Friday, May 8, 2020

Fire breaks out on PH Navy ship hours after leaving India

From Rappler (May 8, 2020): Fire breaks out on PH Navy ship hours after leaving India (JC Gotinga)

Two Navy sailors on the BRP Ramon Alcaraz sustain second-degree burns, and will be treated at a hospital in Cochin, India, where the Philippine Navy picked up stranded Filipinos and a cargo of 200,000 face masks



PATROL SHIP. The BRP Ramon Alcaraz. Photo from the Philippine Navy

A fire broke out in the main engine room of the Philippine Navy (PN) patrol ship BRP Ramon Alcaraz hours after it left the Port of Cochin, India, for Manila on Thursday night, May 7, the Navy said in a statement on Friday afternoon, May 8.

The ship’s rapid response team was able to put the fire out in 10 minutes. Two Navy sailors suffered second-degree burns, and some equipment were damaged.

The two sailors were “to be airlifted” to a naval hospital in Cochin for “extensive medical attention.”


Naval engineers were assessing the damage to the ship’s main propulsion system to see whether the ship may proceed with its voyage or return to India for repairs.


“This unfortunate incident could have been worse if not for the promptness of our PN personnel in responding to the fire incident. We recognize the gallant efforts of our personnel in responding to the emergency situation in spite of the dangers involved. Rest assured that the safety and welfare of our personnel is of paramount importance,” the Navy said in a statement.

The BRP Ramon Alcaraz was escorting the landing dock ship BRP Davao del Sur, which was ferrying some 20 Filipinos who were stranded in India because of the coronavirus pandemic, and a cargo of 200,000 face masks donated by a Filipino businessman. The face masks were sourced in India.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/260356-fire-breaks-out-philippine-navy-ship-hours-leaving-india-may-2020

Army extends food aid, face masks to ex-BIFF fighters

From the Philippine News Agency (May 8, 2020): Army extends food aid, face masks to ex-BIFF fighters (By Edwin Fernandez)



AID FOR EX-REBELS. An Army official (right) speaks to the rebel returnees who received food aid and face masks from the Army’s 7th Infantry Battalion in Pikit, North Cotabato on Thursday (May 7, 2020). The ex-rebels are pursuing productive lives once more through a reintegration program facilitated by the government. (Photo courtesy of 7IB) 

The Army’s 7th Infantry Battalion (IB) in Pikit, North Cotabato has taken a step to let former rebels feel that the government cares for those who want to become productive citizens by extending them aid.

Led by Army Lt. Colonel Rommel Valencia, 7IB commander, the soldiers on Thursday distributed relief goods and face masks to 19 former members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) who earlier surrendered to the government and are now undergoing reintegration procedure.

Valencia said the former combatants were also affected by the lockdown imposed as part of community quarantine against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

“We appreciate this help, especially now that we are under community quarantine,” one of the ex-BIFF said.

“This small act of sharing with you our blessings will show that the government is sincere in bringing peace in this part of Mindanao,” Valencia told the former rebels in the vernacular.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102243

2 rebels killed in Sorsogon clash with cops

From the Philippine News Agency (May 8, 2020): 2 rebels killed in Sorsogon clash with cops (By Mar Serrano)



Two suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were killed in a clash with policemen on Friday morning in a remote village of Bulan town, Sorsogon province.

Maj. Maria Luisa Calubaquib, Police Regional Office (PRO-5) spokesperson, said members of the police Special Action Force (SAF)
engaged the armed men in Barangay Dolos around 5:30 a.m.

"The running gun battle has led to the death of two still unidentified NPA rebels whose bodies are in the custody of the police operatives," she said in an interview.

The police operatives, while scouring the encounter site, recovered five assault rifles, ammunition and documents.


Checkpoints were set up in neighboring villages for possible interception of the fleeing rebels.

Calubaquib said the PNP-Bicol fully supports the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) in ending the problem on insurgency and terrorism without bloodshed.

"It urges members of the CPP-NPA to return to the fold of the law and avail the opportunities offered by the government and peacefully start a new chapter of their lives together with their families," she added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102265

12 ex-NPA rebels in Sarangani get gov’t aid

From the Philippine News Agency (May 8, 2020): 12 ex-NPA rebels in Sarangani get gov’t aid (By Richelyn Gubalani)



Lt. Col. Ronaldo Valdez, commanding officer of the Army’s 73rd Infantry Battalion (Photo courtesy of the 73IB) 

Some 12 former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Sarangani province received financial assistance from the national government amid the continuing coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

Lt. Col. Ronaldo Valdez, commanding officer of the Army’s 73rd Infantry Battalion (73IB), said Friday the returnees were included in the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (Tupad) program and the social amelioration program (SAP).

Valdez said nine of them qualified for Tupad’s #BKBK or “Barangay Ko, Bahay Ko” component, which is being implemented by the Department of Labor and Employment, and were hired in community disinfection or sanitation projects for 10 days.

They received salaries of PHP3,260 each or PHP326 per day based on the prevailing daily minimum wage in the region.

He said three other returnees were included in the SAP assistance and received PHP5,000 each from the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

“These interventions were a big relief to our former rebels who were also affected by this crisis,” Valdez said in an interview.

He said the inclusion of the returnees into the assistance programs shows that they are no longer considered “enemies of the state.”

Valdez said it complemented with their continuing efforts to reform the former rebels and transform them into productive citizens.

Meanwhile, he said they were also working with the municipal government of Alabel in Sarangani for the provision of livelihood assistance to eight former NPA rebels who were jailed due to various charges.

The returnees were released from the Alabel district jail last Wednesday through assistance from the 73IB.

He said Alabel Mayor Vic Paul Salarda committed to hiring the freed former rebels as “bantay kalikasan” or environmental enforcers.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102281

6ID chief fetes wounded infantrymen

From the Philippine News Agency (May 8, 2020): 6ID chief fetes wounded infantrymen (By Edwin Fernandez)



WOUNDED SERVICEMEN. Major Gen. Diosdado Carreon, the Army's 6th Infantry Division commander and chief of Joint Task Force Central (JFTC), awards wounded personnel medal to one of the soldiers injured in the fight against lawless elements in Maguindanao. Carreon commended the soldiers for sacrificing in the name of peace and for the safety of civilian communities. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Army’s 6th Infantry Division (ID) commander, Major General Diosdado Carreon on Thursday awarded wounded personnel medals to injured soldiers and paramilitary troops in the fight against the Daesh-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Maguindanao.

The wounded infantrymen are now undergoing medication at the Camp Siongco Station Hospital here. They were identified as Private First-Class Lyndon A Matias of the 57th Infantry Battalion, and militiamen Noli Martin and Nhor Guiaman.

Matias was injured when BIFF gunmen attacked soldiers manning a quarantine checkpoint in Barangay Talibadok, Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao on May 3. In that attack by BIFF, two of Matias’ companions were killed.

Meanwhile, the two civilian armed auxiliary members, Martin and Guiaman, were separately hurt in recent encounters against the terrorists in Barangay Maitumaig, Datu Unsay; and Barangay Salman, Ampatuan; respectively.

“The officers and men and women of the 6ID appreciate your sacrifices for the sake of our people,” Carreon said of the wounded soldiers. Aside from awarding them the wounded personnel medals, Carreon also gave them gifts as part of the 6ID’s appreciation.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102242

Westmincom builds modern medical facility

From the Philippine News Agency (May 8, 2020): Westmincom builds modern medical facility (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)



MILITARY HOSPITAL. Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Western Mindanao Command (second from left), on Thursday (May 7, 2020) leads the groundbreaking ceremony marking the start of the construction of a modern hospital building in Camp Navarro General Hospital in Zamboanga City. The project is supported by no less than President Rodrigo Duterte himself, military officials said. (Photo courtesy of Westmincom Public Information Office)

In line with the desire of President Rodrigo Duterte for a better medical service, the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) conducted a groundbreaking ceremony Thursday to mark the construction of a world-class hospital in this southern port city.

Lt. Gen. Cirilito E. Sobejana, who led the groundbreaking ceremony, said the implementation of the “Tatag ng Imprastraktura para sa Kapayapaan at Seguridad” (TIKAS) program under the Department of Public Works and Highways paved the way for the construction of new hospital building of Camp Navarro General Hospital (CNGH).

said Lt. Col. Victoria Mandin, CNGH chief, said no less than President Duterte has pushed for the hospital's construction.

“During his visit two years ago, the President, Rodrigo Duterte, expressed his desire for an improved and better equipped military treatment facility for our battle casualties here in western Mindanao,”

“Maybe it is Divine Intervention that this opportunity has come under the outstanding leadership of our present commander, himself a former battle casualty who was admitted to this 45-year-old institution then,” Mandin said, referring to Sobejana.

Sobejana, then a captain leading a platoon of soldiers was injured, with his right arm almost severed, during an intense firefight against some 150 Abu Sayyaf bandits on January 13, 1995 in Sitio Caro, Barangay Lower Kapayawan, Isabela, Basilan.

Sobejana said the project is a vision realized “through our convergence and hard work, a product of our succeeding confluence to achieve an improved health care service for the benefit of all the people in Mindanao.

“Our medical doctors and personnel saved thousands of gallant soldiers from fatal injuries sustained in skirmishes with terrorists in Mindanao. It is now time to give back,” he said.

“Imbibing the lessons of the past, we shall continue to calibrate and transform into a dynamic and resolute armed force with a holistic vision. Along this line, our efforts will be ameliorated to ensure the accomplishment of our evolving roles,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102257

Troops recover ASG arms cache in Tawi-Tawi

From the Philippine News Agency (May 8, 2020): Troops recover ASG arms cache in Tawi-Tawi (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)



RECOVERED FIREARMS. Government troops responding to an indiscriminate firing report on Thursday (May 7, 2020) recover an arms cache and other war materials of a suspected supporter of the Abu Sayyaf Group in Sitangkai, Tawi-Tawi. The suspect, Johan Sapanta in Sitio Salu, managed to elude arrest. (Photo courtesy of the 2nd Marine Brigade)

Government troops recovered an arms cache and a piece of communication equipment belonging to a suspected supporter of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in the province of Tawi-Tawi, the military reported Friday.

Col. Arturo Rojas, Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi commander, said
the arms cache was recovered Thursday at the residence of Johan Sapanta in Sitio Saluag, Barangay Datu Baguinda Puti, Sitangkai, Tawi-Tawi.


Rojas, who is also the commander of the 2nd Marine Brigade, said Sapanta managed to elude arrest upon noticing the arriving troops.

A team of military and police personnel; rushed to Sitio Saluag, Barangay Datu Baguinda Puti, Sitangkai, in response to a report of indiscriminate firing by Sapanta, the Army official said.

Government forces recovered from Sapanta's house several firearms, ammunition, a hand-held radio transceiver, and other pieces of evidence.

Rojas said Sapanta is involved in illegal activities such as illegal drug trade, smuggling, and gambling.

“Usually this kind of person is a supporter or contact of ASG,” Rojas said. “This is part of our continuing efforts to hit the critical nodes of the illicit network which has converged with terrorists."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102300

Female soldier donates blood to injured NPA rebel in Zamboanga

From the Philippine News Agency (May 8, 2020): Female soldier donates blood to injured NPA rebel in Zamboanga (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)



HUMANE ACT. A military physician attends to Ka Lando, a wounded New People's Army rebel rescued by government troops on Wednesday (May 6, 2020) in Barangay Guibo, Siayan, Zamboanga del Norte. Private First Class Eunice Jane Curayag of the 1st Civil Military Operations Battalion on Thursday (May 7, 2020) has donated blood to Ka Lando while undergoing medical treatment at Kuta Cesar Sang-an Station Hospital in Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur. (Photo courtesy of Army 1st Infantry Division PAO)

A female soldier has donated blood to ensure that a wounded New People’s Army (NPA) rebel the troops have rescued in Zamboanga del Norte will survive, officials said Friday.

Private First Class (PFC) Eunice Jane Curayag, assigned with the 1st Civil-Military Operations Battalion, donated her blood Thursday
to alias "Ka Lando" who was injured in a clash Monday, May 4, against the 97th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Pange, Siayan, Zamboanga del Norte.


Joint forces of the 97th and 53rd Infantry Battalion rescued Ka Lando Wednesday in Barangay Guibo, Siayan municipality and was rushed to Kuta Cesar Sang-an Station Hospital in Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur.

“Ka Lando suffered a gunshot wound at the abdomen and due to severe blood loss, he must be transfused with blood for him to fully recover,” said Maj. Jussel Parlan, head of the Kuta Cesar Sang-an Station Hospital.

Parlan said they will continuously monitor the health status of Ka Lando.

Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, commander of Army’s 1st Infantry Division, said they will ensure that Ka Lando will be attended to and monitored by the military physicians.

“We want to show to the rebels who wish to surrender that, this is how we treat a former rebel who is now under our care. Needless to say, how much premium we give to our respect for human rights even to a former rebel at that,” Ponio said.

“The armed engagement and casualties could have been prevented if they lay down their arms and submit to the folds of the law,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102306

Suspected rebels shoot dead ex-soldier in Surigao Sur (Graphic Photo)

From the Philippine News Agency (May 8, 2020): Suspected rebels shoot dead ex-soldier in Surigao Sur (By Alexander Lopez)



GUNNED DOWN. Suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels gunned down Antonio Orac Dioquino, 55, a former member of the Philippine Army on Thursday (May 7) in Sitio Mabantaw, Palo 9, Barangay Matho, Cortes, Surigao del Sur. The victim was tending his farm when he was killed, police said. (Photo courtesy of SDSPPO)

Suspected members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) gunned down a former member of the Philippine Army (PA) in Surigao del Sur Thursday, an official said on Friday.

Surigao del Sur Provincial Police Office (SDSPPO) director, Col. James T. Goforth said Antonio Orac Dioquino, a retired army soldier,
was shot to death in his farm in Sitio Mabantaw, Palo 9, Barangay Matho, Cortes town.


Dioquino 55, was assigned years before in Bukidnon province.

“We monitored armed men and believed to be NPA rebels in the vicinity of Sitio Mabantaw on Thursday. We suspect that the same armed NPA rebels were responsible for the killing of the former soldier,” Goforth said.

Dioquino was tending his farm with his son when four unidentified men armed with long firearms arrived, held the victim and shot him twice hitting his neck that resulted in his death, Goforth said.

He said the victim’s son heard the armed men said in the dialect: "He committed wrongdoing before, he must be punished.”

The suspects immediately fled to an unknown direction.

“The Cortes Municipal Police Station is now conducting an in-depth investigation for the identification of the suspects,” Goforth said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102286

3 more rebels found dead after Sorsogon clash

From the Philippine News Agency (May 8, 2020): 3 more rebels found dead after Sorsogon clash (By Mar Serrano)



At least three more New People’s Army (NPA) members’ bodies were found after an encounter between rebels and government security forces in Bulan, Sorsogon Friday morning.

An earlier report said two rebels were killed in the more than two-hour running gun battle in a remote village of said town.


Army Capt. John Paul Belleza, 9th Infantry Division (9ID) public affairs chief, in an updated report said the bodies of three other rebels were found by elements of the Army and police Special Action Force in a mopping-up operation.

"No casualties were reported on the government side," he added.

Earlier. Maj. Maria Luis Calubaquib, Bicol police spokesperson, said the firefight also led to the recovery of firearms and ammunition including M16A1, M16, and M14 rifles, an M79 grenade launcher, an Ultimax machine gun, a caliber .45 and .38 pistols from rebels.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102339

Mother won’t cease fighting Reds until she gets daughter back

From the Philippine News Agency (May 8, 2020): Mother won’t cease fighting Reds until she gets daughter back (By Marita Moaje)



Mrs. Relisa Lucena shows a copy of the Writs of Habeas Corpus and Amparo petition filed before the Supreme Court on Friday (May 8) for her daughter, Alicia Jasper Lucena, who was allegedly recruited by alleged communist-linked groups. (PNA photo by Marita Moaje)

No words can describe the pain only a mother could feel with the separation from her beloved daughter.

Weeping every day since her then 17-year-old daughter, Alicia Jasper (AJ) left home to join militant group Anakbayan, Mrs. Relisa Lucena said she will not cease until she gets her daughter back.

“Hindi naman ako lalabas ng ganito kung wala silang kinuha sa akin. Hindi siya gamit, hindi siya pet, anak ko siya eh (I will not be here today if they did not take anything from me. She is not an object, neither a pet. She is my daughter),” Mrs. Relisa Lucena said.

In an interview Friday, Mrs. Lucena said AJ, 16, was in Grade 11 and a consistent honor student at the Far Eastern University when she was recruited by Anakbayan in 2018.

Though active in several school organizations, she was a caring and sweet daughter to her parents, and sister to her siblings, she recalled.

Mrs. Lucena said she almost lost her mind when AJ left home on July 10, 2019.

“Hindi ko kayang manahimik sa loob ng bahay habang ganito yung nangyayari sa bata, ganito yung nangyayari sa anak ko (I cannot afford to just stay at home and do nothing while my daughter is in this situation),” she added.

She said she saw her daughter in August 2019 when the Makabayan bloc had AJ interviewed by the media at the House of Representatives.

“Wala akong kinuha sa kahit kaninong anak ng Makabayan Bloc para ma deserve namin yung ganitong sitwasyon. Yung mga anak nila nasa safe, kami ng buong pamilya lalo na yung lolo’t lola niya umiiyak, nangungulila sa kanya. Hindi lang naman ako yung apektado kundi buong pamilya naming (I did not take any children of the Makabayan Bloc for us to deserve this. Their children are safe, while my daughter isn’t. Me and my family especially her grandparents are always crying, longing for her. I am not the only one affected but my whole family),” she added.

As the whole world celebrates Mothers’ Day on May 10, she admits that the special day has never been the same since AJ was taken away from their family.

She appealed to communist-linked groups to return her daughter.

“Hindi ko isusuko yung pagiging nanay ko kahit na anong mangyari. Kung kailangan ko humingi ng tulong kahit kanino gagawin ko para mabalik sa kin ang anak ko. Hindi ako nang-aagaw ng ibang anak. Anak ko yun, ako yung nagsilang, samin siya lumaki, kami ang nag-alaga, minahal namin ng totoo kasi anak naming yun. Wala silang karapatang ipahamak yung bata (I will not give up my being a mother whatever happens. I will ask help if needed, just to get back my daughter. I am not taking away anybody else’s daughter. She is my child, I gave birth to her, took care of her. We loved her because she is our daughter, and they do not have any right to put her in danger),” she said.

Lucena, who along with her husband filed a petition for writs of habeas corpus and amparo before the Supreme Court, said she believes her daughter is a victim thus, giving her more reason to get her back.

Accompanied by members of the League of Parents of the Philippines and lawyer Ferdinand Topacio, the Lucena couple filed the petition against Kabataan party-list Rep. Sarah Elago and members and recruiters of Anakbayan, to produce Alicia as she fears for her health.

“Biktima yung anak ko. Hindi siya rebelde. Biktima siya ng deceptive ideology na ininput nila sa bata. Kilala ko si AJ, kilala ko siya mula pagkabata. Alam ko kung anong klaseng tao siya, kung anong klaseng bata siya dahil ako ang nagpalaki sa kanya. Walang karapatan ang ibang organisasyon na I mold siya according sa kagustuhan nila. Wala silang Karapatan (My daughter is a victim. She is not a rebel. She is a victim of deceptive ideology. I know AJ, I know her since she was a child. I know what kind of person she is because I brought her up. No organization has the right to mold her according to their desire. They do not have any right),” she said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102292

Army receives agri kits for urban gardening initiative

From the Philippine News Agency (May 8, 2020): Army receives agri kits for urban gardening initiative (By Priam Nepomuceno)



URBAN GARDENING. Army troops receive agriculture kits from the Department of Agriculture in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Wednesday (May 6, 2020). The initiative encourages Army personnel to plant vegetables inside the camp and in their homes to ensure adequate food supply amid the enhanced community quarantine. (Photo courtesy of Army Chief Public Affairs Office)

The Philippine Army (PA) received agriculture kits from the Department of Agriculture (DA) that will allow it to jumpstart urban gardening efforts at its headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Wednesday.

In a statement late Thursday, Army spokesperson Col. Ramon Zagala said the initiative aims to encourage PA personnel to plant vegetables inside the camp and in their backyards, as a way of producing sustainable and adequate food supply while the enhanced community quarantine in Metro Manila is still in effect, he added.

"We are thankful to the Department of Agriculture for helping us pursue this project. Finding ways to generate sustainable food resources is always a welcome idea especially in our current situation,” Zagala said.

He added that the PA Personnel Management Command received the starter kits composed of vegetable seeds, garden soil, compost, poly bags, seedling, tray and information, education, and communication materials.

He added the DA's Crop Research and Production Support Division also visited the camp’s community garden to assess the needs in the area.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102238

AFP, private stakeholders complete 29 Covid-19 PCCs

From the Philippine News Agency (May 8, 2020): AFP, private stakeholders complete 29 Covid-19 PCCs (By Priam Nepomuceno)



PATIENT CARE CENTERS. Armed Forces of the Philippines officials and private stakeholders take a look at the newly-constructed patient care center (PCC) at the Emmanuel Hospital in San Miguel, Bulacan on April 25, 2020. The AFP and its partners from the private sector have constructed 29 PCCs for Covid-19 patients since March 28. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Friday announced that its various engineering units and other stakeholders have constructed 29 emergency patient care centers (PCCs) since last March 28.

“The Armed Forces of the Philippines extends its profound gratitude to our partners and stakeholders for their efforts to help our government fight the deadly Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) through the construction of emergency quarantine facilities,” AFP Chief-of-Staff, Gen. Felimon Santos Jr., said in a statement.

AFP public affairs office chief, Navy Capt. Jonathan Zata said these PCCs are very essential in ongoing efforts to contain Covid-19 and are located within and outside Luzon.

The facilities were built through the efforts of the AFP Office of the Chief Engineer, led by Maj. Gen. William Ilagan, in partnership with the WTA Architecture and Design group, San Miguel Foundation, and other donors.

Ten PCCs were constructed inside military facilities under the WTA and Group Projects led by architect William Ti Jr. These are at the Manila Naval Hospital, General Headquarters Dispensary in Camp Aguinaldo and the V. Luna General Hospital, both in Quezon City; Philippine Air Force Hospital in Pasay City; Fernando Air Base in Batangas; Cavite Naval Hospital; and Army General Hospital and the Libingan ng mga Bayani, both in Taguig City.

Under the same project, nine of 49 PCCs in civilian facilities were constructed by teams of soldiers. These are in the Quezon City General Hospital; Ospital ng Muntinlupa in Muntinlupa City; Caloocan City Medical Center; Sta. Ana General Hospital in Manila; and the Bulacan Medical Center in Malolos, Sacred Heart Hospital, La Consolation University General Hospital, Emmanuel Hospital in San Miguel, and Baliuag District Hospital, all in Bulacan.

“In these unprecedented events, we are grateful (for) the kindness, generosity, and compassion from our stakeholders, especially to WTA, in supporting the AFP in its battle against the coronavirus disease. We dedicate our effort in accomplishing the emergency quarantine facilities to the community and to support our hospitals and medical workers, as they take the front line to combat Covid-19. We are one with you is in this battle,” Ilagan said.

Meanwhile, 10 PCCs were completed by engineering units under the San Miguel Foundation projects.

These include facilities in the Eastern Mindanao Command Hospital in Davao City, Central Command Hospital in Cebu City, Western Mindanao Command Hospital in Zamboanga City, and Western Command Hospital in Palawan.

In Davao City, a charitable group partnered with the AFP through the Eastern Mindanao Command to construct one PCC in the Southern Philippines Medical Center.

In Quezon City, engineering units completed three facilities for the AFP Health Service Command and two at the AFP General Headquarters Training School in Camp Aguinaldo.

A total of 11 more projects in Luzon are slated for construction by different engineering brigades and are expected to be completed before the enhanced community quarantine ends.

The PCCs are designed for hospitals and institutions that are at maximum capacity to provide proper facilities for patients who need to be quarantined.

These temporary structures are meant to increase the capacity of hospitals, and house patients suspected of having Covid-19 to keep them from spreading the infection.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102249

Navy gets PPE donation from PLDT-Smart Foundation

From the Philippine News Agency (May 8, 2020): Navy gets PPE donation from PLDT-Smart Foundation (By Priam Nepomuceno)



PPE DONATION. Navy officials receive sets of personal protective equipment donated by PLDT-Smart Foundation Inc. at the Navy headquarters in Manila on Wednesday (May 6, 2020). The PPE sets will be transported and distributed to different PN units and hospitals such as Manila Naval Hospital and Cavite Naval Hospital. (Photo courtesy of Naval Public Affairs Office)

The Philippine Navy (PN) received assorted personal protective equipment (PPE) sets from the PLDT-Smart Foundation Inc. on Wednesday.

The donation is part of the company's corporate social responsibility efforts, Navy public affairs office chief Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas said in a media statement on Friday.

PLDT-Smart Foundation Inc. is headed by businessman Manuel V. Pangilinan.

The donation consists of 520 pieces of cover-all; 1,000 N95 face masks; 1,000 shoe covers; 1,000 gloves; and 1,000 goggles.

Roxas said the items were formally received by PN naval operations center director, Capt. Romel Marcos.

The PPE sets will be transported and distributed to different PN units and hospitals such as Manila Naval Hospital and Cavite Naval Hospital, she said.

PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo acknowledged the group's generosity.

"The PN is thankful to our private stakeholders for providing us much-needed support, as we continue to mitigate the effects of this coronavirus disease. This shows how true Bayanihan spirit works once again, as different sectors contribute to the national government's fight against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102252

Navy ships carrying face masks, Pinoys from India en route to PH

From the Philippine News Agency (May 8, 2020): Navy ships carrying face masks, Pinoys from India en route to PH (By Priam Nepomuceno)



GOING HOME. Troops of the Naval Task Force conduct a medical exam on stranded Filipino tourists before they are allowed to board the BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602) and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16) in India’s Cochin Port on Thursday (May 7, 2020). Aside from ferrying stranded Filipino tourists, the ships docked at the port to pick up face masks donated by a Filipino donor based in the South Asian nation. (Photo courtesy of Naval Public Affairs Office)

The Naval Task Force (NTF) 82, which consists of landing dock BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602) and offshore patrol vessel BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16), departed from Cochin, India on Thursday after completing its mission to fetch a donation of 200,000 pieces of face masks.

In a statement on Friday, Navy public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, said aside from the face masks, the ships are also transporting 18 Filipino tourists stranded in India following the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) outbreak.

The NTF-82 is expected to arrive in the Philippines by the last week of May.

"Amid the coronavirus scare, the PN medical team, equipped with proper PPE (personal protective equipment), carefully executed the onboarding process of these repatriates, which began with the disinfection of their belongings, thermal scanning, and taking of vital signs. They were pre-determined to be coronavirus negative but still contained in a separate portion of LD-602 under constant monitoring of medical personnel," Roxas said.

She said the repatriation of the 18 Filipino tourists was coordinated with the defense and armed forces attaché and representatives of the Philippine Embassy in India.

The two ships sailed from Sultan Qaboos, Oman last April 21 and arrived in India on April 29.

They were deployed to Oman last February as a contingency measure should a large evacuation of overseas Filipino workers be needed following tensions between the United and Iran.

The face masks, which were loaded aboard BRP Davao Del Sur, were donated by Paul Dantes of LegalZoc Co., a Filipino donor who sources masks in India.

Roxas earlier said the donation was coordinated with the Office of Civil Defense.

Fire hits BRP Ramon Alcaraz

Meanwhile, the Navy also confirmed that a fire incident transpired onboard BRP Ramon Alcaraz on Thursday night, a few hours after it departed Port of Cochin, India for Manila in convoy with BRP Davao Del Sur.

In a separate statement, Roxas said initial investigation revealed that the fire started at the ship's main engine room.

"The ship’s rapid response team was able to put out the fire in 10 minutes. The incident incurred two personnel casualties and minor equipment damages," she said.

Both sailors sustained second-degree burns and will be airlifted to a naval hospital in Cochin, India for extensive medical attention.

She added that onboard engineers are now assessing the damage to the ship’s main propulsion system to determine whether they can proceed with their voyage or return to India to conduct necessary repairs.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102278

Parents of minor recruited by militant groups file habeas suit

From the Philippine News Agency (May 8, 2020): Parents of minor recruited by militant groups file habeas suit (By Benjamin Pulta)



HABEAS SUIT. Lawyer Ferdinand Topacio (right) and Relissa Lucena (left) show a copy of an urgent petition for writs of habeas corpus and amparo they filed before the Supreme Court (SC) on Friday (May 8, 2020). The petition asks the high court to compel the Anakbayan and Kabataan party-list to produce Lucena's daughter, Alicia Jasper, whom they recruited and place her in their parents' custody and comply with the Bayanihan To Heal as One Act. (PNA photo by Joey Razon)

The parents of an 18-year old girl, who was recruited when she was still a minor two years, to campaign for a party-list group and recruit members for a left-leaning organization, filed a suit before the Supreme Court (SC) on Friday.

In an urgent petition for writs of habeas corpus and amparo, Relissa and Francis Lucena, parents of Alicia Jasper 'AJ' C. Lucena, asked the high court
to compel the Anakbayan and Kabataan party-list to produce their daughter and place her in their parents' custody and comply with the Bayanihan To Heal as One Act.


Lawyer Ferdinand Topacio, who represents the Lucena couple in the petition, said it is imperative that her (AJ) person be produced in court and she be returned to her parents.

"Until then, her life, liberty, and security, which was violated when she was a minor, will continuously be violated and abused. Aggravated by the occurrence of Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic, AJ's life and safety are in great danger. AJ is without any financial resources since she is an out-of-school youth, She has no gainful employment. She has no means of protecting and providing for herself. She needs to stay home, and be with her family." Topacio added.

The Lucena couple is seeking a temporary protection order for the protection of AJ as well as their family members against the groups and prohibiting the latter "from recruiting, influencing, indoctrinating, immersing and threatening the life, liberty and security of Alicia Jasper Lucena".

The suit likewise sought a court order directing and ordering the immediate placement and custody of AJ to the care and custody of the petitioners and her family in compliance with the Bayanihan Act, compelling everyone to stay at home.

"The measure of the state's protection guaranteed by the Constitution over the basic social institution of our nation should not be rendered useless when its members reach the age of majority," the petitioners said.

"How can a family be the foundation of our nation if its members are being encouraged to abandon and neglect their own family? How can a family be strengthened and its solidarity promoted for total development if its members, especially children, are being mentally conditioned to leave their family abode and disregard the sanctity of their own family," they added.

Named respondents in the suit were Kabataan party-list Rep. Sarah Elago, Anakbayan national spokesperson Alex Danday, Anakbayan members Chary delos Reyes, Bianca Gacos and Ray Joven Ballais Villafuente and lawyer Maria Kristina Conti.

AJ was a student at the Far Eastern University (FEU) when she was recruited by the group, and went missing in July 2019.

She has since been photographed in a number of protest rallies.

The NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

On Aug. 14, 2019, AJ and another missing student, Lory Caalaman, were seen in a press conference held by progressive lawmakers in Congress.

The Anakbayan, in pleadings submitted to prosecutors, justified as "voluntary" AJ's decision to campaign for the group during the elections.

In March, a video footage on the Anakbayan social media page showed AJ participating in a mass demonstration.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102240

BRP Bacolod City carrying PPE cargo arrives in Davao

From the Philippine News Agency (May 8, 2020): BRP Bacolod City carrying PPE cargo arrives in Davao (By Priam Nepomuceno)



BACK HOME. BRP Bacolod City docks at the Sasa Wharf in Davao City on Friday (May 8, 2020). The ship arrived in the city to deliver sets of personal protective equipment and KN95 masks procured by the Philippine government from China for the use of front-liners. (Photo courtesy of Naval Public Affairs Office)

The Philippine Navy (PN) logistics ship, BRP Bacolod City (LS-550), loaded with 200,000 personal protective equipment (PPE) sets and 700,000 KN95 masks from China, docked at Sasa Wharf, Davao City on Friday.

In a statement, Navy public affairs office chief Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas said Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao head, Commodore Antonio Palces, welcomed the officers and crew of the ship through a non-contact procedure, without the usual arrival ceremony.

Meanwhile, policies on non-disembarkation of vessel crew and no visitors allowed will be implemented while BRP Bacolod City is docked in Davao City.

Prior to its arrival, the Bureau of Quarantine facilitated health said no members of the Navy ship showed any symptoms of Covid-19.

Strict quarantine protocols were also enforced during the handling of the cargo prior to its turnover to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Region 11 for distribution to the front-liners in Mindanao.

BRP Bacolod City will deviate from its scheduled port of call in Cebu and will, instead, set sail straight back to Sangley Point, Cavite after the unloading of its cargo in Davao City.

Navy flag-officer-in-command, Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo commended BRP Bacolod City and its crew for its successful mission of fetching and delivery of PPE from China.

The BRP Bacolod City was sent to Xiamen, China on April 21 to pick up a batch of PPE sets procured by the Philippine government after National Policy Against Covid-19 Chief Implementer, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., tapped the Navy’s logistical capability into service.

It left Zhangzhou Harbor at the Port of Xiamen on April 30.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102325

AFP chief reminds troops: Don’t be an army of trolls

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (May 8, 2020): AFP chief reminds troops: Don’t be an army of trolls

The Armed Forces of the Philippines has reminded officers and troops, as well as their dependents, to refrain from trolling on social media.

Gen. Felimon Santos Jr., AFP Chief of Staff, cited the military’s social media policy issued in 2016, which bans the posting or sharing of online materials that violate laws, rules and regulations and spread “information that harm or put other people in embarrassing, inconvenient and/or humiliating positions or put the AFP or any of its units in bad light.”

The directive was essentially a warning against trolling, a social media term defined defined by Merriam-Webster dictionary as an act that “antagonize (others) online by deliberately posting inflammatory, irrelevant, or offensive comments or other disruptive content.’’
‘Practice caution’

In an official message issued on Wednesday to commanders of the major services and unified commands, Santos said “all AFP military, civilian human resources, to include dependents, are directed to practice caution in publicizing personal opinion especially when engaging in social media activities.”

While posting of personal opinions is allowed, he said, military personnel must ensure that their posts are not misconstrued as official statements or positions of the AFP.

The social media policy calls on members of the military to observe “proper etiquette and a high standard of conduct and behavior in any and all online interaction or activity.”

2007 policy

Santos also stressed the confidentiality of military communications, reminding all personnel of a 2007 policy prohibiting access to official and classified information, and ensuring that all data, names, figures, quotations and statements released to the public are accurate, and restricting the disclosure of information outside the official capacity and responsibility of military personnel.

“Each member of our organization has a responsibility to protect not only our physical structures and the lives they contain, but more importantly the people’s trust and confidence that took many years to build,” he said. “Our ranks and positions as public servants hold us to higher standards of discipline and behavior and we are expected to live up to these in every aspect of our lives.”

Capt. Jonathan Zata, chief of the AFP Public Affairs Office, said the reminder was issued “on account of posts and comments monitored on social media in the past.” He did not elaborate.
Disciplinary action

Zata said violations of the AFP’s social media policy were subject to disciplinary action, ranging from a simple letter of reprimand to penalties based on the Articles of War, depending on the gravity of the offense.

He noted that in the past few weeks, the Armed Forces had observed a number of “simple” violations committed by some soldiers, which prompted the chief of staff to issue a reminder.

“There were information that weren’t supposed to be posted online,’’ he said. “There were items shared on social media that weren’t supposed to be shared.”

2 suspected NPAs killed in Sorsogon clash

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (May 8, 2020): 2 suspected NPAs killed in Sorsogon clash (By: Mar S. Arguelles)

Two suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were killed in an encounter with police on Friday morning in a remote village in Bulan town in Sorsogon province.

Major Maria Luisa Calubaquib, Bicol police spokesperson, said members of the police Special Action Force
clashed with a group of NPA rebels at 5:30 a.m. in Barangay Dolos.


The running gun battle led to the death of two still unidentified NPA rebels. The bodies of the slain rebels are in police custody.

Police also recovered five assault rifles, ammunition, and documents at the clash site.

Checkpoints were set up in neighboring villages for possible interception of the fleeing rebels.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1271821/2-suspected-npas-killed-in-sorsogon-clash

Three names added to Esscom’s list

From The Star Online (May 7, 2020): Three names added to Esscom’s list (By STEPHANIE LEE)

KOTA KINABALU: Security forces in Sabah has added three new names into the Eastern Sabah Security Command’s (Esscom) wanted list.

These three are Mamay Aburi, Basaron Arok and Alvin Yusof @ Arab Puti. They are suspects linked to the kidnap for ransom groups,
said Esscom commander Datuk Hazani Ghazali.


Mamay is the chief of a Zamboanga group involved in the shooting of Customs officials in Lahad Datu on Dec 20 last year.

“Basaron Arok is the chief of a kidnap for ransom group called the Ajang-Ajang group while Arab Puti is part of Apo Mike’s kidnap for ransom group and was involved in the Tambisan kidnap in January this year, ” he said.


He said this brings the total wanted persons to 21 in Esscom’s list.

“All of them are suspects involved in the kidnappings in Sabah’s east coast, ” Hazani said.

He said these suspects are believed to be still active but hiding.

The others in Esscom’s wanted list are Abu Sayyaf leaders Salip Mura and Hatip Hajan Sawadjaan.

Idang Susukan, who is said to have been behind the beheading of Sarawakian Bernard Then Ted Fen who was snatched from a seafood restaurant in Sandakan in May 2015, is also listed.

Those with information are urged to contact Esscom’s operation centre at 089- 863181 or WhatsApp to 013-8803585 or 019-2305909.

WESTMINCOM: 3 CNTs yield in Lanao del Norte

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (May 8, 2020): 3 CNTs yield in Lanao del Norte

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City-May 07, 2020.

Three communist terrorists laid down their arms in Lanao del Norte in the morning of May 7, 2020.

“Through the effort of the 5th Mechanized Infantry Battalion, the CNTs voluntarily withdrawn their support to NPA,” said Brig. Gen. Facundo Palafox IV, Commander, 2nd Mechanized Infantry (Magbalantay) Brigade in Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte.

Said communist terrorists were identified as a.k.a. Ryan, 40 years old, a former liaison and repository of firearms; a.k.a. Jack, 49 years old; and a.k.a. Prato, 51 years old.

Yielded by the individual were one 5.56mm Rifle with one Magazine and twenty rounds of ammunition; one Caliber .45 Pistol with one magazine and two rounds of ammunition; one M79 40mm Grenade Launcher with one 12 Gauge (Homemade) Shotgun; three Caliber 30 Carbine Rifle with three magazines and seventeen rounds of ammunition.

"This accomplishment is attributed to our troops from the 5Mech Inf Bn, 2nd Mech Inf Bde, the municipal government of Kapatagan led by Mayor Barry Baguio, and the community," said Maj. Gen. Gene Ponio, Commander, Joint Task Force ZamPeLan.

Subject surrenderors were presented to the municipal officials, PNP, DILG-Lanao del Norte, and the media in a simple ceremony held at Kapatagan Function Hall.

"Our troops are intensifying their operations to pressure communist terrorists and other threat groups to return to the fold of law," said Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Commander, Western Mindanao Command.

"By sustaining the momentum, we gain more support from the people," Lt. Gen. Sobejana added.

#afpyoucantrust
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6th Infantry Division - Kampilan601 Infantry - Unifier Brigade602nd "Liberator" Brigade603 Persuader Brigade1st Mechanized Infantry BrigadeUnang Marinong BrigadaTeam TabakJoint Taskforce BasilanHARIBON TEAMMagbalantay Cmo11 Infantry Division "Alakdan Troopers"Gagandilan Siete1102 Infantry "ganarul" Brigade1st BCT AegisKwatromarinobrigada SuluJtf Tawi Tawi IndomalphiJoint Task Force ZamboangaJoint Task Force Zamboanga Virtual CenterUnbeatable Ranger BattalionMatatag BattalionTow Westmin PioTow Westmin CmoTow Westmin PioNaval Forces Western MindanaoCmou Western MindanaoKatapatan Pangkatihan-Dagatan33rd Infantry Makabayan Battalion57th Infantry Masikap Battalion1st Mechanized Lakan Battalion90th Infantry Bigkis Lahi BattalionSeventh Infantry Tapat BattalionReliablecmo R Section6IB Redskin37IB - Conqueror Battalion40 Infantry "Magiting" Battalion2nd Mechanized Infantry-MAKASAGBattalionOnlyOurBest MbltFive38th Infantry "We Clear" BattalionArvin John Gullos EncinasBreathe HeartRuel CasanesAr-ar GalvezAfman Rosales Jr.Antriosanjh Espenida NeneaSancus Princy NecessitasLa Independencia Filipinas

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WESTMINCOM: Firearms seized during law enforcement operation in Tawi-Tawi

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (May 8, 2020): Firearms seized during law enforcement operation in Tawi-Tawi

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City-May 07, 2020.

In response to a report of indiscriminate firing, the military and police conducted joint law enforcement operation in the wee hours of the May 7, 2020.

Troops of the 39th Marine Company of the Marine Batallion Landing Team 9 under the 2nd Marine Brigade together with the personnel from Sitangkai Municipal Police Station acted on a report of indiscriminate firing of a certain Johan Sapanta, legal age, male, married, and a resident of Sitio Saluag, Brgy Datu Baguinda Puti, Sitangkai, Tawi-Tawi.

"The operating troops immediately responded to the area to arrest the suspect, however, he managed to flee towards unknown direction," said Col. Arturo Rojas, Commander, Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi.

During the conduct of search and clearing operations in the suspect's residence, troops were able to recover: one Caliber 30 Browning Machine gun; one M14 rifle with one magazine and 20 rounds of ammunition; one AK47 (pistolized) with two magazines and 63 rounds of ammunition; one M16 rifle (Colt), with four long, two short, and one extended magazines with 63 rounds of ammunition; one handheld ICOM radio; and one bandolier.

"Congratulations to the marines and police for this laudable feat," said Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, WestMinCom Commander.

"Let us continually converge to curb lawlessness in our area of operation," Lt. Gen. Sobejana added.

Seized items were turned-over to Sitangkai MPS for proper disposition.

#afpyoucantrust
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6th Infantry Division - Kampilan601 Infantry - Unifier Brigade602nd "Liberator" Brigade603 Persuader Brigade1st Mechanized Infantry BrigadeUnang Marinong BrigadaTeam Tabak 2MBde Red Shield HARIBON TEAMMagbalantay Cmo11 Infantry Division "Alakdan Troopers"1102 Infantry "ganarul" Brigade1st BCT AegisJoint Task Force ZamboangaJoint Task Force Zamboanga Virtual CenterUnbeatable Ranger Battalion Tow WestminNaval Forces Western MindanaoCmou Western MindanaoKatapatan Pangkatihan-Dagatan33rd Infantry Makabayan Battalion57th Infantry Masikap Battalion1st Mechanized Lakan Battalion90th Infantry Bigkis Lahi BattalionSeventh Infantry Tapat Battalion 6IB Redskin37IB - Conqueror Battalion40 Infantry "Magiting" BattalionFriends Who Like 2nd Mechanized Infantry - Makasag BattalionOnlyOurBest MbltFive38th Infantry We Clear BattalionArvin John Gullos EncinasBreathe HeartRuel CasanesAr-ar GalvezAfman Rosales Jr.Antriosanjh Espenida NeneaLa Independencia Filipinas

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