Report on U.S.-China Competition in East, South China Sea

Posted to the US Naval Institute (USNI) Website (Feb 4, 2020): Report on U.S.-China Competition in East, South China Sea

The following is the Jan. 28, 2020 Congressional Research Service report U.S.-China Strategic Competition in South and East China Seas: Background and Issues for Congress.

From the report

In an international security environment described as one of renewed great power competition, the South China Sea (SCS) has emerged as an arena of U.S.-China strategic competition. U.S.-China strategic competition in the SCS forms an element of the Trump Administration’s more confrontational overall approach toward China, and of the Administration’s efforts for promoting its construct for the Indo-Pacific region, called the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP).

China’s actions in the SCS in recent years—including extensive island-building and base-construction activities at sites that it occupies in the Spratly Islands, as well as actions by its maritime forces to assert China’s claims against competing claims by regional neighbors such as the Philippines and Vietnam—have heightened concerns among U.S. observers that China is gaining effective control of the SCS, an area of strategic, political, and economic importance to the United States and its allies and partners. Actions by China’s maritime forces at the Japan-administered Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea (ECS) are another concern for U.S. observers. Chinese domination of China’s near-seas region—meaning the SCS and ECS, along with the Yellow Sea—could substantially affect U.S. strategic, political, and economic interests in the Indo-Pacific region and elsewhere.

Potential general U.S. goals for U.S.-China strategic competition in the SCS and ECS include but are not necessarily limited to the following: fulfilling U.S. security commitments in the Western Pacific, including treaty commitments to Japan and the Philippines; maintaining and enhancing the U.S.-led security architecture in the Western Pacific, including U.S. security relationships with treaty allies and partner states; maintaining a regional balance of power favorable to the United States and its allies and partners; defending the principle of peaceful resolution of disputes and resisting the emergence of an alternative “might-makes-right” approach to international affairs; defending the principle of freedom of the seas, also sometimes called freedom of navigation; preventing China from becoming a regional hegemon in East Asia; and pursing these goals as part of a larger U.S. strategy for competing strategically and managing relations with China.

Potential specific U.S. goals for U.S.-China strategic competition in the SCS and ECS include but are not necessarily limited to the following: dissuading China from carrying out additional base-construction activities in the SCS, moving additional military personnel, equipment, and supplies to bases at sites that it occupies in the SCS, initiating island-building or base-construction activities at Scarborough Shoal in the SCS, declaring straight baselines around land features it claims in the SCS, or declaring an air defense identification zone (ADIZ) over the SCS; and encouraging China to reduce or end operations by its maritime forces at the Senkaku Islands in the ECS, halt actions intended to put pressure against Philippine-occupied sites in the Spratly Islands, provide greater access by Philippine fisherman to waters surrounding Scarborough Shoal or in the Spratly Islands, adopt the U.S./Western definition regarding freedom of the seas, and accept and abide by the July 2016 tribunal award in the SCS arbitration case involving the Philippines and China.

The Trump Administration has taken various actions for competing strategically with China in the SCS and ECS. The issue for Congress is whether the Trump Administration’s strategy for competing strategically with China in the SCS and ECS is appropriate and correctly resourced, and whether Congress should approve, reject, or modify the strategy, the level of resources for implementing it, or both.

Download the document here.

https://news.usni.org/2020/02/04/report-on-u-s-china-competition-in-east-south-china-sea

'Still speculative': Nograles says there's no plan yet to renegotiate VFA

From the Philippine Star (Feb 5, 2020): 'Still speculative': Nograles says there's no plan yet to renegotiate VFA (By Alexis Romero)

In this file photo taken in May 2018, Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Salamat of the Northern Luzon Command and Lt. Gen. Lawrence Nicholson of the US 3rd Marine Expeditionary Force unfurl the Balikatan flag during the opening ceremony of the Philippines-US Exercise 2018 at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.  The STAR/Krizjohn Rosales, file

There is no plan yet to renegotiate the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the United States (US), Malacañang said Wednesday, after senators urged President Rodrigo Duterte to reconsider his decision to terminate the decades-old pact.

Last month, Duterte announced that he is scrapping the VFA in response to the cancellation of the US visa of senator and former police chief Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa, one of the brains behind his controversial war on illegal drugs.

Officials later on claimed that the cancellation of dela Rosa's visa was just one of the reasons that impelled Duterte to seek the abrogation of the agreement. Other reasons cited by Malacañang are the demand by some US senators to free detained opposition Sen. Leila de Lima; the US Senate resolution condemning the alleged human rights violations in the Philippines; and the introduction of a US national budget provision that ban from the US people behind De Lima's detention.

Three Philippine senators - Senate President Vicente Sotto III, Minority Leader Franklin Drilon and Panfilo Lacson - have filed a resolution asking Duterte to reconsider his decision to abrogate the VFA while the Senate is reviewing and assessing the impact of the defense pact.

The Senate, according to the three senators, should be allowed to review the possible effects of the scrapping of the VFA on intelligence information sharing, military aid and financing, and technical assistance provided by the US to the Philippines.

While some allies of Duterte are calling for a review or a renegotiation of the VFA, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said the matter has not been discussed in the Cabinet.

"That's speculative, that's specualtion. We are not yet there in that level," Nograles told hosts of "The Chiefs" aired over Cignal TV's One News channel.

"At the very least, it was not yet relayed to us. It was not yet discussed in the Cabinet," he added.

Nograles said it would be up to the president to decide whether to hold dialogue with allies calling for a renegotiation of the VFA.

"If that is the sentiment of the Senate, then obviously we need to dialogue with them. Then it's up to the president," the Palace official said.

Some sectors have warned against abrogating the VFA, saying it could affect the Philippines' efforts against terrorism and other security threats.

Duterte's spokesman Salvador Panelo previously said the VFA is "a special grant of privilege agreement" because under the deal, the Philippines cannot assume jurisdiction over crimes committed by American military personnel unless a particular crime is of particular importance to the Philippines.

Independent foreign policy

Officials, however, clarified that the termination of the VFA would not affect other agreements with the US like the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement and the Mutual Defense Treaty.

Asked whether the president's decision to walk out of the VFA is not yet set in stone, Nograles maintained that the "decision is to terminate" the agreement.

Nograles said the president's pronouncement that he would abrogate the VFA is consistent with his independent foreign policy.

"I think the message of the president is we have our own independent foreign policy, we will pursue our independent foreign policy and not be beholden to any nation or not be dictated to by any nation," he said.

Nograles claimed it is not fair to assume that the cancellation of Dela Rosa's visa was the only reason behind the decision.

"When he made that decision, I think it was because of all that pressure being applied by certain officials, high officials from the United States, as if dictating upon us how to run the government and how our legal processes and prosecution and cases in court are supposed to run," the Palace official said.

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2020/02/05/1990666/still-speculative-nograles-says-theres-no-plan-yet-renegotiate-vfa

Senate leaders urge Duterte: Reconsider VFA abrogation

From the Philippine Star (Feb 5, 2020): Senate leaders urge Duterte: Reconsider VFA abrogation (By Cecille Suerte Felipe, Paolo Romero)

Senate President Vicente Sotto III, Minority Leader Franklin Drilon and Sen. Panfilo Lacson jointly filed on Monday Resolution 312 expressing the sense of the Senate on the need for Duterte to reconsider his plan to unilaterally withdraw from the VFA with the US.  Geremy Pintolo/File

As a Senate panel prepares to begin its review of the country’s military arrangements with the United States, three senators have filed a resolution urging President Duterte to reconsider his plan to have the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) revoked.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III, Minority Leader Franklin Drilon and Sen. Panfilo Lacson jointly filed on Monday Resolution 312 expressing the sense of the Senate on the need for Duterte to reconsider his plan to unilaterally withdraw from the VFA with the US.

The filing of the resolution came two days before the scheduled review of the security pact along with the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) and Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the US by the Senate committee on foreign relations headed by Sen. Aquilino Pimentel III. The chamber will still have to vote on the resolution.

“We concede that by constitutional fiat and by intrinsic nature of his office, the President, as head of state, is the sole organ and authority in the externals affairs of the country, being the chief architect of the nation’s foreign policy in the conduct of the external affairs of the nation,” the resolution read.

“Fully recognizing the authority of the Chief Executive and without intending to disrespect a co-equal body, prior to unilaterally terminating the VFA, the Senate should be given the opportunity to conduct a review and assessment of the impact of the withdrawal on the country’s security and economy, specifically with regard to intelligence information sharing, military aid and financing, and technical assistance extended by the US relative to the continuing threats posed by domestic and foreign terrorist groups and, ultimately, to the stability and security in the Asia-Pacific region,” it said.

The senators said as a policymaking body, the Senate should likewise give its view and opinion on the repercussions of the scrapping of the VFA on the MDT and EDCA.

They said a careful deliberation of the issue must be taken into account before arriving at a final decision, which will ultimately affect not only the country’s security and economy, but also that of other countries in the region.

The resolution seeks to express the sense of the Senate “to earnestly request the President to reconsider his planned abrogation of the Visiting Forces Agreement in the meantime that the Senate is conducting a review and impact assessment with the end in view of ensuring the continued safety and security of the Philippines and the Asia-Pacific, and maintain the existing balance of power within the region.”

President Duterte threatened to abrogate the VFA in response to the cancellation of the US visa of Dela Rosa and to other events involving the country’s national integrity and sovereignty, aggravated by a “series of disrespectful acts” of the United States, as expressed by presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo.

In their resolution, the senators said they acknowledge the intrinsic nature of the Office the President as the sole organ and authority in the external affairs of the country.

The Philippines’ principal military agreement with the US is the MDT signed on Aug. 30, 1951. The US and the Philippines also forged the Military Bases Agreement on March 14, 1947, formalizing, among others, the use of installations in Philippine territory by US military personnel.

On May 27, 1999, the Senate ratified the Philippines’ and the US’s agreement on VFA with the primary goal of facilitating the promotion of optimal cooperation between US and Philippine military forces in the event of an attack by a common foe.

On April 28, 2014, the two countries signed the EDCA aimed at supplementing the existing VFA through mutual cooperation in developing individual and collective capacity to resist armed attacks.

In the resolution, the senators said the Senate should give its view and opinion on the repercussions of a unilateral withdrawal of the VFA on the existing MDT and the EDCA with the US.

“A careful deliberation of these matters must be taken into account before finally arriving at a decision which will ultimately affect not only the security and economy of the Philippines but also that of our neighboring countries in the Asia Pacific region,” the resolution read.

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2020/02/05/1990535/senate-leaders-urge-duterte-reconsider-vfa-abrogation

Davao taps good old-fashioned radio as another disaster management tool

From the Business World (Feb 4, 2020): Davao taps good old-fashioned radio as another disaster management tool

Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio (rightmost) signs a support agreement with provincial governors in Davao Region -- (from right) Davao Occidental’s Claude P. Bautista, Davao Oriental’s Nelson L. Dayanghirang, and Davao de Oro’s Jayvee Tyron Uy -- for the Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR 87.5 FM), which was launched February 3. -- BW/LEAN S. DAVAL, JR.

IN THIS internet age when social media platforms have become a leading information source and communication tool, good old-fashioned radio remains a formidable device in remote areas — and anywhere during calamity situations. 

Tapping this force, Davao City launched on Monday a radio station dedicated to disaster management not just within the city but for neighboring provinces. 

“While the city government of Davao is already on broadcast television with the Byaheng Do30 television program, and we are active online with our social media accounts and Websites, we have yet to make a strong presence on radio,” Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio said during the launching of Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR 87.5 FM). 

The station will broadcast real-time situationers as well as information campaign programs on emergency preparedness and response. 

Ms. Duterte said with the radio station, the city government now has another way of reaching all its 182 barangays and other provinces within the Davao Region. 

During the launch Ms. Duterte also signed an agreement with three provincial governors, namely: Davao Occidental’s Claude P. Bautista, Davao Oriental’s Nelson L. Dayanghirang, and Davao de Oro’s Jayvee Tyron Uy. 

The governors of Davao del Norte and del Sur, who are both not political allies of the four others, were not at the event. 

Ms. Duterte also signed a separate agreement with Brig. Gen. Ernesto Torres Jr., civil relations service chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), to establish DCDR as an AFP-affiliate station. 

Ms. Duterte said, “The correct information and ample preparations are our strongest defense against any calamity or crisis situation. And with this platform, we can ready our people better for any eventuality.” — Maya M. Padillo

https://www.bworldonline.com/davao-taps-good-old-fashioned-radio-as-another-disaster-management-tool/

Philippine Police Raid Captures Alleged Abu Sayyaf Kidnapper

From BenarNews (Feb 4, 2020): Philippine Police Raid Captures Alleged Abu Sayyaf Kidnapper (By Mark Navales)

Philippine National Police stand guard in Tanauan city south of Manila, July 4, 2018. AP

Security forces captured a suspected Abu Sayyaf militant in the central Philippines on Tuesday, more than two years after he allegedly aided in the September 2017 kidnapping of the son of a mayor in Zamboanga del Norte province, police officials said.

The suspect, identified as Jimmy Igpit Marababol, is believed to be an Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) member who was hiding out in the city of Cebu, said Brig. Gen. Edgar S. Monsalve, chief of the police’s intelligence group.

“He has been is hiding in Cebu for almost a year now. He is an ASG member who is also known for his affiliation with the radical Daulah Islamiyah terror group,” Monsalve said.

Daulah Islamiyah is the local name for Islamic State (IS).

Monsalve said Marababol did not resist arrest when police raided his hideout in the village of Tinago before noon on Tuesday.

An arrest warrant had been issued by the Regional Trial Court in Zamboanga del Norte against Marababol, who had been in Cebu for more than a year and had been working as a rice trader, according to Brig. Gen. Valeriano de Leon, regional police chief. Marababol was among six suspects who allegedly abducted Jade Quimbo, son of Labason Mayor Eddie Quimbo, the state-run Philippine News Agency reported.

Founded to fight for an independent Muslim state in the southern third of this predominantly Catholic nation, ASG was led by Afghan-trained Abdurajak Abubakar Janjalani, who was killed in 1998.

Janjalani was replaced by a younger brother, who would mastermind cross-border kidnapping raids, including the abduction of 10 European and 11 Asian hostages from the Sipadan diving resort in Malaysia in 2001. All the hostages were later freed after reported ransom payments, but the kidnappings raised ASG’s international profile.

The majority of ASG’s key leaders have since been killed by the military.

One of them, Isnilon Hapilon, became the head of the IS group in the region and led militants in taking over the city of Marawi, the Philippines’ only Muslim city, in May 2017. He was killed five months later by the military near the end of a battle that claimed about 1,200 lives, a majority of them militants.

Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan took over as IS leader in the Philippines and led a January 2019 attack by Indonesian suicide bombers that killed 23 people at a Catholic Church in Jolo, Philippine officials said.

https://www.benarnews.org/english/news/philippine/suspect-arrested-02042020130327.html

OIC Delegation Concludes Mission To The Philippines

From Urdu Point (Feb 4, 2020): OIC Delegation Concludes Mission To The Philippines (By Umer Jamshaid)

The Secretary General of Al-Othaimeen, dispatched a delegation from the General Secretariat to visit the Philippines over 27-30 January 2020

Jeddah (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 4th Feb, 2020) The Secretary General of Al-Othaimeen, dispatched a delegation from the General Secretariat to visit the Philippines over 27-30 January 2020. The purpose of the visit was to meet with government officials and representatives of Moro groups to take stock of current developments pertaining to the peace process in light of the forthcoming meeting of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) in Niamey, Niger, 3-4 April 2020.

In Manila, the OIC delegation met with HE Mr Carlito G. Galvez, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process and held discussions with officials from several government agencies including the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Finance and the National Economic Development Authority among others. The discussions focused on the full implementation of the peace tracks and the establishment of the Bangsamoro Development Assistance Fund (BDAF) and the creation of the Tripartite Implementation Monitoring Committee (TIMC).

The OIC delegation also visited Davao and Cotabato Cities in the southern region of Mindanao. Meetings were held with leaders of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), founding Chair Prof Nur Misuari and Yusop Jikiri and with Ahod Murad Ebrahim, the Interim Chief Minister of the newly established Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), who is also Chair of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). The OIC delegation attended a special session of the BARMM Cabinet and interacted with Members of Parliament from the Bangsamoro Transitional Authority.

During the visit to Mindanao, the OIC delegation stressed the need for unity and cooperation to realize the full implementation of all peace agreements. By bringing stakeholders closer together, the OIC maintains its commitment to a positive engagement in the Southern Philippines peace process with a view to achieving a just, inclusive, and comprehensive peace.

https://www.urdupoint.com/en/world/oic-delegation-concludes-mission-to-the-phili-829086.html

MILF-CC: MILF-BIAF 9th Brigade Inner Guards conduct info-drive on BARMM Governance

Posted to the Committee on Information, Moro Islamic Liberation Front Central Committee MILF-CC Website (Feb 5, 2020): MILF-BIAF 9th Brigade Inner Guards conduct info-drive on BARMM Governance (By Raffie S. Pasingan)

IN PHOTO: Inner Guards Officers, members of Medical Aid of MILF-BIAF of the 9th. Brigade Expeditionary Mission with Resource Speaker Mr. Tirso Tahir at Camp. Darapanan on February 2. 2020

COTABATO CITY- Some members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces, and Medical Aid of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (BIAF-MILF) attended an activity aimed at providing valuable information, and inputs gathering at Camp. Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, Sunday (February 2).

Mr. Tirso S. Tahir, BTA-BARMM Legislative Staff, and Officer of Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) gave updates to MILF-BIAF Combatants on the current status, and development of BTA-BARMM particularly on the various approved, and proposed parliamentary bills, and resolutions adopted by members of the Bangsamoro Parliament.

Said activity was facilitated by Officers of Inner Guard from 9th Brigade Expeditionary Mission who are in their own way also provide updates and some vital issues on normalization and programs for the MILF-BIAF.

The event at Camp Darapanan also encouraged the MILF Combatants to sustain the gains of peace agreement, and extend unwavering support to BARMM Governance for the common good of all Bangsamoro.

Tahir said that everyone knew that BARMM Governance is the product of Bangsamoro legitimate Struggle as well as an outcome of long, and painstaking protracted decades of negotiations with the government by Moro leaders until we achieved this new set-up of governance. There are lessons learned from ARMM on different issues why Regional development was very minimal, and less competitive in different aspects compared to other regions of the country.

Thus, the BARMM needs enough time, adequate resources, and skilled public servants, Tahir stressed.

BARMM is the recipient of gargantuan challenges during this crucial transition where majority of the Bangsamoro people are expecting outright results specifically on development, and social service delivery, Tahir added.

The participants clarified various issues during the open forum, and committed to be responsive and always adhere to the MILF leadership in its current task in leading the government of the day by addressing the plight of the Bangsamoro after decades of desolation.

https://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1994/milf-biaf-9th-brigade-inner-guards-conduct-info-drive-on-barmm-governance

CPP/NDF-Ilocos: The new Corona virus is a neoliberal disaster

NDF-Ilocos propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 1, 2020): The new Corona virus is a neoliberal disaster

KA ROSA GUIDON

TAGAPAGSALITA

NDFP ILOCOS

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

FEBRUARY 04, 2020

Duterte attempts to deflect criticisms while people call for his ouster

It could be called a classic case of too little, too late but even that would be an oversimplification of the issue. What is clear is that the Duterte regime is now on a full-blown defensive mode after receiving widespread condemnation regarding the government’s mishandling of the 2019 new Corona virus (nCoV).

Worse Viruses: Irresponsibility and Unaccountability

The National Democratic Front – Ilocos deplores the Duterte administration’s desperate efforts to deflect criticisms instead of focusing on crisis management. After finally deciding to stir from unacceptable silence, Duterte spoke up regarding the virus that grips the nation in a state of near-panic. However, instead of communicating the government’s measures against the virus’ effects, he chose to dismiss the casualties as a non-issue.

In reality, though there are only two confirmed cases of nCoV in the Philippines, the death of the second patient is the only fatality outside China where the virus supposedly originated. And yet, he grievously delayed banning travellers coming in from mainland China, Macau and Hong Kong; that is, until the backlash was so great even he could not ignore it anymore. Before this, the best he could do was promise to hold a meeting regarding the outbreak a week after it started. Meanwhile, the people were expected to sit still.

Like a tyrant in a tower so removed from his constituents, Duterte does not understand that his ill-preparedness and belittlement of the virus itself is the cause for the people’s almost panic. He predicts that the outbreak “will die a natural death” as if he is a circus soothsayer and not the highest official of an entire nation. And yet, it was reported that Malacañang Palace required all its personnel to wear masks while any physical contact with Duterte was prohibited.

While Duterte vainly attempts to change the narrative, his trusted lapdog Bong Go spews tirades against those that criticise the government. Like a rabid mutt that has lost any sense, he wanted to quarantine a wide range of individuals—from those that justifiably called out the Duterte regime for its relaxed approach to the crisis to those who called for Duterte’s ouster.

Ills of Neoliberalism
On the other end of the defense line, the delusional Health Secretary Francisco Duque denied that the country has a weak health system. He reasons that the Philippines is “a middle-income country.” Hence, it is excluded from the World Health Organization’s concerns.

However blinded Duque is, the neoliberal policies that undermined the healthcare system are the same policies causing Duterte to tread carefully so as to maintain profitable friendship with the Chinese government, at the expense of the Filipino people’s lives and wellbeing.

Neoliberalism takes form in privatization of social services such as government hospitals and health facilities, among others. So-called aid from private sector is actually public debt.

Privatization is the exact opposite of making health services more affordable and accessible to the public. The Philippines’ leading cause of death remain to be diseases that are both preventable and curable.

In the same vein, Duterte’s onerous debts to China would actually be paid off through more taxes, not to mention with collateral Philippine sovereignty and patrimonial assets. And now, apparently, with Filipino lives. In true Duterte fashion, the beggarly president then absurdly blamed the Filipino people for being Sinophobic.

The Filipino people cannot rely on the Duterte administration to protect them from the nCoV. It can neither expect Duterte to own up to his own loyalties nor put an end to neoliberal policies. Thus, the mass movement in the Ilocos Region will continue to link arms with the rest of the nation in exposing and opposing neoliberalism that murders and displaces the people in ways more cruel than nCoV itself. It expresses its solidarity with the entire Filipino people in defeating the nCoV and using this issue as one amongst many for the ouster of an inutile and oppressive regime. More importantly, the armed revolution in the countryside will continue to flourish and advance in order to completely demolish the rottening system that Duterte embodies. ###

https://cpp.ph/statement/the-new-corona-virus-is-a-neoliberal-disaster/

CPP/NPA-Negros Island: Tikalon nga opisyal sang 303rd Brigade!

NPA-Negros Island propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 1, 2020): Tikalon nga opisyal sang 303rd Brigade!

JUANITO MAGBANUA

NPA-NEGROS ISLAND

APOLINARIO GATMAITAN COMMAND

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

FEBRUARY 05, 2020

Damlag lang nagpahayag si Col. Pasaporte sang 303rd Brigade nga naghuyang na ang rebolusyonaryong kahublagan sa Negros bangud nga wala na sang natabu nga engkwentro sa tunga sang tropa sang NPA kag AFP/PNP. Naga-drawing si Pasaporte sang iya nga ginapahayag sa media sa gintumod nya nga tatlo ka rason: naghuyang na kuno ang rebolusyonaryong kahublagan sa Negros; madamu na ang nagsurender, iya gintumod ang masubra 2,500 nga kuno nagsurender sa banwa sang Escalante, Negros Occ; kag ang pagkadakop sang mga militanteng grupo sa natabu nga raid sa ila opisina sa Bacolod City kag Escalante City. Ang mga ginpangdakop gin-aligar nga mga katapu sang Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor Island Committee kag gintanuman sang mga armas kag eksplosibo kag gina-aligar nga recruitment center sang CPP/NPA ang ila mga opisina.

Una, indi ignorante ang kumander sang 303rd Brigade sa aktwal nga kahimtangan sang rebolusyonaryong kahublagan sa Negros. Indi malipod sa iya nga may ara lima ka larangan gerilya halin sa norte tubtob sa sur nga bahin sang Negros kag madamu na nga pagpaninguha sang mga nagbulos-bolus nga rehimen apang sa baylo nga maghuyang, padayon nga nagabaskog kag hugot nga naka-angut sa malapad nga masa. Sa napundar nga kusog sang rebolusyonaryong kahublagan, wala na sang kapasidad ang berdugong reaksyonaryong armadong AFP/PNP nga wasakon ini.

Ikaduha, modus sang AFP/PNP ang ginahambal nga 2,510 ka NPA kag mga suporter nga ila napasurender. Ang matuod, isa lamang ini ka pamaagi agud nga makakwarta ang mga opisyal militar kahimbon ang lokal nga opisyal sang lokal nga gobyerno sa Escalante City. Ang tagsa ka mapasurender may ara nga livelihood assistance nga PHP50,000 kag PHP15,000 immediate assistance nga kon sumahon naglab-ot sa PHP162,500,000. Apang basi sa nakuha nga impormasyon sang Apolinario Gatmaitan Command, madamu sang wala nakabaton sang ila kwarta nga dapat para sa ila bilang mga surrenderee kag kon may ara gid man halos sensilyo lang ang ila nabaton.

Ikatatlo, ang ginpangdakop nga mga katapu kag lider sang militanteng grupo upod ang mga obrero sang Vallacar Transit nga nagpangayo bulig sa KMU kag mga cultural youth indi recruiter sang NPA. Sila ang mga militanteng grupo nga maisog nga nagabatikos sang kagarukan sang sini nga tiraniko kag teroristang rehimen US-Duterte. Agud mapahipos, desperado nga ginpang-raid ang ila opisina, gintanuman sang mga armas kag eksplosibo kag ginpasakaan sang madamu nga patu-patu nga mga kaso. Kinamatarung sang pumuluyo nga magpa-abot sang ila hibubun-ot kon nakita nila nga ang ini nga gobyerno isa ka garuk, tiraniko kag wala nagaserbisyo sa ila interes.

Ini tanan nga kabutigan nga ginapahayag sang opisyal sang berdugong militar, tuyo nga patalangon ang pumuluyo. Pakala-inon ang armadong paghimakas sang pumuluyo kag paayuhon ang dagway sang tiraniko kag teroristang rehimen kag ido-ido sini nga AFP/PNP bisan ginakangil-aran ini sang pumuluyo. Hinabunan ang mga malain nila nga ginahimo pareho sang peke nga pagpasurender, pagpangmasaker, extrajudicial killings, pagpangbomba, pagpanghamlet, torture kag madamu pa nga porma sang paglapas sa tawhanon nga kinamatarung.

Ang bug-os nga rebolusyonaryong kahublagan sa isla sang Negros sa pagpamuno sang Communist Party of the Philippines ara sa husto nga posisyon agud ipadayon ang armadong paghimakas kag mag-angkon sang mga kadalag-an sa sining bag-ong dekada. Handa ini kag may ikasarang nga atubangon ang ano man nga kampanya sang kaaway nga amo ang Oplan Kapanatagan kag ang mapangsabotahe nga localized peace talk nga ginaduso ni gobernador Lacson agud tunga-on kag wasakon ini.

Ang rebolusyonaryong armadong paghimakas nga ginalunsar sang NPA isa ka dungganon kag may bulawanon nga katuyu-an nga amo ang paghilway sang malapad nga pumuluyo ilabi na ang mga mamumugon kag mangunguma. Upod sa malapad nga pumuluyo kag bug-os nga rebolusyonaryong pwersa, aton pabaskugon ang aton hanay paagi sa paglunsar sang taktikal nga opensiba, pagpalig-on sang likom nga organisasyon masa kag paglunsar sang kontra-pyudal nga paghimakas para mapataas ang pang-ekonomiya nga kahimtangan sang masang mangunguma.

Mabuhay ang masang pigos!
Isulong ang rebolusyon tubtob sa kadalag-an!

https://cpp.ph/statement/tikalon-nga-opisyal-sang-303rd-brigade/

Kalinaw News: Communist Rebels surrender anew in Agusan Sur amidst on-going Military Operations, LGU Intervention

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 5, 2020): Communist Rebels surrender anew in Agusan Sur amidst on-going Military Operations, LGU Intervention (By 60th Infantry Battalion)



LORETO, Agusan Del Sur –A total of 19 members of the New Peoples’ Army surrendered to the 60th Infantry Battalion amidst the on-going military operations of Joint Task Force Agila (10th Infantry Division, Philippine Army) against Weakened Guerilla Front 3 (WGF 3) and Pulang Bagani Command 4 (PBC 4) of the CPP-NPA’s Sub-regional Committee 4, Southern Mindanao Regional Command in the boundary areas of Loreto and La Paz towns in Agusan Sur as of Monday.

The continuing military operations, which started last January 25, already resulted to the killing of several CPP-NPA terrorists and the recovery of numerous firearms, improvised explosive devices, and subversive documents.

In response, the local government units of Loreto and La Paz both initiated emergency response activities in their respective conflict-affected areas and vulnerable adjacent communities.

Mayor Lorife “Aping” Otaza-Magadan of Loreto personally led the conduct of a series of community dialogues in the conflict-affected barangays of her municipality such Sitio Moto (BrgyPoblacion), Brgy Magaud, and Brgy Kasapa 1 over the weekend.

La Paz Mayor, Michael Lim, on the other hand spearheaded the conduct of their “Government-on-Wheels” program on Monday beginning in one of its farthest Barangay of Kasapa 2. Other priority, red-flagged areas are also lined up to receive said program.

Both local chief executives rallied on their constituents to support the government’s anti-insurgency initiatives while promising to fast-track the delivery of the much-neededprograms and projects in the barangay.

The 1001st Infantry Brigade and 60IB have also been conducting its own intensified information operations in tandem with the LGUs to “enlighten the masses who have been brainwashed and exploited through the deceitful CPP-NPA-NDF propaganda and infiltration tactics.”

As a result, a certain Ka “Lindo” of WGF 3 surrendered with his firearm to the Balik-Loob Assistance Center of 60IB in Loreto a few days earlier. Ka Lindo revealed to the troops how his group has been trying to evade the military for several months already while trying to focus in recovering their lost mass bases, and the recruitment and training of new members; most of whom are indigenous peoples living in very far-flung villages.

On Monday, 18 more members of WGF 3 also surrendered to 60IB during the conduct of La Paz LGU’s Government-on-Wheels program in Brgy. Kasapa 2. Bringing with them their firearms, the group’s leader, a certain Ka Billy, even volunteered to speak in front of his whole barangay during the community dialogue part of the program.

Later, Ka Billy and his 17 comrades had an executive dialogue with La Paz Mayor Michael Lim together with 1001st Infantry Brigade Deputy Commander Colonel Glenn Jun Calambuhay, and 60IB Commander Lt. Col. Ronaldo Sarmiento. There they raised their concerns to the local chief executive and the military commanders who, in turn, promised to facilitate their safe and proper reintegration to their communities.

Ka Billy said the reason they decided to surrender now is because they have already realized how impossible it is for the CPP-NPA to win the war. “We’ve been here long enough to know that the [CPP-NPA] will never be able to overthrow our real government in as much as they [CPP-NPA] will never be able to provide us the programs and projects that we need here in our barangay,” Ka Billy said in the vernacular.

Ka Billy and the others also supported Ka Lindo’s revelations. They further admitted that their ranks have been seriously demoralized by the continuous military operations which are now directly hitting their once secured guerilla bases.

With Executive Order No. 70 coming full-steam and local task forces to End the Local Armed Conflict (ELCAC) getting more and more aggressive in its campaign, Ka Billy tells authorities to expect more surrenders in the coming days.

In a statement, 1001st Infantry Brigade Commander, Colonel John Oberio thanked the rebel returnees for trusting the government and voluntarily submitting themselves to the authorities. “This will greatly help our campaign to immediately end the local communist armed conflict. Even better, we are ending it more peacefully than we expected with many members of the CPP-NPA voluntarily surrendering to us instead of insisting to fight bullet to bullet.”

Also addressing the rebel-returnees, Lt. Col. Sarmiento of 60IB added that, “Since the full force of the government and the support of our tribal leaders and most other sectors of society is already at our disposal, you can rest assured that your personal worries, the problems of your community, and the issues once used by your former communist overlords to discredit our efforts will be addressed and resolved sooner rather than later.”

The surrenderees will be enrolled to the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) where they will initially receive immediate cash assistance, livelihood assistance, and cash remuneration for their surrendered firearms.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/communist-rebels-surrender-anew-in-agusan-sur-amidst-on-going-military-operations-lgu-intervention/

Kalinaw News: Notorious top NPA leader killed in Joint Law Enforcement Operation in Butuan City

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 5, 2020): Notorious top NPA leader killed in Joint Law Enforcement Operation in Butuan City (By 4th Infantry Division)



Bancasi, Butuan City – A Joint Law Enforcement Operation conducted by the Philippine Army together with the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) 13, and Philippine National Police Regional Office 13 resulted to the killing of a top CPP-NPA Terrorist (CNT) leader around 11 o’clock in the morning, February 5, 2020 at Rosales St., Brgy 15, San Ignacio, Butuan City.

The killed Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) top leader was identified as certain Manuel Gilo y Magante alias Jino/Saldo. He is the Finance Officer of the Regional Operations Command and at the same time the Head of Intel, Special Operations Group of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC).

The troops of the aforementioned joint law enforcement operation were supposedly to serve Warrants of Arrest against Magante for the crimes of Robbery with Homicide (CC Nr. 5762) and Robbery (CC Nr. 5718) issued by Executive Judge Hilarion P Clapis Jr of the11th Judicial Region, Branch 3, Nabuturan, Davao de Oro.

However, during the serving of the WOs, Magante fired at the arresting officers resulting to a brief firefight leading to his death. The arresting officers recovered the following: One (1) Cal .45 pistol with serial number 738406; One (1) magazine for Cal .45 pistol; Seven (7) rounds Cal .45 ammunitions; One (1) XLR 200 Honda motorcycle with plate number MO 4686; One (1) unit Nokia cellphone ; and One (1) Lenovo Laptop.

According to Brigadier General Maurito L. Licudine, 402nd Brigade Commander in Caraga, Magante was also involved in numerous violent atrocities targeting military personnel and civilians, to wit: Murder of Datu Ruben Labawan in 2015; Abduction of Jail Warden Coquilla of Compostela in 2015; Abduction and murder of Loreto, Agusan del Sur Mayor Dario O.

Otaza and his son Darryl O. Otaza in Butuan City last 2015; Attack of the mining compound of the late Mayor Brillantes in Brgy Olaycon, Monkayo carting away 74 assorted HPFAs in 2016; Disarming of the Peace & Order personnel of Brgy Mahungcog, Magpet in 2016; Synchronized Attack of Lorenzo Residence in Calinan, Davao City; Burning of Lapanday Corp. Plastic Plant in Mandug, Davao City in 2017; Burning of Macondray Corp. Plastic Plant in Panabo City in 2017; and Burning of Construction Company heavy equipment in Brgy Callawa, Davao City in 2018.

“The excellent partnership between and among the law enforcement agencies became the key piece of this victory of the people. Justice has been served for all the sufferings and deaths Magante had incurred to the people. It is a testament that the long arms of justice will catch these CNTs. They can run but they cannot hide for long. It is tragic that they take up arms against the government. I reiterate once again the government’s call for the CNTs to avail the E-CLIP, surrender and go back to their families”, BGen. Licudine added.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/notorious-top-npa-leader-killed-in-joint-law-enforcement-operation-in-butuan-city/

Kalinaw News: Civilian Reported NPA Presence, 37IB Encountered Communist Terrorists

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 5, 2020): Civilian Reported NPA Presence, 37IB Encountered Communist Terrorists (By 37 Infantry Batallion)



One Section of Charlie Company, 37th Infantry “Conqueror” Battalion while conducting combat clearing operation encountered more or less 25 elements of the Communist Terrorists believed to be members of East Daguma Front, FSMRC under Commander a.k.a Rayray at 8:05PM on 31 January 2020 in So Sinuksok, Brgy Bugso, SNA, SK.

Said encounter lasted for about 30 minutes afterwhich, the CTs scampered towards different directions leaving behind their three (3) comrades who were killed during the encounter. Also seized in the encounter site is one M14 rifle, one M16 rifle, one caliber .45 pistol, one ICOM radio, 5 sacks of rice and medical kit. There was no casualty on the government side and still undetermined number of casualties on the enemy side based on the bloodstains seen by the engaged troops along the route of withdrawal.

Reinforcement was deployed by 37IB immediately after the encounter.

The encounter was a result of positive information and continuous help provided by the locals which manifest that these terrorists are slowly losing their so called mass supporters in Senator Ninoy Aquino municipality. The locals together with the LGUs are joining hand in hand to eliminate the terrorist NPA problem in the area.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/civilian-reported-npa-presence-37ib-encountered-communist-terrorists/

‘12IB a maneuver battalion’

From the Visayan Daily Star (Feb 5, 2020): ‘12IB a maneuver battalion’ (BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The 12th Infantry (CADRE) Battalion, that previously supervised CAFGU units of the 3rd Infantry Division in Western and Central Visayas, has been converted into a regular infantry maneuver battalion.

Capt. Cenon Pancito III, 3ID Public Affairs Office chief, said yesterday that an organizational training of 12IB officers and enlisted personnel started on Monday at Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz.

The 12th Infantry (Lick’Em) Battalion is now composed of 501 enlisted personnel and 19 officers, who came from infantry units of 3ID, and led by Lt. Col. Sisenando Magbalot.

Pancito said the supervision of CAFGU units will be transferred to Army battalions, where they are co-located.

The conversion of 12IB to a maneuver battalion, is in line with the target set by their higher headquarters to end the local armed communist conflict in two Visayas regions by next year, or before President Rodrigo Duterte steps down in 2022, Pancito said.

With this development, the Philippine Army is also planning to convert a CADRE battalion in each of the infantry division unit to a maneuver battalion, he added.

The 12IB, that used to be a “Cadre” Battalion of 3ID, will undergo a six-week training, that include four weeks of organizational training and two weeks of Community Support Program (CSP) training at the Battalion Retraining Facilities (BRF) in Camp Peralta, Jamindan, Capiz.

Pancito said that the training aims to develop and enhance the operational capability of the 12IB and capacitate its personnel in conducting CSP in the grassroots communities before to their redeployment.

Maj. Gen. Eric Vinoya, 3ID commander, in a statement he issued, said that the refilling and organizational training of the 12IB is part of the government’s effort to eradicate insurgency by year 2022 for which the Armed Forces of the Philippines will need more soldiers and infantry battalions, to accomplish the mission.

Philippine Army, therefore transformed cadre battalions into maneuver battalions, Vinoya said.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/February/05/topstory9.htm

59 communist guerrillas surrender since January

From the Mindanao Times (Feb 6 , 2020): 59 communist guerrillas surrender since January (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

Fifty-nine regular members of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the Eastern Mindanao Command since January.

Speaking in yesterday’s AFP-PNP press conference held at The Royal Mandaya Hotel, Lt. Col. Ezra Balagtey, the spokesperson of Eastern Mindanao Command, said the surrenderers were the result of the continuous focused military operations in the area.

“If you remember in our record before that was reported, the guerrilla fronts operating are already in the region and provinces,” Balagtey said. “What the troops are doing on the ground are in pursuit of the groups that consolidate in the boundaries of the 60th Infantry Battalion under the 1001st Infantry Brigade.”

They also recorded 16 surrenderers from the Militiang Bayan and 66 from the underground mass organization.

Also, 10 regular NPAs were captured and three killed for the same period.

He said they have already recovered 17 high-powered firearms in the combat operations from January to Feb. 3.

“There are also more encounters reported in Surigao del Sur under the 402nd Infantry Brigade last Jan. 30 that resulted in the recovery of two firearms. Also, an encounter ensued in the area of La Paz last Jan. 30,” he added.

Balagtey said 30 firearms were also endorsed through surrenders since Jan. 1.

“This is an indication of the efficiency of local peace engagements conducted by the different local government units,” he added.

Meanwhile, Capt. Jerry Lamosao, the spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division, said more than half of the surrenderees were very young.

“Only a little percent are adults because from 2017 to 2018, those elderly in the movement already surrendered,” he added.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2020/02/06/59-communist-guerrillas-surrender-since-january/

US military facilities will have to go once VFA is terminated, says Sec. Lorenzana

From MindaNews (Feb 5, 2020): US military facilities will have to go once VFA is terminated, says Sec. Lorenzana (By FROILAN GALLARDO)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (MindaNews / 5 Feb) – United States military facilities in Zamboanga City and other Philippine military bases will have to go if President Rodrigo Duterte will terminate the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA).

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana in Marawi City. MindaNews file photo by CAROLYN O. ARGUILLAS

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, who is in deep consultation with the Department of Foreign Affairs, said American facilities in these bases constructed under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) will also have to go once VFA will be terminated.

“I think EDCA will become useless if there is no more VFA. Who will man these bases?” he told reporters here.

Under the EDCA, signed by the Philippine and US governments on March 19, 2016, the American military forces were allowed to build and operate temporary facilities in five locations.

These are Lumbia Airport in Cagayan de Oro, Antonio Bautista Air Base in Palawan, Basa Air Base in Pampanga, Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija, and Benito Ebuen Air Base in Mactan, Cebu.

Lorenzana said Duterte is bent on terminating the VFA with the US, the Philippine military’s strong ally.

President Duterte first threatened to scrap the VFA more than a week ago, after Washington cancelled the visa for his ex-police chief, Ronald dela Rosa, who is now a senator.

Dela Rosa told reporters that a letter he received recently from the US Embassy in Manila did not state a reason for the cancelation of his visa, which was supposed to expire in 2022.

Dela Rosa was the chief enforcer of Duterte’s drug war, which has left thousands of suspects dead during the past three years.

Lorenzana said the US forward base in Calarian, Zamboanga will close once VFA is terminated.

Along with the Zamboanga US base, Lorenzana said the surveillance flights provided by Dyne Corporation, a service provider of the US Department of Defense, will also stop its operations in Southern Philippines. The DoD awarded US$135 million to Dyne Corporation in July 11, 2016 to provide helicopters and surveillance aircrafts to the US troops in the Philippines.

Lorenzana said VFA would be terminated in 180 days as soon as the US will receive the request of termination from the Philippines.

He said the Philippine government has not yet delivered the formal termination request to the US government.

“VFA is over although there is no formal announcement yet,” Lorenzana said. (Froilan Gallardo / MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2020/02/us-military-facilities-will-have-to-go-once-vfa-is-terminated-says-sec-lorenzana/

Students may be tricked into joining terrorist groups

From the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 5, 2020): Students may be tricked into joining terrorist groups

STUDENTS MAY not even know it, but they may already be indoctrinated into terrorist ideologies by deceptive organizations.

According to Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) spokesperson Major Arvin John Encinas, communist terrorist groups and violent extremists like the Abu Sayyaf employ “deceptive recruitment” in schools, including some in Zamboanga Peninsula and in the Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi areas.

“A student may not even realize that he or she has already been indoctrinated into terrorist ideologies until it is too late,” Encinas said. 

The recruiters usually target student leaders who have certain favourable qualities such as having good academic standing, leadership skills and charisma, Encinas said. But other students with certain potentials are not exempted.

Encinas explained that the students would undergo a process. The process begins when students are oriented on issues and societal problems that are usually exaggerated to encourage unreasonable hatred and anger for the government. These issues may be tuition woes, poverty and others that are shared by the students. 

 
When the recruiter sees that the students, or plebes are ready, they are then brought to “immersion” activities in remote and far-flung communities where they usually receive further training and indoctrination.

Violent extremists like the Abu Sayyaf also employ a religious approach to their recruitment activities, distorting beliefs and teachings, Encinas added.

Encinas advised students who suspect that they are already being recruited to immediately avoid any contact with the recruiter and the group.

“Mararamdaman nila yan, at dapat ay iwasan na nila,” (they can feel if they are being recruited, and they should immediately avoid the group) he said.

In cases when students feel their safety is at risk, Encinas said the military is always available for support.

WESTMINCOM has been engaging schools, universities and out of school youth in the region to educate them about the dangers and consequences of joining these groups. (By Dominic I. Sanchez)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2020/02/students-may-be-tricked-into-joining.html

Young learners visit Army camp

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 5, 2020): Young learners visit Army camp (By 26th Infantry Battalion)

TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur, Feb. 5 - The 26th Infantry “Ever Onward” Battalion (26IB), Philippine Army warmly welcomed the kindergarten pupils of the National Development Center, together with their parents, as they entered the camp’s premises on Thursday morning, January 30, 2020. The said center is located at Barangay Del Monte, Talacogon, Agusan del Sur.

A total of 48 pupils from the said institution participated in the said visit. According to Eileen Jane C. Descaya, kindergarten teacher, the said activity was aimed to expose the children to the diverse community places and meet the public servants who worked in different departments and offices in the government.

Descaya further emphasized that the community tour was part of the kindergarten curriculum. “This activity will inspire our young learners on what they would like to be when they grow up and provide awareness and appreciation of the natural and physical environment of each office as they wore different attires of the different government offices including the Philippine Army,” she said.

Happiness was noticeable in the little faces of the pupils as they enjoyed the various exhibits, distribution of souvenirs and other activities such as pictorials, face painting and photo booth. “Dako among pasalamat sa 26IB nga ilang gihatagan ug pagtagad kining aktibidad alang sa mga bata. Simple lang kine nga activity apan dako na kini ug impact alang sa among mga anak (We are thankful to the 26IB for this opportunity that they shared with the school children. This is just a simple activity, yet it creates a big impact to their minds and hearts),” one of the parents said.

Meanwhile, the 26IB expressed its gratitude to the faculty of the school and the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) for bringing their children to the modern and institutionalized army facility, be closer to the armies and be their inspiration, as it would create a huge impact to the children’s perception and win their trust.

“As we continue our reform initiatives through the implementation of the Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR), we actively support, advocate and participate in different peacebuilding discourse in the country. These include consultations and dialogues from various sectors, in the fulfillment of its support role in the government's peace thrust,” said 26IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Romeo C. Jimenea.

“This educational tour creates a huge impact in the minds of young learners as we instill in them the concept of soldiers being modern heroes and friendly neighbors. In addition, being patriotic and loyal to our government is very essential in their growing stage for they are the hope and heirs of our nation,” Jimenea added. (1Lt. Percival Carido, CMO Officer, 3SFBn/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1033959

President Duterte leads Navy’s Change of Command rites

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 5, 2020): President Duterte leads Navy’s Change of Command rites (By PND)

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte pins the Philippine Navy (PN) Badge on incoming Flag-Officer-in-Command (FOIC) Rear Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo during the Change of Command ceremony at the Naval Station Jose V. Andrada in Manila on February 3, 2020. KARL NORMAN ALONZO/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

MANILA, Feb. 5 -- President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Monday led the change of command ceremony of the Philippine Navy assuring the service of his administration’s full support in enhancing the capabilities of its uniformed personnel.

“As the Philippine Navy sails forward under a new leadership, I trust that you, the officers and personnel of our Navy, will rally behind your incoming Flag Officer-in-Command, Rear Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo,” President Duterte said during the ceremony at the Navy headquarters in Manila.

The President expressed confidence that under the leadership of Admiral Bacordo, the country’s Navy will continue to achieve more milestones in the campaign to protect the freedoms and democratic values that the Filipino people hold dear.

“It is my hope you will become the embodiment of integrity and valor as you lead your Navy in securing the seas and the future of our land,” he further said.

Admiral Bacordo, the Navy’s 38th Flag Officer-in-Command, is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Hinirang” Class of 1987 and has served various commands of the Philippine Navy for 36 years.

Prior to his appointment as Navy chief, he became the commander of the Philippine Fleet, commanded units involved in territorial defense in the West Philippine Sea and fought communist insurgents as well as local terrorist groups. He also spearheaded the crafting of the Philippine Navy’s roadmap “Sail Plan 2020.”

Also during Monday’s event, President Duterte honored outgoing Navy chief Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad for his successful tour of duty.

Under Empedrad’s leadership, the Philippines has increased its naval presence in its waters, deterring various threats and defending its sovereignty. The country also maintained peace and order in Mindanao during Martial Law and protected the people against terrorism, smuggling and human trafficking.

Recently, the Navy also spearheaded humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations for Filipinos working in Iran and those affected by the eruption of Taal Volcano.

“I also recognize your full support for our AFP Modernization Program which seeks to provide our men and women in uniform the necessary equipment and skills to excel in their role as defenders of this nation,” the President said of Empedrad.

“Let me take this occasion to acknowledge your more than three decades of professional career in the Armed Forces of the Philippines. And on behalf of a grateful nation, I thank you for your remarkable service, sir.”

Also in attendance were Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, AFP Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Felimon Santos Jr., and other members of the Cabinet. (PND)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034036

LGU maps out Magpet-Davao road plan

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 5, 2020): LGU maps out Magpet-Davao road plan (By Danilo E. Doguiles)

LGU Magpet's proposed Magpet-Davao road covers 46.33 km from Don Panaca to Bukidnon-Davao Higway junction in Barangay Lumondao, Davao City. The route in pink was the plan that the LGU put forth in 2014 . (Source: LGU Magpet) 

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, Feb. 5 (PIA) — Magpet’s local government unit is pushing for the opening and concreting of a road connecting the municipality in Cotabato Province to Davao City.

Magpet Mayor Florenito Gonzaga presented the plan during the 5th meeting of the Regional Task Force to End Local Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) in Sultan Kudarat on Friday and received support from task force.

“The road project will help the efforts of the government to end communism in the area in the boundaries with Davao City,” Mayor Gonzaga said, describing the location as “geographically isolated and depressed area and conflict affected area because of high influence of the local terrorist group New Peoples’ Army.”

“The area has long served as point of entry and exit of NPAs from Davao City, especially those coming from Paquibato, Marilog, and Tugbok Districts, to the Municipality of Magpet because of the unopened and undeveloped road,”he explained.

The proposed project entitled “Road Opening/Concreting of Pangao-an-Don Panaca to Davao City via Salaysay (Indawhong-Ballah-Masawang) to Lumondao (Junction Bukidnon to Davao) Road” covers 46.33 kilometers.

This includes improvement of 13.04-km existing Pangao-an-Don Panaca road, rehabilitation of 6.87-km old logging road from Don Panaca to Sitio Langguay, opening of a road out of a 6.25-km trail from Sitio Langguay to the logging road, rehabilitation of the existing 2.68-km logging road to Sitio Indawhong, and improvement of a 17.49-km existing road from Sitio Indawhong to Barangay Lumondao (junction of Bukidnon-Davao highway). Lumondao is only 41.46 km to Ulas in Davao City.

“Besides addressing the problems regarding presence of communist terrorists in the area, this road project will also boost economic activities between Magpet and Davao City,” Gonzaga said.

“This road will also be the shortest alternate route from General Santos City, Sultan Kudarat Province, Kidapawan City and other parts of SOCCSKSARGEN Region in case the national highway from Digos City to Davao City is cut off.”

Engr. Daniel Uy, planning and development officer, pointed out further that the road project could attract investors for agro-industrial development and boost tourism activities in Magpet as well as Marilog District.

In response, TESDA Secretary Isidro Lapeña, cabinet officer for regional development and security (CORDS) in Region 12, said he agrees with and supports the LGU's proposal.

“Please submit your proposal and we will refer it to the Infastructure Committee of the Regional Development Council (RDC XII) for a conduct of a feasibility study. Once this is ready, the RDC, jointly with the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC XII) because it it has peace and order implications can act on it."

Engr. Uy reported that in 2002, Mayor Rolando Pelonio proposed the opening of a road network from Barangay Manobo in Magpet to Barangay Tamayong in Davao City but the proposal did not push through because the planned route affects a protected area in Mt. Apo.

In 2014, Mayor Gonzaga planned to open another route from Don Panaca to Tambobong-Tamugan Road but this too was shelved because the route passes through Davao City’s watershed area.

In December 2019, personnel from the Mindanao Development Authority, City Environment and Natural Resources Office, CENRO Matalam and DPWH Tugbok District conducted an ocular inspection in the area and agreed that the new proposed road is viable. (PIA 12)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034041

9ID Commander hails community’s support in fight against terrorism

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 5, 2020): 9ID Commander hails community’s support in fight against terrorism (By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay)

PILI, CAMARINES SUR, Feb. 4 (PIA)—9th Infantry “Spear” Division Commander, MGEN Fernando T. Trinidad extended his appreciation and gratitude to the members of the community for their assistance to the government troopers to end local communist activities in the region.

On Monday, Feb.3, elements of the 9th Infantry Battalion (9IB) while conducting combat operations at the boundary of Brgys. Tible and Mangcawayan town of Lupi, Camarines Sur encountered members of the CTGs which resulted to a firefight that lasted for 25 minutes.

Prior to the firefight, government troopers received a report from residents regarding the presence of members of CTGs in the said area. At around 12:20, noontime, the firefight ensued, sending unknown numbers of CTGs scampering in different directions but wounding two government troopers.

This was confirmed by the Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) in a press statement. Both military personnel suffered only minor injuries as a result of the firefight. They were immediately given medical attention.

Recovered from the site of the encounter were ten (10) molotov’s, one (1) cellular phone, one (1) backpack, and one (1) pc 30-meter long electrical wire.

Trinidad stated that this is a manifestation of the positive response of the local communities to the program of the government to End the Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC).

Trinidad, who also heads the Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB), acknowledges this effort as a way to bring back peace, especially in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantages areas (GIDAs) which became the CTGs haven in the past.

“Furthermore, Gen. Trinidad assured the public of a more intensified operations against the communist terrorists as the military works hand in hand with other government agencies to finally end the insurgency in the region through the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC),” the press statement further noted.

Trinidad then appeal to all the members of the CTG to abandon the armed movement and its useless cause and live a peaceful life with their families.

President Rodrigo Duterte issued Executive Order No.70 (EO 70) which provides a Whole-of Nation approach to defeat or end Local Communist Terrorist Groups and bring back elusive peace, especially in the countryside.

In line with this, the government remained steadfast and persistent in the implementation of the Enhanced Comprehensive Localized Integration Program or E-CLIP, which is readily made available to all rebel returnees who want to return to the fold of the law. (LSMacatangay-with report from 9DPAO-PIAV/Camarines Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034053

Gunmen seize physician in Jolo

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 5, 2020): Gunmen seize physician in Jolo (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr. and Ely Dumaboc)



ABDUCTED. Gunmen believed to be Abu Sayyaf Group bandits seized Dr. Daniel Moreno in his clinic in Walled City, Jolo, Sulu late Tuesday (Feb. 4, 2020). A friend described Moreno as someone who turned his back from a lucrative practice in America to serve his hometown. (Photo lifted from Ronda del Basilan Facebook page)

Gunmen believed to be Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits abducted a physician in the province of Sulu on Tuesday, a military official said.

Maj. Arvin John Encinas, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) spokesperson, said Wednesday that Dr. Daniel Moreno, who owns a clinic in Jolo, was abducted in Barangay Walled City, Jolo, capital of Sulu, at about 7:15 p.m.

Encinas said Moreno's abductors were clad in military and police uniforms, who forced the physician to board a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) that fled to an unknown direction.

Authorities received information that the SUV was seen along Km. 3 traveling to the outskirts of Jolo, he said, adding that troops were tracking down the whereabouts of the physician.

A Facebook post on Tuesday by Moreno's friend, Armand Dean Nocum, described the physician as someone who "turned his back on a lucrative medical profession and comfortable life in America" to put up a hospital in his hometown to address the lack of medical care in Jolo.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1092942

NPA 'top leader' killed in Butuan shootout

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 5, 2020): NPA 'top leader' killed in Butuan shootout (By Alexander Lopez)



CATCHING UP WITH THE LAW. A team of police and military personnel conducts a joint law enforcement operation against alleged top New People’s Army leader Manuel Gilo Magante on Wednesday (Feb. 5, 2020) in Butuan City. The operation resulted in the killing of Magante, allegedly a finance officer of the communist rebel group's regional operations in Caraga, as well as its head of the NPA's Intelligence and Special Operations Group under its Southern Mindanao Regional Committee. (Photo courtesy of 402Bde)

BUTUAN CITY – A top leader of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in a shootout with the police and the military Wednesday morning here.

In a report, the Army’s 402nd Infantry Brigade identified the slain rebel as Manuel Gilo Magante, a finance officer of the NPA's "Regional Operations Command" who also served as head of Intelligence and Special Operations Group of the rebels' Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC).

According to 402Bde, Army and police personnel were serving warrants of arrest for robbery with homicide against Magante in his residence in Barangay 15, San Ignacio here when he fired at the arresting officers, resulting in a brief firefight.

Magante died on the spot in the ensuing shootout, the Army said.

Recovered from his possession were several firearms and ammunition, a laptop, and several pieces of evidence.

Brig. Gen. Maurito Licudine, 402Bde commander, said Magante was also involved in numerous violent atrocities targeting military personnel and civilians in Caraga Region.

Licudine said among the "noted atrocities" of Magante included the murder of Datu Ruben Labawan in 2015; the abduction of Jail Warden Coquilla of Compostela Valley (now Davao de Oro) in 2015; the abduction and murder of Loreto, Agusan del Sur Mayor Dario Otaza and his son Darryl in Butuan City in 2015; and the attack on a mining compound in Barangay Olaycon, Monkayo, Davao de Oro, in 2016, where the rebels carted away 74 assorted high-powered firearms.

He said Magante was also responsible for the disarming of the peace and order personnel of Barangay Mahungcog, Magpet, North Cotabato in 2016; the synchronized attack on Lorenzo Residence in Calinan, Davao City in 2017; the burning of Lapanday Corporation Plastic Plant in Mandug, Davao City in 2017; the burning of Macondray Corporation Plastic Plant in Panabo City in 2017; and the burning of Construction Company heavy equipment in Barangay Callawa, Davao City, in 2018.

“The excellent partnership between and among the law enforcement agencies became the key piece of this victory of the people. Justice has been served for all the sufferings and deaths Magante had incurred to the people,” Licudine said.

He added that the death of Magante was "a testament that the long arms of justice will go after NPA members who continue to refuse to heed to the call of the government to surrender".

“They can run but they cannot hide for long. It is tragic that they take up arms against the government,” Licudine added.

The armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, the 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/1093044

95 Army personnel affected by Taal eruption get cash aid

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 5, 2020): 95 Army personnel affected by Taal eruption get cash aid (By Priam Nepomuceno)



CASH AID. Army chief, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay lead the distribution of financial assistance to Army troopers affected by the eruption of the Taal Volcano at the Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Tuesday (Feb. 4, 2020). A total of 95 affected Army personnel, who reside within the volcano's 7-km and 14-km danger zones, received PHP10,000 and PHP5,000 respectively. (Photo courtesy of Army Chief Public Affairs Office)

The Philippine Army (PA) on Tuesday distributed cash donations to 95 of its personnel who were severely affected by the eruption of Taal Volcano last January 12.

The distribution took place at the PA Grandstand in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, Army spokesperson, Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said.

A total of 95 affected Army personnel, who reside within the volcano's seven-kilometer and 14-kilometer danger zones, received PHP10,000 and PHP5,000 respectively.

Other donations will be sent to their respective accounts by the PA, Zagala added.

Army chief, Lt. Gen. Gilbert I. Gapay led the ceremonial awarding of donations to the beneficiaries present as part of his 55th birthday celebration.

“In our commitment to serving our country, especially in times of calamities, we end up neglecting our own safety. The Philippine Army, aside from immediately responding to our countrymen in need, do not forget to extend assistance to our soldiers,” the PA chief said.

Gapay said this effort shows how the PA cares for its personnel, their families, and their dependents.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1092934