From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 5, 2020); Badoy insists Makabayan reps are CPP-NPA execs; Gaite says explain pork barrel (By: Gabriel Pabico Lalu)
Presidential Communications Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy again insisted that Makabayan bloc lawmakers are high-ranking members Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA), saying that they should drop the term “legislator.”
In response, Bayan Muna Rep. Ferdinand Gaite, who’s part of the Makabayan bloc, Badoy and the rest of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) should instead explain why an alleged pork barrel was allocated to the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO).
In a post on the NTF-ELCAC Facebook page on Saturday, Badoy said that Gaite and the rest of the Makabayan bloc were actually involved in issuing directives to CPP members, sparking another word war between administration officials and left-leaning lawmakers.
Badoy named every single Makabayan member — Gaite, fellow Bayan Muna Reps. Carlos Zarate and Eufemia Cullamat, Kabataan Rep. Sarah Elago, Gabriela Rep. Arlene Brosas, and ACT Rep. France Castro.
“Makabayan Bloc representatives must therefore strip themselves of all their pretenses and take away their masks of ‘LEGISLATOR’ and tell the Filipino people who it is they truly are and what it is they truly aim for,” Badoy, herself a member of the NTF-ELCAC, said.
“That they are high ranking party members of the Communist Party of the Philippines that directly guides and gives explicit and implicit instructions to its armed component, the New People’s Army, and to its legal fronts under the umbrella of the National Democratic Front,” she added.
But Gaite said that this reaction from Badoy might have stemmed from their queries on insertions of supposed pork barrel funds in the 2021 national budget. Previously, Zarate also wrote a letter to the Commission on Audit asking whether it would be legal to transfer appropriations to an office when Congress had not appropriated any.
“Lorraine Badoy and her NTF-ELCAC bosses must be frothing in the mouth because of the early exposure of the pork barrel funds that they inserted in the 2021 National Budget,” Gaite said in a statement on Sunday.
“Instead of answering why the NTF-ELCAC wants to control the disbursement of public money amounting to P20 million per barangay, Badoy goes on again on her tireless but unsubstantiated tirades against the Makabayan bloc,” he added.
Gaite also asked why the funds were being appropriated for NTF-ELCAC and not for frontliners fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, implying that the red-tagging was meant to divert discussions on the 2021 national budget.
“Instead of explaining why these billions should go to their pockets and not to public hospitals which are currently at the frontlines of the battle against the pandemic, Badoy chooses to spew vitriol against us,” Gaite said.
“Obviously, she is trying to divert the issue with lies she was never able to defend in numerous occasions,” he noted.
Meanwhile, the Kabataan party-list insisted that Elago was focused on finding ways to help fight the COVID-19 pandemic and not things that Badoy suggested, like the weakening of democratic institutions.
“In the context of the pandemic, we have always been one with the broad masses in their fight for mass testing, the support for our medical frontliners, for adequate socio-economic aid, for the security of the people’s livelihood and employment, and the call to ensure the safe resumption of schools, to name a few,” Kabataan said.
This is not the first time that members of the NTF-ELCAC and the Makabayan bloc and other progressive groups clashed against each other. Previously, NTF-ELCAC said that progressive groups acting as legal fronts of the communist armed movement are jumping on the ABS-CBN shutdown issue to gain support.
This prompted the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) to step in and remind the NTF-ELCAC that legitimate dissent from journalists and activists are protected by law, and diverse opinions are not a reason to be tagged as NPA members.
READ: CHR reminds gov’t: Dissent protected by law, stop red-tagging activists, journos
The anti-communist body also claimed that ABS-CBN was shut down because of legal issues, but Gaite previously said that NTF-ELCAC’s statement — shared by official accounts of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) and the Philippine Information Agency — made it clear who wanted the network shut down.
READ: Bayan Muna, govt anti-communist task force clash over ABS-CBN shutdown
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1332050/badoy-insists-makabayan-reps-are-cpp-npa-execs-gaite-says-explain-pork-instead
Monday, September 7, 2020
US didn't request pardon for Pemberton, was 'surprised' – Locsin
From Rappler (Sep 7, 2020): US didn't request pardon for Pemberton, was 'surprised' – Locsin (By SOFIA TOMACRUZ)
Philippine Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr says paperwork on the US soldier's pardon will be completed following President Rodrigo Duterte's decision
What happens next
Duterte's absolute pardon, which is part of his powers as President, now clears the hurdles blocking Pemberton's release.
https://rappler.com/nation/us-did-not-request-pardon-pemberton-surprised-locsin
Philippine Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr says paperwork on the US soldier's pardon will be completed following President Rodrigo Duterte's decision
Philippine Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr said on Monday, September 7, that the United States did not request President Rodrigo Duterte to pardon US Marine Joseph Scott Pemberton.
Locsin confirmed this to GMA News on Monday, saying outgoing US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim was even "surprised" by Duterte's decision to allow the American soldier to walk free.
Locsin announced earlier on Monday that Duterte had granted absolute pardon to Pemberton, who was convicted of homicide in December 2015 for killing Filipino transgender woman Jennifer Laude.
The foreign affairs chief said, "Cutting matters short over what constitutes time served, and since where he was detained was not in the prisoner’s control – and to do justice – the President has granted an absolute pardon to Pemberton."
Locsin said paperwork on Pemberton's pardon and forthcoming release would likewise be completed on Monday night, following the President's decision.
Why it matters
Pemberton's release comes 4 years earlier than the 10-year sentence meted out to him after a high-profile trial over the death of Laude. A local court convicted Pemberton for killing Laude, who he was about to have sex with.
Upon discovering she had male genitals, Pemberton arm-locked Laude and dunked her head in the toilet bowl in a lodge in Olongapo City.
He was 19 at the time of the killing, while Laude was 26.
The American soldier was part of a US delegation that joined military exercises with Filipino troops and had been covered by Manila and Washington's decades-old Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA).
Last February, Duterte terminated the military pact with the US, only to walk back on this decision in June due to shifting geopolitics in the region as well as the coronavirus pandemic. The VFA is still in effect until the end of the year and can be extended for 6 months more after that.
Pemberton's release came after he was recently granted full credits of Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA) under a Philippine law – an issue questioned by the Laude family's lawyers, who argued this was not covered by the two countries' VFA.
The Laude family's lawyers likewise said the US soldier was not covered by the equal protection clause as "there is a substantial difference in treatment between someone under the VFA and an ordinary convict."
The issue of the GCTA's coverage, however, was not a problem for Duterte, who instead pointed out the confusion over how the GTCA would be computed.
In a televised address on Monday night, Duterte defended his decision to grant Pemberton pardon, saying it was "not fair" to keep the American soldier in prison over the Philippines’ failure to accurately compute his GCTA credits.
"Correct me if I'm wrong, but ito ang tingin ko sa kaso: You have not treated Pemberton fairly. So ni-release ko. Pardon,” Duterte said, after claiming he favored neither Pemberton nor Laude's family.
MUST READ
Duterte grants 'absolute pardon' to US soldier Pemberton
Locsin confirmed this to GMA News on Monday, saying outgoing US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim was even "surprised" by Duterte's decision to allow the American soldier to walk free.
Locsin announced earlier on Monday that Duterte had granted absolute pardon to Pemberton, who was convicted of homicide in December 2015 for killing Filipino transgender woman Jennifer Laude.
The foreign affairs chief said, "Cutting matters short over what constitutes time served, and since where he was detained was not in the prisoner’s control – and to do justice – the President has granted an absolute pardon to Pemberton."
Locsin said paperwork on Pemberton's pardon and forthcoming release would likewise be completed on Monday night, following the President's decision.
Why it matters
Pemberton's release comes 4 years earlier than the 10-year sentence meted out to him after a high-profile trial over the death of Laude. A local court convicted Pemberton for killing Laude, who he was about to have sex with.
Upon discovering she had male genitals, Pemberton arm-locked Laude and dunked her head in the toilet bowl in a lodge in Olongapo City.
He was 19 at the time of the killing, while Laude was 26.
The American soldier was part of a US delegation that joined military exercises with Filipino troops and had been covered by Manila and Washington's decades-old Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA).
Last February, Duterte terminated the military pact with the US, only to walk back on this decision in June due to shifting geopolitics in the region as well as the coronavirus pandemic. The VFA is still in effect until the end of the year and can be extended for 6 months more after that.
Pemberton's release came after he was recently granted full credits of Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA) under a Philippine law – an issue questioned by the Laude family's lawyers, who argued this was not covered by the two countries' VFA.
The Laude family's lawyers likewise said the US soldier was not covered by the equal protection clause as "there is a substantial difference in treatment between someone under the VFA and an ordinary convict."
The issue of the GCTA's coverage, however, was not a problem for Duterte, who instead pointed out the confusion over how the GTCA would be computed.
In a televised address on Monday night, Duterte defended his decision to grant Pemberton pardon, saying it was "not fair" to keep the American soldier in prison over the Philippines’ failure to accurately compute his GCTA credits.
"Correct me if I'm wrong, but ito ang tingin ko sa kaso: You have not treated Pemberton fairly. So ni-release ko. Pardon,” Duterte said, after claiming he favored neither Pemberton nor Laude's family.
MUST READ
Duterte grants 'absolute pardon' to US soldier Pemberton
What happens next
Before the abrupt announcement, the Philippine government refused to immediately implement a regional court’s release order of Pemberton, saying a motion for reconsideration filed by Laude's family first had to be resolved.
Last September 2, Laude's family filed for a motion for reconsideration. They insisted to see proof of Pemberton's records on good behavior, given that he was detained at a restricted facility in the military headquarters of Camp Aguinaldo.
MUST READ
Show Pemberton: Laudes slam Duterte pardon as part of cover-up
Last September 2, Laude's family filed for a motion for reconsideration. They insisted to see proof of Pemberton's records on good behavior, given that he was detained at a restricted facility in the military headquarters of Camp Aguinaldo.
MUST READ
Show Pemberton: Laudes slam Duterte pardon as part of cover-up
Duterte's absolute pardon, which is part of his powers as President, now clears the hurdles blocking Pemberton's release.
https://rappler.com/nation/us-did-not-request-pardon-pemberton-surprised-locsin
Charges vs secretary-general trumped up – Bayan-Panay
From Panay News (Sep 8, 2020): Charges vs secretary-general trumped up – Bayan-Panay
ILOILO City – The militant group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN-Panay) dismissed as trumped up the murder and multiple attempted murder charges filed against its secretary-general Elmer Forro by the police stat on of Lambunao, Iloilo.
It pressed for the junking of the charges.
On Aug. 13 Forro received a subpoena from the Iloilo Provincial Prosecutor’s Office in relation to the encounter between the New People’s Army (NPA) and the Philippine Army in the morning of April 7, 2020 in Lambunao which resulted in the death of Private First Class Mark Nemis.
According to the complainant’s witness, Corporal Christopher Llono of the Army’s 301st Brigade, Forro was among the NPAs that killed Nemis.
“The accusation against me is nothing but pure harassment by state forces to stop me from my advocacy work as an activist,” said Forro.
According to the BAYAN-Pan ay official, “I and my colleagues have been subjected to threats and harassment and it escalated even in the time of pandemic that led to us facing multiple charges because we exercised our constitutional rights and engaged in relief operations for those worst affected by the lockdown. Surveillance, redtagging, and tailings remain non-stop.”
Forro said that during the pandemic, he had been busy with relief operations, health trainings and meetings with representatives of other cause-oriented groups, public officials including Iloilo City’s Mayor Jerry Treñas, and church leaders like Monsignor Meliton Oso of the Archdiocese of Jaro’s Social Action Center.
Forro, together with other activists, have been charged, too, with violating Batas Pambansa 880, the Bayanihan Act, and Republic Act 11332 for a protest action on April 3, 2020 at the Department of Social Welfare and Development Regional Office 6 and for demanding aid to people affected by what it called as a “militaristic lockdown.”
On May 1, he and dozens of activists were also arrested for attempting to hold a motor caravan to demand justice for the murder of Bayan Muna Iloilo City coordinator Jory Porquia.
“This systematic crackdown has already claimed the lives of some of our comrades like Jory Porquia and Negros Occidental’s Zara Alvarez, who were themselves subjected to harassment and surveillance, or faced trumped-up charges before they were killed,” Forro quipped.
On Dec. 11, 2018, March 16, 2019 and August 27, 2020, posters with photos of progressive leaders, including Forro, were seen plastered around Iloilo City and recently seen in a village in Oton, Iloilo. The poster accused Forro, together with lawyers, a priest, a former House representative, and 30 others of being terrorists, extortionists and members of the NPA.
In May, Forro said, he also noticed motorcycle-riding men watching from outside his residence, and at one point, he was even tailed while going to his office in the city by a vehicle and men on motorcycles.
“Almost all of my colleagues in the Bayan Panay secretariat also experienced surveillance, tailings, red-tagged and were being maliciously approached to talk and given contact numbers,” added Forro.
“This trumped-up case is ridiculous and outright false and should be dismissed immediately. We cannot let state forces continue their evil deeds and suppress our rights and freedom,” Forro added.
http://www.panaynews.net/charges-vs-secretary-general-trumped-up-bayan-panay/
(By Panay News)
ILOILO City – The militant group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN-Panay) dismissed as trumped up the murder and multiple attempted murder charges filed against its secretary-general Elmer Forro by the police stat on of Lambunao, Iloilo.
It pressed for the junking of the charges.
On Aug. 13 Forro received a subpoena from the Iloilo Provincial Prosecutor’s Office in relation to the encounter between the New People’s Army (NPA) and the Philippine Army in the morning of April 7, 2020 in Lambunao which resulted in the death of Private First Class Mark Nemis.
According to the complainant’s witness, Corporal Christopher Llono of the Army’s 301st Brigade, Forro was among the NPAs that killed Nemis.
“The accusation against me is nothing but pure harassment by state forces to stop me from my advocacy work as an activist,” said Forro.
According to the BAYAN-Pan ay official, “I and my colleagues have been subjected to threats and harassment and it escalated even in the time of pandemic that led to us facing multiple charges because we exercised our constitutional rights and engaged in relief operations for those worst affected by the lockdown. Surveillance, redtagging, and tailings remain non-stop.”
Forro said that during the pandemic, he had been busy with relief operations, health trainings and meetings with representatives of other cause-oriented groups, public officials including Iloilo City’s Mayor Jerry Treñas, and church leaders like Monsignor Meliton Oso of the Archdiocese of Jaro’s Social Action Center.
Forro, together with other activists, have been charged, too, with violating Batas Pambansa 880, the Bayanihan Act, and Republic Act 11332 for a protest action on April 3, 2020 at the Department of Social Welfare and Development Regional Office 6 and for demanding aid to people affected by what it called as a “militaristic lockdown.”
On May 1, he and dozens of activists were also arrested for attempting to hold a motor caravan to demand justice for the murder of Bayan Muna Iloilo City coordinator Jory Porquia.
“This systematic crackdown has already claimed the lives of some of our comrades like Jory Porquia and Negros Occidental’s Zara Alvarez, who were themselves subjected to harassment and surveillance, or faced trumped-up charges before they were killed,” Forro quipped.
On Dec. 11, 2018, March 16, 2019 and August 27, 2020, posters with photos of progressive leaders, including Forro, were seen plastered around Iloilo City and recently seen in a village in Oton, Iloilo. The poster accused Forro, together with lawyers, a priest, a former House representative, and 30 others of being terrorists, extortionists and members of the NPA.
In May, Forro said, he also noticed motorcycle-riding men watching from outside his residence, and at one point, he was even tailed while going to his office in the city by a vehicle and men on motorcycles.
“Almost all of my colleagues in the Bayan Panay secretariat also experienced surveillance, tailings, red-tagged and were being maliciously approached to talk and given contact numbers,” added Forro.
“This trumped-up case is ridiculous and outright false and should be dismissed immediately. We cannot let state forces continue their evil deeds and suppress our rights and freedom,” Forro added.
http://www.panaynews.net/charges-vs-secretary-general-trumped-up-bayan-panay/
Negrense leads Mindanao Army
From the Visyan Daily Star (Sep 7, 2020): Negrense leads Mindanao Army
Major Gen. Juvymax Uy, a Negrense, is back in Mindanao as commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division.
Uy, a native of Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental, was installed yesterday as 6th Infantry “Kampilan” Division commander at Camp Brig. Gen. Gonzalo Siongco in Maguindanao by Army chief, Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, who is also a Negrense.
Sobejana used to be the 6ID commander, with Uy as deputy commander.
Uy served as the internal auditor of the Armed Forces of the Philippines before his assignment.
He is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1989.
He had been also assigned in Negros during the height of internal security operations in the early 1990s.
Sobejana, who is a native of Zamboanguita, Negros Oriental, said in a statement that “the Kampilan Division, as the tribal sword, does not only represent strength, it epitomizes the Philippine Army”.
“Its victories testify to a great leadership tradition of which I am proud to have been part of,” Sobejana said.
https://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/September/08/topstory8.htm
Major Gen. Juvymax Uy, a Negrense, is back in Mindanao as commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division.
Uy, a native of Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental, was installed yesterday as 6th Infantry “Kampilan” Division commander at Camp Brig. Gen. Gonzalo Siongco in Maguindanao by Army chief, Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, who is also a Negrense.
Sobejana used to be the 6ID commander, with Uy as deputy commander.
Uy served as the internal auditor of the Armed Forces of the Philippines before his assignment.
He is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1989.
He had been also assigned in Negros during the height of internal security operations in the early 1990s.
Sobejana, who is a native of Zamboanguita, Negros Oriental, said in a statement that “the Kampilan Division, as the tribal sword, does not only represent strength, it epitomizes the Philippine Army”.
“Its victories testify to a great leadership tradition of which I am proud to have been part of,” Sobejana said.
https://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/September/08/topstory8.htm
SPARU leader, political organizer yield
From the Visyan Daily Star (Sep 7, 2020): SPARU leader, political organizer yield
Two alleged rebels belonging to the New People’s Army Special Partisan Unit (SPARU) and organizing team surrendered to the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 6 in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental, regional police spokesperson, Lt. Col. Joem Malong, said last night.
Malong identified them only through their aliases as Ka Morgan, a SPARU squad leader, and also affiliated with the Armadong Unit Pampropaganda of the NPA South West Front, and Ka Pia, also a member of South West Front SPARU Political Organizing Team.
Both rebel personalities, who are in their 50s, surrendered without firearms on Sept. 5 to the 604th Company of RPSB 6, Malong said.
Exhaustion, deception and living miserably in the mountains have driven the two NPA rebels to abandon the armed struggle, she added.
Malong also said they are expected to avail of cash and livelihood assistance under the Enhanced Comprehensive and Local Integration Program of the Department of Interior and Local Government.Twenty-six former members of the NPA Militia ng Bayan, who surrendered to the 94th Infantry Battalion in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, already availed of P260,000 worth of livelihood assistance from the Department of Trade and Industry.*
https://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/September/08/topstory7.htm
Malong identified them only through their aliases as Ka Morgan, a SPARU squad leader, and also affiliated with the Armadong Unit Pampropaganda of the NPA South West Front, and Ka Pia, also a member of South West Front SPARU Political Organizing Team.
Both rebel personalities, who are in their 50s, surrendered without firearms on Sept. 5 to the 604th Company of RPSB 6, Malong said.
Exhaustion, deception and living miserably in the mountains have driven the two NPA rebels to abandon the armed struggle, she added.
Malong also said they are expected to avail of cash and livelihood assistance under the Enhanced Comprehensive and Local Integration Program of the Department of Interior and Local Government.Twenty-six former members of the NPA Militia ng Bayan, who surrendered to the 94th Infantry Battalion in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, already availed of P260,000 worth of livelihood assistance from the Department of Trade and Industry.*
https://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/September/08/topstory7.htm
Alleged finance officer of NPA arrested in Misamis
From the Mindanao Times (Sep 7, 2020): Alleged finance officer of NPA arrested in Misamis (By RHODA GRACE SARON) ON SEPTEMBER 8, 2020
AN ALLEGED finance officer of the New People’s Army was apprehended in a joint operation of the military and police in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental on Sunday.
She was identified as Jenalyn Arcillas Ganzan, 34, a resident of Zone 4, Poblacion, Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental. She was reportedly a high-ranking officer of HQ Nelsay, Sub-Regional Committee 1, Northern Central Mindanao Region Command, the military said.
According to the military report, Ganzan was served an arrest warrant issued by Judge Fernando R Fudalan, Jr. of Regional Trial Court, Branch 7, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur for the criminal cases of destructive arson under CC No. 6624, and kidnapping and serious illegal detention under CC No. 6527.
Lt. Col. Ricky L. Canatoy, commanding officer of the 58IB, said the military and the police will continue to work together to pursue lawless elements.
“This arrest proves that the terrorists cannot run away from the long arm of the government. So, I urge the remaining remnants of the NPA to return to the folds of the law, avail the government program under Enhanced Comprehensive and Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), and live with your families peacefully, “Canatoy said.
Ganzan was brought and held in the Tagoloan Municipal Police Station. She will be endorsed to the proper court to face her cases.
Her arrest was the result of the efforts of the 58th Infantry Battalion and 8th Infantry Battalion, together with the personnel of the Provincial Intelligence Unit of Misamis Oriental, 1001st MC, Regional Mobile Force Battalion X, and Tagoloan Municipal Police Station.
AN ALLEGED finance officer of the New People’s Army was apprehended in a joint operation of the military and police in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental on Sunday.
She was identified as Jenalyn Arcillas Ganzan, 34, a resident of Zone 4, Poblacion, Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental. She was reportedly a high-ranking officer of HQ Nelsay, Sub-Regional Committee 1, Northern Central Mindanao Region Command, the military said.
According to the military report, Ganzan was served an arrest warrant issued by Judge Fernando R Fudalan, Jr. of Regional Trial Court, Branch 7, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur for the criminal cases of destructive arson under CC No. 6624, and kidnapping and serious illegal detention under CC No. 6527.
Lt. Col. Ricky L. Canatoy, commanding officer of the 58IB, said the military and the police will continue to work together to pursue lawless elements.
“This arrest proves that the terrorists cannot run away from the long arm of the government. So, I urge the remaining remnants of the NPA to return to the folds of the law, avail the government program under Enhanced Comprehensive and Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), and live with your families peacefully, “Canatoy said.
Ganzan was brought and held in the Tagoloan Municipal Police Station. She will be endorsed to the proper court to face her cases.
Her arrest was the result of the efforts of the 58th Infantry Battalion and 8th Infantry Battalion, together with the personnel of the Provincial Intelligence Unit of Misamis Oriental, 1001st MC, Regional Mobile Force Battalion X, and Tagoloan Municipal Police Station.
https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2020/09/08/alleged-finance-officer-of-npa-arrested-in-misamis/
Terrorist killed, 5 others wounded in Zambo clash
From the Mindanao Examiner (Sep 7, 2020): Terrorist killed, 5 others wounded in Zambo clash
PAGADIAN CITY - Security forces raided a terrorist hideout and killed one gunman, but 2 soldiers and three civilians were also wounded in the firefight in Zamboanga Sibugay’s Alicia town, about 211 kilometers from here, officials said Monday.
Officials said soldiers from the army’s 44th Infantry Battalion and members of the elite Naval Special Operations swooped down on the hideout in La Paz village before sunrise Sunday and engaged the terrorists in a fierce battle that lasted 30 minutes.
At the end of the fighting, soldiers recovered the body of the slain gunman who was later identified as Idris Aquilon and his weapons, including rifle grenades and ammunition, and explosives, according to the Western Mindanao Command in Zamboanga City.
Other members of the terror group managed to escape, but the anti-terror Joint Task Force ZamPeLan (Zamboanga Peninsula-Lanao provinces) said there could be more casualties on the enemy side following the discovery of bloodstains near the battle area.
“We believe that a number of the bandits were wounded and probably could have died due to loss of blood after the encounter especially that our troops are still pursuing them as of this report,” said Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, the task force commander.
The military did not say which terrorist group Aquilon belonged and only referred to him as a “local terrorist,” although other reports linked the gunman to the pro-ISIS Abu Sayyaf group, blamed for last month’s twin suicide bombings in Sulu’s capital town of Jolo that killed and wounded dozens of soldiers and civilians.
The attacks triggered a widespread terror alarm here and the rest of the Zamboanga Peninsula - compose of the provinces of Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga del Norte - due to an alleged plot by the Abu Sayyaf to bomb civilian targets in the largely Catholic region.
Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, said the operations against the terrorists are going on. “Our joint task forces continuously employ more pressure on the remaining local terrorists to gain more enemy strongholds and end terrorism in Western and Central Mindanao,” he said.
Just recently, police also captured an Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Jamiul Nassalon who was among those reportedly planning to launch attacks in Zamboanga Peninsula.
Brig. Gen. Jesus Cambay Jr, the regional police chief, said Nassalon was tracked down in his hideout in Caliran village in Zamboanga Sibugay’s Mabuhay town. “Presently, Jamiul Nassalon is in the process of organizing his group intended for another terroristic activity within the Zamboanga Peninsula,” he said.
Officials said soldiers from the army’s 44th Infantry Battalion and members of the elite Naval Special Operations swooped down on the hideout in La Paz village before sunrise Sunday and engaged the terrorists in a fierce battle that lasted 30 minutes.
At the end of the fighting, soldiers recovered the body of the slain gunman who was later identified as Idris Aquilon and his weapons, including rifle grenades and ammunition, and explosives, according to the Western Mindanao Command in Zamboanga City.
Other members of the terror group managed to escape, but the anti-terror Joint Task Force ZamPeLan (Zamboanga Peninsula-Lanao provinces) said there could be more casualties on the enemy side following the discovery of bloodstains near the battle area.
“We believe that a number of the bandits were wounded and probably could have died due to loss of blood after the encounter especially that our troops are still pursuing them as of this report,” said Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, the task force commander.
The military did not say which terrorist group Aquilon belonged and only referred to him as a “local terrorist,” although other reports linked the gunman to the pro-ISIS Abu Sayyaf group, blamed for last month’s twin suicide bombings in Sulu’s capital town of Jolo that killed and wounded dozens of soldiers and civilians.
The attacks triggered a widespread terror alarm here and the rest of the Zamboanga Peninsula - compose of the provinces of Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga del Norte - due to an alleged plot by the Abu Sayyaf to bomb civilian targets in the largely Catholic region.
Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, said the operations against the terrorists are going on. “Our joint task forces continuously employ more pressure on the remaining local terrorists to gain more enemy strongholds and end terrorism in Western and Central Mindanao,” he said.
Just recently, police also captured an Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Jamiul Nassalon who was among those reportedly planning to launch attacks in Zamboanga Peninsula.
Brig. Gen. Jesus Cambay Jr, the regional police chief, said Nassalon was tracked down in his hideout in Caliran village in Zamboanga Sibugay’s Mabuhay town. “Presently, Jamiul Nassalon is in the process of organizing his group intended for another terroristic activity within the Zamboanga Peninsula,” he said.
Cambay said the 41-year old Nassalon, who uses various nom de guerre, is facing a string of criminal charges in connection to his bloody attacks against civilians in the region.
Nassalon was also implicated in the 2009 kidnapping of 71-year old Doroteo Gonzales, a carpenter in Zamboanga City who was eventually beheaded in Basilan province after his family failed to pay P25 million ransom in exchange for his life. He was tagged as involved in the bombing of a provincial bus in Zamboanga City in 2012 that wounded at least 6 people. And the killings of 8 fishermen off Siromon Island, also in Zamboanga in 2017; and the strafing of a provincial in Buenavista village here that injured at least 8 passengers.
Zamboanga City Mayor Beng Climaco also released photos of 2 Indonesian and a Filipino terrorists and warned the public to keep on the lookout for the trio. She said the government has offered a P3 million reward for the capture of the Indonesian Andi Baso and his female partner Reski Fantasya; and Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Mundi Sawadjaan, who is being linked to the recent twin suicide bombings in Jolo town in the neighboring province of Sulu.
“Authorities warn the public against 3 members of the Sulu-based ASG believed to have been sent out for a mission to sow terror in Zamboanga Peninsula. The national government is offering a reward of P3M for the information that could lead to the arrest and conviction of each of the suspects,” Climaco said in an advisory alongside photos of the terrorists.
The photos were provided by the military’s anti-terror Joint Task Force Zamboanga which also called on the public to stay vigilant. “The community is advised to be vigilant and immediately report any suspicious person / local terrorist,” it said. (Zamboanga Post)
http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2020/09/terrorist-killed-5-others-wounded-in.html
Nassalon was also implicated in the 2009 kidnapping of 71-year old Doroteo Gonzales, a carpenter in Zamboanga City who was eventually beheaded in Basilan province after his family failed to pay P25 million ransom in exchange for his life. He was tagged as involved in the bombing of a provincial bus in Zamboanga City in 2012 that wounded at least 6 people. And the killings of 8 fishermen off Siromon Island, also in Zamboanga in 2017; and the strafing of a provincial in Buenavista village here that injured at least 8 passengers.
Zamboanga City Mayor Beng Climaco also released photos of 2 Indonesian and a Filipino terrorists and warned the public to keep on the lookout for the trio. She said the government has offered a P3 million reward for the capture of the Indonesian Andi Baso and his female partner Reski Fantasya; and Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Mundi Sawadjaan, who is being linked to the recent twin suicide bombings in Jolo town in the neighboring province of Sulu.
“Authorities warn the public against 3 members of the Sulu-based ASG believed to have been sent out for a mission to sow terror in Zamboanga Peninsula. The national government is offering a reward of P3M for the information that could lead to the arrest and conviction of each of the suspects,” Climaco said in an advisory alongside photos of the terrorists.
The photos were provided by the military’s anti-terror Joint Task Force Zamboanga which also called on the public to stay vigilant. “The community is advised to be vigilant and immediately report any suspicious person / local terrorist,” it said. (Zamboanga Post)
http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2020/09/terrorist-killed-5-others-wounded-in.html
AFP records 83 total deaths, 505 wounded in Abu Sayyaf bombings since 2009
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 7, 2020): AFP records 83 total deaths, 505 wounded in Abu Sayyaf bombings since 2009 (By Jerome Carlo R. Paunan)
CALOOCAN CITY, Sept. 7 (PIA) -- The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has recorded a total of 83 deaths and 505 injured as a result of "ruthless" bomb attacks perpetrated by the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) since 2009 until August 2020.
The AFP told the PIA-NCR, their military records show that the ASG committed 47 incidents using improvised explosive devices (IEDs) throughout the period mostly in Sulu, Basilan and Zamboanga. These incidents killed 20 and wounded 70 from the AFP while 63 civilians lost their lives and 435 wounded.
“The Armed Forces of the Philippines sees a greater urgency to toughen the country’s drive against terrorism due to the rising terror threats by the Abu Sayyaf Group and other local terrorists. Recent acts of violent extremism have already claimed innocent lives of both civilians and military personnel,” AFP Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Gilbert Gapay said.
The most recent case was the two deadly explosions that occurred in Brgy. Walled City in Jolo, Sulu on 24 August 2020. This claimed the lives of 15 individuals and resulted to the injury of 74.
In 2019, six incidents occurred in Jolo, Indanan and Patikul towns all in the province of Sulu. These resulted to 31 deaths and 136 injured from both government forces and civilians.
The occurrences were relatively fewer in 2018 with three incidents in Basilan and Sulu that caused both AFP and civilians 10 deaths and 16 wounded. There were also lesser casualties in 2017 after 10 recorded explosions in the same provinces with three killed and seven wounded.
No IED detonation was recorded in 2016 and 2014 but the year 2015 marks the most number of wounded individuals. In that year, four different explosions were perpetrated by the ASG in Zamboanga City and Basilan that took the lives of 8 and injured 106 civilians.
In 2013, three bombing incidents transpired in Sulu and Basilan which resulted to three civilians wounded. In the same provinces in 2012, a total of four incidents occurred which resulted to two civilians killed and 13 injured.
The same provinces were also hit by 10 explosions in 2011 and 2010 which resulted to 9 killed and 84 wounded civilians. In 2009, the ASG conducted six detonations in Cotabato City, Datu Piang in Maguindanao and Jolo, Sulu which resulted to five killed and 65 wounded civilians, and one soldier who was wounded-in-action.
The Daesh-inspired terrorist group currently has 200 regular members with 212 high-powered firearms, and 147 identified supporters. They operate in areas in Sulu, Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Zamboanga City affecting a total of 121 barangays.
“The AFP will never tolerate any attempt to sow terror and disrupt peace and development in our country. Under the provisions of the Anti-Terrorism Law, we will make sure that all efforts and capacities will be utilized to put an end to all terrorists and prevent them from inflicting further harm to the people whom we swore to protect with our lives,” Gapay said.
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052418
CALOOCAN CITY, Sept. 7 (PIA) -- The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has recorded a total of 83 deaths and 505 injured as a result of "ruthless" bomb attacks perpetrated by the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) since 2009 until August 2020.
The AFP told the PIA-NCR, their military records show that the ASG committed 47 incidents using improvised explosive devices (IEDs) throughout the period mostly in Sulu, Basilan and Zamboanga. These incidents killed 20 and wounded 70 from the AFP while 63 civilians lost their lives and 435 wounded.
“The Armed Forces of the Philippines sees a greater urgency to toughen the country’s drive against terrorism due to the rising terror threats by the Abu Sayyaf Group and other local terrorists. Recent acts of violent extremism have already claimed innocent lives of both civilians and military personnel,” AFP Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Gilbert Gapay said.
The most recent case was the two deadly explosions that occurred in Brgy. Walled City in Jolo, Sulu on 24 August 2020. This claimed the lives of 15 individuals and resulted to the injury of 74.
In 2019, six incidents occurred in Jolo, Indanan and Patikul towns all in the province of Sulu. These resulted to 31 deaths and 136 injured from both government forces and civilians.
The occurrences were relatively fewer in 2018 with three incidents in Basilan and Sulu that caused both AFP and civilians 10 deaths and 16 wounded. There were also lesser casualties in 2017 after 10 recorded explosions in the same provinces with three killed and seven wounded.
No IED detonation was recorded in 2016 and 2014 but the year 2015 marks the most number of wounded individuals. In that year, four different explosions were perpetrated by the ASG in Zamboanga City and Basilan that took the lives of 8 and injured 106 civilians.
In 2013, three bombing incidents transpired in Sulu and Basilan which resulted to three civilians wounded. In the same provinces in 2012, a total of four incidents occurred which resulted to two civilians killed and 13 injured.
The same provinces were also hit by 10 explosions in 2011 and 2010 which resulted to 9 killed and 84 wounded civilians. In 2009, the ASG conducted six detonations in Cotabato City, Datu Piang in Maguindanao and Jolo, Sulu which resulted to five killed and 65 wounded civilians, and one soldier who was wounded-in-action.
The Daesh-inspired terrorist group currently has 200 regular members with 212 high-powered firearms, and 147 identified supporters. They operate in areas in Sulu, Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Zamboanga City affecting a total of 121 barangays.
“The AFP will never tolerate any attempt to sow terror and disrupt peace and development in our country. Under the provisions of the Anti-Terrorism Law, we will make sure that all efforts and capacities will be utilized to put an end to all terrorists and prevent them from inflicting further harm to the people whom we swore to protect with our lives,” Gapay said.
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052418
Army chief commends 5ID's operational readiness in maintaining peace & order
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 7, 2020): Army chief commends 5ID's operational readiness in maintaining peace & order (By Merlito G. Edale, Jr.)
CITY OF ILAGAN, Isabela, Sept. 7 (PIA) - CITY OF ILAGAN, Isabela, Sept. 7 (PIA) - The newly-installed chief of the Philippine Army has commended the operational readiness of the 5th Infantry Division in maintaining the peace and security situation in its area of operations.
CITY OF ILAGAN, Isabela, Sept. 7 (PIA) - CITY OF ILAGAN, Isabela, Sept. 7 (PIA) - The newly-installed chief of the Philippine Army has commended the operational readiness of the 5th Infantry Division in maintaining the peace and security situation in its area of operations.
Newly-installed Philippine Army chief Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana makes his first visit to 5th Infantry, Philippine Army on September 4, 2020. (Photo from 5ID StarTroopers)
Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana visited Camp Melchor Dela Cruz for the first time on September 4 and was welcomed by 5th ID Commanding General B/Gen. Laurence Mina.
During his visit, he boosted the morale of the Star Troopers to continue performing their best to make the Cagayan Valley Region and the Cordillera Administrative Region safe from Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs).
“We will do our best to look into the needs and evolving problems and situation in insurgency as we continue to work with sense of passion to achieve peace in order to sustain the best satisfaction rating we gained,” Sobejana said.
Meanwhile, Mina reported the accomplishments of the division to the army chief where he highlighted the DSSP Kapayapaan Plaques they received as a result of the successful dismantling of three Guerrilla Fronts (2 in Cagayan Valley and 1 in CAR) and neutralization of CPP-NPA terrorist leaders.
Mina also reported the significant reduction of CTGs manpower and firepower and the cutting of mass base support system in the area of operations of 5ID.
Sobejana also visited the camp’s "Happy Farm Ville" which houses the 56 Former Rebels (FRs) from Isabela.
The villa which is part the Salaknib Former Rebels Integrated Farmers’ Association (SFRIFA), is a transitional program for the former rebels that integrates farming activities through the initiative of the 95IB and 502IBDE in cooperation with TESDA, PLGU and the Department of Agriculture (DA) of Isabela. (MDCT/MGE/PIA 2-Isabela)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052404
During his visit, he boosted the morale of the Star Troopers to continue performing their best to make the Cagayan Valley Region and the Cordillera Administrative Region safe from Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs).
“We will do our best to look into the needs and evolving problems and situation in insurgency as we continue to work with sense of passion to achieve peace in order to sustain the best satisfaction rating we gained,” Sobejana said.
Meanwhile, Mina reported the accomplishments of the division to the army chief where he highlighted the DSSP Kapayapaan Plaques they received as a result of the successful dismantling of three Guerrilla Fronts (2 in Cagayan Valley and 1 in CAR) and neutralization of CPP-NPA terrorist leaders.
Mina also reported the significant reduction of CTGs manpower and firepower and the cutting of mass base support system in the area of operations of 5ID.
Sobejana also visited the camp’s "Happy Farm Ville" which houses the 56 Former Rebels (FRs) from Isabela.
The villa which is part the Salaknib Former Rebels Integrated Farmers’ Association (SFRIFA), is a transitional program for the former rebels that integrates farming activities through the initiative of the 95IB and 502IBDE in cooperation with TESDA, PLGU and the Department of Agriculture (DA) of Isabela. (MDCT/MGE/PIA 2-Isabela)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052404
NOLCOM's 30th commander assumes
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 7, 2020): NOLCOM's 30th commander assumes (By Gabriela Liana Barela)
TARLAC CITY, Sept.7 (PIA) -- Major General Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr. assumed Monday as the 30th commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM).
He replaced Lieutenant General Ramiro Manuel Rey who retired from the service.
“Rey has carried on NOLCOM’s tradition of excellence in sustaining and securing peace and development in the region," AFP Chief of Staff General Gilbert Gapay said during the Change of Command ceremony.
Gapay mentioned Rey’s accomplishments relative to Executive Order No.70 of President Duterte or the whole-of-nation approach to end local communist armed conflict.
Under Rey, focused military operations have resulted to the end of about 80 members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (NPA), surrender of about 1,000 regular NPA members and supporters of the Militia ng Bayan, and recoveries of about 300 firearms.
TARLAC CITY, Sept.7 (PIA) -- Major General Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr. assumed Monday as the 30th commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM).
He replaced Lieutenant General Ramiro Manuel Rey who retired from the service.
“Rey has carried on NOLCOM’s tradition of excellence in sustaining and securing peace and development in the region," AFP Chief of Staff General Gilbert Gapay said during the Change of Command ceremony.
Gapay mentioned Rey’s accomplishments relative to Executive Order No.70 of President Duterte or the whole-of-nation approach to end local communist armed conflict.
Under Rey, focused military operations have resulted to the end of about 80 members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (NPA), surrender of about 1,000 regular NPA members and supporters of the Militia ng Bayan, and recoveries of about 300 firearms.
Major General Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr. assumes as the 30th commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Northern Luzon Command. (Gabriela Liana S. Barela/PIA 3)
"All these by upholding humanitarian law and strictly following the rules of engagement which truly exemplify military’s high level of professionalism and respect for human rights," Gapay emphasized.
He noted the “herculean task" of being the Warden of the North, welcomes Burgos to the responsibility. "Now, another leader just as competent and worthy is given the responsibility to sustain the accomplishments of this command," Gapay said.
Burgos is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Maringal” Class of 1988.
Prior to this post, he served as the commander of the 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division of the Philippine Army. There he pushed the Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee’s Guerilla Front Cesar which operates in the provinces of Rizal, Laguna, Quezon and Bulacan on the verge of irrevocable defeat. (CLJD/GLSB-PIA 3)
He noted the “herculean task" of being the Warden of the North, welcomes Burgos to the responsibility. "Now, another leader just as competent and worthy is given the responsibility to sustain the accomplishments of this command," Gapay said.
Burgos is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Maringal” Class of 1988.
Prior to this post, he served as the commander of the 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division of the Philippine Army. There he pushed the Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee’s Guerilla Front Cesar which operates in the provinces of Rizal, Laguna, Quezon and Bulacan on the verge of irrevocable defeat. (CLJD/GLSB-PIA 3)
Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Gilbert Gapay (middle) presides the Northern Luzon Command Change of Command between incoming commander Major General Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr. (right) and outgoing commander Lieutenant General Ramiro Manuel Rey (left). (Gabriela Liana S. Barela/PIA 3)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052460
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052460
PCG recruits complete Army's jungle warfare training; inks partnership agreement
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 7, 2020): PCG recruits complete Army's jungle warfare training; inks partnership agreement (By PA 2ID DPAO)
2ID Commander Major General Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr, delivers a speech during the graduation of the first batch of 85 PCG recruits that completed the Army's 45-day jungle warfare training. (Photo: PA 2ID DPAO)
CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal, Sept 7 (PIA) — The first batch of Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) recruits to undergo the Army’s 45-day jungle warfare training were declared graduates during a ceremony here Friday.
Out of the 85 PCG recruits, 57 were male while the rest were females, all of whom will be deployed to guard Philippine shores.
Lt Col Jose DR Del Rosario III, Commandant of the 2nd Division Training School, said the Jungle Warfare and Mountain Operations Course is the first training that 2ID soldiers take after their enlistment into the Philippine Army.
“This training developed each individual’s survival instinct, warrior spirit, leadership trait, teamwork and, above all, discipline which are among the hallmarks of being servant soldiers and defenders of the Filipino people”, ended Lt Col Del Rosario.
It can be recalled that the PCG, through Rear Admiral Joseph Coyme who is the Commander of the PCG's Human Resource Management Command, reached out to the 2nd Infantry Division to have their neophytes cross-train with the Army in order to increase their recruits’ readiness to accomplish their given mandate.
Rear Admiral Coyme explained that “in times of war, PCG will be under the Department of National Defense, thus, there is an underlying need for us to capacitate our forces so that we will be able to live up to the expectations of our people and spirit behind that provision.”
"We believe that we were able to successfully achieve that objective, thus, the Philippine Coast Guard and 2ID have decided to formalize this partnership and institutionalize this worthwhile undertaking with the goal of better serving our people and securing every inch of Philippine territory”, ended Rear Admiral Coyme.
Out of the 85 PCG recruits, 57 were male while the rest were females, all of whom will be deployed to guard Philippine shores.
Lt Col Jose DR Del Rosario III, Commandant of the 2nd Division Training School, said the Jungle Warfare and Mountain Operations Course is the first training that 2ID soldiers take after their enlistment into the Philippine Army.
“This training developed each individual’s survival instinct, warrior spirit, leadership trait, teamwork and, above all, discipline which are among the hallmarks of being servant soldiers and defenders of the Filipino people”, ended Lt Col Del Rosario.
It can be recalled that the PCG, through Rear Admiral Joseph Coyme who is the Commander of the PCG's Human Resource Management Command, reached out to the 2nd Infantry Division to have their neophytes cross-train with the Army in order to increase their recruits’ readiness to accomplish their given mandate.
Rear Admiral Coyme explained that “in times of war, PCG will be under the Department of National Defense, thus, there is an underlying need for us to capacitate our forces so that we will be able to live up to the expectations of our people and spirit behind that provision.”
"We believe that we were able to successfully achieve that objective, thus, the Philippine Coast Guard and 2ID have decided to formalize this partnership and institutionalize this worthwhile undertaking with the goal of better serving our people and securing every inch of Philippine territory”, ended Rear Admiral Coyme.
2ID Commander Major General Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr. and Rear Admiral Coyme signed a Memorandum of Partnership with the Army committed to provide JWMOC Training to recruits of the PCG, in turn, the Jungle Fighters will be trained on the facets of Human Resource and Personnel Management as well as in search and rescue operations. (Photo: PA 2ID PDAO)
Major General Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr, Commander of 2ID, and Rear Admiral Coyme signed a Memorandum of Partnership after the graduation ceremony.
Under the partnership, 2ID has committed to provide JWMOC Training to recruits of the PCG which, in turn, will train the Jungle Fighters on the facets of Human Resource and Personnel Management as well as in search and rescue operations.
In his speech, Maj Gen Burgos reiterated the Army’s “commitment in ensuring the safety of the Coast Guard’s recruits without sacrificing the quality and brand of training that they will get under the guidance, scrutinizing eyes and able hands of the mentors from the Philippine Army’s best training unit thereby making them ready to live up to the expectations of our constituents.”
He described the signing of partnership document as a “manifestation of the enduring trust and iron-clad relationship between and among the government’s security sector which is in line with President Rodrigo Duterte’s call for a whole of nation approach in responding to the various issues which our country is facing.”
He ended his statement by assuring the people of CALABARZON Region and MIMARO provinces that “the Jungle Fighter Division, in coordination with our strategic partners and stakeholders from the private and public sectors, will remain steadfast in accomplishing our mandate as advocates of peace, servants of the people and defenders of Southern Tagalog.” (PIA-4A/PA 2ID DPAO)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052376
Under the partnership, 2ID has committed to provide JWMOC Training to recruits of the PCG which, in turn, will train the Jungle Fighters on the facets of Human Resource and Personnel Management as well as in search and rescue operations.
In his speech, Maj Gen Burgos reiterated the Army’s “commitment in ensuring the safety of the Coast Guard’s recruits without sacrificing the quality and brand of training that they will get under the guidance, scrutinizing eyes and able hands of the mentors from the Philippine Army’s best training unit thereby making them ready to live up to the expectations of our constituents.”
He described the signing of partnership document as a “manifestation of the enduring trust and iron-clad relationship between and among the government’s security sector which is in line with President Rodrigo Duterte’s call for a whole of nation approach in responding to the various issues which our country is facing.”
He ended his statement by assuring the people of CALABARZON Region and MIMARO provinces that “the Jungle Fighter Division, in coordination with our strategic partners and stakeholders from the private and public sectors, will remain steadfast in accomplishing our mandate as advocates of peace, servants of the people and defenders of Southern Tagalog.” (PIA-4A/PA 2ID DPAO)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052376
Tagalog News: Kilos ng mga rebelde, programa para sa mamamayan, tinalakay sa pagpupulong
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 7, 2020): Tagalog News: Kilos ng mga rebelde, programa para sa mamamayan, tinalakay sa pagpupulong (By Dennis Nebrejo)
Nagpulong ang mga kasapi ng PLEDS upang talakayin ang mga programa para sa mga nakatira sa kabundukan at alamin ang kilos ng mga rebeldeng NPA na ginanap sa 203rd Infantry Brigade sa Bansud noong Setyembre 3. (kuha ni Dennis Nebrejo/PIA-OrMin)
BANSUD, Oriental Mindoro, Setyembre 7 (PIA) -- Isinagawa ang Oriental Mindoro Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support (PLEDS) cluster meeting, na kinabibilangan ng mga kasapi mula sa Philippine Army (PA), Philippine National Police (PNP) at ibang mga ahensiya ng pamahalaan upang ipabatid ang kilos ng mga rebelde at mga programa para sa mamamayan.
Ito ay ginanap sa 203rd Infantry Brigade, Brgy. Pag-asa sa bayang ito noong Setyembre 3.
Ang nasabing pagpupulong ay may kaugnayan sa sitwasyon ng insurhensiya sa lalawigan na kabilang sa mga plano at programa ng Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC).
Sa ulat ni Army Capt. Russell Lucena, ang malaking grupo ng News Peoples Army (NPA) na nago-operate sa buong isla ng Mindoro ay ang Lucio De Guzman Command. Aniya, “ginagamit nila ang mga katutubong mangyan sa pagpapalakas ng kanilang pwersa na nagsisilbing gabay sa mga lugar sa kabundukan at tagapaghatid ng mga subersibong dokumento at mga armas sa mga kinukuha nilang maging miyembro.”
Huling naitalang enkwentro sa pagitan ng mga sundalo at rebelde sa buong isla nito lamang taon ay umabot sa 14 na nagsimula noong Enero 14 sa Sitio Buhuan, Brgy. Bugtong na Tuog, Socorro at ang huli ay noong Hunyo 4 sa Sitio Nagpilian, Brgy. Mangangan, Baco.
Ayon pa sa military, ang kasalukuyang bilang ng mga rebelde na nakakalat sa mga bundok ay nasa halos 200.
Samantala, sa ulat naman ni PLtCol. Telesforo Domingo ng OrMin Prov’l Police Office (PPO), “naging tahimik ang mga rebelde nitong nakaraang dalawang buwan na marahil ay nagpa-plano ng panibagong opensiba kaya dapat na tayo ay maging alerto habang patuloy ang aming pagsasagawa ng mga checkpoints sa bawat bayan. Malaki ang problemang ating kinakaharap na dapat ay kaisa natin ang mamamayan sa pangangalaga ng kapayapaan upang mapanatili ang maayos na bansa.”
Sa huli, nanawagan ng pakikiisa si 203rd Brigade Commander Col. Jose Augusto Villareal. Aniya “hinihikayat ko ang mga kasaping ahensiya ng pamahalaan na tulungan kami upang huwag nang tangkilikin ng mga mamamayan ang alok ng mga rebelde na sumapi sa kanila. Tulad ng pag-aanunsiyo ng mga programa sa pamamagitan ng media, pagtuturo ng mga gawaing pangkabuhayan, edukasyon sa mga bata at iba pa. Makipagkoordinasyon kayo sa amin at kami ang magpapatupad ng seguridad sa mga lugar at iyan ang aming garantiya sa mga ahensiya.”
Dumalo din sa nasabing pagpupulong sina Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Provincial Director Ulysses Feraren, Atty. Dickson Maraneg ng National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Eden Cenon na kumatawan sa mga katutubo mula sa National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) at sa Philippine Information Agency – OrMin. (DN/PIA-OrMin)
Ito ay ginanap sa 203rd Infantry Brigade, Brgy. Pag-asa sa bayang ito noong Setyembre 3.
Ang nasabing pagpupulong ay may kaugnayan sa sitwasyon ng insurhensiya sa lalawigan na kabilang sa mga plano at programa ng Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC).
Sa ulat ni Army Capt. Russell Lucena, ang malaking grupo ng News Peoples Army (NPA) na nago-operate sa buong isla ng Mindoro ay ang Lucio De Guzman Command. Aniya, “ginagamit nila ang mga katutubong mangyan sa pagpapalakas ng kanilang pwersa na nagsisilbing gabay sa mga lugar sa kabundukan at tagapaghatid ng mga subersibong dokumento at mga armas sa mga kinukuha nilang maging miyembro.”
Huling naitalang enkwentro sa pagitan ng mga sundalo at rebelde sa buong isla nito lamang taon ay umabot sa 14 na nagsimula noong Enero 14 sa Sitio Buhuan, Brgy. Bugtong na Tuog, Socorro at ang huli ay noong Hunyo 4 sa Sitio Nagpilian, Brgy. Mangangan, Baco.
Ayon pa sa military, ang kasalukuyang bilang ng mga rebelde na nakakalat sa mga bundok ay nasa halos 200.
Samantala, sa ulat naman ni PLtCol. Telesforo Domingo ng OrMin Prov’l Police Office (PPO), “naging tahimik ang mga rebelde nitong nakaraang dalawang buwan na marahil ay nagpa-plano ng panibagong opensiba kaya dapat na tayo ay maging alerto habang patuloy ang aming pagsasagawa ng mga checkpoints sa bawat bayan. Malaki ang problemang ating kinakaharap na dapat ay kaisa natin ang mamamayan sa pangangalaga ng kapayapaan upang mapanatili ang maayos na bansa.”
Sa huli, nanawagan ng pakikiisa si 203rd Brigade Commander Col. Jose Augusto Villareal. Aniya “hinihikayat ko ang mga kasaping ahensiya ng pamahalaan na tulungan kami upang huwag nang tangkilikin ng mga mamamayan ang alok ng mga rebelde na sumapi sa kanila. Tulad ng pag-aanunsiyo ng mga programa sa pamamagitan ng media, pagtuturo ng mga gawaing pangkabuhayan, edukasyon sa mga bata at iba pa. Makipagkoordinasyon kayo sa amin at kami ang magpapatupad ng seguridad sa mga lugar at iyan ang aming garantiya sa mga ahensiya.”
Dumalo din sa nasabing pagpupulong sina Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Provincial Director Ulysses Feraren, Atty. Dickson Maraneg ng National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Eden Cenon na kumatawan sa mga katutubo mula sa National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) at sa Philippine Information Agency – OrMin. (DN/PIA-OrMin)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052206
Another NPA rebel surrenders
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 7, 2020): Another NPA rebel surrenders (By Alex Lumaque)
ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Sept. 7 (PIA) -- Another member of the New People's - Army Communist Terrorist Group (NPA - CTG) voluntarily surrendered to President Roxas Municipal Police Station (PRMPS) in Pres. Roxas, Capiz Sept. 5.
The 25-year old surrenderer also known as "Nonoy" and "Ka Alan" brought with him one hand grenade when he yielded to police authorities to live a normal and peaceful life.
PRMPS Officer-In-Charge Capt. Rachelle Garnica said that the surrender of "Ka Alan" was through the effort of the Regional Intelligence Unit (RIU) 6 under the supervision of Maj. Delfin Tan and the help of 1st Capiz Provincial Mobile Force Company (1st CPMFC) Intelligence Officer Lt. Jay Lagan, PRMPS and Pres. Roxas mayor Receliste Escolin.
"The exhausted NPA rebel decided to surrender after he realized that he was deceived by the terrorist group and already tired of living a miserable life in the mountain," Garnica noted in a PNP News Release posted in the Presroxas Ps Facebook account.
She added that the surrender simply shows that the anti-insurgency campaign of local authorities is doing well in the province.
Alias "Nonoy," who is now in the RIU6 custody, claimed that he was a member of Eastern Front Nonito Aguirre Command under Ka Pedic, Ka Reagan and Romeo Ganggoso.
Last March, the Capiz Police Provincial Office (CPPO) has also presented before local tri-media practitioners alias "Art" who was then a rebel red fighter but surrendered and returned to the folds of law as a result of the intensified and comprehensive conduct of intelligence and information operation by the police operatives in coordination with the 61st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army and the Barangay Intelligence Networks.
Alias "Art" said to the media that he surrendered because he could no longer bear the hardship, starvation, lack of security and hopelessness in the mountains.
The surrender of Ka Art and Ka Alan took place as the government is implementing the Whole-of-Nation approach to End Local Communist Armed
Conflict (ELCAC) in order to attain inclusive and sustainable peace and development.
The surrenderers will be enrolled to the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) so they can start the soonest possible time a new and better life. (JBG/AAL/PIA Capiz)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052380
ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Sept. 7 (PIA) -- Another member of the New People's - Army Communist Terrorist Group (NPA - CTG) voluntarily surrendered to President Roxas Municipal Police Station (PRMPS) in Pres. Roxas, Capiz Sept. 5.
The 25-year old surrenderer also known as "Nonoy" and "Ka Alan" brought with him one hand grenade when he yielded to police authorities to live a normal and peaceful life.
PRMPS Officer-In-Charge Capt. Rachelle Garnica said that the surrender of "Ka Alan" was through the effort of the Regional Intelligence Unit (RIU) 6 under the supervision of Maj. Delfin Tan and the help of 1st Capiz Provincial Mobile Force Company (1st CPMFC) Intelligence Officer Lt. Jay Lagan, PRMPS and Pres. Roxas mayor Receliste Escolin.
"The exhausted NPA rebel decided to surrender after he realized that he was deceived by the terrorist group and already tired of living a miserable life in the mountain," Garnica noted in a PNP News Release posted in the Presroxas Ps Facebook account.
She added that the surrender simply shows that the anti-insurgency campaign of local authorities is doing well in the province.
Alias "Nonoy," who is now in the RIU6 custody, claimed that he was a member of Eastern Front Nonito Aguirre Command under Ka Pedic, Ka Reagan and Romeo Ganggoso.
Last March, the Capiz Police Provincial Office (CPPO) has also presented before local tri-media practitioners alias "Art" who was then a rebel red fighter but surrendered and returned to the folds of law as a result of the intensified and comprehensive conduct of intelligence and information operation by the police operatives in coordination with the 61st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army and the Barangay Intelligence Networks.
Alias "Art" said to the media that he surrendered because he could no longer bear the hardship, starvation, lack of security and hopelessness in the mountains.
The surrender of Ka Art and Ka Alan took place as the government is implementing the Whole-of-Nation approach to End Local Communist Armed
Conflict (ELCAC) in order to attain inclusive and sustainable peace and development.
The surrenderers will be enrolled to the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) so they can start the soonest possible time a new and better life. (JBG/AAL/PIA Capiz)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052380
Cebuano News: Tabang panginabuhi-an gitunol sa 44 kanhi rebelde sa Bohol
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 7, 2020): Cebuano News: Tabang panginabuhi-an gitunol sa 44 kanhi rebelde sa Bohol (By Rey Anthony H. Chiu)
CORTES, Bohol, Sept. 7 (PIA) –- Kahamugaway sa kinabuhing malinawon, layo na sa tun-og ug lubat-lubat nga maapsan sa mga patrolya, ug karon may libre nga panginabuhi-an pa ang nadawat sa 44 ka mga kanhi nga rebelde nga karon nakahunahuna na sa kawalay hinungdan sa ilang kinabuhi nga gigamit lamang sa uban.
Niining bag-o lamang, ang kagamhanan nga ilang tumong nga lumpagon, mao pay minghatag pinaagi sa Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), 47th Infantry Battalion sa Philippine Army ug Kagamhanang Probinsyal sa Bohol ang mitugyan niadtong Biyernes, sa tagsa-tagsa ka livelihood starter kits nga tag P10,000 didto sa Ceremonial Hall sa Kapitolyo.
CORTES, Bohol, Sept. 7 (PIA) –- Kahamugaway sa kinabuhing malinawon, layo na sa tun-og ug lubat-lubat nga maapsan sa mga patrolya, ug karon may libre nga panginabuhi-an pa ang nadawat sa 44 ka mga kanhi nga rebelde nga karon nakahunahuna na sa kawalay hinungdan sa ilang kinabuhi nga gigamit lamang sa uban.
Niining bag-o lamang, ang kagamhanan nga ilang tumong nga lumpagon, mao pay minghatag pinaagi sa Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), 47th Infantry Battalion sa Philippine Army ug Kagamhanang Probinsyal sa Bohol ang mitugyan niadtong Biyernes, sa tagsa-tagsa ka livelihood starter kits nga tag P10,000 didto sa Ceremonial Hall sa Kapitolyo.
NAGKADAGHAN NA NGA NAKASABUT. Human sa gipalapdan nga kampanya sa kagamhanan sa pagpaundang na sa armadong pakigbisug sa termino ni Presidente Duterte, nagkadaghan na ang mga Bol-anon nga nanabok balik sa dalan sa kalinaw. (rahc/PIA-7/Bohol)
Ang kinatibuk-an nga P440, 000 nga Negosyo Kits mga nagkadaiya nga starter kit alang sa mini grocery, pangbugasan, panghayupan sama sa pangkandingan, baboyan, bakahan ug manokan, may mga pagkaon sa mga hayopan ug bitamina, pang-itlogan, capital alang sa bahalinahan, pangbakery, pang agrivet ug pangumahan, segun pa ni IlT Elma Grace Remonde-Arbulencia, information officer ug Civil Military Operations Officer sa 47IB.
Kini gitunol nila ni DTI Provincial Director Maria Soledad L Balistoy uban ni DTI Assistant Secretary Asteria Caberte, Gobernador Arthur Yap, Vice Governor Rene Relampagos, Kongresista Edgar Chatto, representante ni Kongresista Aris Aumentado ug Army Major Mozart Jaque, ang Battalion Executive Officer sa 47IB.
Una na nga naghimo og assessment ang DTI ugang mga rebelde nga karon mipili na sa kinabuhi nga layo sa kakuyaw ug kagubot.
Ang hinabang sa kagamhanan kabahin sa Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) aron abagan ang mga kanhi rebelde nga karon kauban na sa kaugmaran, sa ilang pagtipo og balik sa katilingban nga linaw nga nanginabuhi.
Ang 44 ka mga kanhi rebelde, dinhi naglibotlibot sa Bohol ug boluntaryo na nga mitahan sa ilang kaugalingon ug gitabangan sa ECLIP.
Sa laing bahin, ang pagpanghatag sa tabang kapanginabuhi-an ngadto sa mga kanhi rebelde, kabahin sa “Pangkabuhayan sa pag Bangon at Ginhawa” nga programa sa DTI.
Kining programa, nagtumong sa pag-pataas sa kahimtang sa mga namuhunan ilabi na niadtong may gagmay lamang nga puhunan, segun usab sa rekomendasyon sa Provincial Task Force ELCAC.
Segun pa sa usa sa mga kanhi rebelde nga mingdawat, “ang tabang nga among nadawat karon, bisan pag unsa ka gamay alang sa uban, daku na kayo alang kanamo."
Matud ni alias Ka Berting, "niini, makasugod na kami og panginabuhi-an uban sa among pamilya nga among nabiyaan niadtong nahungog pa kami sa bakak nga saad."
“Nagmapasalamaton kami sa daku nga hinabang nga gihatag sa kagamhanan ug kami nana-ad nga among paningkamotan nga mogaya kini nga negosyo aron dili ma-usik ang tabang gikan sa kagamhanan,” dugang niya.
Agi og dugang saad, gipanumpa ni Ka Berting nga manginlabut na siya ug manguna sa kampanya batok sa insurhensya.
Sa laing bahin, si Jaque, Battalion Executive Officer sa 47IB, mipadayag sa ilang gaimbuhaton sa pagtagad sa aghat ni Presidente Rodrigo Duterte nga taposon na ang local nga armadong pagpakigbisug dinhi sa Bohol.
"Ang tabang panginabuhi-an nga inyong nadawat karon gikan sa sinsero nga tinabangay sa mga ahensya sa kagamhanan aron makasugod kamo sa pagpuyo nga malinawon ug magsugod sa bag-ong kinabuhi uban sa inyong mga banay," matud sa opisyal.
"Sa atong paghiusa, ato nga ikapatunhay ang kahapsay ug kalinaw dinhi sa lalawigan sa Bohol," panapos ni Maj Jaque. (rahc/PIABohol uban ni 1Lt. Grace Arbulencia)
Ang kinatibuk-an nga P440, 000 nga Negosyo Kits mga nagkadaiya nga starter kit alang sa mini grocery, pangbugasan, panghayupan sama sa pangkandingan, baboyan, bakahan ug manokan, may mga pagkaon sa mga hayopan ug bitamina, pang-itlogan, capital alang sa bahalinahan, pangbakery, pang agrivet ug pangumahan, segun pa ni IlT Elma Grace Remonde-Arbulencia, information officer ug Civil Military Operations Officer sa 47IB.
Kini gitunol nila ni DTI Provincial Director Maria Soledad L Balistoy uban ni DTI Assistant Secretary Asteria Caberte, Gobernador Arthur Yap, Vice Governor Rene Relampagos, Kongresista Edgar Chatto, representante ni Kongresista Aris Aumentado ug Army Major Mozart Jaque, ang Battalion Executive Officer sa 47IB.
Una na nga naghimo og assessment ang DTI ugang mga rebelde nga karon mipili na sa kinabuhi nga layo sa kakuyaw ug kagubot.
Ang hinabang sa kagamhanan kabahin sa Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) aron abagan ang mga kanhi rebelde nga karon kauban na sa kaugmaran, sa ilang pagtipo og balik sa katilingban nga linaw nga nanginabuhi.
Ang 44 ka mga kanhi rebelde, dinhi naglibotlibot sa Bohol ug boluntaryo na nga mitahan sa ilang kaugalingon ug gitabangan sa ECLIP.
Sa laing bahin, ang pagpanghatag sa tabang kapanginabuhi-an ngadto sa mga kanhi rebelde, kabahin sa “Pangkabuhayan sa pag Bangon at Ginhawa” nga programa sa DTI.
Kining programa, nagtumong sa pag-pataas sa kahimtang sa mga namuhunan ilabi na niadtong may gagmay lamang nga puhunan, segun usab sa rekomendasyon sa Provincial Task Force ELCAC.
Segun pa sa usa sa mga kanhi rebelde nga mingdawat, “ang tabang nga among nadawat karon, bisan pag unsa ka gamay alang sa uban, daku na kayo alang kanamo."
Matud ni alias Ka Berting, "niini, makasugod na kami og panginabuhi-an uban sa among pamilya nga among nabiyaan niadtong nahungog pa kami sa bakak nga saad."
“Nagmapasalamaton kami sa daku nga hinabang nga gihatag sa kagamhanan ug kami nana-ad nga among paningkamotan nga mogaya kini nga negosyo aron dili ma-usik ang tabang gikan sa kagamhanan,” dugang niya.
Agi og dugang saad, gipanumpa ni Ka Berting nga manginlabut na siya ug manguna sa kampanya batok sa insurhensya.
Sa laing bahin, si Jaque, Battalion Executive Officer sa 47IB, mipadayag sa ilang gaimbuhaton sa pagtagad sa aghat ni Presidente Rodrigo Duterte nga taposon na ang local nga armadong pagpakigbisug dinhi sa Bohol.
"Ang tabang panginabuhi-an nga inyong nadawat karon gikan sa sinsero nga tinabangay sa mga ahensya sa kagamhanan aron makasugod kamo sa pagpuyo nga malinawon ug magsugod sa bag-ong kinabuhi uban sa inyong mga banay," matud sa opisyal.
"Sa atong paghiusa, ato nga ikapatunhay ang kahapsay ug kalinaw dinhi sa lalawigan sa Bohol," panapos ni Maj Jaque. (rahc/PIABohol uban ni 1Lt. Grace Arbulencia)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052406
Mati resident tips Army on roadside IED
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 7, 2020): Mati resident tips Army on roadside IED (By Press Release)
Army troopers recover an IED planted along a roadside in Mati City.
MATI CITY, Davao Oriental- A concerned Mati citizen informed troops that an improvised explosive device (IED) was placed near the barangay road at Purok Crossing of Brgy. Tagabakid, Mati City, Davao Oriental prompting Colonel Krishnamurti A Mortela, Commander of 701st Brigade to deploy troops to secure the area.
Combined troops of 701st Infantry Brigade, 28th Infantry Battalion and 104MICO, 10MIB, 10ID proceeded to the area and subsequently recovered one (1) IED weighing fourteen (14) kilos with twenty four (24) meters trip wire. Said IED believed to be planted by NPA unit in the area to inflict casualties to the police and military.
"We condemn the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) for continuously using IEDs which may inflict great harm to the civilians especially when placed in nearby communities such as roads where everybody is passing by. This is another violation to the mandates of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). If this was not found out, this will bring deaths and casualties to innocent lives,” Colonel Mortela said
"We thank the populace for always feeding us information that helps in preempting the terroristic activities of the CNTs. This is a clear manifestation that CNTs are losing the support of the masses,” Mortela added. (PR)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052398
MATI CITY, Davao Oriental- A concerned Mati citizen informed troops that an improvised explosive device (IED) was placed near the barangay road at Purok Crossing of Brgy. Tagabakid, Mati City, Davao Oriental prompting Colonel Krishnamurti A Mortela, Commander of 701st Brigade to deploy troops to secure the area.
Combined troops of 701st Infantry Brigade, 28th Infantry Battalion and 104MICO, 10MIB, 10ID proceeded to the area and subsequently recovered one (1) IED weighing fourteen (14) kilos with twenty four (24) meters trip wire. Said IED believed to be planted by NPA unit in the area to inflict casualties to the police and military.
"We condemn the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) for continuously using IEDs which may inflict great harm to the civilians especially when placed in nearby communities such as roads where everybody is passing by. This is another violation to the mandates of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). If this was not found out, this will bring deaths and casualties to innocent lives,” Colonel Mortela said
"We thank the populace for always feeding us information that helps in preempting the terroristic activities of the CNTs. This is a clear manifestation that CNTs are losing the support of the masses,” Mortela added. (PR)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052398
Youth peace volunteers reach out to DavOr IP community
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 7, 2020): Youth peace volunteers reach out to DavOr IP community (By Press Release)
MATI CITY, Davao Oriental - In celebration of the Linggo ng Kabataan and the 12th Reactivation Anniversary of the 701st Infantry "Kagitingan" Brigade, Youth Peace Volunteers of Davao Oriental trekked to Sitio Tagbanahaw, Brgy. PM Sobrecarey, Caraga, Davao Oriental last August 30 to 31 to celebrate peace through their Paglaum Outreach Program.
Gracing the event was Vice Governor Niño Sotero L. Uy together with forty-eight (48) youth volunteers from different municipalities. Sitio Tagbanahaw is one of the farthest sitios in Caraga previously identified as a conflict-affected area.
The activity was spearheaded by SK Pantuyan Chairman Ziegrade Joy Madanlo in convergence with the Lumon Community and Community Development Team of Youth For Peace Movement (YFPM) Davao Oriental, 701st Infantry (Kagitingan) Brigade, 28th Infantry Battalion, 67th Infantry Battalion, PNP Caraga and MLGU Caraga duly represented by Councilor Jemaika Balante.
More or less 120 households from the said sitio benefitted from the menu of services that include literacy and advocacy talks, turnover of school supplies and hygiene kits to Tagbanahaw Elementary School, distribution of food packs to the families, feeding program, praise and worship, fun games and tree planting.
In her message, Punong Barangay Lourdes Basta expressed her gratitude to the troops and youth volunteers who took the risks to deliver services and to promote peace with her constituents.
“We are truly grateful to celebrate with the community in Sitio Tagbanahaw our 12th Reactivation Anniversary to share the blessing of peace with the people whom we have sworn to serve and protect”, Colonel Krishnamurti A Mortela, Commander of 701st Brigade said. (701 Bde)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052401
MATI CITY, Davao Oriental - In celebration of the Linggo ng Kabataan and the 12th Reactivation Anniversary of the 701st Infantry "Kagitingan" Brigade, Youth Peace Volunteers of Davao Oriental trekked to Sitio Tagbanahaw, Brgy. PM Sobrecarey, Caraga, Davao Oriental last August 30 to 31 to celebrate peace through their Paglaum Outreach Program.
Gracing the event was Vice Governor Niño Sotero L. Uy together with forty-eight (48) youth volunteers from different municipalities. Sitio Tagbanahaw is one of the farthest sitios in Caraga previously identified as a conflict-affected area.
The activity was spearheaded by SK Pantuyan Chairman Ziegrade Joy Madanlo in convergence with the Lumon Community and Community Development Team of Youth For Peace Movement (YFPM) Davao Oriental, 701st Infantry (Kagitingan) Brigade, 28th Infantry Battalion, 67th Infantry Battalion, PNP Caraga and MLGU Caraga duly represented by Councilor Jemaika Balante.
More or less 120 households from the said sitio benefitted from the menu of services that include literacy and advocacy talks, turnover of school supplies and hygiene kits to Tagbanahaw Elementary School, distribution of food packs to the families, feeding program, praise and worship, fun games and tree planting.
In her message, Punong Barangay Lourdes Basta expressed her gratitude to the troops and youth volunteers who took the risks to deliver services and to promote peace with her constituents.
“We are truly grateful to celebrate with the community in Sitio Tagbanahaw our 12th Reactivation Anniversary to share the blessing of peace with the people whom we have sworn to serve and protect”, Colonel Krishnamurti A Mortela, Commander of 701st Brigade said. (701 Bde)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052401
Army joins 'serbisyo caravan' in SurSur town
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 7, 2020): Army joins 'serbisyo caravan' in SurSur town (By Capt. Edwin Leo Francisco)
SAN MIGUEL, Surigao del Sur, Sept. 7 -- Amid the threat of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the 75th Infantry “Marauder” Battalion (75IB) , Philippine Army participated and secured the area during the conduct of the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) dubbed as “Serbisyo and Peace Caravan 2020" initiated by the local government unit (LGU) of San Miguel held in Bolhoon Elementary School, Barangay Bolhoon, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur on September 3, 2020.
RCSP is a convergence mechanism for LGUs particularly in the barangays for the identification of issues and needed government intervention. It is anchored on empowerment framework aimed to develop the capacity of the community to organize themselves and own development by bringing about value-chain interventions to uplift their current condition.
The delivery of various government services and programs through to the people of Brgy. Bolhoon highlighted the event which benefited some 1,500 individuals.
Among the free services offered were medical consultation/check-up; free acquisition of Police Clearance; registration of Birth Certificate; deworming and rabies vaccination; acquisition of Certificate of Land Ownership (CLOA); consultation regarding Alternative Learning System (ALS); feeding program; civil registration for the "Kasalan ng Bayan" set on September 28, 2020; distribution of falcata seeds, fingerlings, relief goods; and free haircut.
The distribution of vitamins was conducted exclusively for the lactating and pregnant women. Counseling as well as circumcision for the male children were also offered.
San Miguel Mayor Hazel Elizalde expressed her gratitude to the 75IB and the government line agencies for the continuous support and cooperation that contributed a lot for the success of the activity.
“As a public servant, it is my role and responsibility to help and serve you. Through Executive Order No. 70, the government and line agencies will unite to deliver basic services and programs to the people and community,” said Mayor Elizalde.
75IB commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Villarosa ably represented by executive officer Major Marlon Bagara, emphasized that the "Marauder" troopers have observed and respected the cultural sensitivity of the Manobos, the indigent people of Brgy. Bolhoon.
“The government and the Philippine Army, together with the partner stakeholders, united through this endeavor to serve well the communities particularly in the far-flung areas,” Maj. Bagara said.
Department of Education (DepEd) Surigao del Sur Division representative Danilo Alcantara confirmed that Tribal Filipino Program in Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS) is not accredited by DepEd. He encouraged the parents to enroll their children in DepEd schools for them to obtain legal documents for their children’s education.
Several Schools of Living Traditions (SLT), an indigenous peoples (IP) school run by DepEd have already operationalized in the selected IP communities in San Miguel that cause the closure of most TRIFPSS schools in the town.
For the duration of the activity, health protocols were strictly observed such as wearing of face mask, hand sanitizing, and social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19. (Capt. Edwin Leo Francisco, 75IB-CMO/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052384
SAN MIGUEL, Surigao del Sur, Sept. 7 -- Amid the threat of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the 75th Infantry “Marauder” Battalion (75IB) , Philippine Army participated and secured the area during the conduct of the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) dubbed as “Serbisyo and Peace Caravan 2020" initiated by the local government unit (LGU) of San Miguel held in Bolhoon Elementary School, Barangay Bolhoon, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur on September 3, 2020.
RCSP is a convergence mechanism for LGUs particularly in the barangays for the identification of issues and needed government intervention. It is anchored on empowerment framework aimed to develop the capacity of the community to organize themselves and own development by bringing about value-chain interventions to uplift their current condition.
The delivery of various government services and programs through to the people of Brgy. Bolhoon highlighted the event which benefited some 1,500 individuals.
Among the free services offered were medical consultation/check-up; free acquisition of Police Clearance; registration of Birth Certificate; deworming and rabies vaccination; acquisition of Certificate of Land Ownership (CLOA); consultation regarding Alternative Learning System (ALS); feeding program; civil registration for the "Kasalan ng Bayan" set on September 28, 2020; distribution of falcata seeds, fingerlings, relief goods; and free haircut.
The distribution of vitamins was conducted exclusively for the lactating and pregnant women. Counseling as well as circumcision for the male children were also offered.
San Miguel Mayor Hazel Elizalde expressed her gratitude to the 75IB and the government line agencies for the continuous support and cooperation that contributed a lot for the success of the activity.
“As a public servant, it is my role and responsibility to help and serve you. Through Executive Order No. 70, the government and line agencies will unite to deliver basic services and programs to the people and community,” said Mayor Elizalde.
75IB commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Villarosa ably represented by executive officer Major Marlon Bagara, emphasized that the "Marauder" troopers have observed and respected the cultural sensitivity of the Manobos, the indigent people of Brgy. Bolhoon.
“The government and the Philippine Army, together with the partner stakeholders, united through this endeavor to serve well the communities particularly in the far-flung areas,” Maj. Bagara said.
Department of Education (DepEd) Surigao del Sur Division representative Danilo Alcantara confirmed that Tribal Filipino Program in Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS) is not accredited by DepEd. He encouraged the parents to enroll their children in DepEd schools for them to obtain legal documents for their children’s education.
Several Schools of Living Traditions (SLT), an indigenous peoples (IP) school run by DepEd have already operationalized in the selected IP communities in San Miguel that cause the closure of most TRIFPSS schools in the town.
For the duration of the activity, health protocols were strictly observed such as wearing of face mask, hand sanitizing, and social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19. (Capt. Edwin Leo Francisco, 75IB-CMO/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052384
Retooled Community Support Program launched in Agusan Sur town
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 7, 2020): Retooled Community Support Program launched in Agusan Sur town (By 3rd Special Forces Battalion)
PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, Sept. 7 -- The local government unit (LGU) here has launched the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) to deliver basic services in the conflict-affected areas of Sitio Tibog, Sitio Ugnop and Purok 7 of Barangay Mabuhay, Prosperidad on September 2 benefiting 79 households.
Mayor Frederick Mark Plaza Mellana led the RCSP team along with the core teams, local peace and order and development council members.
It is composed of the Basic Services Delivery team which will serve as the bridge of the RCSP team to the national government; the Citizenship and Community Participation team which will strengthen barangay-based institutions and sectoral organizations to engage in participatory issue resolution; the Peace Law Enforcement and Development Support Team which will protect and secure RCSP team and beneficiaries on the conduct of the peace and development activities; the Local Development and Peace and Order Councils which will screen and prioritize the needed government interventions in the community; and the RCSP core team that directly supports the local chief executive in the operationalization of the RCSP.
Upon identification of the issues by the RCSP and the Community Support team of the 8th Special Forces Company of the 3rd Special Forces ”Arrowhead” Battalion, the issues on basic services such as the rehabilitation of farm-to-market road from Sitio Tibog to Purok 7 and access to potable water in Sitio Ugnop were immediately addressed and resolved by the LGU and concerned agencies.
Further, a Serbisyo Caravan consisting of outreach programs, medical services, birth registration, free haircut, and donation of food supplies were provided to 79 households.
“This is the first time that we focused our efforts and actually went to those far-flung communities that needed the services of the government. Usually, these services are brought to a barangay proper or the center among other barangays, but this time we also have to immerse there for us to know their real situation and needs,” Mayor Mellana said.
The mayor also added that the RCSP is aimed at addressing the root causes of insurgency. "We hope na mawala na ang armed conflict sa municipality of Prosperidad so we can explore our fullest potential in eco and agritourism. We may not have all the resources but we are doing our best na maramdaman ang good governance kahit sa pinakamalayong sitios,” said Mellana.
RCSP is one of the national government’s mechanisms in implementing the whole-of-nation approach to successfully end local communist armed conflict (ELCAC) which was institutionalized by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s Executive Order No. 70.
Meanwhile, the Prosperidad RCSP is anchored on the theme “USWAG-Prosperidad” which means ‘Uban ta Sa kalambuan Walay puwas nga programang Agrikultura, industriya ng turismo para sa Gobyernong lokal sa Prosperidad’ to drumbeat their campaign in promoting peace and development. (1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punzalan, CMO officer, 3SFBn/PIA-Agusan del Sur)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052163
Mayor Frederick Mark Plaza Mellana led the RCSP team along with the core teams, local peace and order and development council members.
It is composed of the Basic Services Delivery team which will serve as the bridge of the RCSP team to the national government; the Citizenship and Community Participation team which will strengthen barangay-based institutions and sectoral organizations to engage in participatory issue resolution; the Peace Law Enforcement and Development Support Team which will protect and secure RCSP team and beneficiaries on the conduct of the peace and development activities; the Local Development and Peace and Order Councils which will screen and prioritize the needed government interventions in the community; and the RCSP core team that directly supports the local chief executive in the operationalization of the RCSP.
Upon identification of the issues by the RCSP and the Community Support team of the 8th Special Forces Company of the 3rd Special Forces ”Arrowhead” Battalion, the issues on basic services such as the rehabilitation of farm-to-market road from Sitio Tibog to Purok 7 and access to potable water in Sitio Ugnop were immediately addressed and resolved by the LGU and concerned agencies.
Further, a Serbisyo Caravan consisting of outreach programs, medical services, birth registration, free haircut, and donation of food supplies were provided to 79 households.
“This is the first time that we focused our efforts and actually went to those far-flung communities that needed the services of the government. Usually, these services are brought to a barangay proper or the center among other barangays, but this time we also have to immerse there for us to know their real situation and needs,” Mayor Mellana said.
The mayor also added that the RCSP is aimed at addressing the root causes of insurgency. "We hope na mawala na ang armed conflict sa municipality of Prosperidad so we can explore our fullest potential in eco and agritourism. We may not have all the resources but we are doing our best na maramdaman ang good governance kahit sa pinakamalayong sitios,” said Mellana.
RCSP is one of the national government’s mechanisms in implementing the whole-of-nation approach to successfully end local communist armed conflict (ELCAC) which was institutionalized by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s Executive Order No. 70.
Meanwhile, the Prosperidad RCSP is anchored on the theme “USWAG-Prosperidad” which means ‘Uban ta Sa kalambuan Walay puwas nga programang Agrikultura, industriya ng turismo para sa Gobyernong lokal sa Prosperidad’ to drumbeat their campaign in promoting peace and development. (1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punzalan, CMO officer, 3SFBn/PIA-Agusan del Sur)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052163
Troops foil ASG 'kidnap plan' in Zambo Sibugay
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 7, 2020): Troops foil ASG 'kidnap plan' in Zambo Sibugay (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)
An Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandit was killed while five others were wounded as troops raided the hideout of a crime group allied with the Basilan-based ASG in the province of Zamboanga Sibugay, the military said Monday.
The raid foiled the ASG's plan to stage new kidnapping in Zamboanga Sibugay, according to Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, commander of the Army's 102nd Infantry Brigade.
Nicolas said the clash ensued after the combined police and military troops, who were armed with arrest warrants, raided the hideout of the Sahibad group around 3:15 a.m. Sunday in Barangay Lapaz, Alicia, Zamboanga Sibugay.
Nicolas said the troops of the 44th Infantry Battalion, Naval Special Operations Unit, and policemen launched the raid upon receiving a report that Basilan-based ASG bandits led by Furuji Indama arrived in Barangay Lapaz, Alicia.
Nicolas said Indama has a standing warrant of arrest for his involvement in the 2001 kidnapping of 21 people--19 foreigners and two Filipinos--in Dos Palmas Palawan.
The 30-minute firefight resulted in the death of an ASG member identified as Idris Aquilon. Two soldiers and three civilians were injured during the clash, the Army official said.
Nicolas was unable to release the identities of the two injured soldiers, except to say they belong to the 44IB. Three civilians were hit by stray bullets during the clash.
“The three civilians were hit by bullets fired by the ASG since there is no residence in the Sahibad group’s hideout except in its surroundings,” he said.
The troops have recovered three rifle grenades, one magazine, bandolier, and several explosive materials and ammunition abandoned by the bandits, he said.
Nicolas said they received a report that the ASG bandits plan to stage new kidnapping in Zamboanga Sibugay, and that the Sahibad group members served as spotters for potential kidnap victims.
Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo, commander of the 44IB, said they are tracking down the whereabouts of the fleeing ASG bandits.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114584
The raid foiled the ASG's plan to stage new kidnapping in Zamboanga Sibugay, according to Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, commander of the Army's 102nd Infantry Brigade.
Nicolas said the clash ensued after the combined police and military troops, who were armed with arrest warrants, raided the hideout of the Sahibad group around 3:15 a.m. Sunday in Barangay Lapaz, Alicia, Zamboanga Sibugay.
Nicolas said the troops of the 44th Infantry Battalion, Naval Special Operations Unit, and policemen launched the raid upon receiving a report that Basilan-based ASG bandits led by Furuji Indama arrived in Barangay Lapaz, Alicia.
Nicolas said Indama has a standing warrant of arrest for his involvement in the 2001 kidnapping of 21 people--19 foreigners and two Filipinos--in Dos Palmas Palawan.
The 30-minute firefight resulted in the death of an ASG member identified as Idris Aquilon. Two soldiers and three civilians were injured during the clash, the Army official said.
Nicolas was unable to release the identities of the two injured soldiers, except to say they belong to the 44IB. Three civilians were hit by stray bullets during the clash.
“The three civilians were hit by bullets fired by the ASG since there is no residence in the Sahibad group’s hideout except in its surroundings,” he said.
The troops have recovered three rifle grenades, one magazine, bandolier, and several explosive materials and ammunition abandoned by the bandits, he said.
Nicolas said they received a report that the ASG bandits plan to stage new kidnapping in Zamboanga Sibugay, and that the Sahibad group members served as spotters for potential kidnap victims.
Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo, commander of the 44IB, said they are tracking down the whereabouts of the fleeing ASG bandits.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114584
Ex rebels share ordeal with NPA
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 7, 2020): Ex rebels share ordeal with NPA (By Liza Agoot)
EX NPA FIGHTERS. Three former fighters of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered with their firearms to the Police Regional Office in Cordillera to avail of the government’s offer for a better future under the Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP). The three surrenderers -- ‘Ka Jimmy’, 22, who was recruited at the age of 12; ‘Ka Alice’ now in her mid-20s; and ‘Ka Benjie’ in his 20s -- shared their experiences so the youth would not fall to the false promises of the communist rebels. (PNA photo by Liza T. Agoot)
EX NPA FIGHTERS. Three former fighters of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered with their firearms to the Police Regional Office in Cordillera to avail of the government’s offer for a better future under the Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP). The three surrenderers -- ‘Ka Jimmy’, 22, who was recruited at the age of 12; ‘Ka Alice’ now in her mid-20s; and ‘Ka Benjie’ in his 20s -- shared their experiences so the youth would not fall to the false promises of the communist rebels. (PNA photo by Liza T. Agoot)
CAMP DANGWA, La Trinidad, Benguet -- Three former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) who were recruited by the terrorist group at a very young age, one of them at 12 years old, have surrendered to the government with hopes that they can still recover their supposed worthy existence lost when they served the rebel organization.
The three who surrendered -- “Ka Jimmy”, 22 years old; “Ka Alice”, mid 20s; and “Ka Benjie” in his 20s -- shared their stories on Monday saying these are lessons that young people must know so that they will not fall to the trap of losing the chance of a good future and end up fighting for the rebel organization at the expense of their life, future, and family.
“Ka Jimmy” said he was indoctrinated in the NPA organization at the tender age of 12. He spent his life growing up to become a man on the mountains with the rebel fighters.
“They were able to convince me because I was very young and had no knowledge. I was innocent about life and ignorant about the reality.” he said in the Ilocano dialect.
He added that he saw the deaths of several comrade fighters and he was lucky enough to have survived and had the opportunity to embrace the government, which he learned is offering a better life than just running with fear of an impending death.
Jimmy said that among the things the rebels trained him to do is to make explosives.
He said that he also served as a political officer as part of the Kilusang Larangang Gerilya (KLG)-Baggas where he also underwent military training, thus his ability to convince others to their cause.
“I was reintegrated in the community to convince other young people to join the NPA and it is there where I learned of the program of the government to help people like me,” he said.
He said he was afraid because he thought that government forces are bad as has been inculcated in his mind, but his realization and desire to have a life beyond the guns and firefight became more enticing.
“I realized I want to come clean and help my family which is possible with the government which signified willingness to embrace people like me,” Ka Jimmy said in Ilocano.
“Ka Alice” also shared a similar story, which she said made her lose a childhood dream.
She wanted to become a police officer, but such dream went down the drain when she joined the NPA-KLG (Kilusang Larangang Gerilya)-Ampis that operates in the Mountain Province.
She said she was part of the Mountain Province Youth Association as a high school student when she was recruited to the rebel movement in 2018 by the Cordillera Peoples Alliance (CPA).
“Ka Alice” said she recruited other young people to join the NPA. She owns one of the Carbines surrendered.
For his part, “Ka Benjie” said that he was an out-of-school youth (OSY) who dropped out from high school in 2007 when he attended the “Cordillera Day” celebration in Tocucan, Bontoc, Mountain Province where the life of Macliing Dulag was portrayed.
He met members of the Cordillera Peoples Alliance (CPA) on the said occasion who talked to him about the ills of the government. He joined the organization and was assigned as a political instructor tasked to recruit young people to become fighters.
He said they enticed the OSYs by telling them of the free education provided by the NPAs.
Ka Benjie said he had been doing such task for the Leonardo Pacsi command of the NPA, until he realized he has a family to look after.
He said that his engagement in the community allowed him to know about the programs of the government.
“The day came when I realized I have a family who cares for me, who I care for. When the police explained to me the programs of the government, it was then that I realized I want to be with my family and have a peaceful life,” “Ka Benjie” said in ilocano.
He realized that the highly publicized E-CLIP (Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program) and the government’s desire to bring them back to the fold of the law will give him the chance to look after his family.
“I am hopeful that the help the government promises is not only in words but will really be of help to people like me,” he said in ilocano.
In surrendering, Ka Benjie brought with him an M1 .30-caliber carbine rifle.
BGen. R’Win Pagkalinawan, Police Regional Office-Cordillera (PROCOR) director, on Monday said they are preparing a case against the CPA and other front organizations for illegal trafficking of minors which is tantamount to violation of human rights.
“These are very young people they exploit. They bring them to other places so that they cannot return to their families,” the general said.
At present, the three young surrenderers will be processed under the E-CLIP program of the government so that they can avail of the benefits provided to those who return to the fold of the law.
Once processed and based on the assessment of a joint team from the police and the military, they will receive remuneration for the firearms they surrendered and will be entitled to cash assistance, livelihood assistance, housing, as well as educational assistance.
“The government can help them regain a good future by starting over without the possibility of being on the front-line fighting the government for a lost cause which has cost them their future. Because of their surrender, they will have a chance in life to improve themselves and their future,” Pagkalinawan said.
“The three NPA surrenderers are among the several others who have decided to return to the folds of the law in exchange for a future that the terrorist organization cannot give.
Pagkalinawan said that every week, there are surrenderers who come forward asking help from the government. (
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114643
The three who surrendered -- “Ka Jimmy”, 22 years old; “Ka Alice”, mid 20s; and “Ka Benjie” in his 20s -- shared their stories on Monday saying these are lessons that young people must know so that they will not fall to the trap of losing the chance of a good future and end up fighting for the rebel organization at the expense of their life, future, and family.
“Ka Jimmy” said he was indoctrinated in the NPA organization at the tender age of 12. He spent his life growing up to become a man on the mountains with the rebel fighters.
“They were able to convince me because I was very young and had no knowledge. I was innocent about life and ignorant about the reality.” he said in the Ilocano dialect.
He added that he saw the deaths of several comrade fighters and he was lucky enough to have survived and had the opportunity to embrace the government, which he learned is offering a better life than just running with fear of an impending death.
Jimmy said that among the things the rebels trained him to do is to make explosives.
He said that he also served as a political officer as part of the Kilusang Larangang Gerilya (KLG)-Baggas where he also underwent military training, thus his ability to convince others to their cause.
“I was reintegrated in the community to convince other young people to join the NPA and it is there where I learned of the program of the government to help people like me,” he said.
He said he was afraid because he thought that government forces are bad as has been inculcated in his mind, but his realization and desire to have a life beyond the guns and firefight became more enticing.
“I realized I want to come clean and help my family which is possible with the government which signified willingness to embrace people like me,” Ka Jimmy said in Ilocano.
“Ka Alice” also shared a similar story, which she said made her lose a childhood dream.
She wanted to become a police officer, but such dream went down the drain when she joined the NPA-KLG (Kilusang Larangang Gerilya)-Ampis that operates in the Mountain Province.
She said she was part of the Mountain Province Youth Association as a high school student when she was recruited to the rebel movement in 2018 by the Cordillera Peoples Alliance (CPA).
“Ka Alice” said she recruited other young people to join the NPA. She owns one of the Carbines surrendered.
For his part, “Ka Benjie” said that he was an out-of-school youth (OSY) who dropped out from high school in 2007 when he attended the “Cordillera Day” celebration in Tocucan, Bontoc, Mountain Province where the life of Macliing Dulag was portrayed.
He met members of the Cordillera Peoples Alliance (CPA) on the said occasion who talked to him about the ills of the government. He joined the organization and was assigned as a political instructor tasked to recruit young people to become fighters.
He said they enticed the OSYs by telling them of the free education provided by the NPAs.
Ka Benjie said he had been doing such task for the Leonardo Pacsi command of the NPA, until he realized he has a family to look after.
He said that his engagement in the community allowed him to know about the programs of the government.
“The day came when I realized I have a family who cares for me, who I care for. When the police explained to me the programs of the government, it was then that I realized I want to be with my family and have a peaceful life,” “Ka Benjie” said in ilocano.
He realized that the highly publicized E-CLIP (Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program) and the government’s desire to bring them back to the fold of the law will give him the chance to look after his family.
“I am hopeful that the help the government promises is not only in words but will really be of help to people like me,” he said in ilocano.
In surrendering, Ka Benjie brought with him an M1 .30-caliber carbine rifle.
BGen. R’Win Pagkalinawan, Police Regional Office-Cordillera (PROCOR) director, on Monday said they are preparing a case against the CPA and other front organizations for illegal trafficking of minors which is tantamount to violation of human rights.
“These are very young people they exploit. They bring them to other places so that they cannot return to their families,” the general said.
At present, the three young surrenderers will be processed under the E-CLIP program of the government so that they can avail of the benefits provided to those who return to the fold of the law.
Once processed and based on the assessment of a joint team from the police and the military, they will receive remuneration for the firearms they surrendered and will be entitled to cash assistance, livelihood assistance, housing, as well as educational assistance.
“The government can help them regain a good future by starting over without the possibility of being on the front-line fighting the government for a lost cause which has cost them their future. Because of their surrender, they will have a chance in life to improve themselves and their future,” Pagkalinawan said.
“The three NPA surrenderers are among the several others who have decided to return to the folds of the law in exchange for a future that the terrorist organization cannot give.
Pagkalinawan said that every week, there are surrenderers who come forward asking help from the government. (
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114643
9 Sulu cops face admin raps for death of Army intel officers
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 7, 2020): 9 Sulu cops face admin raps for death of Army intel officers (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)
FACING CHARGES. The nine police officers charged by the National Bureau of Investigation for shooting to death four Army intelligence officers in Jolo, Sulu last June take their oath during the Senate investigation looking into the incident on August 19, 2020. The Philippine National Police also slapped administrative charges against the nine police officers and the three top officials in Sulu. (Photo courtesy of Senate PRIB)
FACING CHARGES. The nine police officers charged by the National Bureau of Investigation for shooting to death four Army intelligence officers in Jolo, Sulu last June take their oath during the Senate investigation looking into the incident on August 19, 2020. The Philippine National Police also slapped administrative charges against the nine police officers and the three top officials in Sulu. (Photo courtesy of Senate PRIB)
The nine police officers involved in the shooting of four military intelligence operatives in Jolo last June and the three top officials in Sulu have been slapped with administrative charges, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Camilo Cascolan said Monday.
Cascolan said administrative charges have been filed against Senior Master Sgt. Abdelzhimar Padjiri; Master Sgt. Hanie Baddiri; Staff Sgt. Iskandar Susulan; Staff Sgt. Ernisar Sappal; Cpl. Sulki Andaki; Pat. Moh. Nur Pasani; Staff Sgt. Almudzrin Hadjaruddin; Pat. Alkajal Mandangan; and Pat Rajiv Putalan. All are under restrictive custody in Camp Crame.
Based on the findings of the Internal Affairs Service (IAS), the three senior officials—Lt. Col. Michael Bayawan, Jr., the Sulu police chief; Maj. Walter Annayo, the Jolo police chief; and Capt. Ariel Corsino, head of the Sulu drug enforcement unit, are also facing administrative charges since they are also liable under the doctrine of command responsibility.
"I am giving internal affairs unit the free hand in exercising its mandate to determine the administrative liability of these personnel and to impose the appropriate penalty as prescribed under PNP regulations," Cascolan told reporters in a press briefing.
The National Bureau of Investigation earlier filed criminal cases of murder and planting evidence against the nine cops. It also recommended the filing of complaints for neglect of duty against Bayawan, Annayo, and Corsino.
"These personnel are readily available to face investigation by the panel of summary hearing officers who will determine probable cause to take further admin actions against them," Cascolan said.
“Let me assure that these personnel will be afforded due process throughout the course of the entire investigation,” he added.
Killed in the June 29 incident were Maj. Marvin Indammog, Capt. Irwin Managuelod, Sgt. Jaime Velasco, and Cpl. Abdal Asula—all Army personnel.
The four were conducting intelligence and monitoring operations against two suspected suicide bombers when gunned down by the police officers.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114581
Cascolan said administrative charges have been filed against Senior Master Sgt. Abdelzhimar Padjiri; Master Sgt. Hanie Baddiri; Staff Sgt. Iskandar Susulan; Staff Sgt. Ernisar Sappal; Cpl. Sulki Andaki; Pat. Moh. Nur Pasani; Staff Sgt. Almudzrin Hadjaruddin; Pat. Alkajal Mandangan; and Pat Rajiv Putalan. All are under restrictive custody in Camp Crame.
Based on the findings of the Internal Affairs Service (IAS), the three senior officials—Lt. Col. Michael Bayawan, Jr., the Sulu police chief; Maj. Walter Annayo, the Jolo police chief; and Capt. Ariel Corsino, head of the Sulu drug enforcement unit, are also facing administrative charges since they are also liable under the doctrine of command responsibility.
"I am giving internal affairs unit the free hand in exercising its mandate to determine the administrative liability of these personnel and to impose the appropriate penalty as prescribed under PNP regulations," Cascolan told reporters in a press briefing.
The National Bureau of Investigation earlier filed criminal cases of murder and planting evidence against the nine cops. It also recommended the filing of complaints for neglect of duty against Bayawan, Annayo, and Corsino.
"These personnel are readily available to face investigation by the panel of summary hearing officers who will determine probable cause to take further admin actions against them," Cascolan said.
“Let me assure that these personnel will be afforded due process throughout the course of the entire investigation,” he added.
Killed in the June 29 incident were Maj. Marvin Indammog, Capt. Irwin Managuelod, Sgt. Jaime Velasco, and Cpl. Abdal Asula—all Army personnel.
The four were conducting intelligence and monitoring operations against two suspected suicide bombers when gunned down by the police officers.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114581
BRP Ramon Alcaraz to undergo sea trials after repairs
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 7, 2020): BRP Ramon Alcaraz to undergo sea trials after repairs (By Priam Nepomuceno)
BRP Ramon Alcaraz (Philippine Navy photo)
The offshore patrol vessel, BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16), will undergo sea trials starting Tuesday to check whether it is ready for deployment after its engine room caught fire last May, a Navy official said Monday.
Philippine Navy chief, Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, said the vessel underwent major checks and repairs since it arrived last June 12 from picking-up overseas Filipino workers and tourists stranded in India and Sri Lanka.
Sea trials are the last part of the construction or repair process which determines the vessel's seaworthiness.
"Tomorrow, September 8, will be her scheduled sea trials. If successful, the ship is ready for deployment," he said.
BRP Ramon Alcaraz and landing dock, BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602), are the two ship-component of Naval Task Force 82 (NTF 82) deployed to Oman in February for the repatriation of overseas Filipinos in the Middle East following tensions between the United States and Iran early this year.
When tensions between the two countries eased, the task force went on another mission of transporting donated face masks and repatriation of stranded Filipinos in India and Sri Lanka due to the pandemic.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114588
BRP Ramon Alcaraz (Philippine Navy photo)
The offshore patrol vessel, BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16), will undergo sea trials starting Tuesday to check whether it is ready for deployment after its engine room caught fire last May, a Navy official said Monday.
Philippine Navy chief, Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, said the vessel underwent major checks and repairs since it arrived last June 12 from picking-up overseas Filipino workers and tourists stranded in India and Sri Lanka.
Sea trials are the last part of the construction or repair process which determines the vessel's seaworthiness.
"Tomorrow, September 8, will be her scheduled sea trials. If successful, the ship is ready for deployment," he said.
BRP Ramon Alcaraz and landing dock, BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602), are the two ship-component of Naval Task Force 82 (NTF 82) deployed to Oman in February for the repatriation of overseas Filipinos in the Middle East following tensions between the United States and Iran early this year.
When tensions between the two countries eased, the task force went on another mission of transporting donated face masks and repatriation of stranded Filipinos in India and Sri Lanka due to the pandemic.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114588
New law to boost pursuit, crackdown vs terrorists: AFP
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 7, 2020): New law to boost pursuit, crackdown vs terrorists: AFP (By Priam Nepomuceno)
"Under the provisions of the Anti-Terrorism Law (Republic Act 11479), we will make sure that all efforts and capacities will be utilized to put an end to all terrorists and prevent them from inflicting further harm to the people whom we swore to protect with our lives,” AFP chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay said Sunday.
He issued this statement after noting that from 2009 to August this year, the Abu Sayyaf and other local terrorist groups had so far killed 83 people and wounded 505 others in unprovoked and ruthless attacks including bombings.
“The AFP will never tolerate any attempt to sow terror and disrupt peace and development in our country," Gapay said.
The Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, which President Rodrigo R. Duterte signed on July 3, aims to protect life, liberty, and property from terrorism.
It also states that individuals who either use weapons, explosives, and chemical weapons or release dangerous substances causing fire, floods, or explosions are considered terrorists.
A 12-year imprisonment will be meted on any person who threatens to commit any of the terror acts mentioned in the law. People who commit or join terror acts are also punishable by a 12-year jail term.
Military records show that the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) conducted 47 bombing attacks using improvised explosive devices (IEDs) throughout the period mostly in Sulu, Basilan, and Zamboanga.
These attacks killed 20 soldiers and wounded 70 other personnel from the AFP while 63 civilians lost their lives and another 435 wounded.
The most recent case was the two deadly explosions that occurred in Barangay Walled City in Jolo, Sulu on August 24 this year. This resulted in the death of 15 persons and wounding of 74 others.
In line with this, Gapay said the AFP sees the need to conduct more focused and tougher operations to neutralize the Abu Sayyaf and its terrorist allies.
"Recent acts of violent extremism have already claimed innocent lives of both civilians and military personnel,” he added.
The Daesh-inspired terrorist group currently has some 200 regular members with 212 high-powered firearms, and 147 identified supporters. They operate in areas in Sulu, Basilan, Tawi-Tawi, and Zamboanga City affecting a total of 121 barangays.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114580
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will utilize the newly-enacted Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 as one of its many weapons to put an end to the security menace posed by the Abu Sayyaf and other terrorist groups in the country.
"Under the provisions of the Anti-Terrorism Law (Republic Act 11479), we will make sure that all efforts and capacities will be utilized to put an end to all terrorists and prevent them from inflicting further harm to the people whom we swore to protect with our lives,” AFP chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay said Sunday.
He issued this statement after noting that from 2009 to August this year, the Abu Sayyaf and other local terrorist groups had so far killed 83 people and wounded 505 others in unprovoked and ruthless attacks including bombings.
“The AFP will never tolerate any attempt to sow terror and disrupt peace and development in our country," Gapay said.
The Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, which President Rodrigo R. Duterte signed on July 3, aims to protect life, liberty, and property from terrorism.
It also states that individuals who either use weapons, explosives, and chemical weapons or release dangerous substances causing fire, floods, or explosions are considered terrorists.
A 12-year imprisonment will be meted on any person who threatens to commit any of the terror acts mentioned in the law. People who commit or join terror acts are also punishable by a 12-year jail term.
Military records show that the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) conducted 47 bombing attacks using improvised explosive devices (IEDs) throughout the period mostly in Sulu, Basilan, and Zamboanga.
These attacks killed 20 soldiers and wounded 70 other personnel from the AFP while 63 civilians lost their lives and another 435 wounded.
The most recent case was the two deadly explosions that occurred in Barangay Walled City in Jolo, Sulu on August 24 this year. This resulted in the death of 15 persons and wounding of 74 others.
In line with this, Gapay said the AFP sees the need to conduct more focused and tougher operations to neutralize the Abu Sayyaf and its terrorist allies.
"Recent acts of violent extremism have already claimed innocent lives of both civilians and military personnel,” he added.
The Daesh-inspired terrorist group currently has some 200 regular members with 212 high-powered firearms, and 147 identified supporters. They operate in areas in Sulu, Basilan, Tawi-Tawi, and Zamboanga City affecting a total of 121 barangays.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114580
Duterte grants absolute pardon to Pemberton: Palace
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 7, 2020): Duterte grants absolute pardon to Pemberton: Palace (By Azer Parrocha)
US Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton (File photo)
US Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton (File photo)
President Rodrigo Duterte has granted absolute pardon to US Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton who was convicted for the death of Filipino transgender woman Jennifer Laude, Malacañang said on Monday.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made this confirmation after Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro “Teddyboy” Locsin Jr. made the announcement on his official Twitter account.
“Cutting matters short over what constitutes time served, and since where he was detained was not in the prisoner’s control—and to do justice—the President has granted an absolute pardon to Pemberton. Here at the Palace,” Locsin said in a tweet.
In a statement, Roque said absolute pardon, which extinguishes criminal liability of an individual without any condition, will allow Pemberton to return to the US.
“Ibig sabihin po niyan makalalaya na po si Pemberton. Wala na pong issue kung siya ay entitled sa GCTA (good conduct time allowance), wala na pong issue kung applicable ba sa kanya yung batas dahil hindi siya nakulong sa national penitentiary (This means Pemberton will be freed. There will no longer be an issue whether he is entitled to GCTA, there will no longer be an issue whether the law applies to him because he was not detained in the national penitentiary),” he said.
According to Roque, Duterte has also remitted imposed penalties against Pemberton.
“Binura na po ng Presidente kung ano pa yung parusa na dapat ipapataw kay Pemberton. Ang hindi po nabura ng Presidente, yung conviction ni Pemberton. Mamamatay tao pa rin po siya (The President has erased other penalties imposed on Pemberton. What is not erased is Pemberton’s conviction. He is still a murderer),” he said.
He said the President has the power to grant parole or absolute pardon, a form of executive clemency given to the President under Article VII, Sec. 19 of the 1987 Constitution.
“Hindi na po kinakailangan bigyan ng dahilan ng Presidente ‘yan dahil yung pag-grant po ng pardon at parole, at ‘yan po ang ating sinasabi na hindi po ‘yan katungkulan ng hudikatura kundi katungkulan ng ehekutibo, ‘yan po ay (There won’t be a need for the President to give his reason on granting pardon and parole, because it’s not the obligation of the judiciary but the obligation of the executive, that’s) one of the most presidential of all presidential powers, the grant of pardon and parole,” he said.
Roque also clarified that Duterte’s previous verbal attacks against the US did not mean he took an anti-US stance.
“Hindi naman siya anti-US po e. Siya po ay para po sa independiyenteng foreign policy. Kaibigan ng lahat, walang kalaban (He’s not anti-US. He’s for an independent foreign policy. Friend to all, an enemy to none),” he said.
Pemberton was convicted of homicide on Dec. 1, 2015, for killing Laude in 2014.
Last Sept. 1, the Olongapo Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 74 ordered Pemberton's early release saying he had served the minimum of his sentence for the death of Laude six years ago.
Pemberton is now entitled to be released for he had already served the 10-year maximum of his penalty after taking into account the GCTA he accumulated while detained, the court added.
The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) on Thursday put on hold Pemberton's release following a motion for reconsideration filed before the court questioning an order granting his liberty.
Pemberton currently remains under the custody of BuCor at its extension facility in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114675
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made this confirmation after Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro “Teddyboy” Locsin Jr. made the announcement on his official Twitter account.
“Cutting matters short over what constitutes time served, and since where he was detained was not in the prisoner’s control—and to do justice—the President has granted an absolute pardon to Pemberton. Here at the Palace,” Locsin said in a tweet.
In a statement, Roque said absolute pardon, which extinguishes criminal liability of an individual without any condition, will allow Pemberton to return to the US.
“Ibig sabihin po niyan makalalaya na po si Pemberton. Wala na pong issue kung siya ay entitled sa GCTA (good conduct time allowance), wala na pong issue kung applicable ba sa kanya yung batas dahil hindi siya nakulong sa national penitentiary (This means Pemberton will be freed. There will no longer be an issue whether he is entitled to GCTA, there will no longer be an issue whether the law applies to him because he was not detained in the national penitentiary),” he said.
According to Roque, Duterte has also remitted imposed penalties against Pemberton.
“Binura na po ng Presidente kung ano pa yung parusa na dapat ipapataw kay Pemberton. Ang hindi po nabura ng Presidente, yung conviction ni Pemberton. Mamamatay tao pa rin po siya (The President has erased other penalties imposed on Pemberton. What is not erased is Pemberton’s conviction. He is still a murderer),” he said.
He said the President has the power to grant parole or absolute pardon, a form of executive clemency given to the President under Article VII, Sec. 19 of the 1987 Constitution.
“Hindi na po kinakailangan bigyan ng dahilan ng Presidente ‘yan dahil yung pag-grant po ng pardon at parole, at ‘yan po ang ating sinasabi na hindi po ‘yan katungkulan ng hudikatura kundi katungkulan ng ehekutibo, ‘yan po ay (There won’t be a need for the President to give his reason on granting pardon and parole, because it’s not the obligation of the judiciary but the obligation of the executive, that’s) one of the most presidential of all presidential powers, the grant of pardon and parole,” he said.
Roque also clarified that Duterte’s previous verbal attacks against the US did not mean he took an anti-US stance.
“Hindi naman siya anti-US po e. Siya po ay para po sa independiyenteng foreign policy. Kaibigan ng lahat, walang kalaban (He’s not anti-US. He’s for an independent foreign policy. Friend to all, an enemy to none),” he said.
Pemberton was convicted of homicide on Dec. 1, 2015, for killing Laude in 2014.
Last Sept. 1, the Olongapo Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 74 ordered Pemberton's early release saying he had served the minimum of his sentence for the death of Laude six years ago.
Pemberton is now entitled to be released for he had already served the 10-year maximum of his penalty after taking into account the GCTA he accumulated while detained, the court added.
The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) on Thursday put on hold Pemberton's release following a motion for reconsideration filed before the court questioning an order granting his liberty.
Pemberton currently remains under the custody of BuCor at its extension facility in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114675
AFP behind families of slain intel troops in pursuit of justice
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 7, 2020): AFP behind families of slain intel troops in pursuit of justice (By Priam Nepomuceno)
AFP spokesperson Marine Major Gen. Edgard Arevalo (File photo)
AFP spokesperson Marine Major Gen. Edgard Arevalo (File photo)
While appreciating the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) filing administrative charges against its erring personnel involved in the shooting of four military intelligence operatives in Jolo, Sulu on June 29, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it is one with the families in their pursuit of justice against the erring members of the Jolo police.
"We in the AFP will not stop until justice is served with dispatch for the victims of that unfortunate incident," AFP spokesperson, Marine Major Gen. Edgard Arevalo, said in a press statement on Monday.
Killed in the June 29 incident were Major Marvin Indammog, Capt. Irwin Managuelod, Sgt. Jaime Velasco, and Cpl. Abdal Asula – all personnel of the Philippine Army.
The four were conducting intelligence and monitoring operations against two suspected suicide bombers when gunned down by the police officers.
Earlier, PNP chief Gen. Camilo Cascolan said nine police officers were slapped with administrative charges.
Charged were Senior Master Sgt. Abdelzhimar Padjiri; Master Sgt. Hanie Baddiri; Staff Sgt. Iskandar Susulan; Staff Sgt. Ernisar Sappal; Cpl. Sulki Andaki; Patrolman Moh Nur Pasani; Staff Sgt. Almudzrin Hadjaruddin; Patrolman Alkajal Mandangan; and Patrolman Rajiv Putalan.
All are under restrictive custody in PNP headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City.
Meanwhile, based on the finding of the PNP- Internal Affairs Service (IAS), the three senior officials -- Lt. Col. Michael Bayawan Jr., the Sulu police chief; Major Walter Annayo, the Jolo police chief; and Capt. Ariel Corsino, head of the Sulu drug enforcement unit, are also facing administrative charges since they are also liable under the doctrine of command responsibility.
"The Armed Forces of the Philippines takes due notice and appreciates the filing of administrative charges by the PNP against 12 of its erring personnel for their respective acts or omission in the shooting incident that claimed the lives of four AFP intelligence personnel—two of them officers," Arevalo said.
Arevalo said justice should neither be delayed nor denied to soldiers who were killed while in the actual performance of duty which is to protect the people and secure the country from terrorists.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114618
"We in the AFP will not stop until justice is served with dispatch for the victims of that unfortunate incident," AFP spokesperson, Marine Major Gen. Edgard Arevalo, said in a press statement on Monday.
Killed in the June 29 incident were Major Marvin Indammog, Capt. Irwin Managuelod, Sgt. Jaime Velasco, and Cpl. Abdal Asula – all personnel of the Philippine Army.
The four were conducting intelligence and monitoring operations against two suspected suicide bombers when gunned down by the police officers.
Earlier, PNP chief Gen. Camilo Cascolan said nine police officers were slapped with administrative charges.
Charged were Senior Master Sgt. Abdelzhimar Padjiri; Master Sgt. Hanie Baddiri; Staff Sgt. Iskandar Susulan; Staff Sgt. Ernisar Sappal; Cpl. Sulki Andaki; Patrolman Moh Nur Pasani; Staff Sgt. Almudzrin Hadjaruddin; Patrolman Alkajal Mandangan; and Patrolman Rajiv Putalan.
All are under restrictive custody in PNP headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City.
Meanwhile, based on the finding of the PNP- Internal Affairs Service (IAS), the three senior officials -- Lt. Col. Michael Bayawan Jr., the Sulu police chief; Major Walter Annayo, the Jolo police chief; and Capt. Ariel Corsino, head of the Sulu drug enforcement unit, are also facing administrative charges since they are also liable under the doctrine of command responsibility.
"The Armed Forces of the Philippines takes due notice and appreciates the filing of administrative charges by the PNP against 12 of its erring personnel for their respective acts or omission in the shooting incident that claimed the lives of four AFP intelligence personnel—two of them officers," Arevalo said.
Arevalo said justice should neither be delayed nor denied to soldiers who were killed while in the actual performance of duty which is to protect the people and secure the country from terrorists.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114618
Sandigan clears 3 in Navy boat case
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 7, 2020): Sandigan clears 3 in Navy boat case (By Benjamin Pulta)
The Sandiganbayan has cleared three government procurement officers linked in the alleged anomalous PHP6.2-million contract for the purchase of seven rubber boats for the Philippine Navy in 2010.
In a 32-page decision dated September 4 and penned by Associate Justice Karl B. Miranda, the anti-graft court's Sixth Division acquitted Malone B. Agudelo, Mervin Ian D. Tanquintoc, and Alvin John D. Perator for the prosecution's failure to prove their guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
The court said it will not condone the filing of baseless charges "by losing bidders against procurement practitioners and winning bidders especially when it is clear that the losing bidder itself failed to comply with the bidding documents".
The court added that while the government procurement guarantees competition, transparency, and accountability in the procurement process, “procurement practitioners and winning bidders should be shielded against baseless accusations that only delay the procurement process”.
The persons acquitted were members of the inter-agency Bidding and Awards Committee technical working group which approved the contract for the supply and delivery of seven inflatable rubber boats to the local firm Joavi which bidded PHP3.464 million for the contract, offering its Aquasports Hypalon Rubber Boat 470.
The boats were to be brought upon recommendation of the Naval Special Operations Group which performs counter-terrorist activities, marine interdiction operations and such other special operations. The original request specified the Zodiac Futura FC470 Commando Rubber Boat.
Zodiac's local distributor, Geneve SA, at the same time, bid offer was PHP5.495 million.
Associate Justices Sarah T. Fernandez and Kevin Narce B. Vivero concurred.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114635
In a 32-page decision dated September 4 and penned by Associate Justice Karl B. Miranda, the anti-graft court's Sixth Division acquitted Malone B. Agudelo, Mervin Ian D. Tanquintoc, and Alvin John D. Perator for the prosecution's failure to prove their guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
The court said it will not condone the filing of baseless charges "by losing bidders against procurement practitioners and winning bidders especially when it is clear that the losing bidder itself failed to comply with the bidding documents".
The court added that while the government procurement guarantees competition, transparency, and accountability in the procurement process, “procurement practitioners and winning bidders should be shielded against baseless accusations that only delay the procurement process”.
The persons acquitted were members of the inter-agency Bidding and Awards Committee technical working group which approved the contract for the supply and delivery of seven inflatable rubber boats to the local firm Joavi which bidded PHP3.464 million for the contract, offering its Aquasports Hypalon Rubber Boat 470.
The boats were to be brought upon recommendation of the Naval Special Operations Group which performs counter-terrorist activities, marine interdiction operations and such other special operations. The original request specified the Zodiac Futura FC470 Commando Rubber Boat.
Zodiac's local distributor, Geneve SA, at the same time, bid offer was PHP5.495 million.
Associate Justices Sarah T. Fernandez and Kevin Narce B. Vivero concurred.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114635
CPP/CIO: The revolutionary movement grieves the loss of Ka Andrea and other Palawan fighters
Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Sep 7, 2020): The revolutionary movement grieves the loss of Ka Andrea and other Palawan fighters
MARCO VALBUENA
CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER
COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES
SEPTEMBER 07, 2020
The revolutionary forces feel a profound sense of loss with the death of Andrea Rosal, young revolutionary, and four other Red fighters and Party cadres in Palawan. At the same time, we are inspired by their example of revolutionary courage and determination. We salute them for their accomplishments in strengthening the people’s army and the organs of political power which now continue to thrive in Palawan.
We extend our deepest sympathies to the family of Andrea, especially her sister. Indeed, their father, Gregorio “Ka Roger” Rosal and mother Ka Soly, reared them well in the revolutionary mould, inculcating in them the value of selfless service for the downtrodden masses. Surely, had they been alive today, they would’ve been deeply proud of her.
Being the daughter of Ka Roger, we know that Ka Andrea was constantly hounded by the fascist state forces. Before she was even five years old, she was kidnapped by military officers from her grandmother in a vain effort to force her father to surrender. All their young lives, she and her sister were put under state surveillance.
From May 2014 to September 2015, she was unjustly imprisoned for trumped up charges, during which she was made to suffer harsh jail conditions. She was denied proper medical due to her conditions as a pregnant mother and was not allowed to get hospital care up to the day that she was about to give birth. As a consequence, her two-day old child, Diona, died due to complications.
Ka Andrea, as did her revolutionary parents, joined the cause of national and social liberation, driven by the strong desire to serve the oppressed masses. She decided to join the people’s army a few years back. She was deployed to Palawan where she was warmly welcomed by the peasant masses, minority people and their revolutionary forces. People will always remember Ka Andrea for her humble but firm disposition.
Upholding the interest of the peasants and minorities, Ka Andrea and the revolutionary forces in Palawan have been helping in the resistance against the aggression of mining and oil palm plantations and big tourism companies which have invaded the masses’ ancestral and agricultural lands and destroyed the environment. Because of this, they earned the revolutionary trust and support of the masses.
Ka Andrea and other fighters were killed in Brooke’s Point town, Palawan in what the military claims to be an armed encounter last week. We are still awaiting details of the incident. For killing Ka Andrea and other revolutionaries, the fascist AFP forces are now despised more than ever by the people of Palawan and the rest of the Filipino people.
For dying while serving the oppressed masses, Ka Andrea and the Palawan 5, will forever be remembered as heroes of the Filipino people.
https://cpp.ph/statements/the-revolutionary-movement-grieves-the-loss-of-ka-andrea-and-other-palawan-fighters/
SEPTEMBER 07, 2020
The revolutionary forces feel a profound sense of loss with the death of Andrea Rosal, young revolutionary, and four other Red fighters and Party cadres in Palawan. At the same time, we are inspired by their example of revolutionary courage and determination. We salute them for their accomplishments in strengthening the people’s army and the organs of political power which now continue to thrive in Palawan.
We extend our deepest sympathies to the family of Andrea, especially her sister. Indeed, their father, Gregorio “Ka Roger” Rosal and mother Ka Soly, reared them well in the revolutionary mould, inculcating in them the value of selfless service for the downtrodden masses. Surely, had they been alive today, they would’ve been deeply proud of her.
Being the daughter of Ka Roger, we know that Ka Andrea was constantly hounded by the fascist state forces. Before she was even five years old, she was kidnapped by military officers from her grandmother in a vain effort to force her father to surrender. All their young lives, she and her sister were put under state surveillance.
From May 2014 to September 2015, she was unjustly imprisoned for trumped up charges, during which she was made to suffer harsh jail conditions. She was denied proper medical due to her conditions as a pregnant mother and was not allowed to get hospital care up to the day that she was about to give birth. As a consequence, her two-day old child, Diona, died due to complications.
Ka Andrea, as did her revolutionary parents, joined the cause of national and social liberation, driven by the strong desire to serve the oppressed masses. She decided to join the people’s army a few years back. She was deployed to Palawan where she was warmly welcomed by the peasant masses, minority people and their revolutionary forces. People will always remember Ka Andrea for her humble but firm disposition.
Upholding the interest of the peasants and minorities, Ka Andrea and the revolutionary forces in Palawan have been helping in the resistance against the aggression of mining and oil palm plantations and big tourism companies which have invaded the masses’ ancestral and agricultural lands and destroyed the environment. Because of this, they earned the revolutionary trust and support of the masses.
Ka Andrea and other fighters were killed in Brooke’s Point town, Palawan in what the military claims to be an armed encounter last week. We are still awaiting details of the incident. For killing Ka Andrea and other revolutionaries, the fascist AFP forces are now despised more than ever by the people of Palawan and the rest of the Filipino people.
For dying while serving the oppressed masses, Ka Andrea and the Palawan 5, will forever be remembered as heroes of the Filipino people.
https://cpp.ph/statements/the-revolutionary-movement-grieves-the-loss-of-ka-andrea-and-other-palawan-fighters/
22 NPA fighters face raps for attacks on civilians in Bukidnon
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 5, 2020): 22 NPA fighters face raps for attacks on civilians in Bukidnon (By: Jigger J. Jerusalem)
Twenty-two individuals tagged by authorities as members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) are being indicted for alleged violation of the international humanitarian law (IHL).
The complainants were recently filed by government prosecutors in a local court here designated to hear cases involving violations of Republic Act No. 9851 which defines and penalizes crimes against IHL, genocide and other crimes against humanity.
The cases stemmed from three incidents allegedly perpetrated by communist guerrillas that victimized civilians and destroyed their properties in Bukidnon.
According to Bukidnon provincial prosecutor Rommel Alonto, 17 persons were charged with burning a sugarcane plantation and killing one police officer and wounding another on December 12, 2015 in Barangay New Eden of Pangantucan town.
The suspects were identified as alias Muling Micabalo; Lorna Micabalao alias Nancy; Juvilito Pontillas alias CJ, Tiga, and Juvy; Almer Calacar alias Niko; an alias Ka Yaya or LJ; Vicente Pontillas Jr. alias Bryan; Vicente Pontillas Sr. alias Ka Mulo; Warwen del Rosario alias Ka Agbon or Janin; Virgilio Canoy alias Bilyong; Reynaldo Libres alias Ariel; Bernie Hintapa alias Dodong Binao; Richard Libres; Dahulo Ortiz alias John; Lorena Micabalo alias Jayjay; Rosalie Omandam alias RR; Jonald Saludar alias Sam; and Emie Santa Ana alias Moring or Arabu.
Another four suspects, known only as alias Ladong, alias Mecmec, alias Nex, and alias Paling, were accused of killing a certain Jerson Blanza, son of a barangay official; and in the attempted killing Mark Dave Gabas, Ebenezer Abejuela, Love Tubongbanua, Jeter Gubaton, and Juliet Caburatan.
The four suspects are said to be members of the NPA’s Malayag Guerrilla Front.
Alonto said the victims were taking a bath in a spring in Barangay Spring Kawayan of San Fernando town on May 22, 2020 when the NPA guerrillas fired at them.
The third case involved an NPA commander known only as alias DR who allegedly killed Renato Labisto on June 7, 2020 in Barangay Linabo of Quezon town.
Alonto said all the suspects being indicted are still at-large.
He said the victims were “unarmed civilians … who have not participated in armed hostilities against the NPA” hence protected from attacks.
Alonto reminded parties to the armed conflict—the government armed forces and communist rebels—not to harm civilians who are not in any way connected to the armed hostilities.
Col. Ferdinand Barandon, commander of the Army’s 403rd Infantry Brigade, admitted that the military assisted the police in identifying witnesses, gathering evidence and protecting the security of the complainants and their families.
Barandon said their facilitating the filing of legal charges against the suspects is part of the Army’s effort to help end the local communist insurgency.
In November last year, the brigade also helped complainants in taking legal action against five NPA members who allegedly maltreated a village watchman while the guerrillas burned vehicles in Manolo Fortich town on May 28, 2019.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1331703/22-npa-fighters-face-raps-for-attacks-on-civilians-in-bukidnon
The complainants were recently filed by government prosecutors in a local court here designated to hear cases involving violations of Republic Act No. 9851 which defines and penalizes crimes against IHL, genocide and other crimes against humanity.
The cases stemmed from three incidents allegedly perpetrated by communist guerrillas that victimized civilians and destroyed their properties in Bukidnon.
According to Bukidnon provincial prosecutor Rommel Alonto, 17 persons were charged with burning a sugarcane plantation and killing one police officer and wounding another on December 12, 2015 in Barangay New Eden of Pangantucan town.
The suspects were identified as alias Muling Micabalo; Lorna Micabalao alias Nancy; Juvilito Pontillas alias CJ, Tiga, and Juvy; Almer Calacar alias Niko; an alias Ka Yaya or LJ; Vicente Pontillas Jr. alias Bryan; Vicente Pontillas Sr. alias Ka Mulo; Warwen del Rosario alias Ka Agbon or Janin; Virgilio Canoy alias Bilyong; Reynaldo Libres alias Ariel; Bernie Hintapa alias Dodong Binao; Richard Libres; Dahulo Ortiz alias John; Lorena Micabalo alias Jayjay; Rosalie Omandam alias RR; Jonald Saludar alias Sam; and Emie Santa Ana alias Moring or Arabu.
Another four suspects, known only as alias Ladong, alias Mecmec, alias Nex, and alias Paling, were accused of killing a certain Jerson Blanza, son of a barangay official; and in the attempted killing Mark Dave Gabas, Ebenezer Abejuela, Love Tubongbanua, Jeter Gubaton, and Juliet Caburatan.
The four suspects are said to be members of the NPA’s Malayag Guerrilla Front.
Alonto said the victims were taking a bath in a spring in Barangay Spring Kawayan of San Fernando town on May 22, 2020 when the NPA guerrillas fired at them.
The third case involved an NPA commander known only as alias DR who allegedly killed Renato Labisto on June 7, 2020 in Barangay Linabo of Quezon town.
Alonto said all the suspects being indicted are still at-large.
He said the victims were “unarmed civilians … who have not participated in armed hostilities against the NPA” hence protected from attacks.
Alonto reminded parties to the armed conflict—the government armed forces and communist rebels—not to harm civilians who are not in any way connected to the armed hostilities.
Col. Ferdinand Barandon, commander of the Army’s 403rd Infantry Brigade, admitted that the military assisted the police in identifying witnesses, gathering evidence and protecting the security of the complainants and their families.
Barandon said their facilitating the filing of legal charges against the suspects is part of the Army’s effort to help end the local communist insurgency.
In November last year, the brigade also helped complainants in taking legal action against five NPA members who allegedly maltreated a village watchman while the guerrillas burned vehicles in Manolo Fortich town on May 28, 2019.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1331703/22-npa-fighters-face-raps-for-attacks-on-civilians-in-bukidnon
2 communist NPA terrorists killed in clash
From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Sep 5, 2020): 2 communist NPA terrorists killed in clash
TWO communist New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists were killed in a clash with government forces in a remote village in the province of Sultan Kudarat, the military reported Saturday, September 5, 2020.
Major General Diosdado Carreon, 6th Infantry Division commander, said the clash occurred late Friday in the boundary of Santa Clara and Datu Ito Indong villages in Kalamansig town, Sultan Kudarat.
Carreon said the troops of the 37th Infantry Battalion were conducting focused military operation when they clashed against 20 NPA rebels in the boundary of Santa Clara and Datu Ito Indong villages.
Carreon said the clash lasted for about five minutes after which the NPA rebels fled to different directions.
He said the troops have recovered the remains of two slain NPA rebels while conducting a clearing operation at the clash site.
Carreon said the troops have also recovered an improvised explosive device (IED) triggering device, one M-16 Armalite rifle, one shotgun, two magazines, medical kits, and propaganda materials.
He said that no one among the troops was either killed or wounded during the clash.
Meanwhile, Major General Corleto Vinluan, Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, has urged the public to be vigilant and to immediately report any person acting suspiciously or suspicious object in their locality while the troops intensify the focused military operations.
“Let us continue to converge for the attainment of lasting peace and sustainable development in the region,” Vinluan added. (SunStar Zamboanga)
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1869305/Zamboanga/Local-News/2-communist-NPA-terrorists-killed-in-clash
Major General Diosdado Carreon, 6th Infantry Division commander, said the clash occurred late Friday in the boundary of Santa Clara and Datu Ito Indong villages in Kalamansig town, Sultan Kudarat.
Carreon said the troops of the 37th Infantry Battalion were conducting focused military operation when they clashed against 20 NPA rebels in the boundary of Santa Clara and Datu Ito Indong villages.
Carreon said the clash lasted for about five minutes after which the NPA rebels fled to different directions.
He said the troops have recovered the remains of two slain NPA rebels while conducting a clearing operation at the clash site.
Carreon said the troops have also recovered an improvised explosive device (IED) triggering device, one M-16 Armalite rifle, one shotgun, two magazines, medical kits, and propaganda materials.
He said that no one among the troops was either killed or wounded during the clash.
Meanwhile, Major General Corleto Vinluan, Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, has urged the public to be vigilant and to immediately report any person acting suspiciously or suspicious object in their locality while the troops intensify the focused military operations.
“Let us continue to converge for the attainment of lasting peace and sustainable development in the region,” Vinluan added. (SunStar Zamboanga)
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1869305/Zamboanga/Local-News/2-communist-NPA-terrorists-killed-in-clash
Army reports dismantling 3 NPA groups in Cagayan Valley, CAR
From the Manila Bulletin (Sep 6, 2020): Army reports dismantling 3 NPA groups in Cagayan Valley, CAR (By Freddie Lazaro)
CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Gamu, Isabela – At least three New People’s Army (NPA) rebel groups operating in Cagayan Valley Region and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) have already been dismantled due to the continuing intense military operations, according to Fifth Infantry Division (5ID) Spokesperson Maj. Noriel D. Tayaban.
The dismantled NPA’s groups were the Southern Front Committee of Komiteng Rehiyon Cagayan Valley (SFC-KRCV) operating in the southern part of Isabela, the Central Front Committee of Komiteng Rehiyon Cagayan Valley (CFC-KRCV) operating in Cagayan, and the Komiteng Larangang Gerilya – Ifugao (KLG-IFUGAO) of the Ilocos-Cordilleral Regional Committee (ICRC) operating in Ifugao province.
Tayaban attributed the downgrading of the NPA groups in Cagayan Valley Region and CAR to the all-out cooperation of the residents.
As of press time, Tayaban said that there were still four NPA fronts with a few members operating in their areas of responsibility (AOR).
Of these remaining NPAs fronts, two are operating in CAR, and the other two fronts are operating in Cagayan Valley.
“These four remaining NPAs fronts are subject to the continuous army operations,” said Tayaban.
During the visit of Philippine Army chief, Lieutenant Gen. Cirilito E. Sobejana at Camp Melchor F. Dela Cruz, Gamu, Isabela on Friday, 5ID Commander Brig. Gen. Laurence E. Mina reported the significant reduction of the NPA rebels’ manpower and firepower, and the cutting of their mass base support systems in their AOR.
“The surrender of the NPA rebels and their supporters to us continues while we assured them the giving of their assistance and benefits from the government’s enhanced comprehensive livelihood integration program,” said Mina.
Mina also toured Sobejana at the “Happy Farm Ville” that accommodates the 56 former rebels (FRs) from Isabela, who formed part of the Salaknib Former Rebels Integrated Farmers’ Association (SFRIFA).
The transitional program for the FRs integrates farming activities through the initiative of the 95th Infantry Battalion and 502nd Infantry Brigade, in cooperation with Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), local government units (LGUs), and the Department of Agriculture (DA) of Isabela.
Happy Farm Ville serves as the temporary halfway house for the FRs and their families while they wait for their E-CLIP benefits being processed by the Provincial E-CLIP Committee of Isabela.
CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Gamu, Isabela – At least three New People’s Army (NPA) rebel groups operating in Cagayan Valley Region and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) have already been dismantled due to the continuing intense military operations, according to Fifth Infantry Division (5ID) Spokesperson Maj. Noriel D. Tayaban.
The dismantled NPA’s groups were the Southern Front Committee of Komiteng Rehiyon Cagayan Valley (SFC-KRCV) operating in the southern part of Isabela, the Central Front Committee of Komiteng Rehiyon Cagayan Valley (CFC-KRCV) operating in Cagayan, and the Komiteng Larangang Gerilya – Ifugao (KLG-IFUGAO) of the Ilocos-Cordilleral Regional Committee (ICRC) operating in Ifugao province.
Tayaban attributed the downgrading of the NPA groups in Cagayan Valley Region and CAR to the all-out cooperation of the residents.
As of press time, Tayaban said that there were still four NPA fronts with a few members operating in their areas of responsibility (AOR).
Of these remaining NPAs fronts, two are operating in CAR, and the other two fronts are operating in Cagayan Valley.
“These four remaining NPAs fronts are subject to the continuous army operations,” said Tayaban.
During the visit of Philippine Army chief, Lieutenant Gen. Cirilito E. Sobejana at Camp Melchor F. Dela Cruz, Gamu, Isabela on Friday, 5ID Commander Brig. Gen. Laurence E. Mina reported the significant reduction of the NPA rebels’ manpower and firepower, and the cutting of their mass base support systems in their AOR.
“The surrender of the NPA rebels and their supporters to us continues while we assured them the giving of their assistance and benefits from the government’s enhanced comprehensive livelihood integration program,” said Mina.
Mina also toured Sobejana at the “Happy Farm Ville” that accommodates the 56 former rebels (FRs) from Isabela, who formed part of the Salaknib Former Rebels Integrated Farmers’ Association (SFRIFA).
The transitional program for the FRs integrates farming activities through the initiative of the 95th Infantry Battalion and 502nd Infantry Brigade, in cooperation with Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), local government units (LGUs), and the Department of Agriculture (DA) of Isabela.
Happy Farm Ville serves as the temporary halfway house for the FRs and their families while they wait for their E-CLIP benefits being processed by the Provincial E-CLIP Committee of Isabela.
https://mb.com.ph/2020/09/06/army-reports-dismantling-3-npa-groups-in-cagayan-valley-car/