Tagalog News: Bagong Transient Building sa 203rd Infantry Brigade, pinasinayaan

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 23, 2020): Tagalog News: Bagong Transient Building sa 203rd Infantry Brigade, pinasinayaan (By Dennis Nebrejo)

Sabay na binuksan nina Gob. Humerlito Dolor (kanan) at 2nd Infantry Division Commander, MGen Greg T. Almerol kasama ang kanyang may-bahay, ang marker ng bagong Transient Bldg. sa loob ng 203rd Infantry Brigade sa Bayan ng Bansud noong Nobyembre 20. (kuha ni Dennis Nebrejo/PIA-OrMin)

Bansud, Oriental Mindoro, Nob. 23 (PIA) -- Pinangunahan ni Gob. Humerlito ‘Bonz’ Dolor ang pagpapasinaya ng bagong isang palapag na gusali sa loob ng kampo ng 203rd Infantry Brigade, ang Transient Building na ginanap noong Nobyembre 20.

Ayon sa gobernador, “handa kong suportahan ang mga pangangailangan ng kasundaluhan dahil kabilang sila sa mga nangangalaga ng katahimikan at kaayusan ng buong lalawigan at sa isla ng Mindoro na siyang lumalaban sa insurhensiya kung kaya pinagkalooban natin sila ng isang maliit na gusali na magsisilbing pahingahan at kanila din kailangan kapag mayroon silang mga panauhing pandangal o kapwa nila sundalo.”

Ang nasabing gusali ay nagkakahalaga isang milyong piso. Mayroon itong pitong silid, pitong double deck na kama at isang malaking kama gayundin ang mga palikuran. Nagtulong-tulong ang mga sundalo upang maitayo ang naturang gusali.

Lubos ang pasasalamat ni 203rd Brigade Cmdr. LtCol Jose Augusto Villareal sa gobernador dahil sa patuloy nitong pagsuporta sa kanilang hanay gayundin ang pagkakaloob ng kanilang mga pangangailangan sa loob ng kampo.

Bukod kay Dolor, naging panauhing pandangal din si MGen Greg T Almerol, commander ng 2nd Infantry Division na nakatalaga sa Tanay Rizal. (DN/PIA-OrMin)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1059793

Naval Forces Northern Luzon's 'Saranay Cagayan' continues

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 23, 2020): Naval Forces Northern Luzon's 'Saranay Cagayan' continues (By Joanna P. Diaz-Sabado)

SAN FERNANDO CITY, Nov. 23 (PIA) – The Naval Forces Northern Luzon (NFNL) has already received an estimated total of 100 tons of donated items as part of the second batch of “Saranay Cagayan” (Help Cagayan) project, as of November 21.

In its most recent report shared in Facebook, 30 tons of those are food items while 70 tons are pre-loved clothes and blankets.

One of the civic-oriented groups who sent the accumulated relief items is the Rotary Club of Metro San Fernando City for the affected residents in Cagayan due to excessive flooding last week.

Among the items they purchased from the cash donations they received were 255 pieces of inabel blankets made in Luna town.

Aside from sacks of clean clothings, 20 boxes of groceries which include food items and toiletries and 140 cases of bottled waters were among those sent-off through the NFNL.

In the November 21 episode of the Laging Handa Network Briefing News, Calapan City Mayor Arnan Panaligan said that they are always being assisted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police in the rescue, evacuation, and relief distribution during disasters.

The first batch of donations were handed to the Provincial Government of Cagayan on November 15, with assorted food items, bottled water and sacks of clean clothes. (JCR/AMB/JDS/PIA La Union)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1059686

AFP Vice Chief of Staff Collado retires

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 23, 2020): AFP Vice Chief of Staff Collado retires (By Nonette N. Castillo)

The AFP Chief of Staff, General Gilbert Gapay, presided over the activity via virtual teleconference at his office while the ceremonies were held on-site at Tejeros Hall, AFP Commissioned Officers Country. Vice Admiral Collado turned over his post to the Commander of Western Command (WESCOM), Lieutenant General Erickson Gloria.

PASIG CITY, Nov. 23 (PIA) -- After 38 years of service, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Vice Chief of Staff, Vice Admiral Gaudencio Collado Jr. formally retired from the military in a joint change of chief of office and retirement ceremony over the weekend.

The AFP Chief of Staff, General Gilbert Gapay, presided over the activity via virtual teleconference at his office while the ceremonies were held on-site at Tejeros Hall, AFP Commissioned Officers Country. Vice Admiral Collado turned over his post to the Commander of Western Command (WESCOM), Lieutenant General Erickson Gloria.

“This time-honored military tradition of the formal passing of responsibility and accountability from one leadership to another is a testament of how the AFP values the importance of undertaking the continuity of command, and the necessity to adapt to change. Thus we remain adept and relevant in fulfilling our sworn mandate to the nation and the people,” Gapay said.

The dynamism in the military profession is important in carrying out its missions especially now that the AFP is conducting non-stop humanitarian assistance and relief operations to citizens affected by recent calamities.

The outgoing Vice Chief of Staff, Collado, who assumed the position on June 20, 2019 supervised the AFP-wide service support and separate units as well as the different boards and organizations within the military. He actively worked on policy formulation, implementation, and oversight on the overall conduct of AFP operations to achieve operational effectiveness.

The accomplished Navy officer also championed the attainment of organizational excellence related to the current reform initiatives under the AFP’s modernization program, transformation roadmap, and other development and reform efforts.

“As I culminate my career, I take pride in the thought that I have made my humble contributions in elevating the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the service that we have selflessly given to achieve its current stature,” he said.

Collado is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Sinagtala” Class of 1986 and has served as AFP Deputy Chief of Staff, Commander of the Philippine Fleet, and Chief of Naval Staff. He is a Surface Warfare Officer who, during his sea tour, commanded several types of Philippine navy vessels, including the Presidential Yacht, BRP Ang Pangulo, BRP Dagupan City, BRP Florencio Iñigo, and BRP Jose Andrada.

He is also a recipient of various medals, recognitions and commendations; among which are five Distinguished Service Stars, Gawad sa Kaunlaran, Bronze Cross Medal, numerous Military Merit and Commendation Medals.

During the ceremony, he was presented with the Philippine Legion of Honor with the Degree of Commander for meritorious and exceptional service rendered to the country and the Filipino people.

“On behalf of the men and women of AFP, we thank you for the service you have selflessly rendered for more than three decades,” Gapay expressed his gratitude to Collado.

His successor, Gloria, assumed as WESCOM Commander on May 26, 2020 after a successful stint as AFP Deputy Chief of Staff.

With him at the helm of WESCOM, all approaches of the Provincial Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict were magnified resulting to the neutralization of key personalities and surrender of communist terrorist group members, supporters and contacts.

He previously held positions as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel, Wing Commander of the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing, Deputy Commander of the Air Mobility Command, and Deputy Commander of the Air Logistics Command.

A tactical and rescue pilot, Lieutenant General Gloria holds a command pilot rating in the Philippine Air Force. He is a member of the PMA “Maringal” Class of 1988 and is a recipient of different aircrew qualifications.

“I give my trust and confidence to Lieutenant General Gloria in upholding the same exceptional standard of leadership and commitment to service. He is no stranger to the grit and grind of the AFP leadership being a former Deputy Chief of Staff, so I know we can count on him. He has my support,” Gapay said. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1059738

702nd Army personnel donate allowance to aid Cagayan residents

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 23, 2020): 702nd Army personnel donate allowance to aid Cagayan residents (By Venus May H. Sarmiento)

MANAOAG, Pangasinan, Nov. 23 (PIA) - Army personnel of the 702nd Infantry (Defender) Brigade have voluntarily donated part of their allowance to help flood-affected residents in Cagayan Region.

Major Rogelio Dumbrigue, chief of the Civil Military Operations (CMO) of the Brigade said their Commander, Brigadier-General Audrey Pasia, has given the green light to start the donation drive not just of voluntary financial assistance but even for other basic necessities of the flood victims from the Army personnel themselves.

“Inilaan po ng mga nasa 702nd Brigade ang allowance namin sa pagkain para mai-share natin sa ating mga kababayan na nasalanta ng bagyo at pagbaha,” Dumbrigue said during the Kapihan sa PIA-Pangasinan, Thursday.

The Brigade continues to accept donations from government agencies and non-government organizations for transport to Cagayan, he added.

In the same forum, Maj. Dumbrigue said army personnel and equipment were augmented by the Brigade in the disaster-stricken areas particularly in Regions 2 (Cagayan) and 5 (Bicol).

He said Philippine Army personnel also helped in the hauling of the donations from benefactors and provided security and manpower assistance to the humanitarian team of the province of Pangasinan which embarked on a 14-hour land trip for the Cagayan Relief Mission or Oplan Tulong.

Soldiers will extend help to those in need regardless if they are on the side of the government or not, he assured.

“Makakaasa po kayo na ang inyong kasundaluhan ay patuloy na tutulong sa lahat ng mga kababayan nating nangangailangan,” Maj. Dumbrigue said.

The 702nd Infantry Brigade, based in Manaoag town covers the four provinces of Region 1, the province of Abra and two towns in Mountain Province. (JCR/AMB/VHS/PIA-Pangasinan)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1059799

North Luzon Navy initiates ‘Saranay Cagayan’ to aid flood victims

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 23, 2020): North Luzon Navy initiates ‘Saranay Cagayan’ to aid flood victims (By Venus May H. Sarmiento) 

DAGUPAN CITY, Nov. 23 (PIA) - The Naval Forces Northern Luzon (NFNL) has initiated a donation drive for individuals and families affected by the massive flooding in the Cagayan Valley Region.

Lt. Jaypee Abuan, public affairs office chief of NFNL of the Philippine Navy based in the province of La Union, said that aside from the rescue and relief operations conducted by the fleet, the ‘Saranay’ Cagayan’ was launched to consolidate donations from government agencies, non-government organizations and private individuals.

“Our North Luzon office has been receiving inquiries and messages from people who want to help and offer donations but do not know where to give or have no capability to bring these to Cagayan, thus the bayanihan was formed,” Abuan said during the Kapihan sa PIA-Pangasinan forum, Friday.

“Saranay’ is an Ilocano word that means assistance or help.

An updated report said that as of November 21, the Naval Forces Northern Luzon already received an estimated total of 100 tons of relief items from benefactors to its “Saranay Cagayan” initiative.

The relief items were broken down into 30 tons of food items and 70 tons of pre-loved clothes and blankets.

“Your Navy in the North will continue its service to our beloved kababayans. Together, we will help them rise again and surpass the current devastation they are having,” he added.

SARANAY CAGAYAN. In the Kapihan sa PIA forum, Lt. Jaypee Abuan, public affairs office chief of NFNL of the Philippine Navy, said that aside from the rescue and relief operations conducted by the fleet, the ‘Saranay’ Cagayan’ was launched to consolidate donations from government agencies, non-government organizations and private individuals. (VHS)

Meanwhile, in the same PIA forum, Abuan said hundreds of residents in Cagayan and Isabela were rescued by joint forces of the Naval Force, Air Force, Coast Guard and Philippine Army at the onslaught of the flooding due to Typhoon Ulysses.

“The naval special operations command whose expertise is water search and rescue (WASAR) have been a big help lalo na ang mga water crafts like rubber boats because most of the roads were not passable even sa malalaking sasakyan,” he added.

He said that with the capabilities of the WASAR team, they can brave the flood waters.

What posed as a challenge, however, was entering the residents’ houses to rescue them as some houses were located in between giant trees.

Abuan also assured the public that every rescue and relief operations schemes conducted by various uniformed personnel were based on doctrines and policies, contrary to what has been circulating in social media.

“Meron po talagang konsepto ng operations at ito po ang aming sinusunod at huwag basta-basta maniwala sa mga nagkokomento na naninira lang sa ginagawang pagtulong ng gobyerno,” he explained. (JCR/AMB/VHS/PIA-Pangasinan)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1059801

Indonesia to deploy navy force near South China Sea

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 23, 2020): Indonesia to deploy navy force near South China Sea

Anadolu photo

The Indonesian Navy will move the headquarters of its combat squad to Natuna islands bordering the South China Sea, said an official on Monday.

Speaking at a news conference, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Yudo Margono said the naval combat force (Guspurla) Command Fleet I, which is currently deployed in the capital Jakarta, will be permanently transferred to Natuna.

The force is in charge of conducting marine combat and amphibious operations to support sea control and achieve strategic objectives in order to enforce law and uphold sovereignty in territorial sea.

The deployment came following escalating tension in the South China Sea and the region.

"In anticipation of something that can happen any time, the Commander of the combat force can directly lead a warship with the deployed task force," Margono told reporters.

Apart from the Natuna region, he said, Indonesian Navy is also anticipating vulnerabilities at the sea borders, including Malacca Strait, Ambalat Block and Pacific Ocean.

Natuna islands border the South China Sea, most of which is claimed by China despite competing claims from other Southeast Asian nations, including Vietnam, the Philippines, and Malaysia.

The waters around the islands are believed to have rich reserves of undiscovered oil and gas. The islands are located on a crucial passage for commercial shipping.

In 2019-2020, there have been several escalations between Indonesia and China over violations of territory by a Chinese coastguard in disputed waters around the island claimed by Jakarta.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122717

Cops, military probe murder of former Jolo cop chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 23, 2020): Cops, military probe murder of former Jolo cop chief (By Edwin Fernandez)

SLAIN IN MAGUINDANAO. A video screengrab from a Senate hearing that included Lt. Colonel Walter Annayo, then Jolo town police chief, as he appeared before the Senate probe on the mysterious killing of four Army intelligence operatives in Jolo on June 29, 2020. Annayo was shot to death in the Maguindanao town of Sultan Mastura on Saturday (Nov. 21, 2020). (File photo courtesy of the Senate through YouTube)

Police and military authorities have joined hands in hunting down the suspects in the murder of a police colonel in the Maguindanao town of Sultan Mastura over the weekend.

Police investigators in Maguindanao said Monday they have yet to establish the identities of the perpetrators and the motive behind the killing of Lt. Col. Walter Annayo (not Captain as earlier reported by the Maguindanao police) in Barangay Macabiso, Sultan Mastura town.

Annayo, who was driving his vehicle, had stopped by a roadside refreshment stall along the highway in the barangay around 1:45 p.m. Saturday when gunmen aboard another vehicle shot him to death.

“We would like to help the police get the perpetrators behind the killing of Annayo and bring them before the bar of justice,” said Brig. Gen. Jonas Lumawag, commander of the 1st Marine Brigade (1MBde), in an interview by reporters here Monday.

Annayo, former police chief of Jolo, Sulu, was relieved from his post and reassigned to the Police Regional Office–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao after his men killed in an alleged “misencounter” four Army intelligence officers on June 29, 2020.

“He (Annayo) was moved to the Regional Personnel Holding Unit of PRO-BARMM after the controversial and mysterious killing of four Army intelligence operatives in Jolo,” Brig. Gen. Samuel Rodriguez, the BARMM police director, said in a separate interview.

Rodriguez had earlier ordered for a massive manhunt on the killers of Annayo.

In April this year, the 1st MBde assumed the role of the military-led Task Force Cotabato to help secure Cotabato City and its immediate areas that included parts of Maguindanao province.

The marine brigade forms part of Joint Task Force Central headed by the Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122607

Ex-Anakbayan member turned NPA rebel yields in Zambo Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 23, 2020): Ex-Anakbayan member turned NPA rebel yields in Zambo Sur (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

SURRENDER. Jessie Pularan, 38, (seated, center), a former Anakabayan member turned New People's Army rebel, surrenders to the Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict of Tigbao, Zamboanga del Sur on Sunday (Nov. 22, 2020). Pularan says at least five other Anakbayan members are still with his former rebel unit. (Photo courtesy of 53IB)

A former Anakbayan member turned New People’s Army (NPA) rebel has surrendered to the Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) of Tigbao, Zamboanga del Sur, officials said Monday.

Tigbao Mayor Eleazar Carcallas identified the NPA surrenderer as Jessie Pularan, 38, of the Main Regional Guerrilla Unit (MRGU) of the NPA’s Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC).

Pularan, a native of Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte, surrendered Sunday to the Army's 53rd Infantry Battalion (53IB) and the Tigbao Municipal Police Station.

“The surrender was a proof that the community now cooperates to achieve the peace they are longing for,” Carcallas said, adding that Pularan also yielded an M-14 rifle.

Pularan was first recruited as a member of Anakbayan, then as a member of Kabataang Makabayan, before joining the NPA in August 2010, according to Carcallas.

Pularan also revealed that five Anakbayan members are still with the NPA’s MRGU when he left, the mayor added.

Anakbayan and other leftist youth groups have long been suspected of being recruitment grounds for the communist rebel movement.

Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera, commander of the 53IB, said Pularan's surrender is a proof that the NPA unit operating in its jurisdiction is on the brink of collapse.

“From the surrender of alias Kins (Pularan), we can see that the enemy's will to fight is totally weakened, if not totally destroyed,” Herrera said.

Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, commander of the 102nd Infantry Brigade, vowed that all ongoing operations against the remnants of MRGU would continue.

“We will not stop the conduct of our Army operations until we achieve sustainable peace in Zamboanga Penisula,” Nicolas said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122608

Gov’t forces disarm anti-personnel explosives in NoCot

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 23, 2020): Gov’t forces disarm anti-personnel explosives in NoCot (By Edwin Fernandez)

DISARMED. Military bomb disposal experts disarm the two anti-personnel mines discovered by Army troopers in Barangay Ginatilan, Pikit, North Cotabato, on Monday (Nov. 23, 2020). The homemade roadside bombs bore the signature of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters operating in the area, a member of the bomb disposal team said. (Photos courtesy of 6ID)

Government forces disarmed Monday two anti-personnel mines (APM) believed intended for soldiers conducting road security in Pikit, North Cotabato.

A member of Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) Active Auxiliary (CAA) found the APM around 11:30 am in Sitio Dasulong, Barangay Ginatilan, said Major General Juvymax R. Uy, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division.

Soldiers from the Army’s 90th Infantry Battalion quickly cordoned off the area and re-routed traffic to ensure civilian safety, Uy said.

Around noon, Uy said soldiers also discovered a secondary APM about eight meters from the primary explosive.

Among those recovered were one round 60mm mortar, one round 81mm mortar, two mobile phone operated trigger controls, two 9-volt batteries, and assorted electric wires, the Army official said.

The 35th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team arrived and subsequently disposed of the two APMs, Uy said.

“Government forces will continue its hunt for the terror groups, particularly the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in North Cotabato and the nearby provinces, to prevent them from conducting atrocities and bombing attacks,” Uy, also head of Joint Task Force Central, said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122684

Zambo Norte villagers declare NPA rebels persona non grata

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 23, 2020): Zambo Norte villagers declare NPA rebels persona non grata (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

UNWELCOME. Officials and residents of Barangays Pange and Macasing take turn in signing the resolution declaring New People's Army rebels as persona non grata on Sunday (Nov. 22, 2020). The two villages have long been under the influence of the rebels, officials say. (Photo courtesy of 53IB)

Two "rebel-influenced" barangays in the Zamboanga del Norte town of Siayan have declared the communist New People’s Army (NPA) as persona non grata, the Army's 53rd Infantry Battalion (53IB) said in a statement Monday.

Sunday's declaration was made through barangay resolutions signed by officials and residents of Barangays Pange and Macasing who said they can no longer bear the atrocities perpetrated by NPA rebels.

Fernando Tanyap and Jhonry Andique, the barangay chairpersons of Pange and Macasing, respectively, led the signing of the persona non grata declarations, the Army battalion said, adding the residents have listed the atrocities the rebels have committed against them, including extortion and collection of revolutionary taxes.

Barangays Pange and Macasing have long been treated by the NPA as "safe havens" in Siayan town, according to the 53IB officials.

The barangay officials said the presence of NPAs in their villages have hindered the entry of government services and infrastructure projects, such as farm-to-market roads.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122633

AFP deploys 25-man medical team to Davao City

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 23, 2020): AFP deploys 25-man medical team to Davao City (By Priam Nepomuceno)  November 23, 2020, 1:05 pm

MEDICAL TEAM. National Task Force on Covid-19 chief implementer Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. (center) greets the members of the AFP medical team in a sendoff ceremony at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City on Monday (Nov. 23, 2020). The contingent, composed of military doctors and nurses, and medical aides from the AFP Health Service Command, Philippine Army, Philippine Navy, and the Philippine Air Force, was deployed to Davao City to help address the rising number of Covid-19 cases in the city. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday deployed a 25-member medical contingent to Davao City which has been classified as a "restricted LGU (local government unit)" following the increase in coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases in the city.

AFP deputy chief-of-staff for civil-military operations Maj. Gen. Benedict Arevalo represented chief-of-staff Gen. Gilbert Gapay during the sendoff ceremony at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.

National Task Force on Covid-19 chief implementer Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. led the ceremony which was also attended by Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año and retired Maj. Gen. Melquiades Feliciano, NTF deputy chief implementer for the Visayas,

The contingent is composed of five teams of military doctors and nurses, and medical aides from the AFP Health Service Command, Philippine Army, Philippine Navy, and the Philippine Air Force.

These medical teams would head to Davao City to augment efforts to prevent further spread of Covid-19 and increase the health system capability of the city.

This after Davao City was classified as “Restricted LGU” due to the surge of Covid-19 cases in the area which has reached 5,562 as of Nov. 20.

“We are tirelessly working together since the Covid pandemic started, the continuous and collective efforts of the AFP have all yielded fruitful results as we are able to provide medical service despite the growing challenges in our society,” Arevalo said in delivering Gapay's message.

The contingent is led by the most senior officer, Maj. Sheryl D. Balmeo from the Philippine Army Medical Corps. All members of the contingent underwent swab testing and flu vaccination before their flight at 8 a.m. via a Philippine Air Force C-130 aircraft.

Upon the arrival of the contingent, the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) will assume operational control of the medical teams. EastMincom will provide billeting, security, and service support for the contingent during the duration of their deployment as Davao City is under its area-of-responsibility.

To date, the AFP has deployed over 2,000 doctors, nurses, and medical auxiliary personnel in Covid-19 treatment and quarantine facilities nationwide.

The AFP has also deployed 10,945 personnel to community quarantine assistance areas nationwide to support Sub-Task Group Peace and Order.

“Nakita natin na sa lahat ng anumang (We have seen that in any) calamities, whether it is typhoon, earthquake or even flooding, nandyan kayo, alam nyo yung sitwasyon na nangyari sa (you were there, you know the situation and what happened in) Cebu, Bacolod, when the national government called for your service, nakita namin na talaga namang (we have seen that the) the armed forces is really willed, it is the unit and the command that we can rely on,” Galvez said.

The AFP’s efforts against Covid-19 continue and will not falter as other units are committed to the ongoing clearing and relief operations in areas devastated by recent typhoons.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122610

AFP opens 'DAGIT-PA' joint exercise

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 23, 2020): AFP opens 'DAGIT-PA' joint exercise (By Priam Nepomuceno)

'DAGIT-PA' EXERCISE. AFP Education, Training and Doctrine Command commander Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo (left) leads the opening of the AFP Joint Exercise (AJEX) "DAGIT-PA" in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Monday (Nov. 23, 2020). The AJEX DAGIT-PA is a unilateral exercise that aims to further enhance the joint force interoperability and cohesiveness of the AFP across defense mission areas. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday formally opened the AFP Joint Exercise (AJEX) "DAGIT-PA".

The opening ceremony was virtually attended by AFP deputy chief-of-staff Rear Adm. Erick Kagaoan who served as keynote speaker, with key officers and personnel participating physically present during the ceremony held at the AFP Education, Training and Doctrine Command (APETDC) in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

AJEX DAGIT-PA which stands for “Dagat-Langit-Lupa” is a unilateral exercise that aims to further enhance the joint force interoperability and cohesiveness of the AFP across defense mission areas.

“The AFP-wide/AFP-only exercise integrates Philippine Navy, Philippine Air Force, Philippine Army and Special Operations Forces to level up our operational effectiveness in sea, air, and land,” AFP spokesperson and AFPETDC commander Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said in a statement.

Incidentally, Arevalo is also this year's "DAGIT-PA" exercise director.

This year’s training will be held from Nov. 23 to Dec. 4 in the areas of Northern Luzon Command (NolCom) and General Headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

It seeks to address current defense and security issues, and harness the capabilities of the AFP's major services in a joint setting.

More than 1,100 active and reserve soldiers will participate in drills that will focus on territorial defense, internal security operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosives (CBRNE), and cyber defense operations.

Major exercises to be held are the amphibious operations and island defense exercises in San Antonio, Zambales; combined arms live-fire exercises in Capas, Tarlac; cyber defense exercises in Camp Aguinaldo, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City and staff exercises in NolCom headquarters in Tarlac.

The Philippine Army will be utilizing its armored vehicles and combat engineering equipment while the Philippine Navy would deploy missile-frigate BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) and other ships including patrol and landing docks alongside its helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Air Force would send its FA-50PH jet fighters while the Philippine Marine Corps would deploy its amphibious assault vehicles.

“Our objective is to enhance personnel capacity and capabilities of the joint forces that will enable them to be readily deployable in contingencies concerning maritime security, territorial defense, counterterrorism, and natural disasters and calamities,” Arevalo said.

Meanwhile, the AFP assured that all face-to-face activities during "AJEX DAGIT-PA" will be carried out with strict adherence to health protocols set by the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases.

All participants were also cleared of the virus by authorized medical professionals prior to the start of all activities.

All medical interventions and health protocols in order to mitigate the impact of the virus will be implemented during the conduct of the exercises. Medical services will also be provided to all personnel of the different component forces.

Those who will manifest Covid-19 symptoms will be immediately pulled out from the exercise to be evacuated to the nearest military treatment facility for evaluation.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122635

Sinas taps CIDG to probe slay of ex-Jolo police chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 23, 2020): Sinas taps CIDG to probe slay of ex-Jolo police chief (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

PNP chief, Gen. Debold Sinas. (File photo)

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, Gen. Debold Sinas, has tapped the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) to probe the killing of relieved Jolo, Sulu police chief, Lt. Col. Walter Annayo, in Maguindanao province over the weekend.

“For now, the investigation by the PRO BAR (Police Regional Office Bangsamoro Autonomous Region) is ongoing. We have already requested the CIDG to assist in the investigation doon. As of now, Annayo's cadaver was taken to his home and it was transferred by plane and the Sulu local government unit gave assistance,” Sinas told reporters in a press briefing in Camp Crame on Monday.

Sinas said investigators have yet to determine whether Annayo's killing is connected to his previous assignment as Jolo police chief.

Annayo was relieved from his post following the shooting incident involving nine police officers who allegedly shot dead four Army intelligence operatives in Jolo last June 29.

“Yung nine na suspects doon ay nandito sa Crame, nasa custodial facility natin at kinausap na rin sila kasi accordingly they are on low morale na namatay yung dating chief of police nila (The nine suspects are here in our custodial facility in Camp Crame and we talked to them. Accordingly, they are on low morale because their former chief police died) but the point is the chief of police was not directly involved (in the incident),” he said.

Earlier, administrative charges have been filed against Senior M/Sgt. Abdelzhimar Padjiri; M/Sgt. Hanie Baddiri; S/Sgt. Iskandar Susulan; S/Sgt. Ernisar Sappal; Cpl. Sulki Andaki; Pat. Mohammed Nur Pasani; S/Sgt. Almudzrin Hadjaruddin; Pat. Alkajal Mandangan; and Pat Rajiv Putalan.

After the incident, Annayo was reassigned to the PRO BAR in Parang, Maguindanao.

Based on the findings of the Internal Affairs Service (IAS), also facing administrative charges aside from Annayo are Lt. Col. Michael Bayawan Jr., Sulu police chief; and Capt. Ariel Corsino, head of the Sulu drug enforcement unit; since they are also liable under the doctrine of command responsibility.

A police report from the Sultan Mastura police station said at around 1:45 p.m. Saturday, Annayo alighted from his vehicle to buy a drink along Narciso Ramos Highway in Barangay Macabiso when unidentified suspects on board a sports utility vehicle gunned him down and fled towards Parang town.

Annayo was killed on the spot after succumbing to gunshot wounds in the head and different parts of his body.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122623

US donates $18-M worth of precision-guided weapons to PH

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 23, 2020): US donates $18-M worth of precision-guided weapons to PH (By Ma. Teresa Montemayor)

The United States (US) on Monday donated USD18 million worth of precision-guided munitions (PGMs) to the Philippines which would be used by the government in counter-terrorism operations.

"I’m pleased to transfer a package of precision guided missiles and munitions including 100 towed two alpha missiles, 12 ITAS and 24 MK 82s to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)," US National Security Advisor Robert O’Brien said during a ceremonial turnover at the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

O’Brien is in Manila as part of a Southeast Asia tour that also included Vietnam.

He said the transfer underscores the US government's "strong and enduring commitment to the critical alliance of the US and the Philippines".

"We hope these precision-guided missiles and munitions will help the AFP protect Philippine lives in Mindanao and end the needless suffering imposed by ISIS East Asia," he added.

DFA Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. received the donation on behalf of the Philippine government and said the smart bombs would boost the capability of the AFP in "neutralizing identified or specific threats to national security, particularly in counter terrorism operations".

"This is the fulfillment of a promise made by US President Donald J. Trump to President Duterte during their phone call in April. We look forward to training of the use of these weapons with the best and undisputed military power in the world and the only one in history selflessly dedicated to the freedom and independence of other countries wherever threatened in the world," Locsin said.

Citing that the US and the Philippines share a deep interest in upholding the rule of law and the rules-based international order, O'Brien said the US welcomes the recent statements by President Rodrigo Duterte and the secretary (Locsin) at the Asean Summit and East Asia Summit where they called on all nations to respect international law in the South China Sea.

"As we approach the 70th anniversary of our mutual defense treaty next year, we celebrate the strength of our important alliance and we look forward to working hand-in-hand for generations to come. Together, the United States and the Philippines will continue to ensure peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region," O'Brien said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122641

US 'smart weapons' to aid AFP efforts vs. terrorists

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 23, 2020): US 'smart weapons' to aid AFP efforts vs. terrorists (By Priam Nepomuceno)

'SMART WEAPONS' DONATION. US National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien (2nd from right), Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. (center), and other officials grace the turnover by the US government of the US$18 million worth of precision guided munitions to the Philippines at the Department of Foreign Affairs main office in Pasay City on Monday (Nov. 23, 2020). The AFP welcomed the donation of the US government, saying these weapons would greatly boost its anti-terrorism efforts. (Photo courtesy of DFA)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday said the "smart munitions" given to them by the United States would be of great help to their ongoing efforts to eliminate the terrorist menace in the country.

"These smart munitions with such capability and precision will aid immensely the AFP in ridding the country of terrorist menaces," AFP spokesperson Marine Major Gen. Edgard Arevalo said in a statement.

While the AFP has been successful in using ordinary munitions in counter-terrorism operations using legacy aircraft, including in Marawi City, Arevalo said the arrival of these modern weapons will greatly boost efforts to defeat the threat of terrorism.

"We may have been successful in counter-terrorism operations—most notably in Marawi —with ordinary munitions fitted in our legacy aircraft. But with the advent of these missiles and munitions, we are certain that they will greatly boost our campaigns and contribute to the global drive to fight and defeat terrorists," Arevalo said.

He added that AFP chief-of-staff, Gen. Gilbert Gapay, has also expressed his thanks to the US and Philippines defense departments for brokering and sealing this deal.

In a ceremony on Monday, the Department of Foreign Affairs received from US National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien a precision-guided munition package to the Philippines worth US$18 million (around PHP868 million).

Some of the weapons handed over include 100 "tube-launched optically tracked, wire-guided" TOW-2A missiles, 12 improved target acquisition systems (ITAS), and 24 Mark-82 bombs and associated guidance kits to convert these into smart bombs.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122629