Lt. Col. Ronald Illana, commander of the 8th Infantry Battalion said Diwangan was with his nine-year-old son and another companion when the rebels waylaid them and killed the victim.

The NPA has not issued any statement on Diwangan.

Illana said the municipal government of Cabanglasan has convened a fact-finding team to look into the murder.

“Diwangan has been receiving death threats for helping the Army thwart the NPA expansion in the mountains of Cabanglasan,” Illana said.

Illana said they have repeatedly warned Diwangan not to venture out to his farm because of these threats.

He said Diwangan believed he would not be harmed by the NPA because there was an ongoing ceasefire between the government and the NDF.

Illana said the NPA had accused Diwangan as a leader of a notorious anti-communist paramilitary group called Alamara.

Galvez also blamed the NPA rebels for the burnig of a livelihood center in Barangay Panansalan in Compostela, Compostela Valley on December 30.

“Clearly, these acts of terrorism are meant to instill fear, anger and hatred in the hearts and minds of the people, particularly among our Lumad brothers and sisters, Galvez said.

Galvez in a statement on December 28, urged everyone to “exercise caution” in resuming peace negotiations with the NDF as localized peace talks, he said, have proven to be “highly effective in achieving enduring peace, social justice, and development.”

“We support President Duterte’s wish to ensure a peaceful holiday season for Filipinos and particularly all the combatants. May this act of goodwill be considered by the other side as a step towards finally putting an end to the armed violence,” Galvez said.

But the retired General and former Armed Forces Chief of Staff urged everyone to be cautious in resuming peace negotiations at the national level as he recalled incidents in the past “when ceasefires were blatantly violated and exploited by the left in order to push forward their agenda.”

Galvez expressed fear that government may be put at a disadvantage if the peace talks with the NDF is resumed.

“As peace talks were being held at the national level, attacks were being carried out by the rebels. In short, there have already been precedents. We have to be prepared and make sure that such incidents are prevented at all costs,” Galvez said.

Galvez said that through the localized peace talks or localized peace engagements (LPEs) institutionalized by Executive Order 70, government is “demonstrating its strong resolve and decisiveness to put an end to the local communist armed conflict by directly addressing the roots of the armed rebellion and involving all national and local government agencies together with key stakeholders – including the rebels themselves.” (Froilan Gallardo / MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2020/01/peace-adviser-condemns-murder-of-lumad-leader-in-bukidnon/

2 NPA couples surrender to Army battalion in DavNor

From the Mindanao Times (Jan 7, 2020): 2 NPA couples surrender to Army battalion in DavNor (By Rhoda Grace Saron)

Four more members of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the 89th Infantry Battalion in Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte last Dec. 29.

Lt. Col. Silas Trasmontero, the 89th IB commander, identified them Cardo, of Baking Tresera, Basil Platoon, a resident of Barangay Matupe, San Fernando, Bukidnon, and his wife Nita, supply officer, a resident of Purok Quarry, Sitio Nabunturan, Barangay Palma Gil, Talaingod.

The other surrenderees were alias Merlyn, medic of Basil Platoon, and her husband, Marlon, both residents of Barangay Cabuling, San Fernando, Bukidnon. All surrenderees were members of Guerrilla Front 55.

The two couples surrendered because they were no longer receiving support from the organization, especially their basic needs.

“They were always on the run and found it hard to access or receive their food supplies and necessities while monthly allowance for their children were also cut off,” he said.

Trasmontero added that the leaders of Guerrilla Front 55 already surrendered to the 89th IB, which demoralized the different units.

“This was further aggravated by the combined community support operations and massive military operations of the battalion and its neighboring units before the suspension of military operations,” Trasmontero said.

The surrenderees were brought to the headquarters of 89th IB in Baranga New Visayas, Sto. Tomas, Davao Del Norte for custodial debriefing.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2020/01/08/2-npa-couples-surrender-to-army-battalion-in-davnor/

Communications chief lashes out at New York Times for damning article on Duterte land reforms

Posted to Coconuts Manila (Jan 7, 2020): Communications chief lashes out at New York Times for damning article on Duterte land reforms

Photo: Jonathan Cellona/ABS-CBN News

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar yesterday slammed The New York Times for publishing an article last month highlighting the failures of President Rodrigo Duterte’s land reform program, which the paper maintained benefited monopolistic landowners instead of poor farmers.

In a statement posted on the PCOO’s Facebook page, Andanar said journalist Peter Goodman’s damning Dec. 27 article was “irresponsible and unbalanced,” and presented “inaccurate information” on how the government is managing the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP), which seeks to break up wealthy families’ ownership of large swaths of land and distribute them to poor peasants.

“Had Goodman bothered to do the due diligence expected of his profession he would know that in fact the administration through the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has strong political will and continues to uphold the welfare of our landless farmers through the implementation of CARP despite current challenges and problems inherited from previous administrations,” Andanar’s statement reads.

Read: PH Communications Secretary Martin Andanar says Hasan Minhaj’s show being used by Duterte critics to ‘demonize’ president

Goodman’s article had said that Duterte “has not challenged the monopolistic grip” of landowners, and that many farmers are mired in poverty, illiteracy, and malnutrition because they are cultivating land they do not own. Far from benefiting poor, landless farmers, Duterte, the article said, had actually “fortified” the control of the wealthy landowners.

It also said that Duterte is “increasingly viewed as a threat” by farmers as his campaign to annihilate the communist New People’s Army bleeds over into persecution of poor farmers, a group from which the NPA has long recruited. This campaign has led to the arrests, and even killings, of numerous farmers.

Even Rafael V. Mariano, Duterte’s initial pick to oversee the land reform program, was quoted as saying that the president was “not really serious and sincere in addressing the fundamental problem of the Filipino peasant, which is landlessness.”

Mariano was booted from the position just over a year into his tenure after coming under withering attacks in a congressional confirmation hearing from Duterte allies, particularly from Davao, the president’s power base. A lawyer for one of the agro-industrial companies that took issue with Mariano’s land redistribution work at the time was the husband of Duterte’s daughter, Sara, who herself accused Mariano of abetting communist attacks.

A presidential spokesperson had declined to respond to the Times‘ request for comment.

Andanar, however, insisted that the program was a success, and accused Goodman of slapdash reporting.

Read: Savage Bern: PH accuses Bernie Sanders of ‘grandstanding’ over scathing remarks on rights record

“This administration continues to secure, through certain laws and with conditions, that all agricultural lands distributed to agrarian reform beneficiaries will remain with them and as agricultural lands,” he added. “The government, through DAR, has already achieved landmark distributions of Certificate of Land Ownership Awards (CLOAs). Not stopping with just land distribution, it also provides support services that will help the beneficiaries become self-sufficient and productive landowners.”

“These are among the facts and information that Goodman could have easily accessed had he taken the proper time and channel to request for them instead of rushing the formal process, much like he rushed to conclusions with his limited knowledge,” Andanar lamented.

This is not the first time Andanar expressed his displeasure over The Gray Lady’s portrayal of the Duterte administration.

In December 2016, he said the newspaper’s unflattering depiction of Duterte’s deadly drug war in the award-winning piece “They Are Slaughtering Us Like Animals” was “farthest from the truth.” In March 2017, he accused the paper of reporting “lies” and “fake news” for publishing a profile that said Duterte is “obsessed with death” and “relishes the image of killer-savior.”

https://coconuts.co/manila/news/communications-chief-lashes-out-at-new-york-times-for-damning-article-on-duterte-land-reforms/

Bangsamoro allowed to directly engage with other nations: interim chief

From ABS-CBN (Jan 7, 2020): Bangsamoro allowed to directly engage with other nations: interim chief

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The Bangsamoro region is allowed under the law to directly engage with 
foreign investors and other nations with diplomatic ties with the Philippines, 
its interim chief minister said Tuesday.

Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, who also heads the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, 
made the remark after the outburst of Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro 
Locsin Jr. on social media following the former's meeting with diplomats in 
Turkey last month.

Locsin had planned to file a diplomatic protest over the matter but did not 
push through.

Philippines 'aborts' filing of diplomatic protest vs Turkey over BARMM engagement

Ebrahim said his trip to Ankara from Dec. 11 to 16 was official and he obtained 
permission from the Office of the President.

"Under the BOL (Bangsamoro Organic Law), there are provisions allowing us 
to directly engage with foreign investors and countries with diplomatic 
relations with the Philippines," he told ANC's Early Edition.

"There is no provision in the BOL wherein...after we (secure a) travel permit with the
Office of the President, there is no provision we will still need the permission from
the foreign ministry."

Ebrahim said he was "surprised" by Locsin's remark because the Turkish
ambassadorin Manila had said she sent a note verbale to the Department
of Foreign Affairs.

"I did not think that will happen because the fact that I met with the consul general in
Ankara shows that there’s a coordination with the foreign ministry," he said.

Embrahim said he thanked the Turkish government for its continuing assistance to
the region and for being "very helpful in the peace process."

He added that he had informed the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace
Process about the issue, as it also heads the Intergovernmental Relations Body,
which handles Bangsamoro's relations with the national government.

The region, meantime, secured some P4.153 billion investment from Malaysia,
China, Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, among others in 2019, according to
Ebrahim.

It is allotted P65.2 billion in the 2020 national budget, Ebrahim said, and will
focus on funding education, medical and health services, social services and
"strategic" infrastructure to "catch up" with other regions.

Some 3,000 opportunities are available on the Bangsamoro job portal, he added.

"We are really working very hard because as long as the budget will be downloaded
to us immediately then we have no reason to be delayed in our program," he said.

https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/01/07/20/bangsamoro-allowed-to-directly-engage-
with-other-nations-interim-chief

Intensified ops vs. Reds to resume as soon as holiday truce lapses —AFP

From GMA News Online (Jan 7, 2020): Intensified ops vs. Reds to resume as soon as holiday truce lapses —AFP (By ANNA FELICIA BAJO)

Intensified combat operations against communist rebels would resume as soon as the holiday ceasefire agreement between the government and the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) lapses on January 8, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Tuesday.

"They can expect that combat operations shall resume with more intensity and focus as soon as the clock strikes 12 midnight of 08 Jan 2020 without the need for orders from the new AFP Chief Lieutenant General Felimon Santos, Jr.," AFP spokesman Brigadier General Edgard Arevalo said in a statement.

Arevalo emphasized that the military was not inclined to recommend any national level truce with the communist rebels unless the latter abandon their armed struggle.

"While the AFP gives primacy to peace process and will submit to the guidance of Commander-in-Chief, we are for localized peace talks given its success owing to the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC)," Arevalo said.

He said the unilateral ceasefire was actually a loss for the government because of the hostilities recorded during the period of the truce.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/721321/intensified-ops-vs-reds-to-resume-as-soon-as-holiday-truce-lapses-afp/story/

AFP says government at losing end of ceasefire; Esperon bats for localized peace talks

From the Manila Bulletin (Jan 7, 2020): AFP says government at losing end of ceasefire; Esperon bats for localized peace talks (By Martin Sadongdong)

The Philippine government (GRP) has lost to the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) at the end of the unilateral and reciprocal ceasefire which was approved by President Duterte.



Philippine Armed Forces Spokesperson Brig.Gen. Edgard Arevalo
(AP Photo / Bullit Marquez / FILE PHOTO / MANILA BULLETIN)

This was the bold claim of Brigadier General Edgard Arevalo, spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), on Tuesday, hours before the expiration of the Yuletide ceasefire implemented by the GRP and the CPP-NPA-NDF from 12 a.m. of December 23, 2019 to 11:59 p.m. of January 7, 2020.

“In the unilateral ceasefire that was declared, the government lost,” Arevalo said.

He cited the “ceasefire violations” of the Reds when they allegedly launched violent attacks against withdrawing troops in Labo, Camarines and Tubungan, Iloilo that resulted in the death of a soldier and wounding of eight others on the first day of the truce.

Earlier, top Communist leader Jose Maria “Joma” Sison belied that the NPA staged the attack, and claimed the rebels merely defended themselves from the on-going combat operations of the military.

Aside from that, Arevalo said the Filipino people lost to the CPP-NPA-NDF, too.

Arevalo said the NPA’s Special Partisan Unit (SPARU) launched operations against civilians in Pantukan, Davao de Oro on December 30 which was eventually thwarted by the soldiers.

Two tribal leaders were also murdered by suspected NPA rebels in Agusan del Sur and Bukidnon on January 1 and January 4, respectively, Arevalo added.

“They were not able to merrily and peacefully celebrate the Yuletide peace deal as intended by government’s declaration of a unilateral ceasefire,” Arevalo said.

With the lapse of the holiday truce, Arevalo said the military will resume its combat operations against the communist groups “with more intensity and focus” starting Wednesday midnight.

“[W]hile the AFP gives primacy to peace process and will submit to the guidance of Commander-in-Chief [President Duterte], we are for localized peace talks given its success owing to the NTF-ELCAC,” Arevalo stated.

NTF-ELCAC stands for the National Task Force to End Local Armed Conflict, which is tasked to eliminate insurgency in the country through a “whole of nation” approach.

It is being chaired by Duterte, with National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. as the vice-chair.

“Until and unless they abandon the armed struggle, we, in the AFP, are not inclined to recommend any national level truce with this fork-tongued terrorists,” Arevalo said.

Local peace talks

Meanwhile, Esperon reiterated his intention to push for the implementation of localized peace talks at the barangay, city and municipal level instead of a top-level negotiation between the GRP and the CPP-NPA-NDF.

Esperon said the government has had many attempts to end the conflict with the communist rebels since 1986 with over 40 rounds of peace talks conducted and with the same people as negotiators.

“But for the longest time, the peace talks were only used as a period to rest when badly beaten, seek reinforcements, and initiate recruitment. Engaging in another round of peace talks after all these years and all our efforts without significant changes is therefore pointless,” Esperon said.

Data from the military showed that a total of 10,918 communist rebels yielded to authorities in 2019 alone while some 1,860 firearms were either seized or surrendered.

Insincere

Esperon expressed doubts on the sincerity of the CPP-NPA-NDF especially after the violent attacks launched against government troops and civilians while the holiday truce was still in effect.

He also slammed the ambush on soldiers on December 13 which was allegedly perpetrated by the NPA using an improvised explosive device, a method which is a violation of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL). The attack claimed the lives of four people, including three civilians.

“That is one clear character of the CPP-NPA-NDF — their pursuit of armed struggle to be victorious over the government at all costs,” Esperon said.

However, President Duterte appeared to have let the attacks on troops and civilians slide as the truce was not stopped.

Duterte has been pushing for the revival of the formal peace negotiations with the Reds since late last year, when he sent Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III to the Netherlands for the start of the informal talks with CPP’s Sison.

If everything goes according to plan of the GRP and CPP-NPA-NDF, the peace talks could start this January, according to Sison and other officials involved in the negotiations.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/01/07/afp-says-government-at-losing-end-of-ceasefire-esperon-bats-for-localized-peace-talks/

Reds set terms of Hanoi peace gab

From the Manila Standard (Jan 7, 2020): Reds set terms of Hanoi peace gab (By MJ Blancaflor)

Formal peace negotiations between communist rebels and the government may resume this month, Communist Party of the Philippines founding chairman Jose Ma. Sison said, but the Duterte administration must start releasing political prisoners as a goodwill measure.

Sison added he is willing to have a one-on-one meeting with his former student, President Rodrigo Duterte, in Hanoi but only “after the mutual approval of an interim peace agreement.”

“The release of the political prisoners on humanitarian grounds will ensure the success of the formal meeting to resume the peace negotiations between the government and the National Democratic Front within January,” he said.

Sison, who has been on self-exile in Utrecht since 1987, said several NDF consultants were among those detained by the government following the termination of the peace talks in Nov. 2017, which in effect cancelled the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees.

Among the NDF consultants who were arrested after negotiations broke down were Vicente Ladlad, Adelberto Silva, Rey Casambre, and Esterlita Suaybaguio.

Ladlad is accused of involvement in the multiple murder cases in Southern Leyte for the purging of communist members tagged by the CPP leadership as government spies in their organization.

https://www.manilastandard.net/index.php/news/national/314258/reds-set-terms-of-hanoi-peace-gab.html

Rebel medic surrenders in Nueva Vizcaya

Posted to Philippine Information Agency (Jan 7, 2020): Rebel medic surrenders in Nueva Vizcaya (By Oliver T. Baccay)

TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan, Jan. 6 (PIA) - - A member of the New People’s Army (NPA) who also served as trained platoon medical officer voluntarily surrendered to the joint forces of the 502nd Infantry Brigade and the Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Police Office in Villaverde, Nueva Vizcaya.

A guerilla and medic of the New People's Army surrenders to the athourities in Nueva Vizcaya. (by 5ID)

Alias “Jay jay”, 27 years old, is the designated medic of the Platoon Uno of Komiteng Larangan Guerilla Quirino-Nueva Vizcaya and number 14 in the list of target wanted persons last year.

Brigadier General Laurence E. Mina, commander of the 502nd Brigade, said the voluntary surrender of “Jay jay” is attributed to the massive campaign of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police in compliance to the thrust of the present administration to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC).

He also commended the involved troops for their significant accomplishment in the achievement of peace and security not only in the province but in the whole region as well.

"The voluntary surrender of “Jay jay” is considered a big distress to the rebel groups and a clear manifestation of the degrading strength of the communist terrorists touring in the region. We are performing at our finest to condemn the atrocities of the communist movement and we continue to encourage the public to report any suspicious activities to the respective authorities to contribute in this fight against communist insurgency,” Mina said.

A firearm, ammonitions, medical kit and a bag containing his personal belongings were surrendered by "Jay jay" to the authorities when he voluntarily surrendered. ( by 5ID)

“Jayjay” also surrendered one caliber 38 revolver with six ammunitions, two hand grenades, two pieces of 40mm ammunitions, and one back pack containing first aid kit with acupuncture paraphernalia and personal belongings.

For his part, Major General Pablo M. Lorenzo, commander of the 5th Infantry Division, urged other members of the rebel groups to return into the fold of the law and live peacefully together with their families.

“The Communist NPA terrorists in Cagayan Valley are in disarray and inconsequential to the point that many of them are abandoning the armed struggle to topple our democratic government," Lorenzo said, adding that “Jayjay” and the former rebels made the correct and life-changing decisions to join the mainstream society in order to live peacefully and have productive lives that everyone deserves.

Lorenzo further called on the remaining NPA members to lay down their arms and avail the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) of the government with the assurance that anyone who will be surrendering will be accepted with open arms by the caring sand supportive government and the society. (ALM/OTB/PIA Cagayan with reports from Maj. Noriel Tayaban)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1032314

Benguet creates prov’l task force to end local armed conflict

Posted to Philippine Information Agency (Jan 7, 2020): Benguet creates prov’l task force to end local armed conflict (By Susan C. Aro)



LA TRINIDAD, Benguet, Jan. 7(PIA) --The Provincial Peace and Order Council and the Anti-Drug Abuse Council recently passed a resolution creating the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC).

The province is not a communist armed conflict-affected province and has no vulnerable barangays. But as premised in the joint resolution, the establishment of the task force will strengthen local or traditional conflict resolution and management mechanisms. It will also establish formal and informal avenues for continuing dialogue and participation of peace stakeholders among peace and order councils, local development councils, and Katarungang Pambarangay.

The resolution is seen to strengthen Executive Order 50 earlier issued by Governor Melchor Diclas which establishes PTF-ELCAC.

Department of Interior and Local Government Provincial Director Rufina Fegcan said the joint resolution reinforces the existence and establishment of the task force which is chaired by the governor with the DILG as head of the secretariat.

Department of Interior and Local Government - Benguet Provincial Director Rufina Fegcan presents to the members of the Provincial Peace and Order Council and the Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council the draft resolution establishing the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict. (SCA-PIA-CAR, Benguet)

As can be recalled, President Rodrigo Duterte issued Executive Order Number 70 last December 4, 2018 institutionalizing the Whole -of-Nation approach to attain inclusive and sustainable peace. It mandates the creation of a National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict and replicated in the lower levels of governance to addresses the root causes of local armed conflict prioritizing the delivery of basic government services, social development packages, and construction of needed infrastructures to usher development as part of the country’s peace agenda.

Among the functions of the provincial task force are ensure the creation of municipal task forces, ensure that the local government units include peace building initiatives, and provide technical assistance at the municipal level.

Members of the PTF-ELCAC are the Philippine National Police, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Chair on Peace and Order and Public Safety, Liga ng Barangay, Sangguniang Kabataan, provincial government offices such as Planning and Development, Health Office, Social Welfare and Development, Budget, Accounting, Agriculture Office, Engineering Office, Environment and Natural Resources Office, Prosecutor’s Office, Department of Trade and Industry, Philippine Army, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Department of Education, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, Department of Agrarian Reform, and Department of Public Works and Highways. (JDP/SCA-PIA-CAR, Benguet) 

 
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1032375

RPOC, RDC XI chairpersons against reopening of talks with Reds

Posted to Philippine Information Agency (Jan 7, 2020): RPOC, RDC XI chairpersons against reopening of talks with Reds (By Rudolph Ian Alama)

The RPOC-XI and RDC-XI chairpersons issued support to the stand of Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte against the reopening of peace talks with the reds.
DAVAO CITY, January 6 - Davao Region Peace and Order Council Chairperson Governor Nelson Dayanghirang and Davao Region Development Council Chairperson Governor Jayvee Tyrone Uy expressed support to Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte’s stand against the reopening of negotiations with lawless crime groups particularly the CPP/NPA.

After a meeting in January 2, the RPOC and RDC chairpersons as supported by Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib are proposing for a joint RPOC-RDC resolution expressing their stand against the re-opening of talks with the said lawless crime group.

“I personally believe that the peace negotiations with the Communist party already tagged as a terrorist organization would not be a favorable move for our government as they will only use this window as a means to strengthen their forces and gain their foothold amid the impending lifting of the ceasefire agreement”, Dayanghirang said in a press statement.

He emphasized that during the past year, Davao Region has already made a lot of progress as far as initiatives on peace and order is concerned as well as the localized implementation of the President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order 70 or the Whole-of-Nation Approach to Attain Sustainable Peace and to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

“As such, we could not afford our momentum to be halted and have all our efforts go down the drain”, he added.

The RPOC reported that the RTF ELCAC formed through Executive Order 70 brought out programs and initiatives that have resulted into declining mass base support to numerous rebel returnees from zero recruitment in most areas and reduced number of violent incidents and attacks by the CPP/NPA.

While the EO 70 resulted to the start and implementation of a community-based, multi-sectoral and participatory localized peace engagement providing for a better and effective peace framework that seeks to address major issues and concerns of the people.

The local chief executives and regional council chairpersons agreed to push and support Mayor Duterte who initially issued a statement on 23 December 2019 and publicly asked the President to reconsider the decision to re-open negotiations with the NDFP, given previous violent attacks by the groups against innocent civilians and the absence of indications that the CPP/NPA is willing to negotiate for a peaceful resolution of the conflict.

“We strongly believe on the President’s genuine intention to end the long-running Communist insurgency and we remain committed in our oath to continue to push for initiatives, reforms, and programs that will benefit our Dabawenyo constituents and to foster true and lasting peace in this part of our country”, Dayanghirang elaborated.

Said local chief executives are also proposing peace engagements to be pursued and done at the local level with the LGUs taking the lead in the localized peace process. (PIA-XI)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1032373

Ex-Sultan Kudarat vice guv killed in ambush

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2020): Ex-Sultan Kudarat vice guv killed in ambush (By Edwin Fernandez)



AMBUSH-SLAY. Police officers seal off the black Mitsubishi pickup vehicle of former Sultan Kudarat Vice Governor Rolando Recinto following his ambush by still unidentified gunmen on Tuesday afternoon (Jan. 7, 2020) along the highway in Barangay Bilumin, Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat. Probers say the victim was on his way home to Lambayong from nearby Tacurong City around 2 p.m. when fired upon by motorcycle-riding assassins. (Photo courtesy of Lambayong MPS)

Unidentified gunmen killed the former vice-governor of Sultan Kudarat province in an ambush along the national highway in Lambayong town Tuesday.

Former Vice Governor Rolando “Rolly” Recinto was driving his Mitsubishi pickup (LDF-237) heading for home in Lambayong town from Tacurong City when fired upon by motorcycle-riding gunmen along the national highway in Barangay Bilumin, police said.

Responding police officers from a nearby police outpost rushed Recinto to a hospital in Tacurong City, but he was declared dead on arrival.

Recinto also once served as mayor of Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat where his son, Francis Eric Recinto, is the vice mayor.

Police and scene of the crime operatives are still at the ambush site conducting post-crime probe as of this posting.

“The Lambayong police has launched a hot pursuit operation against the fleeing attackers,” Lt. Col. Lino Capellan, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office-12, said in a statement following the incident.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1090195

Gov’t forces, ex-MILF men uproot marijuana plants in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2020): Gov’t forces, ex-MILF men uproot marijuana plants in Maguindanao (By Edwin Fernandez)



MARIJUANA HAUL. Personnel from the local police, military and former members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front document the more than a thousand hills of marijuana plants seized during a joint law enforcement operation in Barangay Dungguan, Datu Montawal, Maguindanao on Monday (Jan. 6, 2020). Only last month, authorities also uprooted some 500 marijuana plants at another hidden plantation in the municipality. (Photo courtesy of Jess M. Alli – DXMY Cotabato)

Government forces and former members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) joined hands in raiding a marijuana plantation and successfully uprooted 1,000 marijuana plants in Datu Montawal, Maguindanao on Monday.

Capt. Razul Pandulo, police chief of Datu Montawal town, said members of the Army’s 7th Infantry Battalion (7IB), the local police and former MILF members conducted the raid in Barangay Dungguan that resulted in the recovery of at least 1,000 hills (seeds or plants planted in a group) of marijuana plants.

However, Pandulo said the cultivator or the owner of the prohibited plants was not around during the midday raid.

A portion of the marijuana haul was torched in the area while the remaining portion was turned over to PDEA for proper disposition, he said.

“We appreciate the efforts of local officials who helped authorities locate the plantation,” he said.

2Lt. Jomar Binay-an, 7IB officer, said the Army is always prepared to provide manpower and resources in all law enforcement in Datu Montawal and nearby areas.

Pandulo said Hadji Abdulla Hamza of the MILF’s Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces was also instrumental in the successful operation also participated in by operatives from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).

Last month, a joint team of police and military personnel also seized some 500 marijuana plants in another village in Datu Montawal.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1090152

No hitches in truce with NPA NegOr: police exec

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2020): No hitches in truce with NPA NegOr: police exec (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

The holiday ceasefire between government security forces and communist rebels in Negros Oriental went on without violations reported on both sides, a Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office (NOPPO) official said on Monday.

NOPPO director Col. Julian Entoma said they received no report of any incident involving atrocity or even harassment by the New People's Army (NPA) members during the 16-day truce.

This is a welcome development in Negros Oriental considering that it is the only province in Region 7 (Central Visayas) still facing the insurgency problem, Entoma said.

Now that the ceasefire has ended, the police will resume its security contingency plan in the various police stations, he added.

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA and President Rodrigo Duterte announced separate declarations of a unilateral ceasefire from Dec. 23 to Jan. 7 to give way to the celebration of the holidays.

On Tuesday, Entoma met with the city and town police chiefs and unit commanders in the province for the first command conference of NOPPO for the year 2020, which was, however, off-limits to the media.

In the interview, he said he had reiterated to the police officials the "special guidance" from the Police Regional Office-7 headed by Brig. Gen. Valeriano de Leon, “to enact their security plan, be vigilant, and conduct tactical offensives against the guerillas.”

Another order is to enhance anti-illegal drug operations because of the recent recovery of about one kilo of shabu in Cebu City and the upcoming Sinulog Festival this month, which is expected to bring a spike in the number of tourists there, he said.

Dumaguete City is a known transit point for illegal drugs as Entoma admitted that there are still many drug users and pushers here.

Meanwhile, NOPPO will also resume its activities in line with the government’s program to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) under the President’s Executive Order No. 70 stipulating a Whole-Of-Nation Approach in achieving lasting peace, Entoma said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1090214

Sara's stand on peace talks with Reds gains support

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2020): Sara's stand on peace talks with Reds gains support (By Che Palicte)



Davao City Mayor Sara Z. Duterte. (PNA file photo)

DAVAO CITY – Both the Davao Region Peace and Order Council (RPOC) and Davao Region Development Council (RDC) have expressed support to the stand of Mayor Sara Z. Duterte against the reopening of negotiations with the Communist Party of the Philippines- New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

In a statement on Monday by the Regional Task Force–Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC), Davao Oriental Governor Nelson Dayanghirang, RPOC chairperson, and Davao de Oro Governor Jayvee Tyrone Uy, RDC-11 chairperson, said they are proposing for a joint RPOC-RDC resolution expressing the stand of the two regional bodies against the re-opening of peace negotiations with the rebels.

Last December 23, Mayor Sara cautioned the government against reopening talks with the CPP-NPA after a string of deadly attacks believed to have been perpetrated by the rebels.

Sara also asked the national government to exclude this city from the Christmas truce, which began on December 23 until January 7.

Dayanghirang said he believes that the peace negotiations with a rebel group "already tagged as a terrorist organization would not be a favorable move for our government as they will only use this window as a means to strengthen their forces and gain their foothold amid the impending lifting of the ceasefire agreement".

He noted that during the past year, Davao Region has already made progress on peace and order, specifically the localized implementation of the President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order 70 instituting a "whole-of-nation" approach in tackling the decades-old communist rebellion.

“As such, we could not afford our momentum to be halted and have all our efforts go down the drain,” he said.

RPOC reported that the RTF-ELCAC, formed through EO 70, brought out programs and initiatives "that have resulted into declining mass base support to numerous rebel returnees from zero recruitment in most areas," and reduced number of violent incidents and attacks by the CPP-NPA.

“We strongly believe on the President’s genuine intention to end the long-running Communist insurgency and we remain committed in our oath to continue to push for initiatives, reforms, and programs that will benefit our Dabawenyo constituents and to foster true and lasting peace in this part of our country”, Dayanghirang said.

Dayanghirang and Uy also proposed that peace engagements be pursued and done at the local level with the local government units taking the lead in the localized peace process.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1090232

Caraga IPs slam Agusan Sur tribal leader’s murder

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2020): Caraga IPs slam Agusan Sur tribal leader’s murder (By Alexander Lopez)



CONDEMNED. National Commission on Indigenous People Caraga director Ferdausi Cerna says he is deeply hurt by the killing of tribal leader Datu Bontola Tinaghao Mansinugdan in Kinabonglohan Creek, Barangay Kinamaybay, Esperanza town in Agusan del Sur on Jan. 1, 2020. Cerna denounced the New People’s Army in the area for Datu Bontola's killing. (PNA photo by Alexander Lopez)

The National Commission on Indigenous People in Caraga Region (NCIP-13) condemned on Tuesday the killing of a tribal leader in Agusan del Sur.

NCIP-13 director Ferdausi Cerna described the killing of Datu Bontola Tinaghao Mansinugdan as "ruthless and cruel," saying he believes it was done by the communists New People’s Army (NPA).

“We condemn the killing of Datu Bontola in the highest term. It is sad to note that he was killed in the midst of the ceasefire between the government and the NPA,” Cerna told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

The local police in the Agusan del Sur town of Esperanza said Datu Bontola, 42, was killed on Jan. 1, 2020 at Kinabonglohan Creek, Barangay Kinamaybay.

Datu Bontola, a widower, was a prominent Higaonon tribal leader in Agusan del Sur.

Police said the victim was with his 11-year-old son hunting frogs in the creek when the armed men, believed to be NPA rebels, arrived and shot him to death.

Cerna said based on the information he gathered, the IP leader bore a gunshot in the head.

He added that the IP leader was killed in the presence of his 11-year old son, who was unharmed.

“I can’t imagine what the perpetrators had done to Datu Bontolan and his son,” Cerna said.

“Government troopers are in their camps while the truce was in effect but the NPA continued their operations and the killing of IP leaders,” Cerna said.

He also criticized the NPA for its "lack of respect and regard to the lives" of the IPs in the region.

“Is the ceasefire not applicable to the IP? Why the NPA, in the middle of the truce, continue their operations in IP villages and kill their leaders?” Cerna said.

He added that his office is now contacting the other leaders in the community of Datu Bontola to check the situation of his son.

“That was a very traumatic experience for his son. He was only 11 years of age,” Cerna said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1090226

Family of IP villager abducted by Reds flees home

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2020): Family of IP villager abducted by Reds flees home (By Alexander Lopez)



ABDUCTED. Datu Rico Maca (standing), the Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, delivers a privilege speech during the regular session of the Sangguniang Bayan on Tuesday (January 7), condemning the abduction of Manobo tribe member Taloy Aguilo Astudillo by suspected New People’s Army rebels. Maca also asked the municipal government to provide immediate assistance to the family of the victim. (Photo courtesy of IPMR Datu Rico Maca)

The members of the family of Taloy Aguilo Astudillo, the Manobo tribe member seized by armed men believed to be members of the New People’s Army (NPA) on December 3 last year in the Surigao del Sur town of San Miguel have fled their home for fear of their safety.

This was confirmed to the Philippine News Agency by Datu Rico Maca, the Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of San Miguel municipality on Tuesday.

Maca, who also heads the Committee on Peace and Order of the Sangguniang Bayan of San Miguel, also condemned the abduction of Astudillo in a privilege speech during the legislative body's regular session.

“I sent men on Monday to check the situation of the family of Astudillo. They returned by the evening and told me they already abandoned their home for fear and hardships,” Maca said.

Since his abduction in his house in Sitio Inadan, Brgy. Magroyong, Maca said nothing has been heard about the condition and whereabouts of Astudillo.

“Just imagine the effects of the NPA abduction to the family of Astudillo. They are now dislocated while his children no longer attend classes,” he said.

Capt. Jonald Romorosa, Army's 36th Infantry Battalion’s civil-military operations officer, told PNA on Sunday that they are conducting operations to locate the victim.

Maca said the municipal council has already passed a resolution on Tuesday asking the Philippine National Police to help find Astudillo.

He said municipal government has also been asked to extend financial assistance to Astudillo's family.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1090225

New budget for anti-insurgency program sought

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2020): New budget for anti-insurgency program sought (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)



ANTI-INSURGENCY PROGRAM BUDGET. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte presides over the 45th Cabinet Meeting at the Malacañan Palace on Monday (Jan. 6, 2020). Malacañang on Tuesday said the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict has asked Duterte to release new funds for anti-insurgency program. (Presidential photo of Rey Baniquet)

The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) has asked President Rodrigo Duterte to release new funds for an anti-insurgency program that seeks to end communism in villages nationwide, Malacañang said on Tuesday.

The request for a new budget for the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) was made by National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperson Jr., who concurrently serves as NTF-ELCAC vice-chairperson, during the 45th Cabinet meeting held at Malacañan Palace on Monday night, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said.

Panelo, however, failed to mention the exact amount the NTF-ELCAC sought for the continued implementation of RCSP.

"Secretary Hermogenes Esperon, the vice-chairperson of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, asked for a budget to sustain the Retooled Community Support Program which would provide for the barangay development package for communist insurgency-cleared and threatened barangays nationwide," Panelo said in a statement.

"The barangay development package may be given depending on the need of target barangays which may include, but is not limited to, farm-to-market roads, water systems, health stations, school buildings, and livelihood programs,” he added.

RCSP is the government's primary program that intends to combat the activities of the communist terrorist groups.
RCSP also aims to address identified issues of the community by implementing programs, projects, and activities that will put an end to governance and development gaps and will promote sustainable peace and development.

In line with the President's goal of ending local communist armed conflict, RCSP is being implemented in areas with vulnerable populations to ensure the improved delivery of basic services, Esperon earlier said.

On Nov. 23, 2017, Duterte formally shelved the peace talks between state peace negotiators and consultants of Communist Party of the Philippines's (CPP) political wing, the National Democratic Front (NDF), through the issuance of Proclamation 360.

Proclamation 360 states that the CPP, NDF, and its armed wing, the New People's Army (NPA), failed to show sincerity in pursuing "genuine and meaningful" peaceful negotiations, despite the "best efforts" exerted by the Duterte administration.

The President also signed on Dec. 5, 2017, proclamation 374, which brands the CPP-NPA as a terror organization. The CPP-NPA has also been tagged as a terrorist group by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

On Dec. 4, 2018, however, Duterte signed Executive Order (EO) 70, which institutionalizes the whole-of-nation approach that will be implemented by the NTF-ELCAC, in a bid to attain "inclusive and sustainable peace."

Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. on Monday said the communist insurgents should first walk their talk before the peace negotiations between the government and the NDF can resume.

Galvez issued the statement, as he condemned the NPA rebels' three separate attacks in Surigao del Sur on Dec. 3 last year, in Compostela Valley on Dec. 30, and in Cabanglasan, Bukidnon on Jan. 4 this year.

The communist-initiated attacks came despite the implementation of holiday ceasefire, which took effect on Dec. 23, 2019, and will end at 11:59 p.m. on Jan. 7, 2020.

On Dec. 31, the President renewed his intent to talk with CPP founder Jose Maria Sison without the presence of a peace panel from both the national government and the NDF.

Panelo, on Jan. 2, said Sison, who has been in self-exile in the Netherlands since 1987, should seize the opportunity to hold a one-on-one meeting with Duterte so they would have the chance to discuss the possible revival of peace talks.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1090170

AFP unlikely to recommend another truce with Reds

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2020): AFP unlikely to recommend another truce with Reds (By Priam Nepomuceno)



AFP spokesperson Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo. (File photo)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday said it is not inclined to recommend any national-level truce with the communist rebels unless they officially abandon their armed struggle.

"Until and unless they abandon armed struggle, we in the AFP are not inclined to recommend any national-level truce with these fork-tongued terrorists led by the likes of (Communist Party of the Philippines founder) Jose Maria Sison and his minions. They all lost contact with reality but enjoy the comforts and perks of a lavish life in the Netherlands," AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, said in a statement.

Arevalo's statement came as the holiday truce between the government and the communist rebels, which started midnight of Dec. 23, 2019, ends before midnight Tuesday.

"Never again!" the AFP spokesperson said when asked if there is a need to go on with a similar truce in the future.

Arevalo noted that during the unilateral ceasefire, government forces had an Army trooper killed and six others were wounded in Labo, Camarines Norte.

The incident happened at around 9 a.m. of Dec. 23, 2019, mere hours after the declaration of the ceasefire.

New People's Army (NPA) terrorists ambushed soldiers returning to camp in compliance with the AFP's suspension of offensive military operation (SOMO), Arevalo added.

"The treachery happened a few hours after the NPA declared their unilateral ceasefire. At about 7:30 a.m. of the same date, the terrorist NPA detonated an antipersonnel mine they laid for the policemen in Tubungan, Iloilo. Two lawmen were wounded and the police car was severely damaged," Arevalo said.

Civilians also lost during this period as they were not able to peacefully celebrate the Yuletide peace deal, as intended by the government’s declaration of a unilateral ceasefire, as there were three atrocities recorded.

"Terrorist NPA(s) launched SPARU (Special Partisan Unit) operations against civilians in Pantukan, Davao de Oro on 30 December 2019. Soldiers thwarted the attack thereby neutralizing two and wounding two from the attackers. However, a soldier and a CAFGU Active Auxiliary were wounded-in-action," he added.

Arevalo also said added two tribal leaders were also murdered by the NPA, in separate incidents, for refusing to follow the "evil dictates" of the communist terrorists.

He was referring to the murder of Bontola Mansinugdan of the Higaynon Tribe in Esperanza, Agusan Sur on Jan. 1 and the killing of Umayamnon Tribe leader Sammy Diwangan in Cabanglasan, Bukidnon on January 4.

He also slammed the communist rebels for pushing for the resumption of peace talks as part of their efforts to advance their armed struggle.

"Indeed, as NDF (National Democratic Front) Chair Mr. Luis Jalandoni arrogantly declares: 'We see that peace negotiations are another form of legal struggle ... in order to advance the revolutionary armed struggle ...." (and) '... peace negotiation does not replace the revolutionary armed struggle ... in fact, it should advance, it should support this revolutionary armed struggle as the main form of struggle ... which is a more important struggle than the peace negotiations,' " Arevalo said.

"Indeed, his lips betray their evil design every time they seek peace accord. And they were consistently consistent. They did it many times in the past; they did it again this time," he added.

With the lifting of the truce effective January 8, Arevalo said the communist rebels can expect that combat operations shall resume with more intensity and focus.

"And while the AFP gives primacy to the peace process and will submit to the guidance of Commander-in-Chief, we are for localized peace talks given its success owing to the NTF ELCAC (National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict)," he added.

For 2019 alone, a total of 10,918 NPA regulars, allies and supporters were killed, arrested and surrendered.

This can be broken down into 1, 591 NPA regulars; 1,666 "Militia ng Bayan" members, 350 from the "Samahang Propagandang Lokal", 4,734 from the "Underground Mass Organizations" or "UGMO" and another 2,577 from their supporters.

Also, a total of 1,860 firearms were seized or surrendered.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1090200

CASER not pro-masses but serves Reds' interests: Esperon

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2020): CASER not pro-masses but serves Reds' interests: Esperon (By Azer Parrocha and Gigie Arcilla)



National Security Adviser Hermogenes C. Esperon Jr. (PNA File photo)

Contrary to how the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) portrays the Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms (CASER) as pro-masses, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said it is a piece of document that only serves the interest of communists.

“At first glance, this may appear to be pro-masses as it promises to benefit the majority, if not all, but if we look at it closely, the duplicitous character and self-interest of the communist terrorist group (CTG) becomes evident, as the provisions do not directly reflect the best interest of the nation, but their own,” said Esperon, who is also vice-chairperson of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC)

Contrary to NDFP’s claim that their CASER contains “concrete and doable steps towards liberating the Filipino people from poverty, exploitation, and underdevelopment”, Esperon said dismantling the current economic model means reversing all economic reforms in the past several decades implemented through laws passed by previous administrations.

“Such move would be an arduous, costly, and extensive process,” he added. “The Philippines might not only find itself worse off economically if it lets go of the advantages of the current system but also face ostracism and isolation in the community of nations after such a radical shift.”

Their CASER, he said, was crafted with the goal of turning the Philippine economic model to nationalist and socialist which means it would dismantle the effects of globalization that communists view as the cause of the country’s continued underdevelopment.

Irrevocable

Esperon added that CASER, a document bannered by NDFP to be forged prior to the signing of an Interim Peace Agreement, will bind not only the current administration and the communists, but also all their successors.
“We believe that future conditions merit suitable responses. It would be unreasonable for the current administration to commit to something that would be irrevocable and might present challenges for the next administrations,” he said in a position paper on peace talks.

NDF’s demand that the agreement remains in force regardless of the outcome of peace talks robs the Philippine government of its ability to negotiate on equal footing with the CTG and therefore, might sabotage the government’s efforts in attaining a genuine and lasting peace with rebels, he added.

He said CASER’s provision of designating the NPA to play a key role in implementing agrarian reform, and demobilizing the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) by reducing their functions only for civil works and infrastructure construction, will be hugely detrimental to the government because the military must be able to retain their mandate of protecting country and its people from various kinds of threats.

“Conceding to their CASER version will not only be an act of admission of their (CTG) accusations but an act of disregard to the efforts of our leaders and lawmakers in addressing pressing societal issues,” he said.

Esperon was referring to the government’s passage of fundamental policy reforms and laws that address the root causes of armed conflict which include the aggressive implementation of land reform, free irrigation, Free Tertiary Education, Universal Health Care, Expanded 4Ps, and the Build, Build, Build program.

Given the objectionable provisions of NDF’s proposed CASER, he expressed doubts that engaging in another round of peace talks would be beneficial to the country.

‘Pointless’ peace talks

He lamented that the government had many attempts to end the conflict with the communists since 1986 with more than 40 rounds of peace talks conducted with the same people as negotiators.

“But for the longest time, the peace talks were only used as a period to rest when badly beaten, seek reinforcements, and initiate recruitment. Engaging in another round of peace talks after all these years and all our efforts without significant changes is therefore pointless,” he said.

As alternatives to peace talks, he said, the government has been pursuing local peace engagements which have resulted in understanding and mainstreaming of rebels.

“The government has the capacity to fulfill its obligations for social justice and development. Who needs the CPP/NPA/NDF?” he added.

Esperon, former AFP Chief-of-Staff Chief of Staff, said his objection to the resumption of formal peace negotiations was not because he is on their hit list but due to the communist rebels’ continued attacks on civilians.

“What is objectionable is when the NPA, surely under the command of NDF and CPP, attacks or ambushes civilians as they did in Barangay Libuton, Borongan City, Eastern Samar last December 13, 2019,” he said.

The NPA ambush left three civilians and a policeman dead, 14 wounded including three children (ages one, six and 13).

“The NPA used roadside bombs or improvised explosive devices. This is in violation of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) which the CPP/NPA/NDF signed and bounded itself to,” he added.

Not surprising

He said he is not surprised that the NPA had no second thoughts about possibly hitting innocent children and civilians for it was CPP founding chairperson Jose Maria Sison who ordered to go on the offensive.

“That is one clear character of the CPP/NPA/NDF – their pursuit of armed struggle to be victorious over the government at all costs. That is the true nature of their so-called National Democratic Revolution.,” he added. “Anything goes – bloodbath, duplicity, and deception as long as it contributes to their eventual victory.”

He also raised doubts over their trustworthiness and sincerity to resume peace talks and what it meant to them for failing to honor the unilateral and reciprocal ceasefire from Dec. 23, 2019, to midnight of Jan. 7, 2020.

On the first day of the holiday truce on December 23, rebels attacked AFP troops in Labo, Camarines Norte resulting in one soldier killed and five wounded, and in Tubungan, Iloilo that left two policemen wounded.

Reds’ peace talks

Sison and the CPP-NPA-NDF, he said, should first be “clear” on the peace talks' objectives before a resumption is made.

He quoted Luis Jalandoni, a ranking communist leader, as saying, “We see that peace negotiations are another form of legal struggle which is possible to be used by the revolutionary forces in order to advance the revolutionary armed struggle and the revolutionary mass movement. This other form of legal struggle, the peace negotiation, does not replace the revolutionary armed struggle nor the revolutionary mass movement. In fact, it should advance the revolutionary armed struggle and the revolutionary mass movement which is a more important struggle than peace negotiations.”

He added that according to the late Fr. Conrado Balweg, former Cordillera People’s Liberation Army (CPLA) chair: “They (communists) are organized to take political power, to become the government, to be the ones in Malacañang. Iyon ang issue sa kanila, hindi peace. Sa peace talks, we are not addressing the problem because we are talking something beyond the point. The NPA is created in order for the CPP to be the ones in government. That is the issue.”

“Are we going to hand over governance to the CTG or at least be in a coalition government with them? Are we going to demobilize and demilitarize the NPA or let them become part of the new government armed forces?” Esperon added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1090268