Wednesday, March 11, 2020

Capiz top cop renews call for rebels to surrender

From the Panay News (Mar 12, 2020): Capiz top cop renews call for rebels to surrender


Capiz Provincial Police Office (CPPO) director Colonel Julio Gustilo (2nd from the left) presents before the media alias “Art” (center), a former rebel who returned to the folds of the law on March 6. CPPO will facilitate Art’s enrolment in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program so that he can start a new and better life. PIA
ROXAS City – Capiz Provincial Police Office (CPPO) director Colonel Julio Gustilo Jr. renewed his call to the members of the New People’s Army (NPA) to surrender, citing the government assistance is waiting for them to start a new and peaceful life.

The province’s top cop stressed this last week as he presented before the media alias “Art”, who was then a rebel Red fighter but surrendered and returned to the folds of the law, at the CPPO in Camp Teodorico Apil here.

“CPPO will facilitate alias Art’s enrolment to the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, so he can start the soonest possible time a new and better life,” Gustilo said.

During the event, Alias Art said that he surrendered because he could no longer bear the hardships, starvation, lack of security and hopelessness in living in the mountains.

The former rebel surrendered to CPPO’s Provincial Intelligence Unit officer Major Rowell Buccat as a result of the intensified and comprehensive conduct of intelligence and information operation by the police operatives in coordination with the 61st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army and the Barangay Intelligence Networks.

According to Buccat, Art became a Red fighter after he was recruited in 1992. He was a member of an NPA unit that operates in several upland barangays of Mambusao, Jamindan, Sigma, Dumalag, and Tapaz towns in this province.

Alias Art’s surrender took place while the government is implementing the whole-of-nation approach, which aims to end local communist armed conflict in order to attain inclusive and sustainable peace and development.(With a report from PIA/PN)

https://www.panaynews.net/capiz-top-cop-renews-call-for-rebels-to-surrender/

New 15IB commander vows to end insurgency

From the Visayan Daily Star (Mar 11, 2020): New 15IB commander vows to end insurgency

The 15th Infantry Battalion in southern Negros got a new commander, in the person of Lt. Col. Erwin Cariño.

Cariño replaced on Monday newly-promoted Col. Patricio Tomales as the 15IB commander, in rites presided over by Maj. Gen. Eric Vinoya, 3rd Infantry Division commander.

Cariño, who vowed to end the insurgency through active involvement in delivering programs for genuine peace and security, emphasized the use of focused military operations in addressing the armed New People’s Army rebels operating in southern Negros Occidental.

A member of the Philippine Military Academy Class 2001, Cariño said he firmly believes that insurgency is a barrier in achieving development and progress in the community, thus, collaborative efforts among all stakeholders must be undertaken.

Vinoya, in his speech during the change of command ceremony, emphasized and solicited the support of various local government units and the private sector in realizing the national campaign to End the Local Communist Armed Conflict.

“Eradication of insurgency is long overdue, and the people of Negros have suffered a lot," Vinoya said.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/March/11/topstory7.htm

Road to Kinam begins journey

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 10, 2020): Road to Kinam begins journey (By Sarangani Communications Service)

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ALABEL, Sarangani, March 10 – Malapatan Mayor Salway Sumbo Jr. and officers of the Philippine Army – 52nd Engineer Brigade and 512th Engineer Construction Battalion signed on Wednesday (March 4) the inter local agency partnership agreement for the opening of a road to barangay Kinam via Daan Suyan.

According to Captain John Colbe Sepulchre, Civil-Military Operations Officer of 512th ECB, “to construct and rehabilitate infrastructure projects” is the unit’s primary mission as a construction battalion.

As stated in the agreement signed by both parties, “the residents of the barangays have been suffering for more than a decade due to armed conflict between NPA rebels and government troops, which hampered the delivery of basic social services to the people in the identified barangays.” As such, the road-opening project is conceived and approved.

“When it comes to development support for the local government units, diyan po kami papasok,” Sepulchre said during the agreement signing.

“So ngayon po is itong project na road-opening from barangay Daan Suyan papuntang barangay Kinam, wherein walang existing na kalsada at doon sa area, dadaan ka pa po ng ilog,” Sepulchre said.

Kinam is said to be the second biggest and most populated barangay in Malapatan, according to Mayor Sumbo, and is one of the major suppliers of abaca, upland rice, copra and corn in the province and in General Santos City.

“Kung meron na po tayong kalsada, at least yung flow po ng produkto, yung commerce, mai-improve po natin, pati yung kabuhayan ng mga tao,” Sepulchre said when asked about the economic impact of the project to the beneficiary.

Sepulchre also believed that “the educational system is good” in Kinam but saw the problem of the “lack of access to information and access to additional educational support,” which will also be addressed by the project.

“Meron po tayong partner dito, ang 73rd Infantry Battalion, sila naman po papasok sa security aspect which is sa peace and order po ng area,” Sepulchre said.

According to Sepulchre, the 512th ECB has been partnering with Sarangani for a long time and has already done several projects in other municipalities like Glan, Malungon, and Maasim, and said that they are delighted that Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon has given them another opportunity “to help and to partner with in this endeavour.”

On the other hand, Mayor Sumbo has pointed out the “commitment sa government side in terms sa support sa fuel, lubricants, at iba pang construction materials,” including the repair and maintenance of equipment, as said in the agreement, in the implementation of the project.

Sumbo also said that Congressman Ruel Pacquiao and Senator Manny Pacquiao have committed P250M for the concreting of the said roads.

Sumbo expressed his gratitude to the partners and looked forward to the ceremonial groundbreaking of the project early this month. (Jori Mae Samillano/SARANGANI COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE)

Negros Occ. barangay to get various development projects

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 11, 2020): Negros Occ. barangay to get various development projects (By Lorenzo O. Lambatin, Jr.)

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HINOBAAN, Negros Occidental, March 11 (PIA6) -- Hinobaan mayor Ernesto Estrao assured residents of Barangay Damutan that they will receive various projects including road that will cut travel time and ease transport woes from their area to the town proper.

During the Serbisyong Negrosanon Para sa Hinobaan-on under the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP), he said a 28-kilometer road project is already underway at a total cost of P450 million, construction of which could begin by early 2021.

World Bank is funding the project under the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) with counterpart each from the provincial and municipal governments, the mayor said.

The town has also tapped sources from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) to give power to 18 sitios of the town including Brgy. Damutan through the Negros Occidental Electrical Cooperative (NOCECO) that will begin this year.

Meanwhile, the barangay is also set to benefit from a P15-million irrigation project.

He said these projects coincided with the identified needs of the people that surfaced during the Focus Group Discussion held with the different sectors in the community-farmers, women, youth and the senior citizens, among others.

"We would like the people to plan for their own peace and progress, own it because it is theirs. We would like them to have a sense of ownership of the projects," he said.

More than 500 people availed of government services such as medical-dental with free medicines, circumcision, haircut, civil registration, feeding, cattle branding and training or orientation on Basic Life Support, child and women's rights and teen-age pregnancy.

Various government agencies addressed problems, answered queries and referred concerns from the residents.

The remote barangay is situated 300 meters above sea level and is a Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Area (GIDA).

"There can be no peace and progress without cooperation. We will take action on your concerns and not just talk. All issues we have gathered will be relayed to the concerned agencies," Estrao said during the closing of the two-day camp out caravan in Brgy. Damutan. (JSC/LLJR-PIA6)

Role of LCEs in RCSP implementation cited

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 11, 2020): Role of LCEs in RCSP implementation cited (By Lilibeth A. French)

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ILOILO CITY, March 11 (PIA6) - - Philippine Army's 301st Infantry Brigade Commander Col. Marion Sison stressed the important role of local chief executives in the ongoing implementation of the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) in the province of Iloilo.

Sison said on Monday, during the meeting of the Iloilo Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) here, that RCSP strengthened the Community Support Program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines that aims to provide developmental interventions to address the issues identified by the barangays.

Citing Memorandum Circular 2019-169 issued by the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Sison said local chief executives are mandated to spearhead the implementation of the RCSP, a means to attain the objectives of Executive Order No. 70 issued by President Rodrigo Duterte which institutionalizes the whole-of-nation approach in ending local communist armed conflict.

“RCSP is the best instrument for us na linisin, alisin ang lason sa lipunan, ang mga bandidong komunistang terorista,” said Sison.

Through DILG MC 2019-169, local chief executives were mandated to spearhead all RCSP initiatives by engaging the community to collaborate and co-create with their local government the developments and solutions to local issues as well as foster convergence and collaboration among various government institutions, civilian and uniformed, as well as non-government players such as local Civil Society Organizations, People’s Organization, the Business and all sectors of the society.

Based on the DILG - Iloilo data, around 49 barangays in the province of Iloilo are targets for RCSP implementation. These barangays are affected by insurgency.

As of Monday, March 9, some six barangays have already completed the conduct of their immersion activities.

These barangays are Boloc in Tubungan town, Lico in Alimodian; Trangka in Maasin, Atimonan in Janiuay, and Marandia and Supanga in Calinog.

RCSP is implemented in four phases that include organization of the RCSP Team and Core Team; identification of governance gaps and development interventions; implementation of priority programs and projects identified by the community; empowerment of communities, strengthening of barangay based-institutions and capacity of barangay in the crafting of Barangay Development Plan; and mobilization, hand-over and sustainability.

The Philippine Army and the Philippine National Police were tasked to conduct the clearing operations before the RCSP Teams can conduct their immersions in the target barangays. (JSC/laf/PIA6-Iloilo)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1036027

Tagalog News: 48IB, nagbigay pugay sa mga babaeng sundalo

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 11, 2020): Tagalog News: 48IB, nagbigay pugay sa mga babaeng sundalo (By Vinson F. Concepcion)

LUNGSOD NG MALOLOS, Marso 11 (PIA) -- Binigyan ng pagkakataon ng Army 48th Infantry Battalion o 48IB ang kanilang mga kababaihang sundalo na maranasan ang paghawak ng mas mataas na posisyon sa Sandatahang Lakas bilang pakikiisa sa pagdiriwang ng International Women’s Day,

Sa ginanap na selebrasyon, umakto bilang mga troop commanders, platoon sergeants at squad leaders ang mga female officers at non-commissioned officers upang ipakitang may pantay na karapatan ang mga kababaihan sa Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas.


Pinangunahan ng mga kababaihang sundalo ang pagtataas ng watawat ng Pilipinas bilang pakikiisa ng Army 48th Infantry Battalion sa selebrasyon ng International Women’s Day sa kanilang kampo sa Dona Remedios Trinidad, Bulacan. (larawan mula sa 48IB)

Ayon kay 48IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Felix Emeterio Valdez, tinitiyak nila na may mahalagang papel na ginagampanan ang kanilang babaeng sundalo upang mas lalo itong matuto at mapataas ang kanilang kakayahan.

Ani Valdez, may karapatan anya ang mga itong maging lider at sana maging isa itong inspirasyon sa iba pang kababaihan nais maging sundalo. (CLJD/VFC-PIA 3)

ELCAC is all about delivery of basic services and good governance, says 4ID chief

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 11, 2020): ELCAC is all about delivery of basic services and good governance, says 4ID chief (By Jasper Marie O. Rucat)

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The Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC-X) Northern Mindanao holds a meeting with the Technical Working Group to discuss various programs, projects and activities in support of EO 70, which emphasizes the whole-of-nation approach to address the root causes of insurgency problem in the country. (Vincent Philip Bautista/PIA10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, March 11 (PIA) – Contrary to claims that the government is trying to control civilians through militarization, 4th Infantry Division (4ID) Commander MGen. Franco Nemesio Gacal has emphasized that the move to end local communist armed conflict (ELCAC) is all about delivery of basic services and good governance.

In a meeting with the members of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC)-10 Technical Working Group (TWG) here yeseterday, March 10, Gacal cited the gains and progress in synchronizing the programs, projects and activities (PPAs) and ensuring budget allocations through the help of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)-10 led by Regional Director Mylah Faye Aurora B. Carniño.

The goal is to address gaps and challenges, Gacal said, adding "by the end of the term of the President, all 763 barangays of Northern Mindanao must be conflict resilient."

"Peace, Law Enforcement, and Development Support (PLEDS) group under the task force is very fast in clearing barangays," he pointed out.

In a related development, Lagonglong town in Misamis Oriental is slated to launch its Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) come March 20.

Lagonglong Municipal Administrator Ponciano Bana said out of 78 families in sitio Kamansi, only 36 families are willing return there. This sitio was known to be New People's Army (NPA) rebel infested an area where it built its headquarters for so long a time.

Bana explained that some of the families are afraid to go home because they are afraid to see military soldiers in the area.

“Nakita ninyo nga maayo gyud pagkalubag ang utok sa atong mga igsoon didto sa Kamansi nga dli mu pauli hangtud naay naka uniporme (You see how these people had been brainwashed by the left to the the pont that they won't go home so long as they see uniformed personnel there)," he stressed.

Gacal admitted that Sitio Kamansi in Lagonglong town and Sitio Lantad in Balingasag municipality had been "areas of concern" by the army.

He said: “Remove Lagonglong and Balingasag in the area operation of the NPA and we solve 80 percent of the [insurgency] problem in region 10.”

“Those have been their headquarters for so long. They need those because Cagayan de Oro is the center of region 10. If you are the commander, you control the key terrain, which is Cagayan de Oro City. Remove that area, and we will win,” Gacal continued.


Mylah Faye Aurora B. Cariño, regional director of National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) - 10 shares the vision of the group to address peace and development in the region. (Vincent Philip Bautista/PIA10)

How people perceive the government

NEDA-10 Regional Director Mylah Faye Aurora B. Cariño said "there are knowledge gaps in pursuit of development and we address these challenge gaps by research agenda."

“We realize there are some knowledge gaps that we need to address so that we can appropriately develop strategies we need to pursue to attain the goals of peace and development,” she explained.

One of the priority researches that has been approved by the Regional Development Council (RDC) is a study on academic achievement of Northern Mindanao.

Very simply, Cariño added, “there must be something not appropriate in how we teach our kids and right now, this is really alarming for us.”

Kids in region 10 are only learning 35 - 40 percent on what they should learn when they reach grade 6, finish junior or senior high school.

“We know our kids our prone to radicalization. That is why we have this study,” Cariño explained.

Also, a client satisfaction survey of the Philippine Army's 1st and 4th Infantry Divisions is underway to determine how effective are the 1st ID and the 4th ID in providing security services to their areas of responsibility.

For Director Cariño, the face of the government in conflict areas is the military. "How the people perceive the militaty is also how the they perceive the government," she concluded. (JMOrucat/PIA10)

Esperon confirms 20M budget for insurgency-affected barangays

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 11, 2020): Esperon confirms 20M budget for insurgency-affected barangays (By Caren Grace Cabanayan)

SAN FERNANDO CITY, March 11 (PIA) -- National Security Council (NSC) Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. confirmed the national government’s approval of program fund for insurgency-affected barangays.

NSC deputy director general Vicente Agdamag earlier announced of the program fund in his recent engagement with media in La Union in February.

This was declared anew by Esperon during the PIA Region 1’s Kapihan sa Ilocos and first quarterly meeting of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict on March 4 at the Vista La Vita Resort, this city.

Esperon said a minimum of P20 million will be allocated in year 2021 for identified insurgency-affected villages which will be used for the construction of farm to market roads, rehabilitation of schools, establishment of health stations, and water system.

In addition, projects and programs from the different government agencies and local government units will be given to the concerned barangays.

“Mayroon ding mga karagdagang programa at proyekto na manggagaling sa iba’t-ibang ahensya ng gobyerno tulad ng Department of Labor and Employment at Department of Trade and Industry at mga lokal na pamahalaan ng gobyerno,” Esperon said.

Also, areas classified as threatened barangays will receive P1.5 million each which will cover for the repairs of schools, reforestation, water systems, and livelihood programs.

Moreover, the secretary said geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas will be allotted with development projects from the national government.


PIA Region 1 Director Jennilyne Role moderates the Kapihan sa Ilocos program with Secretary Hermogenes Esperon leading the panelists. (RMN/PIA La Union) 

“Sabi ng Pangulo, asikasuhin natin ang countryside. Bigyan natin sila ng farm to market roads, health stations, water systems, at livelihood programs. Lahat ng proyekto kung saan makakatulong ang gobyerno sa mga malalayong lugar ay ibibigay natin,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Esperon emphasized the importance of communication in preventing insurgencies in far-flung barangays.

“Kung wala silang koneksyon na tulad ng internet ay hindi nila malalaman kung anu-ano ang mga nangyayari sa labas ng kanilang mga barangay at hindi nila malalaman ang mga hakbang ng gobyerno upang tulungan sila,” he said.

To address this, Esperon shared the free Wi-Fi project in public places of the Department of Information and Communications Technology which is expected to link isolated areas to the digital modern world. (JCR/JND/CGC/PIA La Union)

Students advised not to join ‘immersion’ activities offered by leftist groups

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 11, 2020): Students advised not to join ‘immersion’ activities offered by leftist groups (By Freddie G. Lazaro)

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SAN FERNANDO CITY, Mar. 12 (PIA) - - Major General Lenard T. Agustin, the commander of the army's 7th Infantry Division, had advised the students in high schools and colleges not to join in the so-called ‘immersion’ activities organized by communist front organizations.

Agustin issued the advisory considering that many 'immersion' activities are expected to be launched by the New People's Army (NPA) rebels’ front organization this summer vacation to lure recruits to be brainwashed, and later force them to be leaders of the communist terrorist armed struggle.

“These kinds of activities are organized every summer by communist terrorist masterminds as the NPA’s foundation anniversary on March 29 is fast approaching,” said Agustin.

Instead of joining these activities, Agustin encouraged the students to focus their time and energy to look for summer jobs, involve themselves in sports, join humanitarian and church activities or help their parents in doing household chores and bond with their respective families.

Agustin also called on the parents to monitor the activities of their children this summer.

"Parents should also be aware of these kinds of immersion activities of communist front organizations that would lead their children to the destructive arm of communist terrorist groups (CTGs),” said Agustin.

He added, "if you love your children, please do your part and protect them against the deceitful strategies of these communist front organizations." (JCR/FGL/PIA-1)

Capiz top cop renews call for rebels to surrender

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 11, 2020): Capiz top cop renews call for rebels to surrender (By Alex Lumaque)

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ROXAS CITY, Capiz, March 12 (PIA) – Capiz police director Col. Julio Gustilo, Jr. renewed the call to the members of the New People’s Army Communist Terrorist Group to surrender as government assistance awaits them to start a new and peaceful life.

This was stressed by the province’s top cop as he presented before local tri-media practitioners alias Art who was then a rebel red fighter but surrendered and returned to the folds of law, March 6, at the Capiz Police Provincial Office in Camp Teodorico Apil, here.


SURRENDER. Capiz police director Col. Julio Gustilo, Jr. and former rebel alias Art (2nd and 3rd from left, respectively) grant local mediamen a photo opportunity, March 6, at the Capiz Police Provincial Office in Camp Teodorico Apil in Roxas City. (CPPO/PIA Photo)

“Capiz PPO will facilitate alias Art’s enrolment to the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) so he can start the soonest possible time a new and better life,” Gustilo said in a prepared statement before the mediamen.

The former rebel surrendered with a caliber .357 revolver without serial number and loaded with five live ammunitions to CPPO’s Provincial Intelligence Unit Officer Maj. Rowell Buccat, as a result of the intensified and comprehensive conduct of intelligence and information operation by the police operatives in coordination with the 61st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army and the Barangay Intelligence Networks.

During the press briefing, alias Art said to the media that he surrendered because he could no longer bear the hardship, starvation, lack of security and hopelessness in the mountains.

Maj. Buccat said alias Art was recruited in 1992 and had become a red fighter. He was a member of NPA unit operating in several upland barangays of Mambusao, Jamindan, Sigma, Dumalag and Tapaz towns in the province.

The surrender took place as the government is implementing the whole – of – nation approach to end local communist armed conflict (ELCAC) in order to attain inclusive and sustainable peace and development. (JSC/AAL/PIA Capiz)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1036060

Over P500K released to former rebels

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 11, 2020): Over P500K released to former rebels
(By Lilibeth A. French)

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ILOILO CITY, March 12 (PIA6) - - The provincial office of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in Iloilo has released some P552,000 in various financial assistance to former rebels (FRs) under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Local Government Operations Officer II Dolyn Jane Palcia said a total of seven former rebels from the province benefited immediate, reintegration and livelihood assistance provided under the ECLIP since 2018.

All the seven FRs availed of the immediate assistance amounting to P15,000 for their mobilization expenses while six were granted livelihood assistance of P50,000 each.

A P21,000 reintegration assistance was also given to each of the receiving unit of the seven FRs. The amount is intended to cover the subsistence meals of the former rebel while in custody and other incidental expenses that may be incurred while processing their Joint AFP-PNP Intelligence Committee (JAPIC) certification.

Aside from the financial assistance, ECLIP beneficiaries also received safety and security guarantees, PhilHealth enrolment, registration to government entities, healing and reconciliation initiatives and other additional assistance that may be determined based on the Former Rebel Reintegration Plan.

The assistance may include capacity building, skills training, provision of shelter, legal assistance, employment and medical assistance if needed.

Palcia said the FR could also avail of the services of the halfway house while their enrolment in the program is still on process.

In Western Visayas, only the province of Negros Occidental has a half-way house after its local government unit availed of P5 million worth of fund from DILG.

FRs and Militia ng Bayan members also received amount for the firearms they turned in that have undergone the authentication and profiling processes through E-CLIP.

Palcia said the firearms, explosives and ammunition that were turned in were endorsed to the Philippine National Police for clearing and will be demilitarized and disposed of as these were used in rebellion.

Under the program, eligible for assistance are regular members of the New People’s Army who surfaced April 3, 2018 onwards and have expressed the desire to abandon armed violence and become productive members of society. Members of their immediate families are also eligible for assistance under the E-CLIP.

Also eligible are all FRs who surfaced starting July 1, 2016, as well as those who have been processed but did not receive the full assistance under the CLIP.

Members of the Militia ng Bayan who surfaced starting April 3, 2018 shall only be eligible to Immediate Assistance, Reintegration Assistance and Firearms Remuneration.

Palcia said two more members of the New People’s Army, male and female, have decided to go back to the folds of the law and their enrolment to ECLIP is now being processed.

She encouraged other combatants to do the same to be able to avail of the benefits and services under E-CLIP, which is part of the unyielding effort of the government to end local insurgency and in the attainment of sustainable and inclusive peace. (JSC/laf/PIA6-Iloilo)

Northern Samar organizes 232 Barangay TF ELCAC

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 11, 2020): Northern Samar organizes 232 Barangay TF ELCAC (By Teresita B. Cardenas)

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CATARMAN, Northern Samar, March 12 (PIA) – The Northern Samar Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) organized 232 Barangay Task Forces in the towns of Allen, Catarman, Gamay, Laoang, Mondragon, Rosarion, San Roque, Victoria, Lope de Vega, and San Isidro.

This is according to DILG OIC Provincial Director Danilo Laguitan during the Kapihan sa PIA on March 3.

He said that the government through EO 70 or the institutionalization of the whole-of-nation approach is sincere in its effort for the attainment of inclusive and sustainable peace.

He added that local armed conflict is not only a military concern but everybody’s concern, thus, a retooled community support program was formulated in order to strengthen the community support program initiatives of the military and making the effort Local Government Units (LGU) driven.

Part of the strategy of the task force is for local government units, with the use of the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) to engage the community to collaborate and co-create with their local government developments and solutions to local issues.

Of the four identified pilot municipalities in the province, only two municipalities finished with their Serbisyo Caravan and barangay development planning.

The other towns still await the clearing operations to ensure perimeter security of the target barangays during the entire duration of the immersion is safe.

He then explained that the program is anchored on the empowerment framework geared to provide needed government services to the community, open and access available platform for democratic participation where everyone is involved.

The LCE will serve as the head of the municipal task force.

Being the head, he is in-charge of the deployment of the team to the target barangay for immersion. He should also ensure that development initiatives are properly delivered, immediate needs are properly programmed for funding and implementation, the DILG official said. (nbq/tbc/pia8-northernsamar)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1036002

Maguindanao farmer loses leg in mine blast

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 10, 2020): Maguindanao farmer loses leg in mine blast (By Edwin Fernandez)



Google map of the neighboring towns of Shariff Aguak and Ampatuan, Maguindanao province.

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – A 44-year-old farmer lost his leg and sustained shrapnel injuries after he accidentally stepped on an anti-personnel mine that exploded in the mountains bordering Shariff Aguak and Ampatuan towns in Maguindanao on Monday.
Major Erwin Tabora, Shariff Aguak town police chief, identified the victim as Ricky Biang, of Barangay Saniag, Ampatuan, Maguindanao.

“The victim sustained blast wounds in his legs and body,” Tabor said in an interview by a local radio station on Tuesday.

Biang was seen Monday morning heading toward the upland communities in the borders of Ampatuan and Shariff Aguak, the site of clashes between government forces and the Islamic State-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) the past few days.

“He was bringing food supplies to displaced families as a result of the fighting,” Tabora said.

Civilians and responding soldiers rushed the victim to the Maguindanao provincial hospital in Shariff Aguak where he remains under observation by doctors.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1096140

9 CPP-NPA supporters vow loyalty to gov't

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2020): 9 CPP-NPA supporters vow loyalty to gov't (By Jason De Asis)



RETURN TO GOV'T FOLD. Nine supporters of the Komiteng Larangang Guerilla (KLG) Sierra Madre of the Communist Party of the Philippine-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) vow loyalty to the government in a ceremony held at a barangay hall in Maria Aurora town, Aurora province on Monday (March 9, 2020). Col. Andrew Costelo, commander of the Army's 703rd Infantry Brigade, expressed appreciation for the courage showed by the former rebel supporters. (Photo by Jason de Asis)

BALER, Aurora — Nine supporters of Komiteng Larangang Guerilla (KLG) Sierra Madre of the Communist Party of the Philippine-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) have vowed loyalty to the government in a ceremony held at the barangay hall of Barangay Decoliat, Maria Aurora, this province on Monday.

Col. Andrew Costelo, commander of 703rd Infantry (AGILA) Brigade, said KLG supporters’ renunciation of support to the terrorist group was a result of the persistence of the 91st Infantry Battalion in implementing the provisions of Executive Order No. 70 signed by President Rodrigo Duterte to end communist rebellion in the country.


“They realized the exploitation they experienced under KLG Sierra Madre which led to their formal withdrawal of support. They now seek the custody and care of government agencies as they embark on a new lease to life,” Costelo said.

He expressed appreciation for the courage showed by the KLG Sierra Madre supporters.

“It is not an easy way out since the communist terrorists will not allow their supporters to turn their back on them for it is only through extortion that they survive. It is noteworthy to mention that finally after years of abuse, the KLG Sierra Madre supporters changed their heart and found fortitude to return to their family and to the community,” he said.

Major General Lenard Agustin, commander of 7th Infantry “Kaugnay” Division, also expressed his full support to those who returned to the mainstream society.

“The government is doing more than its best to ensure the safety of former government enemy supporters,” he said.

Lt. Col. Reandrew Rubio, acting commanding officer of 91st IB, said the move is part of the implementation of the government's Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) and Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP).

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1096176

2 rebels, soldier killed in fresh Samar clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2020): 2 rebels, soldier killed in fresh Samar clash (By Sarwell Meniano)



FRESH CLASH. The map of Pinabacdao, Samar. The Philippine Army reported two fighters of the New People’s Army (NPA) and a soldier were killed in a clash in a remote village in Pinabacdao, Samar on Wednesday (March 11, 2020). (Google map)

Two fighters of the New People’s Army (NPA) and a soldier were killed in a clash in a remote village in Pinabacdao, Samar on Wednesday.

Maj. Gen. Pio Diñoso III, commander of the Philippine Army 8th Infantry Division, said
the gun battle took place in the upland Canlobo village near the boundary of Eastern Samar province around 8:15 a.m.

“About 11 NPA fighters and seven soldiers clashed in that remote village. Our soldiers have been patrolling in the area after residents reported about the activities of rebels near their village,” Diñoso told the Philippine News Agency (PNA), citing initial reports.

The military has yet to release the names of casualties from both sides.

Soldiers of the 46th Infantry Battalion recovered an M16 rifle from NPA fighters. Government troops have been hunting the rebels after they fled to unknown directions following the brief firefight.

Canlobo is one of the five upland villages in Pinabacdao town identified by the government troops as affected by the communist terrorist group.


These villages have been identified for various interventions by government agencies in its effort to wipe out the insurgency.

“We derive our strength from the people. I hope people will continue to help us by providing valuable information,” Diñoso added.

The official is upbeat of ending the insurgency problem soon with the creation of local task forces to end the local communist armed conflict (ELCAC).

In December 2018, President Rodrigo Duterte signed Executive Order No. 70, which institutionalized a whole-of-nation approach in dealing with insurgency through the creation of National Task Force ELCAC.

Eastern Visayas has 1,073 organized task forces comprised of the regional task force, six in provinces, seven in cities, 127 in towns, and 932 in villages.

“We are very optimistic about the creation of these task forces since we need a whole-of-nation approach to end insurgency. We are fighting but no problem is solved,” he said.

The NPA launched its first tactical operation in the country in Calbiga, Samar in 1974, when its members ambushed an Army scout patrol and seized weapons.

The NPA, which has been engaged in a five-decade armed struggle, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1096287

More war materials, bomb-making components found in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2020): More war materials, bomb-making components found in Maguindanao (By Edwin Fernandez)



SEIZED. Government troopers seize more bombs and bomb-making components in an abandoned lair of the Islamic State-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in the mountains of Ampatuan, Maguindanao on Tuesday (March 10, 2020). Among the belongings left behind by fleeing BIFF radicals was a black flag of the terror Islamic State of Iraq and Syria. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Government forces found more war materials and bomb-making components in former lairs of the Islamic State-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in the peripheries of the province following the military's week-long air and ground assaults.

Lt. Colonel Edwin Alburo, commander of the Army’s 57th Infantry Battalion (IB), said the
war materials were found by troopers in the mountains of Ampatuan, Maguindanao, on Tuesday afternoon.


“The area was the site where intense firefight erupted between government forces and the BIFF since March 1,” Alburo said, adding the airstrikes and artillery bombardment were carried out against the BIFF during the series of armed engagements.

Aside from war materials, the military also recovered a black flag of the terror Islamic State of Iraq and Syria and personal belongings of BIFF radicals who fled the heavy bombardments the past several days.

“Fourteen BIFF and four soldiers died during the week-long gun battles in the mountains of Maguindanao,” Alburo said.

He said a total of 18 improvised explosive devices, bomb components, and war materials were recovered in the clash sites.

Meanwhile, the local government of Shariff Aguak in Maguindanao has declared the resumption of classes in all levels Wednesday following suspension the day before as military airstrikes pounded on BIFF positions in neighboring municipalities of Ampatuan and Datu Hoffer.

“The loud noises of military bombardment in the nearby towns could be heard from the center of Shariff Aguak so the mayor ordered for the suspension of classes," said Datu Anwar Kuit Emblawa, the executive secretary of Shariff Aguak Mayor Marop Ampatuan.

Emblawa said work in the municipal hall continued unhampered despite military operations in the nearby towns.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1096228

3 NPA rebels yield in Zamboanga Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2020): 3 NPA rebels yield in Zamboanga Norte (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)



Google map of Leon B. Postigo municipality, Zamboanga del Norte.

ZAMBOANGA CITY -- Three New People’s Army (NPA) rebels have surrendered brought about by hardships in the hills in the province of Zamboanga del Norte, an official said Wednesday.

Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, the Army’s 1st Infantry Division commander,
identified the NPA surrenderers as Fernan Micasia, a team leader, and Teng Alom and Ronie Tuburan.

Ponio said the surrenderers used to operate under the NPA’s Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee and are all residents of Barangay Guibo, Siayan town. They surrendered Monday to the Army’s 97th Infantry Battalion (IB) in Barangay Poblacion in Leon Postigo town.


“The surrenderers said they decided to surrender and return to the fold of the law because of the adversities they experienced while eluding the intensified offensives of the government forces,” he said, adding the three underwent custodial debriefing at the 97IB headquarters.

The three NPA surrenderers will be enrolled with the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (-CLIP) to assist them in their reintegration.

Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, attributed the surrender of the three NPA rebels to the cooperation between government troops and community stakeholders.

“It exhibits the untiring commitment and dedication of our troops to continuously protect and secure our communities from the wrong ideologies of our enemies,” Sobejana said.

“We continue to exert our best efforts to end the local communist armed conflict and other threats for lasting peace and sustainable development here in Mindanao,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1096230

Army chief commends Visayas, Mindanao troops for successful ops

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2020): Army chief commends Visayas, Mindanao troops for successful ops (By Priam Nepomuceno)



Philippine Army commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay. (File photo)

Philippine Army commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, on Tuesday, commended troops in the Visayas and Mindanao for their successful actions against communist and terrorist threats in these regions last week.

“I commend your accomplishment in the mission you are tasked with. This achievement was possible through your combined efforts and individual perseverance to end the enemy’s atrocities," Gapay said.

He said the successful operations are proof that the Army can and will always carry out its mandate to provide a secure community for every Filipino.

Army spokesperson Col. Ramon Zagala said these encounters took place from March 2 to 8.

Over the period, a total of eight encounters occurred in the areas of the Maguindanao-based 6th Infantry Division, Samar-headquartered 8th Infantry Division, the 10th Infantry Division operating in Compostela Valley, and the 11th Infantry Division in Sulu, which resulted in the killing of four rebels of the New People’s Army, the surrender of 25 others, and the recovery of 10 assorted firearms.

Zagala further said that on March 2, a scout platoon of the 57th Infantry Battalion, a field unit of the 6th Infantry Division, neutralized three members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Ampatuan, Maguindanao.

On March 3, troops of the 23rd Mechanized Company, 2nd Mechanized Battalion also neutralized two BIFF elements.

He said the BIFF is responsible for various abuses and violence, especially in the Mindanao region, through mass extortion and harassment, as well as the use of anti-personnel mines against government forces.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1096210

AFP supports women empowerment policies

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2020): AFP supports women empowerment policies (By Priam Nepomuceno)



WOMEN EMPOWERMENT. Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief, Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. (left), cites the role of women in nation-building in his address before AFP personnel and officials during the flag-raising ceremony in Camp Aguinaldo on Monday (March 9, 2020). Santos said the AFP is a strong advocate of women's rights and called on Filipinos to work together to make change work for women. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

As the country celebrates National Women's Month, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief-of-Staff, Gen. Felimon Santos Jr., said the military is always supportive of policies and programs that promote women empowerment.

"The AFP, as an organization, not only recognizes the distinct contribution of women but also continues to pursue policies and programs that will help promote women empowerment, both to the organization and to the country as a whole," Santos said in a statement Tuesday.

The AFP has 2,414 female commissioned officers and 7,843 enlisted personnel.

He noted that the AFP is a strong advocate of women's rights and called on every Filipino to work together in making change work for women and in providing equal rights to all genders.

"Let us all cultivate a space where women are confident to build on their potentials, enhance their skills, and make their own choices – without being disrespected or unfairly treated by the society," Santos said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1096213

AFP ready to respond to Covid-19 threat

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2020): AFP ready to respond to Covid-19 threat (By Priam Nepomuceno)



AFP chief-of-staff, Gen. Felimon Santos, Jr. (File photo)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday said it is ready to be utilized in the "whole-of-government approach" in containing the coronavirus disease (Covid-19).

"We are preparing for the possibility that AFP facilities and personnel may be tapped to provide assistance in the 'whole of government' approach in combatting Covid-19 that has raised alarms worldwide," AFP chief-of-staff, Gen. Felimon Santos, Jr. said in a media statement.

Even before President Rodrigo Duterte's declaration of a "State of Public Health Emergency" on Monday, Santos said he has already instructed the AFP Health Services Command to institute preventive measures to ensure that military camps have the necessary and stringent safeguards against the disease.

"Corollary to this, we have already instituted contingency measures, like body temperature checking before entering key military camps, the establishment of a testing center at AFP Medical Center, and a moratorium on sending AFP personnel to foreign travels except when necessary, among other safeguards," he added.

Santos also said military personnel and civilian human resources were also urged to practice personal hygiene diligently to mitigate the risks of disease from spreading AFP units and offices.

He also said the AFP is ready to assist the Philippine National Police on the possible implementation of a lockdown amid the Covid-19 threat.

"(The) AFP will assist PNP if ever there will be one. (It depends on the situation), we have forces in NCR and if needed, we can have more," he added.

As of Tuesday, the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases in the country has increased to 33.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1096224

Bangsamoro Organic Law remains on track: OPAPP

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2020): Bangsamoro Organic Law remains on track: OPAPP



ON TRACK. Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. highlighted the government’s peacebuilding efforts in Mindanao during the Senate public hearing on Tuesday (March 10, 2020). Galvez said the entire process is still on the track despite challenges. (Photo courtesy of OPAPP)

The implementation of Republic Act 11054 or the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) and the ongoing transition of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) remains on track amidst the challenges being faced by the national and Bangsamoro governments.

“The mandate of the new Bangsamoro government is that we shall always be cooperative and collaborative with all endeavors to pursue good governance and ultimately development,” said lawyer Ali Pangalian Balindong, speaker of the BARMM Parliament during Tuesday's hearing called for by the Senate Committee on Local Government.

Chaired by Senator Francis N. Tolentino, the committee hearing aimed to raise key issues regarding the BOL’s implementation and solicit recommendations from stakeholders on how to best address them.

Tolentino emphasized that the purpose of the hearing was to ensure that BARMM gets all the resources it needs as it goes through the crucial transition phase, saying "the purpose of this committee hearing is really for the (Senate) to be of assistance in so far as making sure that the baby steps are correct and in the right direction."

Tolentino underscored Senate's commitment to help uplift the lives of the Bangsamoro people, and unleash the full economic potential of the region.

“We are assisting in the baby steps but we would want to ensure that these would be translated into successful adult strides because the success of BARMM is the success of the Philippines,” he said.

Naguib G. Sinarimbo, BARMM's Minister of the Interior and Local Government, who provided updates on the status of the BOL and BARMM during the hearing, emphasized that "the transition in the Bangsamoro is a complex one."

"It is not just a transition from the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao to BARMM but a transition of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to governance," he said.

"What is important to remember is we are also building institutions and strengthening the institutions," Sinarimbo pointed out.

At the present, the parliamentary-form BARMM is being run majority by the leadership of the MILF as part of its peace agreement with the government signed in 2014.

Responding to queries on the status of the BOL’s implementation, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. highlighted the efforts being undertaken by the national and Bangsamoro sides to further strengthen relations between both two parties.

"There may be challenges along the way but it's natural as we transform the region. What I am seeing here is the dedication and commitment of local stakeholders, including the foreign donor community, to create the conditions wherein the Bangsamoro people can build a better and brighter future," Galvez said at the sidelines of the hearing.

"One thing is very clear in this hearing and that is, the entire process is still on track despite the challenges. It remains true to the spirit of the peace agreement that the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front signed six years ago," he noted.

Galvez expressed optimism that “with the mechanisms that are now being put in place, we can surmount all of the challenges we are facing.”

Socioeconomic assistance: A shared responsibility

He, however, clarified that the provision of socioeconomic assistance for the decommissioned combatants “is a shared responsibility of the national and Bangsamoro governments.”

“They (combatants) should understand that the government also has limitations in terms of funding, and has to balance this concern with the equally important fund requirements of other emergency programs,” Galvez said, adding, “Rest assured that the government will fulfill its promise to change the lives of the Moro people through inclusive development.”


Senator Francis N. Tolentino (center) underscores the Senate’s commitment to help uplift the lives of the Bangsamoro people during the Senate public hearing on peace process on Tuesday (March 10, 2020). Senators Imee Marcos and Ronald dela Rosa attended the hearing. (Photo courtesy of OPAPP)

Last year, the government has earmarked PHP2 billion for the Normalization Program in which the combatants, their families and communities will receive comprehensive socio-economic packages which include social protection, sustainable livelihood programs, capacity-building trainings, health benefits and educational assistance.

Through these interventions, it is envisioned that the ex-fighters will be able to return to mainstream society, and the six government-acknowledged MILF camps and communities will be transformed into peaceful, productive and resilient communities.

Under the ongoing second phase of decommissioning process, at least 30 percent or 12,000 combatants will be decommissioned and their weapons put beyond use. Another 35 percent of the MILF forces will undergo the same procedure next year, while the rest will undergo the process until 2022 in time for the Exit Agreement between the government and the MILF.

IGRB: Creating greater synergy in the BARMM

According to the government’s chief peace negotiator, the Department of Finance, through the Intergovernmental Relations Body (IGRB), is laying the groundwork for the establishment of policies and mechanisms that would capacitate the BARMM.

“Secretary Dominguez (who is the co-chair of the IGRB) is the one really pursuing the capacitation of the BARMM in terms of financial management. There were also informal meetings held regarding the creation of seven intergovernmental bodies, and on March 20, we will make sure that these will be organized” Galvez told the Senators.

The IGRB serves as the official platform that would allow the national and Bangsamoro governments to “resolve issues brought before it [IGRB] and facilitate the creation of other intergovernmental relations bodies”.

These intergovernmental to be created include the following: (1) Philippine Congress-Bangsamoro Parliament Forum; (2) Intergovernmental Fiscal Policy Board; (3) Joint Body for the Zones of Joint Cooperation; (4) Intergovernmental Infrastructure Development Board; (5) Intergovernmental Energy Board; (6) Bangsamoro Sustainable Board; and (7) Council of Leaders.

Galvez said the issues raised by the local chief executives during the hearing will be tackled in the scheduled meeting of the IGRB.

The establishment of the IGRB is provided for in Article IV of the BOL. The body is co-chaired by Domiguez for the national government side and BARMM Minister of Finance Mohagher Iqbal for the Bangsamoro side.

Crucial codes for BARMM

To ensure the smooth and effective operations of the BARMM, Maguindanao First District Rep. Datu Roonie Sr. Q. Sinsuat urged the BTA to prioritize the drafting and passage of the region’s administrative, local government, civil service and education codes.

“These regional codes will directly facilitate the establishment of mechanisms for better governance of the BARMM and its constituents,” Sinsuat said.

He stressed that the BARMM needs "the support of the national government and the Filipino people to be able to succeed this gargantuan task to finally bring peace and progress to the Bangsamoro."

BARMM Speaker Pangalian Balindong said the BTA is expected to pass the crucial codes in their succeeding sessions.

"Hopefully the drafts (of the codes) will be completed and submitted to parliament for deliberation and approval," he said. "We expect to approve administrative code this month or early next month.”

Peacekeeping forces in the Bangsamoro

Meanwhile, Galvez highlighted the ongoing training being participated in by Moro Islamic Liberation Front-Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (MILF-BIAF), which will qualify them to be part of the Joint Peace and Security Teams (JPSTs).

"The 6th Infantry Division of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and other training camps of the armed forces are already ready for these [JPST] trainings," he said.

The JPSTs are composed of representatives from the AFP, Philippine National Police (PNP), and MILF-BIAF. They will serve as peacekeeping forces as the decommissioning process is carried out, and secure the safety of communities in the BARMM.

Senator Ronald de la Rosa lauded the impressive performance of the MILF members of the JPST, saying "It was reported to me that the MILF component of the JPST are snappy and exceed the performance of the AFP and PNP contingents."

In August 2019, 219 MILF combatants completed their basic military training which is a requirement for JPST membership. In November last year, the second batch of JPST underwent the same training.

Galvez said they are eyeing members of the MILF who underwent the JPST trainings to be part of the AFP and PNP.

Commitment of support from int’l donor community

Representatives from the international donor community who were invited as resource persons during the Senate hearing reaffirmed their continued support to the Bangsamoro peace process.

European Union (EU) Deputy Head of Delegation Thomas Wiersing noted the EU has been one of the "biggest foreign development partners to provide support to Mindanao and the peace process involving the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Government of the Philippines."

“The ratification of the Organic Law for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region constitutes a major step. The EU is pleased to note the progress being made in the Bangsamoro Peace Process," Wiersing said.

He also bared the EU’s upcoming initiatives to be implemented in the BARMM which includes the Peace and Development in the BARMM (PDBARMM) with a funding cost of 25 million Euros (around PHP1.42 billion), and the Support to Bangsamoro Transition (SUBATRA) with a program cost of 25 million Euros.

Wiersing explained that both programs are designed to address pressing issues that may arise during the BARMM’s transition period and beyond.

On the other hand, Ambassador of Turkey to the Philippines Artemiz Sumer said her government shall continue to carry out socioeconomic interventions that will help sustain the gains of peace in the BARMM.

"We aim to continue contributing with the socioeconomic development of BARMM via the Turkish International Development Agency…[We] would like to continue to support the transition process with this socio-economic development aid projects, in close coordination of course with relevant Philippine authorities," Sumer said.

For his part, Embassy of Japan Deputy Chief of Mission Minister Yasushi Yamamoto commended the Philippine government for throwing its full support behind the BARMM as it makes the transition, as well as for the effective implementation of the Normalization Program.

"We also recognize how the Philippine government carries out strong support to the BTA. We highly appreciate the implementation of the normalization process including the decommissioning of combatants and livelihood programs for decommissioned combatants and communities," Yamamoto said. “We will walk together with the Philippine Government and the Bangsamoro Government for lasting peace and development in the Bangsamoro.”

Meanwhile, British Embassy Chargé d'affaires Alistair Totty shared that his government over the years has been working with the Bangsamoro Region and the BTA to "understand from them what’s the most useful thing the British Government can do to support this process in coordination with our fellow donors and the national government."

Totty also discussed specific areas where they can provide support to the region, which include programs to capacitate the BTA, as well as empower and educate civil society organizations. The British Government’s financial assistance for the BARMM will amount to 3 million pounds, he said. (OPAPP-PR)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1096251

Duterte backs changes to AMLA, Bank Secrecy Law

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2020): Duterte backs changes to AMLA, Bank Secrecy Law (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)



President Rodrigo R. Duterte

President Rodrigo Duterte has expressed support to the passage of the proposed revisions to the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA) and the Bank Secrecy Law, as well as the planned automatic exchange of information with foreign tax authorities.

The three proposals have been included in the list of Duterte’s priority measures following his recent meeting with Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, Finance Assistant Secretary Antonio Lambino told Palace reporters in a weekly economic briefing.

“There are three pieces that we are advocating. It could happen that they all get passed in one law or in complementary law,” Lambino said. “The President agreed that these are priority measures.

This developed following the Senate’s revelation that there was an influx of money laundered in the country through the controversial operation of the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

Duterte also made the decision in light of POGOs’ supposed defiance to pay the right taxes to government.

Lambino said the proposals for automatic exchange of information and for amendments to Republic Act (RA) 9160 or AMLA and RA 1405 or the Law on Secrecy of Bank Deposits would arm the government with “stronger monitoring and enforcement tools” to fight tax evasion and other financial crimes.

He expressed hope that Congress would act swiftly on Duterte’s priority measures aimed at strengthening the country’s financial system.

He added that Duterte would urge lawmakers to certify the measures as urgent, as soon as they come up with a committee report on the proposals.

“Well, the certificate of urgency comes when there’s actually a committee report already. Committee report number. So, we look forward to working with Congress in making this a high priority para po ma-address natin itong mga issue na ito (to address the issues plaguing the country),” Lambino said.

Duterte has been repeatedly urged to order the closure of POGOs following the influx of dirty money into the country through the online gaming industry.

Under RA 9160, the State is mandated to protect and preserve the integrity and confidentiality of bank accounts and to ensure that the Philippines will not be used as a money laundering site for the proceeds of any unlawful activity.

RA 1405, meantime, forbids the disclosure of or inquiry into deposits with any banking institution, unless the depositor gives permission or a competent court orders the examination of bank accounts.

No direct link yet between POGOs, laundered money

Duterte on Monday believed that there is no corruption in POGOs, despite several issues hurled against the online gaming industry.

On Tuesday, Duterte insisted that POGOs are “clean,” and stressed that the government continues to benefit from tax collections from the offshore gaming firms.

Sought to react to Duterte’s remarks, Lambino said “the dots have to be connected” yet to establish the “direct link” between POGOs and the billions of pesos laundered in the country.

“I think the POGO and money coming in, the direct link between them is to be established still,” Lambino said. “And in order to connect all of these dots, we need to amend those laws and we need to lift absolute bank secrecy and institutionalize the automatic exchange of information.”

PHP18-billion unpaid taxes

At present, there are 60 POGOs licensed by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) in the country.

Lambino admitted that majority of the 60 licensed POGOs failed to pay roughly PHP18 billion in withholding income taxes in 2018.

He, however, said the challenge would be addressed, if Congress pass “as soon as possible” the proposed measure of Albay Rep. Joey Salceda that seeks the imposition of 5-percent franchise tax on revenues generated by POGOs.

Lambino said the DOF fully supports the efforts to increase the franchise tax on POGOs.

“By virtue of registering with Pagcor, BIR (Bureau of Internal Revenue) considers them as having operations here in the Philippines. And therefore, they should be paying the 5 percent franchise tax. Congressman Joey Salceda’s proposed measure makes it clear that there is no doubt that they owe the 5 percent franchise tax,” he said in a mix of English and Filipino.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1096259

HNP’s Sara Duterte, Ungab confirmed as Army Reserve colonels

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2020): HNP’s Sara Duterte, Ungab confirmed as Army Reserve colonels (By Jose Cielito Reganit)



Army reserve colonels, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and Davao City 3rd District Rep. Isidro Ungab, chat with Senator Francis Tolentino after their confirmation on Wednesday (Mar. 11, 2020) at the Senate in Pasay City. (PNA photo by Avito Dalan)

The Commission on Appointments on Wednesday confirmed the appointments of Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and Davao City 3rd District Rep. Isidro Ungab as colonels of the Philippine Army Reserve Command in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

The promotions of the two Hugpong ng Pagbabago (HNP) stalwarts, who both became AFP reservists in 2008, were confirmed with no objections from the members of the powerful body.

In his endorsement speech, Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go hailed Duterte-Carpio’s knowledge and experience as a lawyer and a public servant.

Duterte-Carpio, who passed the Philippine Bar Examination in 2006, has served as the Vice Mayor of Davao City from 2007 to 2010 and as City Mayor from 2010 to 2013, and from 2016 up to the present.

“Under her leadership, Davao has continued to grow as a socio-economic powerhouse in the country. Ito po ay mas strikto pa po ito kaysa sa tatay niya lalung-lalo na po kapag interes ng bawat Dabawenyo at bawat Pilipino ang pinag-uusapan (She is more strict than her father, especially when the interest of every Dabawenyo and every Filipino is concerned),” Go said referring to Sara’s father, President Rodrigo Duterte.

He said Duterte-Carpio’s forming of the HNP, a political party that began with a regional scope but soon had national influence, “is proof of her exemplary leadership skills and organizational acumen.”

“With her strength of character, outstanding background and proven love for country, I am confident that Mayor Sara Duterte will be a great asset to the Philippine Army Reserve Command,” Go said.

On the other hand, Go hailed Ungab as the “first Mindanaoan lawmaker” to hold the chairmanship of the House Appropriations Committee.

“(It is) a position he held with integrity and resolve,” he said.

He said Ungab was also cited by the late Senator and Senate President Ernesto Maceda as one of the Top Ten Performing Congressmen in 2014 and was awarded a Reservist Katapatan “Lapu-Lapu” Badge in recognition to his spirit of volunteerism and willingness to support the programs of the AFP.

“I have confidence that Congressman Ungab is well-qualified to perform the duties and responsibilities that accompany his post,” Go said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1096299