From Panay News (Jun 5, 2020): ‘NPA rebel’ facing slay charge falls (By Cyrus Garde)
BACOLOD City – Charged with murder, an alleged New People’ Army (NPA) member was arrested in Barangay Merville, Parañaque City, Metro Manila.
The 36-year-old Roger Lumanog of Barangay Camindangan, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental was caught on the strength of an arrest warrant around 12:25 p.m. on June 3, a police report showed.
Lumanog was believed to be a member of the NPA’s South West Front in this province, it added.
Officers of the Southern Police District, in coordination with Sipalay City police station, served the warrant issued by Judge Rodney Magbanua of the Regional Trial Court Branch 61 in Kabanalan City.
https://www.panaynews.net/npa-rebel-facing-slay-charge-falls/
Thursday, June 4, 2020
47 ex-rebels receive P65,000 in aid as E-CLIP beneficiaries
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jun 4, 2020): 47 ex-rebels receive P65,000 in aid as E-CLIP beneficiaries (By Danilo E. Doguiles)
Information gathered from the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office showed that of the 47 FRs awarded, 17 are from Lake Sebu, 9 from Tampakan, 8 from Surallah, 7 from Banga, 2 from Koronadal, and 1 each from Tupi, Polomolok, Maitum (in Sarangani Province), and Senator Ninoy Aquino (in Sultan Kudarat Province)
Besides the aforementioned financial assistance, a beneficiary of the E-CLIP also gets remuneration for every firearm turned in to the government.
An FR will also be enrolled in PhilHealth and may avail of services of other government agencies such as housing from the National Housing Authority, skills training from Technical Education and Skills Development, livelihood assistance from the Department of Labor and Employment and many others. (DED-PIA XII)
A former rebel receives his assistance as E-CLIP beneficiary from Rudy Jimenea, executive assistant to South Cotabato Gov. Reynaldo Tamayo Jr.
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, June 4 (PIA) — Forty-seven former rebels (FRs) in South Cotabato received P65,000 financial aid from the government as beneficiaries of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
The cash aid handed to the FRs in a ceremony at the South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center on Thursday included P50,000 livelihood assistance and P15,000 immediate assistance from the Department of the Interior and Local Government.
In separate events earlier this year, these individuals received P20,000 each from the Provincial Government of South Cotabato as well as technical trainings, such as poultry production, from the Technical Education and Skill Development Authority (TESDA).
Josephine Leysa, regional director of DILG XII in a message read by a representative, told the FRs, “I remember Gov. (Reynaldo) Tamayo Jr, mention in one of his speeches for barangay officials who attended a regional gathering where he announced the surrender of rebels who had enough of the difficult life in the mountains and forests. The governor said, ‘the rebels came down dahil ramdam nila ang tulong ng gobyerno.’ Your presence here today is a testimony of that fact.”
Apart from the P65,000 aid for each of the former rebels, the government units that received the FRs also received a total of P987,000 or P21,000 for each FR as reintegration assistance.
Reintegration assistance funds are intended for the subsistence of the FRs as well as for expenses in securing documents such birth certificates and identification cards, and expenses for mobility.
These FRs are being cared under the Regional Intelligence Unit XII of the Philippine National Police and the 27th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.
They surrendered and laid down their arms to government troops in December 2019 and January 2020.
In a message to his fellow FRs, Tatay Felix, who also received government assistance advised his fellow colleagues to be prudent in spending what they received from the government.
Speaking in the vernacular, he told them, ”Let us not waste the cash assistance we received from the government. Instead let us use this money as a capital while we start to live an upright living."
Before his surrender, Tatay Felix spent 45 years as a recruiter for the communist terrorist group and a combatant fighting against government troops.
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, June 4 (PIA) — Forty-seven former rebels (FRs) in South Cotabato received P65,000 financial aid from the government as beneficiaries of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
The cash aid handed to the FRs in a ceremony at the South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center on Thursday included P50,000 livelihood assistance and P15,000 immediate assistance from the Department of the Interior and Local Government.
In separate events earlier this year, these individuals received P20,000 each from the Provincial Government of South Cotabato as well as technical trainings, such as poultry production, from the Technical Education and Skill Development Authority (TESDA).
Josephine Leysa, regional director of DILG XII in a message read by a representative, told the FRs, “I remember Gov. (Reynaldo) Tamayo Jr, mention in one of his speeches for barangay officials who attended a regional gathering where he announced the surrender of rebels who had enough of the difficult life in the mountains and forests. The governor said, ‘the rebels came down dahil ramdam nila ang tulong ng gobyerno.’ Your presence here today is a testimony of that fact.”
Apart from the P65,000 aid for each of the former rebels, the government units that received the FRs also received a total of P987,000 or P21,000 for each FR as reintegration assistance.
Reintegration assistance funds are intended for the subsistence of the FRs as well as for expenses in securing documents such birth certificates and identification cards, and expenses for mobility.
These FRs are being cared under the Regional Intelligence Unit XII of the Philippine National Police and the 27th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.
They surrendered and laid down their arms to government troops in December 2019 and January 2020.
In a message to his fellow FRs, Tatay Felix, who also received government assistance advised his fellow colleagues to be prudent in spending what they received from the government.
Speaking in the vernacular, he told them, ”Let us not waste the cash assistance we received from the government. Instead let us use this money as a capital while we start to live an upright living."
Before his surrender, Tatay Felix spent 45 years as a recruiter for the communist terrorist group and a combatant fighting against government troops.
Tatay Felix, who spent 45 years as a recruiter and combatant of the communist terrorist group, thanked the government for giving them a chance to live an upright life in the fold of law. He also encouraged his fellow FRs to be prudent with spending the financial assistance from the government.
Except for two who are Ilonggo, all the beneficiaries of the E-CLIP assistance awarding on Thursday were either Tboli or Blaan.
Except for two who are Ilonggo, all the beneficiaries of the E-CLIP assistance awarding on Thursday were either Tboli or Blaan.
Information gathered from the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office showed that of the 47 FRs awarded, 17 are from Lake Sebu, 9 from Tampakan, 8 from Surallah, 7 from Banga, 2 from Koronadal, and 1 each from Tupi, Polomolok, Maitum (in Sarangani Province), and Senator Ninoy Aquino (in Sultan Kudarat Province)
Besides the aforementioned financial assistance, a beneficiary of the E-CLIP also gets remuneration for every firearm turned in to the government.
An FR will also be enrolled in PhilHealth and may avail of services of other government agencies such as housing from the National Housing Authority, skills training from Technical Education and Skills Development, livelihood assistance from the Department of Labor and Employment and many others. (DED-PIA XII)
18 ex-rebels in Northern Samar acquire new skills
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 4, 2020): 18 ex-rebels in Northern Samar acquire new skills (By Gerico Sabalza)
NEW LIFE. Government officials award certificates to former rebels in Northern Samar who completed the skills training program of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on Thursday (June 4, 2020). At least 18 former rebels have undergone the three-month training on bread and pastry production and cookery at Las Navas Agro-Industrial School in Las Navas town. (Photo courtesy of Northern Samar provincial information office)
NEW LIFE. Government officials award certificates to former rebels in Northern Samar who completed the skills training program of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on Thursday (June 4, 2020). At least 18 former rebels have undergone the three-month training on bread and pastry production and cookery at Las Navas Agro-Industrial School in Las Navas town. (Photo courtesy of Northern Samar provincial information office)
At least 18 former rebels in Northern Samar completed on Thursday the skills training program of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
In a statement, TESDA Eastern Visayas Director Dante Navarro said the graduates have undergone a three-month training on bread and pastry production and cookery at Las Navas Agro-Industrial School in Las Navas town.
TESDA awarded certificates of training to the graduates and distributed starter tool kits consisting of an electric oven, pastry blender, and other cooking and baking materials.
Each former rebel also received PHP4,900 allowance, Navarro said.
“The special skills training program is part of the interventions given to former rebels as a component of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). This ensures that rebels who surrender to the government can avail of a holistic package of benefits such as livelihood, medical, education, and even legal assistance,” he added.
During the awarding ceremony, 12 of the former rebels, who are farmworkers of the provincial agriculture office, also received their monthly salary.
Some of them have also got their Philippine Health Insurance Corporation identification cards, which they can use to avail of the government’s universal health care program, the Northern Samar provincial information office reported.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Army expressed their continued support as the former rebels carry on with their reintegration process in society.
“We are here to guide and help them as they start living a normal life and become part of the province’s progress,” said Lt. Col. Juan Gullem, commanding officer of the Army’s 20th Infantry Battalion.
Northern Samar is considered to be the New People’s Army (NPA) stronghold in Eastern Visayas due to poor network, thick forest, high poverty incidence, and low level of education in upland communities.
The NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, is listed as a terrorist organization in the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104915
In a statement, TESDA Eastern Visayas Director Dante Navarro said the graduates have undergone a three-month training on bread and pastry production and cookery at Las Navas Agro-Industrial School in Las Navas town.
TESDA awarded certificates of training to the graduates and distributed starter tool kits consisting of an electric oven, pastry blender, and other cooking and baking materials.
Each former rebel also received PHP4,900 allowance, Navarro said.
“The special skills training program is part of the interventions given to former rebels as a component of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). This ensures that rebels who surrender to the government can avail of a holistic package of benefits such as livelihood, medical, education, and even legal assistance,” he added.
During the awarding ceremony, 12 of the former rebels, who are farmworkers of the provincial agriculture office, also received their monthly salary.
Some of them have also got their Philippine Health Insurance Corporation identification cards, which they can use to avail of the government’s universal health care program, the Northern Samar provincial information office reported.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Army expressed their continued support as the former rebels carry on with their reintegration process in society.
“We are here to guide and help them as they start living a normal life and become part of the province’s progress,” said Lt. Col. Juan Gullem, commanding officer of the Army’s 20th Infantry Battalion.
Northern Samar is considered to be the New People’s Army (NPA) stronghold in Eastern Visayas due to poor network, thick forest, high poverty incidence, and low level of education in upland communities.
The NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, is listed as a terrorist organization in the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104915
Covid-19 limits NPA movement in upland NoCot town: Army
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 5, 2020): Covid-19 limits NPA movement in upland NoCot town: Army (By Edwin Fernandez)
SAFEGUARDING COMMUNITIES. Soldiers of the Army’s 19th Infantry Battalion patrol the upland town of Arakan in North Cotabato on Wednesday. The military in the area says the coronavirus disease crisis has dealt a blow on New People's Army, resulting in the mass surrender of its members in the past several months. (Photo courtesy of 19IB)
SAFEGUARDING COMMUNITIES. Soldiers of the Army’s 19th Infantry Battalion patrol the upland town of Arakan in North Cotabato on Wednesday. The military in the area says the coronavirus disease crisis has dealt a blow on New People's Army, resulting in the mass surrender of its members in the past several months. (Photo courtesy of 19IB)
The coronavirus disease (Covid-19) crisis has severely limited the movement of the communist guerillas in the hinterland town of Arakan, North Cotabato, leading to a series of surrenders recently, an Army official said Thursday.
Lt. Col Jasper Pecson, newly-designated Army’s 19th Infantry Battalion (IB) commander, said the number of communist New Peoples’ Army (NPA) rebels in Arakan has gone down to 30 up to 40 from as high as 200 combatants last year.
“The number of NPA firearms was also reduced to as low as 20 (pieces),” Pecson said over Catholic-run DXND radio station in Kidapawan City.
He said the figures are based on a periodic status report of the Army’s intelligence personnel, and information provided by former rebels who are now getting livelihood assistance from the government.
The Army unit based in Arakan has succeeded in convincing the rebels to abandon the movement following the death of its leader, Commander Chuy of Guerilla Front 53, during one of the recent encounters with government troops in the area, the military official said.
“The rebels who surrendered are now enrolled under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) of the government for ex-communist rebels,” he said.
Pecson said the Covid-19 quarantine measures that restricted people's movement have taken a toll on the NPA's resources, as the guerillas find it difficult to mulct farmers and business people.
On his new assignment, Pecson vowed to empower the youth and peoples' organizations in the campaign to put an end to local recruitment by the NPA.
He said that among the 19IB's notable accomplishments include the dismantling of Pulang Bagani Command 2; the weakening of the NPA Guerilla Front 53, neutralization of NPA personalities; surrender of hundreds of Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA "terrorist mass base" supporters; and recoveries of assorted firearms through surrenders and successful military offensives.
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/1104879
Lt. Col Jasper Pecson, newly-designated Army’s 19th Infantry Battalion (IB) commander, said the number of communist New Peoples’ Army (NPA) rebels in Arakan has gone down to 30 up to 40 from as high as 200 combatants last year.
“The number of NPA firearms was also reduced to as low as 20 (pieces),” Pecson said over Catholic-run DXND radio station in Kidapawan City.
He said the figures are based on a periodic status report of the Army’s intelligence personnel, and information provided by former rebels who are now getting livelihood assistance from the government.
The Army unit based in Arakan has succeeded in convincing the rebels to abandon the movement following the death of its leader, Commander Chuy of Guerilla Front 53, during one of the recent encounters with government troops in the area, the military official said.
“The rebels who surrendered are now enrolled under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) of the government for ex-communist rebels,” he said.
Pecson said the Covid-19 quarantine measures that restricted people's movement have taken a toll on the NPA's resources, as the guerillas find it difficult to mulct farmers and business people.
On his new assignment, Pecson vowed to empower the youth and peoples' organizations in the campaign to put an end to local recruitment by the NPA.
He said that among the 19IB's notable accomplishments include the dismantling of Pulang Bagani Command 2; the weakening of the NPA Guerilla Front 53, neutralization of NPA personalities; surrender of hundreds of Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA "terrorist mass base" supporters; and recoveries of assorted firearms through surrenders and successful military offensives.
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/1104879
Army captures NPA lair in Surigao Norte
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 5, 2020): Army captures NPA lair in Surigao Norte (By Alexander Lopez)
NPA HIDEOUT. A rebel lair is overrun by government troops following a 45-minute clash with the communist New People’s Army Wednesday (June 3) in the hinterlands of Sitio Campo Langit, Barangay Camp Edward, Alegria, Surigao del Norte. Government troops seized high-power firearms, ammunition, subversive documents, and other pieces of evidence from the area, the military says. (Photo courtesy of 30IB)
“This is the second time the 30th IB troopers engaged the CTGs (Communist Terrorist Groups) this month. The first encounter took place last June 1 in Barangay Biyadid, Sison, Surigao del Norte where one APM was recovered,” the statement said.
The military operation came after the military received complaints of NPA extortion activities the village, 30IB said, adding the rebels belong to Guerilla Front 16 of the NPA's North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).
No one was hurt on the government side, the Army said, adding bloodstains were found in the abandoned lair of the NPA and on their escape route.
In the same statement, the Army quoted Alegria Mayor Rene Esma as saying: “The dedication of our soldiers on the face of this coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic is commendable. It clearly attests to the seriousness of our government forces in ending local communist armed conflict.”
Esma also condemned the continued extortion activities of the NPA by taking advantage of the Covid-19 crisis and for "sowing fear and disorder" in the communities.
Lt. Col. Ryan Charles Callanta, 30IB commander, thanked the communities for their continuing support to the Army and the government.
“The overwhelming support of the populace who are already fed up with the rebels’ assaults and atrocities provided our security forces timely information leading to a successful operation that brings us one step closer to peace and prosperity,” Callanta said.
He said the 30IB personnel are still conducting pursuit operations in the area.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104895
NPA HIDEOUT. A rebel lair is overrun by government troops following a 45-minute clash with the communist New People’s Army Wednesday (June 3) in the hinterlands of Sitio Campo Langit, Barangay Camp Edward, Alegria, Surigao del Norte. Government troops seized high-power firearms, ammunition, subversive documents, and other pieces of evidence from the area, the military says. (Photo courtesy of 30IB)
A 45-minute gun battle between government troops and communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels resulted in the capture of the rebels’ lair in the hinterlands of Surigao del Norte Wednesday.
In a statement Thursday, the Army's 30th Infantry Battalion said the rebels' hideout in Barangay Camp Edward, Alegria town, yielded high-power firearms, ammunition, communications equipment, subversive documents with high intelligence value, and other pieces of evidence.
In a statement Thursday, the Army's 30th Infantry Battalion said the rebels' hideout in Barangay Camp Edward, Alegria town, yielded high-power firearms, ammunition, communications equipment, subversive documents with high intelligence value, and other pieces of evidence.
“This is the second time the 30th IB troopers engaged the CTGs (Communist Terrorist Groups) this month. The first encounter took place last June 1 in Barangay Biyadid, Sison, Surigao del Norte where one APM was recovered,” the statement said.
The military operation came after the military received complaints of NPA extortion activities the village, 30IB said, adding the rebels belong to Guerilla Front 16 of the NPA's North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).
No one was hurt on the government side, the Army said, adding bloodstains were found in the abandoned lair of the NPA and on their escape route.
In the same statement, the Army quoted Alegria Mayor Rene Esma as saying: “The dedication of our soldiers on the face of this coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic is commendable. It clearly attests to the seriousness of our government forces in ending local communist armed conflict.”
Esma also condemned the continued extortion activities of the NPA by taking advantage of the Covid-19 crisis and for "sowing fear and disorder" in the communities.
Lt. Col. Ryan Charles Callanta, 30IB commander, thanked the communities for their continuing support to the Army and the government.
“The overwhelming support of the populace who are already fed up with the rebels’ assaults and atrocities provided our security forces timely information leading to a successful operation that brings us one step closer to peace and prosperity,” Callanta said.
He said the 30IB personnel are still conducting pursuit operations in the area.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104895
Personnel aboard BRP Jose Rizal still under quarantine
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 5, 2020): Personnel aboard BRP Jose Rizal still under quarantine (By Priam Nepomuceno)
BRP Jose Rizal. (File photo)
BRP Jose Rizal. (File photo)
Personnel aboard the BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), the country's first missile-frigate, are still under quarantine at Subic Bay, Zambales.
"They are still on quarantine (as they were not subjected to a) rapid test but (the more accurate) swab test (on May 28). Their quarantine period started there," Navy public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas said in a message to the Philippine News Agency Thursday night.
The ship arrived in the country on May 23.
Once the quarantine ends, Roxas said the Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee (TIAC) will board the missile frigate to begin their inspection.
Swab test results are usually released at least within a week.
BRP Jose Rizal left the Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea last May 18. The ship is carrying 61 organic PN personnel and around 23 from HHI and four owner's representatives.
A simple arrival and commissioning ceremony is set on June 19 coinciding with the birth anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal, the ship’s namesake. BRP Jose Rizal was launched at the Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea on May 23, 2019.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104991
"They are still on quarantine (as they were not subjected to a) rapid test but (the more accurate) swab test (on May 28). Their quarantine period started there," Navy public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas said in a message to the Philippine News Agency Thursday night.
The ship arrived in the country on May 23.
Once the quarantine ends, Roxas said the Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee (TIAC) will board the missile frigate to begin their inspection.
Swab test results are usually released at least within a week.
BRP Jose Rizal left the Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea last May 18. The ship is carrying 61 organic PN personnel and around 23 from HHI and four owner's representatives.
A simple arrival and commissioning ceremony is set on June 19 coinciding with the birth anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal, the ship’s namesake. BRP Jose Rizal was launched at the Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea on May 23, 2019.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104991
Anti-terror bill to speed up neutralization of threats: Army
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 5, 2020): Anti-terror bill to speed up neutralization of threats: Army (By Priam Nepomuceno)
Philippine Army commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay. (File photo)
Philippine Army commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay. (File photo)
The Philippine Army (PA) said it is optimistic that the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 will allow them to neutralize terrorists before they can conduct deadly attacks.
"We are optimistic that the Anti-Terror Bill (ATB) will enable us to go after terrorists before they seize opportunities to endanger public safety," Army commander Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay said in a statement late Thursday.
He added that the PA supports House Bill 6875 or the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 which the House of Representatives approved it on third and final reading on Wednesday.
"Contrary to the massive disinformation campaign that supposes some civil and political rights are curtailed, the provisions of the ATB will allow us to secure our people from terroristic acts that are perpetrated when we least expect it," Gapay said.
The landmark legislation seeks to prevent, prohibit, and penalize terrorism.
The bill introduces provisions imposing life imprisonment without parole on those who will participate in the planning, training, preparation, and facilitation of a terrorist act; possess objects connected with the preparation for the commission of terrorism; or collect or make documents connected with the preparation of terrorism.
Under the bill, any person who shall threaten to commit terrorism shall suffer the penalty of 12 years. The same jail term will be meted against those who will propose any terroristic acts or incite others to commit terrorism.
Any person who shall voluntarily and knowingly join any organization, association, or group of persons knowing that such is a terrorist organization, shall suffer imprisonment of 12 years.
Under the bill, the number of days a suspected person can be detained without a warrant of arrest is 14 calendar days, extendible by 10 days.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104990
"We are optimistic that the Anti-Terror Bill (ATB) will enable us to go after terrorists before they seize opportunities to endanger public safety," Army commander Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay said in a statement late Thursday.
He added that the PA supports House Bill 6875 or the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 which the House of Representatives approved it on third and final reading on Wednesday.
"Contrary to the massive disinformation campaign that supposes some civil and political rights are curtailed, the provisions of the ATB will allow us to secure our people from terroristic acts that are perpetrated when we least expect it," Gapay said.
The landmark legislation seeks to prevent, prohibit, and penalize terrorism.
The bill introduces provisions imposing life imprisonment without parole on those who will participate in the planning, training, preparation, and facilitation of a terrorist act; possess objects connected with the preparation for the commission of terrorism; or collect or make documents connected with the preparation of terrorism.
Under the bill, any person who shall threaten to commit terrorism shall suffer the penalty of 12 years. The same jail term will be meted against those who will propose any terroristic acts or incite others to commit terrorism.
Any person who shall voluntarily and knowingly join any organization, association, or group of persons knowing that such is a terrorist organization, shall suffer imprisonment of 12 years.
Under the bill, the number of days a suspected person can be detained without a warrant of arrest is 14 calendar days, extendible by 10 days.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104990
US gives P201-M aid to Covid-19 fight in Mindanao
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 5, 2020): US gives P201-M aid to Covid-19 fight in Mindanao (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)
USAID partners deliver water supplies daily to 1,000 IDPs in Marawi transitory sites. (Photo courtesy of US Embassy in Manila)
USAID partners deliver water supplies daily to 1,000 IDPs in Marawi transitory sites. (Photo courtesy of US Embassy in Manila)
The United States embassy in the Philippines said on Friday it will give an additional PHP201 million or USD4 million aid to support the vulnerable population in Mindanao affected by the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.
This brings Washington's total assistance to the Philippines to over PHP978 million or approximately USD19.5 million.
The funding, to be implemented by the US Agency for International Development (USAID), aims to reach over 100,000 persons with distributions of essential hygiene supplies, handwashing stations as well as promote hygiene to reduce transmission risk.
The aid agency will also continue providing water supply in transitory sites in Lanao del Sur for families displaced by the Marawi Siege and in North Cotabato for earthquake-affected communities.
Last Tuesday, Ambassador Sung Kim met virtually with Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) officials led by Chief Minister Ahod ‘Al Haj Murad’ Ebrahim.
The meeting provided an opportunity for the BARMM leadership to discuss challenges and present its Covid-19 contingency plan.
“In these trying times, I am inspired by the resilience and courage of the Filipino people,” said Kim. “The United States and the Philippines have met and overcome many challenges together, and I am confident that working together we will overcome this challenge as well.”
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1105005
This brings Washington's total assistance to the Philippines to over PHP978 million or approximately USD19.5 million.
The funding, to be implemented by the US Agency for International Development (USAID), aims to reach over 100,000 persons with distributions of essential hygiene supplies, handwashing stations as well as promote hygiene to reduce transmission risk.
The aid agency will also continue providing water supply in transitory sites in Lanao del Sur for families displaced by the Marawi Siege and in North Cotabato for earthquake-affected communities.
Last Tuesday, Ambassador Sung Kim met virtually with Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) officials led by Chief Minister Ahod ‘Al Haj Murad’ Ebrahim.
The meeting provided an opportunity for the BARMM leadership to discuss challenges and present its Covid-19 contingency plan.
“In these trying times, I am inspired by the resilience and courage of the Filipino people,” said Kim. “The United States and the Philippines have met and overcome many challenges together, and I am confident that working together we will overcome this challenge as well.”
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1105005
Alleged NPA officer placed on hospital arrest
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 4, 2020): Alleged NPA officer placed on hospital arrest (By Alexander Lopez)
WARRANT SERVED. Philippine National Police and military personnel serve the arrest warrants against Joel Montero dela Hilba, 32, a resident of Barangay Unaban, Tago, Surigao del Sur on June 3, 2020 at the Davao Regional Medical Center in Tagum City. Authorities identified Dela Hilba, who is wanted for attempted and frustrated murder cases, as a commanding officer of the communist New People's Army operating in Surigao del Sur. (Photo courtesy of SDSPPO)
WARRANT SERVED. Philippine National Police and military personnel serve the arrest warrants against Joel Montero dela Hilba, 32, a resident of Barangay Unaban, Tago, Surigao del Sur on June 3, 2020 at the Davao Regional Medical Center in Tagum City. Authorities identified Dela Hilba, who is wanted for attempted and frustrated murder cases, as a commanding officer of the communist New People's Army operating in Surigao del Sur. (Photo courtesy of SDSPPO)
Authorities served arrest warrants against an alleged communist New People’s Army (NPA) combatant who was ferried by the International Committee on Red Cross (ICRC) from Surigao del Sur to Davao Region for treatment late last week.
Col. James Goforth, Surigao del Sur Provincial Police Office (SDSPPO) director, said the arrest warrants against Joel Montero dela Hilba were served by police and Army personnel from Surigao del Sur and Davao del Norte Wednesday (June 3) at the Davao Regional Medical Center in Tagum City.
The wounded Dela Hilba, 32, was on a convoy of ICRC vehicles when it was briefly stopped in Lianga town on May 29.
Goforth told the Philippine News Agency Thursday that Dela Hilba is the commanding officer of the Platoon 1, Sentro de Grabidad (SDG) of the NPA's Southern Regional Command (SRC).
A resident of Barangay Unaban, Tago, Surigao del Sur, he allegedly carries the aliases “Kid”, “Viray”, and “Joel Dadang”.
Goforth said the suspect sustained gunshot wounds in his left rib and parietal area in an encounter with government forces last month.
Goforth said Dela Hilba’s identity was confirmed by a former rebel who worked with him inside the communist rebel movement in Surigao del Sur.
The arrest warrants against Dela Hilba were issued by Judge Lilibeth O. Ladaga of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 28 in Lianga, Surigao del Sur, for frustrated murder and attempted murder cases.
Brig. Gen. Joselito Esquivel Jr., Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 (Caraga) director, said Dela Hilba was placed under hospital arrest.
“We will make sure he receives proper medical treatment for him to fully recover. His safety and security are also our concern,” Esquivel said in a statement on Thursday.
He also reiterated the call for the remaining active NPA members to lay down their arms and avail of the opportunities being offered to them by the government.
“We will continue our efforts to reach out to those who want to lay down their arms,” Esquivel said.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United Kingdom, the European Union, the United States, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104866
Col. James Goforth, Surigao del Sur Provincial Police Office (SDSPPO) director, said the arrest warrants against Joel Montero dela Hilba were served by police and Army personnel from Surigao del Sur and Davao del Norte Wednesday (June 3) at the Davao Regional Medical Center in Tagum City.
The wounded Dela Hilba, 32, was on a convoy of ICRC vehicles when it was briefly stopped in Lianga town on May 29.
Goforth told the Philippine News Agency Thursday that Dela Hilba is the commanding officer of the Platoon 1, Sentro de Grabidad (SDG) of the NPA's Southern Regional Command (SRC).
A resident of Barangay Unaban, Tago, Surigao del Sur, he allegedly carries the aliases “Kid”, “Viray”, and “Joel Dadang”.
Goforth said the suspect sustained gunshot wounds in his left rib and parietal area in an encounter with government forces last month.
Goforth said Dela Hilba’s identity was confirmed by a former rebel who worked with him inside the communist rebel movement in Surigao del Sur.
The arrest warrants against Dela Hilba were issued by Judge Lilibeth O. Ladaga of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 28 in Lianga, Surigao del Sur, for frustrated murder and attempted murder cases.
Brig. Gen. Joselito Esquivel Jr., Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 (Caraga) director, said Dela Hilba was placed under hospital arrest.
“We will make sure he receives proper medical treatment for him to fully recover. His safety and security are also our concern,” Esquivel said in a statement on Thursday.
He also reiterated the call for the remaining active NPA members to lay down their arms and avail of the opportunities being offered to them by the government.
“We will continue our efforts to reach out to those who want to lay down their arms,” Esquivel said.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United Kingdom, the European Union, the United States, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104866
Army reserve units play critical roles amid Covid-19
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 4, 2020): Army reserve units play critical roles amid Covid-19 (By Priam Nepomuceno)
Philippine Army commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay. (Photo courtesy of the Army Chief Public Affairs Office)
Philippine Army commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay. (Photo courtesy of the Army Chief Public Affairs Office)
The Philippine Army (PA) said it will ensure that the capabilities of the Army Reserve Command (Arescom) will be preserved and sustained during the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.
Philippine Army (PA) commander Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay made this assurance as he lauded the unit for the critical role it is playing in nation-building during his visit to Arescom headquarters in Camp Riego De Dios, Tanza, Cavite on Wednesday.
“Transitioning to the new normal, we shall also preserve and sustain the capabilities of the Force through aggressive Covid-19 information campaign, responsive health-related programs, and security and logistics support to various government programs,” he said.
Gapay also met with Arescom personnel led by Maj. Gen. Peale Jon Bondoc to convey his guidance on strengthening the Army’s reserve component.
As a combat service support unit, Arescom administers the recruitment, training, and management of Army reservists in the country who will provide support in socio-economic development, environmental protection, and disaster and rescue operations.
In the past five months, Arescom has provided 929 development related initiatives and humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations including evacuation assistance, repacking, and distribution of relief goods during the Taal Eruption, Typhoon Ursula, and the current Covid-19 crisis.
In line with the PA modernization efforts, Arescom further developed the Ready Reserve and Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) units; the Arescom Training School; and provisionally activated the 1st Community Defense Brigade.
It has also institutionalized school and university-wide recruitment of ROTC cadets.
“By aiming to be the future Army, Arescom is on the right track. By practicing excellence, we will all win,” Gapay said.
The Reserve Force’s mission is to provide a base for the expansion of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the event of war, invasion, and rebellion, or during national emergencies.
Reserve components are also tasked to assist in relief and rescue operations during disaster or calamities, in socio-economic development, and in the operation and maintenance of essential government or private utilities in the furtherance of the overall mission as stated in Republic Act. No. 7077 or the Citizen Armed Forces of the Philippines Reservist Act.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104851
Philippine Army (PA) commander Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay made this assurance as he lauded the unit for the critical role it is playing in nation-building during his visit to Arescom headquarters in Camp Riego De Dios, Tanza, Cavite on Wednesday.
“Transitioning to the new normal, we shall also preserve and sustain the capabilities of the Force through aggressive Covid-19 information campaign, responsive health-related programs, and security and logistics support to various government programs,” he said.
Gapay also met with Arescom personnel led by Maj. Gen. Peale Jon Bondoc to convey his guidance on strengthening the Army’s reserve component.
As a combat service support unit, Arescom administers the recruitment, training, and management of Army reservists in the country who will provide support in socio-economic development, environmental protection, and disaster and rescue operations.
In the past five months, Arescom has provided 929 development related initiatives and humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations including evacuation assistance, repacking, and distribution of relief goods during the Taal Eruption, Typhoon Ursula, and the current Covid-19 crisis.
In line with the PA modernization efforts, Arescom further developed the Ready Reserve and Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) units; the Arescom Training School; and provisionally activated the 1st Community Defense Brigade.
It has also institutionalized school and university-wide recruitment of ROTC cadets.
“By aiming to be the future Army, Arescom is on the right track. By practicing excellence, we will all win,” Gapay said.
The Reserve Force’s mission is to provide a base for the expansion of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the event of war, invasion, and rebellion, or during national emergencies.
Reserve components are also tasked to assist in relief and rescue operations during disaster or calamities, in socio-economic development, and in the operation and maintenance of essential government or private utilities in the furtherance of the overall mission as stated in Republic Act. No. 7077 or the Citizen Armed Forces of the Philippines Reservist Act.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104851
VFA to boost PH-US cooperation amid Covid-19: Army chief
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 4, 2020): VFA to boost PH-US cooperation amid Covid-19: Army chief (By Priam Nepomuceno)
Philippine Army commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay. (File photo)
Philippine Army commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay. (File photo)
Philippine Army (PA) commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, on Thursday welcomed the government’s decision to suspend the abrogation of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the United States as the accord would help the country’s ongoing efforts to contain the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.
"The PA welcomes the decision to suspend the abrogation of the Visiting Forces Agreement, which will spur the continuance of mutual defense and cooperation between the two countries, especially in our humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts in connection with the Covid-19 pandemic," Gapay said in a press statement.
He said the PA would continue to work with its US counterparts, particularly in training and capacity-building, to maintain mutual combat readiness and interoperability between the services.
"Learning from each other as we demonstrate resolve in the protection of our territory," he added.
The abrogation of the VFA with the US has been suspended upon President Rodrigo Duterte's instruction, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said Tuesday night.
Locsin posted on Twitter a diplomatic note dated June 1 to the US Embassy in Manila and said Washington has received it "well at that."
The VFA, established in 1999, provides a framework for a defense forces cooperation that allows joint exercises between the Philippines and the US.
Duterte initially threatened to terminate the accord after Washington revoked the US visa of Senator Ronald dela Rosa, the former Philippine National Police chief who implemented the administration's crackdown on illegal drugs.
The campaign against illegal narcotics had been criticized by the US, with some American lawmakers introducing a Senate resolution castigating the Duterte administration for the deaths related to the program.
The agreement was originally set to be revoked 180 days after the Philippine government officially sent the notice of its termination to the US Embassy on February 11.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104887
"The PA welcomes the decision to suspend the abrogation of the Visiting Forces Agreement, which will spur the continuance of mutual defense and cooperation between the two countries, especially in our humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts in connection with the Covid-19 pandemic," Gapay said in a press statement.
He said the PA would continue to work with its US counterparts, particularly in training and capacity-building, to maintain mutual combat readiness and interoperability between the services.
"Learning from each other as we demonstrate resolve in the protection of our territory," he added.
The abrogation of the VFA with the US has been suspended upon President Rodrigo Duterte's instruction, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said Tuesday night.
Locsin posted on Twitter a diplomatic note dated June 1 to the US Embassy in Manila and said Washington has received it "well at that."
The VFA, established in 1999, provides a framework for a defense forces cooperation that allows joint exercises between the Philippines and the US.
Duterte initially threatened to terminate the accord after Washington revoked the US visa of Senator Ronald dela Rosa, the former Philippine National Police chief who implemented the administration's crackdown on illegal drugs.
The campaign against illegal narcotics had been criticized by the US, with some American lawmakers introducing a Senate resolution castigating the Duterte administration for the deaths related to the program.
The agreement was originally set to be revoked 180 days after the Philippine government officially sent the notice of its termination to the US Embassy on February 11.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104887
AFP won't get 'new power' in anti-terror bill
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 4, 2020): AFP won't get 'new power' in anti-terror bill (By Priam Nepomuceno)
AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo. (File photo)
AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo. (File photo)
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will not be given “any new power" under the proposed measure meant to strengthen the country's anti-terrorism law, its spokesperson said Thursday.
"From what has been reported to me so far, nothing in the Enrolled Bill to be sent to the President for his consideration adds any new power to the Armed Forces of the Philippines," Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said in a message to reporters.
Arevalo was referring to the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 that was passed by the House of Representatives on third and final reading in a 173-31-29 vote on Wednesday.
He said that while they are pleased with this development, the AFP would “reserve further comment until the proposed legislation is signed into law by the President and the IRRs (Implementing Rules and Regulations) are out so we can study the law and the how’s of its implementation."
The AFP, Arevalo said, is aware of the various issues raised on the proposed legislation, which were all considered during the thorough deliberations and discussions in Congress.
PNP: Stronger anti-terror law necessary
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) welcomed the passage of the measure.
PNP chief, Gen. Archie Gamboa, said the measure that seeks to amend the Human Security Act of 2007 would update and strengthen the country’s anti-terrorism policies.
"We cannot quantify the loss of lives and property, not to mention the economic impact of a scenario where there is widespread ‘panic and fear’, should we find ourselves caught in the middle of a terrorist attack with the same magnitude as the 9-11 in New York in 2001, the 7-7 in London in 2005, the Rizal Day 2000 in Manila, and the infamous Marawi siege in May 2017," Gamboa said in a statement.
Citing the need to pass such a measure, he said the government can always "invoke the right of the state to protect itself."
"And this anti-terrorism legislation is a just and valid exercise of that right of the state to protect itself and its people," Gamboa said.
The approval of the bill on third reading came just a day after it was approved on second reading. Congress dispensed with the three-day rule for measures certified by President Rodrigo Duterte as urgent.
Duterte earlier called for the immediate passage of the bill “to address the urgent need to strengthen the law on anti-terrorism in order to adequately and effectively contain the menace of terrorist acts for the preservation of national security and the promotion of general welfare.”
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104909
"From what has been reported to me so far, nothing in the Enrolled Bill to be sent to the President for his consideration adds any new power to the Armed Forces of the Philippines," Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said in a message to reporters.
Arevalo was referring to the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 that was passed by the House of Representatives on third and final reading in a 173-31-29 vote on Wednesday.
He said that while they are pleased with this development, the AFP would “reserve further comment until the proposed legislation is signed into law by the President and the IRRs (Implementing Rules and Regulations) are out so we can study the law and the how’s of its implementation."
The AFP, Arevalo said, is aware of the various issues raised on the proposed legislation, which were all considered during the thorough deliberations and discussions in Congress.
PNP: Stronger anti-terror law necessary
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) welcomed the passage of the measure.
PNP chief, Gen. Archie Gamboa, said the measure that seeks to amend the Human Security Act of 2007 would update and strengthen the country’s anti-terrorism policies.
"We cannot quantify the loss of lives and property, not to mention the economic impact of a scenario where there is widespread ‘panic and fear’, should we find ourselves caught in the middle of a terrorist attack with the same magnitude as the 9-11 in New York in 2001, the 7-7 in London in 2005, the Rizal Day 2000 in Manila, and the infamous Marawi siege in May 2017," Gamboa said in a statement.
Citing the need to pass such a measure, he said the government can always "invoke the right of the state to protect itself."
"And this anti-terrorism legislation is a just and valid exercise of that right of the state to protect itself and its people," Gamboa said.
The approval of the bill on third reading came just a day after it was approved on second reading. Congress dispensed with the three-day rule for measures certified by President Rodrigo Duterte as urgent.
Duterte earlier called for the immediate passage of the bill “to address the urgent need to strengthen the law on anti-terrorism in order to adequately and effectively contain the menace of terrorist acts for the preservation of national security and the promotion of general welfare.”
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104909
PRRD to ensure anti-terror law complies with Constitution
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 4, 2020): PRRD to ensure anti-terror law complies with Constitution (By Azer Parrocha)
President Rodrigo R. Duterte (File photo)
President Rodrigo R. Duterte (File photo)
President Rodrigo R. Duterte will thoroughly review the anti-terrorism bill to ensure that it complies with the 1987 Constitution, Malacañang said Thursday.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made the statement, assuring that the President is in no rush to sign the measure meant to add more teeth to the country’s law against terrorism.
“Bagamat (Even if) it's certified urgent, ‘di naman po automatic pipirmahan ‘yan ni Presidente (it won’t automatically be signed by the President),” Roque said in a virtual presser from Davao City.
He said the President, who is also a lawyer, would not allow unconstitutional provisions in the proposed law.
“Dadaan pa rin ‘yan sa isang final review para titingnan kung may probisyon na labag sa Saligang Batas bago po pirmahan ng Presidente (It will undergo a final review to see if there are provisions that violate the Constitution before it is signed by the President),” Roque said.
He assured that the anti-terrorism bill would not curtail freedom of speech.
“I think dito sa Pilipinas, hindi mo na talaga masusupil ang karapatan ng malayang pananalita dahil hindi na po papayag ang sambayanang Pilipino (here in the Philippines, you can no longer curtail freedom of expression because the Filipinos will not allow it),” Roque said.
In an interview over Teleradyo on Thursday, he said Filipinos are free to express themselves so long as there is no “clear and present danger.”
He, meanwhile, denied speculations of a looming terrorism threat after the certification of the anti-terrorism bill as urgent was followed by the decision to suspend the termination of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) between the Philippines and the United States (US).
“Wala naman pong relasyon ‘yan (There is no relation between the two),” Roque said.
He noted that Duterte’s decision to certify the anti-terrorism bill as urgent was based on the need to beef up the current Human Security Act, which has done little to quell terrorism in the country.
“Hindi nagwakas ang terorismo nung lumaya ang Marawi. Patuloy ang banta nito sa tahimik na pamumuhay ng mga Pilipino (Terrorism did not end when Marawi was freed. The threat continues to haunt the peaceful lives of Filipinos),” Roque said.
He also pointed out that the anti-terrorism bills were “not passed into law” during the previous Congress.
The anti-terror bill is up for the President’s signature despite claims made by the opposition and progressive groups that it is an attack on freedom of speech or an avenue for red-tagging.
On Wednesday, the House of Representatives approved the measure on its final reading. The Senate passed the bill on final reading in February.
Under the bill, persons who shall threaten to commit terrorism and those who will propose any terroristic acts or incite others to commit terrorism shall suffer imprisonment of 12 years.
Suspected persons can be detained for 14 days without a warrant of arrest with an allowable 10-day extension.
A 60-day surveillance on suspected terrorists can also be conducted by the police or the military, with an allowable 30-day extension.
Videoconferencing for the accused and witnesses will also be allowed under the measure.
To allay fears of abuse, the Commission on Human Rights will be notified in case of the detention of a suspected terrorist.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104913
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made the statement, assuring that the President is in no rush to sign the measure meant to add more teeth to the country’s law against terrorism.
“Bagamat (Even if) it's certified urgent, ‘di naman po automatic pipirmahan ‘yan ni Presidente (it won’t automatically be signed by the President),” Roque said in a virtual presser from Davao City.
He said the President, who is also a lawyer, would not allow unconstitutional provisions in the proposed law.
“Dadaan pa rin ‘yan sa isang final review para titingnan kung may probisyon na labag sa Saligang Batas bago po pirmahan ng Presidente (It will undergo a final review to see if there are provisions that violate the Constitution before it is signed by the President),” Roque said.
He assured that the anti-terrorism bill would not curtail freedom of speech.
“I think dito sa Pilipinas, hindi mo na talaga masusupil ang karapatan ng malayang pananalita dahil hindi na po papayag ang sambayanang Pilipino (here in the Philippines, you can no longer curtail freedom of expression because the Filipinos will not allow it),” Roque said.
In an interview over Teleradyo on Thursday, he said Filipinos are free to express themselves so long as there is no “clear and present danger.”
He, meanwhile, denied speculations of a looming terrorism threat after the certification of the anti-terrorism bill as urgent was followed by the decision to suspend the termination of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) between the Philippines and the United States (US).
“Wala naman pong relasyon ‘yan (There is no relation between the two),” Roque said.
He noted that Duterte’s decision to certify the anti-terrorism bill as urgent was based on the need to beef up the current Human Security Act, which has done little to quell terrorism in the country.
“Hindi nagwakas ang terorismo nung lumaya ang Marawi. Patuloy ang banta nito sa tahimik na pamumuhay ng mga Pilipino (Terrorism did not end when Marawi was freed. The threat continues to haunt the peaceful lives of Filipinos),” Roque said.
He also pointed out that the anti-terrorism bills were “not passed into law” during the previous Congress.
The anti-terror bill is up for the President’s signature despite claims made by the opposition and progressive groups that it is an attack on freedom of speech or an avenue for red-tagging.
On Wednesday, the House of Representatives approved the measure on its final reading. The Senate passed the bill on final reading in February.
Under the bill, persons who shall threaten to commit terrorism and those who will propose any terroristic acts or incite others to commit terrorism shall suffer imprisonment of 12 years.
Suspected persons can be detained for 14 days without a warrant of arrest with an allowable 10-day extension.
A 60-day surveillance on suspected terrorists can also be conducted by the police or the military, with an allowable 30-day extension.
Videoconferencing for the accused and witnesses will also be allowed under the measure.
To allay fears of abuse, the Commission on Human Rights will be notified in case of the detention of a suspected terrorist.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104913
Suspension of VFA termination not same as total lifting: Roque
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 4, 2020): Suspension of VFA termination not same as total lifting: Roque (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)
MILITARY EXERCISE. Photo shows the Philippines and US conduct Balikatan military exercise under Visiting Forces Agreement. Malacañang on Thursday (June 4, 2020) said President Rodrigo Duterte has not signified any intent to order the total lifting of the termination of the VFA with the US. (File photo)
MILITARY EXERCISE. Photo shows the Philippines and US conduct Balikatan military exercise under Visiting Forces Agreement. Malacañang on Thursday (June 4, 2020) said President Rodrigo Duterte has not signified any intent to order the total lifting of the termination of the VFA with the US. (File photo)
Malacañang clarified Thursday that President Rodrigo Duterte has not signified any intent to order the total lifting of the termination of the Philippines’ Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the United States (US).
In a virtual presser aired on state-run PTV-4, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the recent suspension of the VFA’s abrogation is not tantamount to its total lifting.
“Ang nangyari lang po, nasuspinde ang termination. Hindi pa po niya sinasabing hindi na tuloy ang termination. So wala pong nagbago sa pag-iisip ng ating Pangulo (What happened is the termination was just suspended. He’s not saying that the termination is already lifted. The President has not changed his mind),” Roque said.
The Philippines, through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), has informed the US about its decision to suspend the revocation of the VFA.
The suspension of VFA’s termination is effective for six months but can be extended by the Philippines for another six months, according to the diplomatic note dated June 1 and addressed to the US.
In a virtual presser aired on state-run PTV-4, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the recent suspension of the VFA’s abrogation is not tantamount to its total lifting.
“Ang nangyari lang po, nasuspinde ang termination. Hindi pa po niya sinasabing hindi na tuloy ang termination. So wala pong nagbago sa pag-iisip ng ating Pangulo (What happened is the termination was just suspended. He’s not saying that the termination is already lifted. The President has not changed his mind),” Roque said.
The Philippines, through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), has informed the US about its decision to suspend the revocation of the VFA.
The suspension of VFA’s termination is effective for six months but can be extended by the Philippines for another six months, according to the diplomatic note dated June 1 and addressed to the US.
The Philippine government has decided to suspend the abrogation of VFA “in light of political and other developments in the region.”
Roque said the Philippines is recognizing the US, its long-time ally, as a “friend” who can lend a hand especially in the fight against terrorism.
“Alam niyo po, bago na ang anyo ng terorismo ngayon. Wala na pong kinikilalang mga border at wala na pong kinikilalang mga bansa. So lahat po ng bansa na ating kaibigan, Amerika, Tsina, Russia, India, Australia, lahat po sila, importante lahat (You know, terrorism now has a new face. It knows no borders and countries. So, countries like America, China, Russia, India, and Australia are important because we consider them as our friends),” he said.
The VFA is a military agreement signed between the Philippines and the US in 1998 to allow American troops who are participating in joint military deals to go to Manila without passport and visa.
The military deal was supposed to be revoked 180 days after the Philippines sent a formal notice of termination to the US on February 11.
Roque acknowledged that VFA is an “important” pact between Manila and Washington.
“Ang VFA po, well, kasing halaga po siya sa lahat ng ating mga relasyon sa lahat ng ating mga kapitbahay, kapitbayan at lahat pa ng ating alyado (Well, VFA is important like our relations with our neighboring countries and all our allies),” he said, when quizzed if the Philippines can live sans VFA.
Duterte scrapped VFA following the criticism of some US senators against his drug war, as well as the cancellation of the US visa of his ally, former national police chief and now Senator Ronald dela Rosa.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104926
Roque said the Philippines is recognizing the US, its long-time ally, as a “friend” who can lend a hand especially in the fight against terrorism.
“Alam niyo po, bago na ang anyo ng terorismo ngayon. Wala na pong kinikilalang mga border at wala na pong kinikilalang mga bansa. So lahat po ng bansa na ating kaibigan, Amerika, Tsina, Russia, India, Australia, lahat po sila, importante lahat (You know, terrorism now has a new face. It knows no borders and countries. So, countries like America, China, Russia, India, and Australia are important because we consider them as our friends),” he said.
The VFA is a military agreement signed between the Philippines and the US in 1998 to allow American troops who are participating in joint military deals to go to Manila without passport and visa.
The military deal was supposed to be revoked 180 days after the Philippines sent a formal notice of termination to the US on February 11.
Roque acknowledged that VFA is an “important” pact between Manila and Washington.
“Ang VFA po, well, kasing halaga po siya sa lahat ng ating mga relasyon sa lahat ng ating mga kapitbahay, kapitbayan at lahat pa ng ating alyado (Well, VFA is important like our relations with our neighboring countries and all our allies),” he said, when quizzed if the Philippines can live sans VFA.
Duterte scrapped VFA following the criticism of some US senators against his drug war, as well as the cancellation of the US visa of his ally, former national police chief and now Senator Ronald dela Rosa.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104926
Be wary of disinformation drive vs. Anti-Terror Act: solon
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 4, 2020): Be wary of disinformation drive vs. Anti-Terror Act: solon (By Jose Cielito Reganit)
Senator Panfilo Lacson
Senator Panfilo Lacson
Senator Panfilo Lacson on Thursday urged the public not to believe in the “massive disinformation campaign” being waged by critics against the Anti-Terrorism Bill, stressing that the measure’s only aim is to protect Filipinos from discriminate terrorist acts, and not to destroy basic human rights and liberties.
“Terrorism knows no timing nor borders. Some of our country’s policy-makers, especially our people, should know better than just criticizing and believing the massive disinformation campaign against a measure that can secure and protect us as well as our families and loved ones from terrorist acts perpetrated in a manner so sudden, least expected and indiscriminate - as in any time, probably even today, tomorrow or next week,” Lacson said in a statement.
He said the public should not also be taken in by the critics’ arguments that Senate Bill 1083, or the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, is open to abuse and, once enacted, could be used to stifle dissent.
In a succeeding interview, Lacson said that when the bill was tackled at the committee level last year, and up to its final approval in the Senate in February, their reference was the Bill of Rights enshrined in the 1987 Constitution.
It could not also be said that not all stakeholders were represented during the public hearings, since the Commission on Human Rights (CHR), the academe, Philippine Judges Association, the Department of Justice (DOJ), among others, were present, he said.
The chair of the Senate Committee on National Defense and Security, Peace, Unification, and Reconciliation also noted that most of the provisions of the Anti-Terrorism laws of other strong democracies like Australia and the United States were incorporated into the bill, guided further by the standards set by the United Nations.
“With the help of many of my colleagues who interpellated and proposed their individual amendments, including all the members of the Minority Bloc, I was more than accommodating to accept their amendments as long as we would not end up with another dead-letter law such as the Human Security Act of 2007, which has so far resulted in just one conviction after more than a decade of its implementation and just one proscribed terrorist organization such as the Abu Sayyaf Group,” he said.
Among the provisions being opposed by critics is the 14-day reglementary period of detention without a judicial warrant, which they said is “too long” and may open the accused to torture.
Lacson pointed out that the 14-day reglementary period is the “shortest time” compared to other countries in the region, like Thailand which has a reglementary period of up to 30 days, Malaysia, up to two years; Singapore at 720 days, which could be extended to indefinite detention without formal charges; and Indonesia, with up to 120 additional days.
“Also, safeguards have been put in place to ensure the rights of those detained,” he said.
Under SB 1083, law enforcement officers who effected the warrantless arrest are bound to immediately notify a judge nearest the place of arrest. They are also bound to immediately inform the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) of the arrest.
Visitation rights are also protected and there is no limit on lawyer’s visits.
To further prevent abuses, the measure provides that any law enforcement or military personnel found to have violated the rights of the accused persons shall be penalized with imprisonment of 10 years.
Lacson also stressed that SB 1083 cannot be used to stifle dissent and silence government critics since the measure clearly does not include the “exercise of legitimate dissent” as an act of terror.
Labor strikes, assembly, and protests against duly constituted authority are also not included, he said.
“So mali. Kasi maraming kumakalat ng disinformation kaya dapat maging maingat ang publiko (So they are wrong. The public should be careful because there's a lot of misinformation circulating),” he said.
“And to the critics, I dare say: I hope the day will not come when you or any of your loved ones will be at the receiving end of a terrorist attack, so much so that it will be too late for you to regret convincing the Filipino people to junk this landmark legislation,” Lacson said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104949
“Terrorism knows no timing nor borders. Some of our country’s policy-makers, especially our people, should know better than just criticizing and believing the massive disinformation campaign against a measure that can secure and protect us as well as our families and loved ones from terrorist acts perpetrated in a manner so sudden, least expected and indiscriminate - as in any time, probably even today, tomorrow or next week,” Lacson said in a statement.
He said the public should not also be taken in by the critics’ arguments that Senate Bill 1083, or the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, is open to abuse and, once enacted, could be used to stifle dissent.
In a succeeding interview, Lacson said that when the bill was tackled at the committee level last year, and up to its final approval in the Senate in February, their reference was the Bill of Rights enshrined in the 1987 Constitution.
It could not also be said that not all stakeholders were represented during the public hearings, since the Commission on Human Rights (CHR), the academe, Philippine Judges Association, the Department of Justice (DOJ), among others, were present, he said.
The chair of the Senate Committee on National Defense and Security, Peace, Unification, and Reconciliation also noted that most of the provisions of the Anti-Terrorism laws of other strong democracies like Australia and the United States were incorporated into the bill, guided further by the standards set by the United Nations.
“With the help of many of my colleagues who interpellated and proposed their individual amendments, including all the members of the Minority Bloc, I was more than accommodating to accept their amendments as long as we would not end up with another dead-letter law such as the Human Security Act of 2007, which has so far resulted in just one conviction after more than a decade of its implementation and just one proscribed terrorist organization such as the Abu Sayyaf Group,” he said.
Among the provisions being opposed by critics is the 14-day reglementary period of detention without a judicial warrant, which they said is “too long” and may open the accused to torture.
Lacson pointed out that the 14-day reglementary period is the “shortest time” compared to other countries in the region, like Thailand which has a reglementary period of up to 30 days, Malaysia, up to two years; Singapore at 720 days, which could be extended to indefinite detention without formal charges; and Indonesia, with up to 120 additional days.
“Also, safeguards have been put in place to ensure the rights of those detained,” he said.
Under SB 1083, law enforcement officers who effected the warrantless arrest are bound to immediately notify a judge nearest the place of arrest. They are also bound to immediately inform the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) of the arrest.
Visitation rights are also protected and there is no limit on lawyer’s visits.
To further prevent abuses, the measure provides that any law enforcement or military personnel found to have violated the rights of the accused persons shall be penalized with imprisonment of 10 years.
Lacson also stressed that SB 1083 cannot be used to stifle dissent and silence government critics since the measure clearly does not include the “exercise of legitimate dissent” as an act of terror.
Labor strikes, assembly, and protests against duly constituted authority are also not included, he said.
“So mali. Kasi maraming kumakalat ng disinformation kaya dapat maging maingat ang publiko (So they are wrong. The public should be careful because there's a lot of misinformation circulating),” he said.
“And to the critics, I dare say: I hope the day will not come when you or any of your loved ones will be at the receiving end of a terrorist attack, so much so that it will be too late for you to regret convincing the Filipino people to junk this landmark legislation,” Lacson said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104949