Solons aware NTF-ELCAC’s policies differ from Parlade’s remarks

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 26, 2021): Solons aware NTF-ELCAC’s policies differ from Parlade’s remarks (By Azer Parrocha)

National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict spokesperson, Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr. (File photo)

Malacañang on Monday reminded lawmakers seeking to defund the government’s anti-insurgency task force that remarks made by its spokesperson should not be enough basis to disregard the importance of programs that aim to develop areas freed from clutches of communist terrorist groups (CTGs).

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque came to the defense of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict’s (NTF-ELCAC) Barangay Development Program (BDP) after some solons sought to withdraw the task force’s funding over alleged red-tagging of community pantry organizers.

Of the PHP19 billion total budget of the NTF-ELCAC, PHP16.5 billion is allotted to the BDP, a program which aims to bring development to former conflict-prone communities.

“Ating panawagan sa ating mga policy makers, alam naman po nila na ang policy ay may pakakaiba dun sa mga nagpapatupad ng policy at hindi naman dahilan para isang tao na tagapagsalita ay maging dahilan para mabalewala ang isang polisiya (Our appeal to policy makers, they know that policies being implemented differ from the people implementing the policies and a spokesperson should not be a reason to disregard a policy),” Roque said in a virtual press briefing.

Roque noted that National Security Adviser (NSA) Hermogenes Esperon has already talked to NTF-ELCAC spokespersons Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy and Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr. to stop making statements about community pantries.

Esperon, who is also the NTF-ELCAC vice chair, said Badoy and Parlade will cease from speaking about community pantries to avoid sowing confusion regarding the pantry initiative.

“Nakausap ko na rin si Secretary Esperon at sinabi naman niya sa akin na pinagsabihan na niya parehong si General Parlade at saka si USec. Badoy na maging mas mahinahon at mas maingat sa mga binibitawang salita (I spoke to Secretary Esperon and he told me that he told off both General Parlade and USec. Badoy to be more careful in making statements),” Roque said.

He shrugged off the statement made by Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson that Congress could defund the NTF-ELCAC next year if the Department of National Defense (DND) ignores the recommendation to remove Parlade as spokesperson.

Lacson said senators were dismayed that the DND had not acted on the recommendation prepared by Lacson’s committee on national defense and security which called for the removal of Parlade.

“‘Yan naman po ay personal na opinyon ni Senator Lacson at alam naman natin ang proseso ng lawmaking. Kinakailangan magkaroon talaga ‘yan ng consensus. Malayo pa yung tatahakin niyan kung talagang made-defund po ‘yan (That is the personal opinion of Senator Lacson and we know the process of lawmaking. There should be a consensus. It would be a long process before the task force is defunded),” Roque said.

He also reiterated Palace support for the emergence of community pantries across the country, saying it exemplifies “the best of the Filipino in the worst of times.”

“Wini-welcome natin itong bayanihan ng community pantries at hinihingi natin sa lahat ng opisyales maging mas maingat sa kanilang mga sinasabi (We welcome bayanihan from community pantries and ask officials to be more cautious in what they are saying), he added.

Meanwhile, he urged community pantry organizers to coordinate with local governments to ensure the proper implementation of minimum health standards.

“Kinakailangan sumunod din sa minimum health standards at kasama po diyan iyong prohibition sa mass gathering dahil kapag tayo po’y nagkumpul-kumpulan, iyan po ang pinaka-sure na pamamaraan para kumalat ang Covid (We need to follow minimum health standards which include the prohibition of mass gathering because if we gather together, that is a sure way of spreading Covid-19),” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138055

PAF attack helicopter crashes in Bohol

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27, 2021): PAF attack helicopter crashes in Bohol (By Priam Nepomuceno)

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) confirmed that one of its McDonnell Douglas MD-520 "Defender" attack helicopters crashed in Bohol after a maintenance flight on Tuesday.

"We can confirm that we have a downed aircraft in the vicinity of Bohol. As of now, that is the only thing that I can tell you. Right now, we are still gathering all the information needed so that we will be able to give you (more) information," PAF spokesperson Lt. Col. Maynard Mariano said in an interview with reporters.

Mariano said the mishap took place around 9:30 a.m.

The helicopter took off from Mactan Island for a periodic maintenance flight and shortly went down in the shoreline of Getape, Bohol.

"Investigation is still ongoing to (determine what exactly happened in that) incident," he added.

Mariano said they are still confirming reports on survivors and fatalities from the incident.

The PAF is known to operate around 12 to 16 models of these attack helicopters.

It has acquired 25 units of these helicopters in the early 1990s and it was used to support troops during encounters with the New People's Army and lawless elements like the Abu Sayyaf Group for the past few years.

The MD-520 is derived from the MD-500 light utility helicopter. It can be armed with .50 caliber heavy machines and air-to-ground rockets.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138137

Pilot killed, 3 others hurt as PAF chopper crashes in Bohol

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27, 2021): Pilot killed, 3 others hurt as PAF chopper crashes in Bohol (By Priam Nepomuceno)

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) confirmed that the pilot of the McDonnell Douglas MD-520 "Defender" attack helicopter died from Tuesday morning's crash in the town of Getafe in Bohol.

"He is the pilot-in-command," PAF spokesperson Lt. Col. Maynard Mariano told reporters.

The name of the fatality was withheld pending notification of his next of kin.

Meanwhile, his co-pilot and two other crew members survived the mishap and are undergoing treatment in a medical facility in Talibon town.

"Members of the PAF 505 Search and Rescue Group, the 47IB (Infantry Battalion), and the Bohol PDRRMO (Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office) rushed to the crash site to immediately rescue members of the aircrew who were brought to the nearest hospital for proper medical attention," Mariano said.

The ill-fated aircraft with tail number 410 is from the PAF's 15th Strike Wing.

The accident happened around 9:30 a.m. while the crew was on an engineering flight.

He added the men and women of the PAF, led by its commander Lt. Gen. Allen Paredes, deeply grieve the loss of an aircrew in the line of duty.

"As of this writing, families of the involved personnel are being informed of the incident. We request that while this is being done, all concerned will be sensitive to the families involved. The PAF will provide all necessary assistance and financial aid for the bereaved family," he added.

Mariano said the PAF has ordered the grounding of the entire MD-520 attack helicopter fleet.

He added that all of its air assets are undergoing strict, regular, and redundant maintenance inspections before and after flight missions.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also condoled with the family of the fatality.

"AFP Chief, General Cirilito Sobejana is saddened by the report of the demise of one of our Philippine Air Force (PAF) pilots who succumbed in a crash landing of a PAF MD-520 helicopter today, 27 April 2021 in Getafe, Bohol. We send our sincerest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues as we offer our support in any way we can," AFP spokesperson, Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said in a statement.

The PAF is set to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138163

Abolishing anti-terror law against int'l obligations: SolGen

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27, 2021): Abolishing anti-terror law against int'l obligations: SolGen (By Benjamin Pulta)

Nullification of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) will compromise international economic commitments and endanger the nation’s economic survival.

Thus, said Solicitor General Jose Calida on Tuesday during the resumption of the oral arguments on the ATA before the Supreme Court (SC).

Calida cited the 2020 Global Terrorism Index that indicated the Philippines has the dubious distinction of being the only Southeast Asian country in the top 10 nations most impacted by terrorism, adding that the anti-terror law “is essential to the Philippines compliance to international obligations”.

He noted that the international FATF (Financial Action Task Force) has set a deadline for the enactment of an anti-terrorism statute.

If the country fails to comply, the Philippines will be in danger of being included in the ”high risk and non-cooperative jurisdictions", he said.

“Without such a law the Philippines will be treated as a leper. FATF will see to it to either blacklist us or put us on the grey list,” he said.

The enactment of the ATA is compliant with the country’s obligations under the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) No. 1373 and the International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism, Calida stressed.

“The latest Mutual Evaluation Report of the FATF rated the Philippines as only partially compliant to UNSCR No. 1373. The UNSC found the Philippines’ efforts in preventing terrorist financing as grossly deficient.”

Calida added that greylisting the country in the future would reduce investor and lender confidence and “may also result to limited access to banking or financial services” and could potentially affect millions of overseas Filipino workers and their families who “will be severely affected by the higher cost of remittances which reduce the amount of their support”.

“Clearly, greylisting would seriously affect the country’s international trade, remittances, and humanitarian financial flows that support the country’s economic growth and development,” he said.

A grey list is made up of countries that are considered as a safe haven for terror funding and money laundering while blacklisted nations are those deemed non-cooperative in the global effort to curb money laundering and terror financing.

No justification

Calida emphasized that nothing will justify the murder of innocent people and helpless children.

“Terrorism must be outlawed by all civilized nations, not explained or rationalized, but fought and eradicated. Nothing can and nothing will justify the murder of innocent people and helpless children,” Calida said in his opening statement.

The questions raised, Calida said, are outside the powers of the court.

“Congress in its wisdom passed a new Anti-Terrorism Act. The political question is the reason behind this enactment. The doctrine of separation of powers barricades it from judicial scrutiny. The determination of this matter exclusively rests upon Congress. Due deference from the courts, is expected,” he said.

“It is the duty of petitioners to demonstrate actual case and controversy worthy of judicial resolution. Despite the braggadocio of the petitioners, they did not do it,” he added.

He said "outright dismissal is the only choice available" because there are other parties with direct and specific interests.

Calida said there are charges for violation of the ATA being litigated before regional trial courts.

“Ergo, any resolution, in this case, would be purely academic and hypothetical – a clear waste of this Honorable Court’s time and resources,” Calida added.

Among the cases being pursued, Calida cited the proscription case filed by the Department of Justice against the Abu Sayyaf Group before a Basilan court.

He noted the declaration of the Anti-Terrorism Council, designating the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army and Islamic State East Asia, Maute Group, Daulah Islamiyah, and other associated groups, as terrorist organizations.

Faulty filings

Calida also noted formal defects in some petitions which failed to comply with the requirements of the high court.

He said there are petitions that did not submit a special power of attorney to allow counsel to represent their interests in the case; failed to state the required attestation in the rules of court; failed to comply with court rules requiring paragraphs to be numbered as required in court rules; and lacked the required verification and certification for non-forum shopping.

A total of 37 petitions were filed before the SC, questioning the ATA.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138202

Defunding NTF-ELCAC to benefit terrorists: solon

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27, 2021): Defunding NTF-ELCAC to benefit terrorists: solon (By Christine Cudis)

DISAGREE. Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa on Tuesday (April 27, 2021) said he disagrees with recommendations to defund the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict. He said the accomplishments made by the task force against communist terrorist groups should be considered and sustained. (Photo courtesy of Sen. dela Rosa Facebook)

Communist terrorist groups are the only ones that will benefit from the threat of defunding the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa on Tuesday rejected calls for a zero-budget NTF-ELCAC in 2022 and to re-allocate its current funds for other purposes.

"A huge portion of the NTF-ELCAC's budget goes to the development of barangays cleared of insurgencies. Now if the government will retract this promised development when the people there have been waiting for it, what will likely happen? If that's the case, the people will consider to support the New People's Army (NPA) again. The communist terrorists will benefit," he said in a statement in Filipino.

The call to defund the NTF-ELCAC was triggered by the alleged red-tagging of community pantry organizers by task force spokesperson Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade.

The PHP16.5-billion budget earmarked for NTF-ELCAC’s Barangay Development Program goes directly to local government units.

"I do not agree with defunding the NTF. It is not right. We need to separate Parlade from the NTF-ELCAC, which is very effective in gaining grounds against the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA-National Democratic Front)," the senator said.

On Saturday, Senator Panfilo Lacson suggested that the Committee on Finance look into how the task force has been spending its budget.

He said Congress has the power to defund the task force if the Department of National Defense continues to ignore the Senate’s recommendation to remove Parlade as its spokesperson.

The NTF-ELCAC, created by virtue of Executive Order 70 issued on Dec. 4, 2018, is tasked to “provide an efficient mechanism and structure for the implementation of the whole-of-nation approach to aid in the realization of collective aspirations for inclusive and sustainable peace.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138218

Reds' killing sprees to further weaken CP-NPA: ex-cadres

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27, 2021): Reds' killing sprees to further weaken CP-NPA: ex-cadres (By Marita Moaje)

A group composed of former rebels condemned the ambush by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) which resulted in the death of their two members in Bohol on Monday.

The Sentrong Alyansa ng Mamamayan para sa Bayan (Sambayanan), in a statement Tuesday, warned that communist terrorist groups (CTGs) are courting disaster if they continue their killing sprees.

Sambayanan identified their slain colleagues as Rolando Pornis and Jaime Cagatin.

Two others, Michael Hinampas and Antonio Muring, survived the ambush but were badly wounded.

“The NPA's killing shall not go in vain as it would signal the rise of the masses against the CPP-NPA-NDF,” the group said.

The victims were ambushed by six CPP-NPA terrorists at the border of Barangays Aloha and Vambacay in Batuan town at around 4:30 p.m.

Sambayanan said the victims were onboard motorcycles on their way home to Carmen town after meeting with Barangay Aloha residents.

Attacking unarmed civilian volunteers is a strong indication that the CTGs are already hurting and affected by the current counter-political drives that the CPP-NPA started, the group said.

“This incident is reminiscent of the emergence of the Alsa Masa movement and similar uprisings of the masses against the CPP-NPA-NDF in other parts of the country,” Sambayanan’s statement read.

The ambush may just be the start of a bloody reaction by the CPP-NPA-NDF as they are slowly going down the drain.

“The wanton killings made by the NPA Sparrow Unit against soldiers, policemen, and civilians in both the cities and countryside triggered the phenomenal anti-communism movement in the country that eventually rattled the CPP-NPA-NDF to launch a senseless internal purging which ended with the reexamination and correction of itself (Ikalawang Dakilang Kilusang Pagwawasto or IDKP/Second Great Rectification Movement),” the statement read.

Sambayanan is a multi-sectoral alliance formed by former rebels and cadres of the CPP-NPA-NDF, after they returned to the fold of the law.

Members are now pushing for genuine peace and development, in support of Executive Order (EO) 70 signed by President Duterte in December 2018.

EO 70 created the National Task Force to End Local Armed Conflict that institutionalized a whole-of-nation approach in obtaining exclusive and sustainable peace.

The CPP-NPA 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/1138209

PMA Class 1983 donates food items for NCR community pantries

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28, 2021): PMA Class 1983 donates food items for NCR community pantries (By Priam Nepomuceno)

FOOD AID. JTF-NCR chief, Brig. Gen. Marcellano Teofilo (3rd from right) receives a box of food items from PMA Class 1983 president and Interior Undersecretary Bernardo Florece (4th from left) during the turnover of donations in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Tuesday (April 27, 2021). The donation which contains 150 sacks of rice, 6,000 cans of sardines and 6,000 packs of instant noodles will be distributed to various community pantries in Metro Manila. (Photo courtesy of JTF-NCR)

The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1983 donated food items to the Joint Task Force-National Capital Region (JTF-NCR) which will be distributed to various community pantries in Metro Manila.

Brig. Gen. Marcellano Teofilo, JTF-NCR chief, received the donations from PMA Class of 1983 president and Interior Undersecretary Bernardo Florece in a ceremony in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Tuesday.

The donation includes 150 sacks of rice, 6,000 cans of sardines, and 6,000 packs of instant noodles.

Teofilo thanked the members of PMA Class of 1983 for their charity, sympathy, and commitment to serving the Filipino people during these trying times.

Florece said the donations are just "a simple way from their class of reaching out to the community."

"We would like to thank the PMA 'Matikas' Class of 1983 for this generous donation. This only proves that no one has the monopoly of generosity,” said Maj. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, Armed Forces of the Philippines deputy chief-of-staff for civil-military operations.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138248

Various gov't agencies patrol WPS: task force

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28, 2021): Various gov't agencies patrol WPS: task force (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of AFP

Various government agencies are now coordinating and patrolling the West Philippine Sea as part of the country's efforts to protect its sovereignty and exercise sovereign rights as stipulated in the Constitution and international law.

"The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and Philippine National Police-Maritime Group (PNP-MG) are closely coordinating in the continuous regular deployment of vessels in the country’s maritime domain for law enforcement, monitoring, ensuring the safety of the Filipino fishermen, and protecting the environment," National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF WPS) spokesperson Omar Romero said in a statement Wednesday.

The deployment of the BFAR's monitoring, control, and surveillance (MCS) and multi-mission offshore vessels (MMOV) off Kalayaan will also boost the country's capability to deter illegal fishing, the statement said.

"Strengthening regulations against illegal unreported and unregulated fishing (IUUF), protection of the marine environment, and enhancing the well-being of Filipinos dependent on this critical resource remain to be the priority of the government," it read.

It added that aside from these vessels, the PCG has deployed its aircraft to patrol the area.

Meanwhile, the PNP-MG has also allocated its high-speed tactical watercraft, police gunboats, and police fast boats for deployment in law enforcement patrols.

"PNP-MG personnel will be posted to the Municipality of Kalayaan and assigned as ship riders aboard PCG, Philippine Navy, and BFAR vessels," the statement said.

Area Task Forces (ATFs), it said have dedicated naval vessels and military aircraft to conduct sovereignty patrols on a rotational basis over the Municipality of Kalayaan, Bajo de Masinloc (BdM), and the rest of the western seaboard.

"For the period 15 to 22 April 2021, the PCG reported that there were no direct incidents between the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) and Filipino fishermen, in both the Municipality of Kalayaan and BdM, for the third consecutive week. An average of 20 Filipino fishing boats and service boats were monitored fishing within the territorial sea of BdM," the statement read.

However, Romero said the ATFs reported the continued illegal presence of three CCG vessels off BdM, another one off the municipality of Kalayaan, and another one off the Ayungin Shoal.

"These incursions are under review for the possible filing of appropriate diplomatic actions," he added.

In response to the continued illegal presence of CCG, NTF WPs said the PCG conducted maritime patrols off the Municipality of Kalayaan and BdM, coinciding with its ongoing maritime capacity-building exercises dubbed as Task Force Pagsasanay.

"Our government shall not waver in pursuing peaceful, rules-based and proactive initiatives on environmental protection, the safety of navigation, maritime and food security within our maritime domains," the statement said.

NTF WPS reminded all stakeholders in the region of their respective commitments made in the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea and underscored the importance of diplomacy and sincere discussion in exploring areas of cooperation especially on marine environmental protection in the area.

This to ensure that present and future generations have the right to a healthy and sustainable environment, it added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138270

China has no legal basis to prevent PH drills in WPS: Lorenzana

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28, 2021): China has no legal basis to prevent PH drills in WPS: Lorenzana (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (File photo)

China has no legal basis to prevent the Philippines from conducting maritime exercises in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), the country's defense chief said on Wednesday.

"They have no authority or legal basis to prevent us from conducting these exercises within the WPS. Atin yan (That is ours)," Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in a message to reporters.

This came following China's calls to stop the ongoing maritime exercises of the Philippine Coast Guard and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, noting that such actions are "complicating the situation and escalating the disputes".

He added that Beijing's "historical" claims on the West Philippine Sea have no basis.

"Their claims according to their so-called historical rights have no basis while we have two international documents saying the area is ours: the UNCLOS (United Nations Convention for the Law of the Sea) of which China is a signatory and the Arbitral Award of 2016," he added.

UNCLOS, he said, gave the Philippines sovereign rights to explore the natural resources of an area that is 200 nautical miles away from the mainland.

"The Arbitral Award has categorically stated that the Chinese claim bounded by their so-called nine-dash line according to their 'historical right' has no basis in fact. Therefore, it is they who are encroaching and should desist and leave," he added.

He opposed China's claims that Philippine maritime exercises are "complicating the situation and escalating disputes", saying it is the other way around.

"Walang basis 'yung nine-dash line nila, according to an international tribunal, sila ang nagko-complicate ng situation by insisting to stay within our WPS (Their nine-dash line has no basis according to an international tribunal, they are the ones complicating the situation by insisting to stay within our WPS)," Lorenzana said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138311

China ‘good friend’ but I won’t compromise WPS: Duterte

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28, 2021): China ‘good friend’ but I won’t compromise WPS: Duterte

President Rodrigo Duterte and Chinese President Xi Jinping (Presidential file photo)

President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday reassured Filipinos that the Philippines’ sovereign rights over the hotly-contested West Philippine Sea (WPS) would not be compromised, even if China is the country’s “friend.”

“China, let it be known, is a good friend and we do not want trouble with them, especially war. But there are things which are not really subject to a compromise,” Duterte said in his pre-recorded public address.

Duterte gave the assurance, but insisted that he would maintain a non-combative stance to address the sea dispute with China.

He guaranteed that he would not “bargain” the Philippines’ sovereignty over WPS with its friendship with China.

“Sasabihin ko na (I will tell them that) there are some things in life which cannot be bargained and this is one of them,” he said. “Now, tignan natin kung ano ang gawin ng China (let’s see what will China do) despite our pleadings for peace and to settle it.”

Earlier Wednesday, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque denied that the Duterte government is lacking in ability to address the Philippines’ ongoing row with China over the continued presence of the Chinese vessels in WPS.

The National Task Force (NTF) for WPS, in a separate statement, said the Philippine government continues to patrol WPS in the exercise of its sovereignty and sovereign rights under the Philippine Constitution and international law.

The NTF-WPS added that the government shall not waver in pursuing “peaceful, rules-based and proactive initiatives on environmental protection, safety of navigation, maritime and food security within our maritime domains.”

Past admin blamed over China’s sweeping WPS claims

Duterte blamed the administration of his predecessor, former president Benigno Aquino III, for its supposed inaction over China’s sweeping maritime claims in WPS.

Duterte chided the Aquino administration’s alleged negligence to act on China’s activities in the strategic waters.

“Kung bright kayo, bakit nawala ang West Philippine Sea sa atin? Panahon ninyo ‘yun eh. Panahon ninyo nung nandiyan kayo sa puwesto. Ngayong China na ang naghawak doon, ako na ang niluluslos ninyong gumawa ng paraan (If you are bright, why did we lose the West Philippine Sea? The dispute happened during your time. Now that China is controlling it, why are you forcing me to find a way to address the sea row)?” he said.

Duterte said the situation in WPS already gets worse even before he assumed the presidency in 2016.

“Ang naabutan ko talo na tayo, ang China kumasa na ng husto na kanila na talaga (When I assumed office, we already lost to China after they already gained control [over WPS),” he said. “‘Yun ang istorya diyan. Remember na pagdating ko sa opisina sa pagkapresidente, iyang [South] China Sea, nandoon na talaga sa China kasi umatras tayo (That’s the story there. Remember, when I became president, China is already there in South China Sea because we did not assert our claim).”

On July 12, 2016, the Philippines won its petition filed against China before the Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration after the arbitration court invalidated Beijing’s sweeping claims over almost the entire sea.

The NTF-WPS reported the continued illegal presence of three Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessels in Bajo de Masinloc, one CCG vessel in municipality of Kalayaan, and one CCG vessel in Ayungin Shoal.

The Department of Foreign Affairs already filed on April 14 two diplomatic protests against China amid the prolonged presence of its vessels in WPS.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138398

Ex-Sarangani town dad killed, 2 others hurt in GenSan ambush

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 26, 2021): Ex-Sarangani town dad killed, 2 others hurt in GenSan ambush (By Richelyn Gubalani)

AMBUSH. Photo shows the bullet-riddled pickup truck driven by former Malapatan, Sarangani councilor Montacier Singcoy, 41, who was killed in an ambush in Purok San Jose, Barangay Baluan on Sunday night. His wife Akiba, 43, and younger brother Aldrin, 18, were wounded in the attack. (PNA photo by Richelyn Gubalani)

GENERAL SANTOS CITY – A former municipal councilor of Malapatan town, Sarangani province was killed while two of his family members were wounded in an ambush in a village here on Sunday night.

Maj. Yol Hilado, chief of the city's Police Station 3, said Monday the victim Montacier Singcoy, 41, and three other companions were on their way home to Malapatan aboard a pickup truck when they were waylaid by three unidentified gunmen at a portion of Purok San Jose, Barangay Baluan around 9 p.m.

He said Singcoy, who was driving the pickup, was hit in the initial volley of gunfire and lost control of the vehicle that swerved and hit a nearby house.

“According to witnesses, the suspects then approached the vehicle and finished off the victim,” Hilado said in an interview.

Singcoy died on the spot due to multiple gunshot wounds on the head and body. His wife Akiba, 43, was hit in her left leg while his younger brother Aldrin, 18, sustained a gunshot wound in the abdomen.

Another companion identified as Rolando Flores, 44, was unhurt in the attack.

Police responders recovered from the ambush site at least 16 spent shells of a .45 caliber handgun.

Hilado said Akiba and Aldrin are undergoing treatment in separate hospitals here under tight security.

He said investigators are currently gathering statements from witnesses to establish the identity of the suspects and the possible motive of the attack.

“Hopefully we can get some leads that could lead to the resolution of the case,” Hilado said.

Singcoy is a former chairman of Barangay Poblacion in Malapatan and had served in the municipal council.

He is the eldest son of long-time Malapatan Mayor Alfonso Singcoy Sr., who last served in 2019.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137977

Army resumes artillery attack vs. BIFF in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 26, 2021): Army resumes artillery attack vs. BIFF in Maguindanao (By Edwin Fernandez)

Google map of Shariff Saydona Mustapha – Datu Piang border in Maguindanao

The military launched anew preemptive artillery attacks on pinpointed positions of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) on the border of two Maguindanao towns Monday following reports of the massing up of some 30 terrorist members in the area.

Lt. Col. John Paul Baldomar, speaking for the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said the 3 a.m. artillery strikes were initiated after the Army intelligence unit confirmed that the BIFF has again converged in the borders of Sharif Saydona Mustapha and Datu Piang towns.

“We are still validating reports that some of them were either hurt or killed,” Baldomar said in a radio interview, adding that the BIFF moved to another area and are plotting to launch attacks against civilian communities, non-combatants, and government forces.

On Saturday, four BIFF members have been reported killed in the military operation aimed at preventing the lawless group from conducting further harassment against civilians.

Tension was reported in remote villages of Datu Shariff Saydona on Sunday when the government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) were to set up a Joint Peace and Security Team (JPST) station in the town.

Baldomar said the BIFF is opposed to the establishment of JPST station or checkpoint “thus they are creating noise there.”

He said the BIFF's opposition should not hinder the government and the MILF from implementing the provisions of the peace agreement that includes the establishment of JPST stations in Central Mindanao.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137974

Army welcomes surrender of 11th Basilan-based ASG member

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 26, 2021): Army welcomes surrender of 11th Basilan-based ASG member (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

ANOTHER ASG SURRENDERER. Abdul Asnula Akil, a member of the Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), hands over a Garand rifle to Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, Joint Task Force Basilan commander, when he surrendered Sunday (April 25, 2021) in Basilan province. Akil is the 11th ASG member who surrendered in Basilan in January 2021. (Photo courtesy of the Western Mindanao Command Public Information Office)

The number of Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) surrenderers in Basilan province has increased to 11 since January this year after another bandit surrendered to military authorities, Army officials said Monday.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said the intensified non-combat operations of the military units in Basilan led to the surrender Sunday of Abdul Asnulan Akil alias Abz, a resident of Barangay Kamamburingan, Ungkaya Pukan municipality.

Vinluan said that Akil is a follower of the notorious Basilan-based ASG leader Radzmil Jannatul, alias Khubayb.

He said that Akil yielded a US-made caliber .30 M1 Garand rifle with 18 live ammunition.

Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, Joint Task Force (JTF)-Basilan commander, said Akil has a standing warrant of arrest for murder. He was allegedly involved in the April 22, 2018 beheading of four civilians in Barangay Kamamburingan, Ungkaya Pukan.

“His surrender is attributed to our peace efforts facilitated by the different intelligence units here in Basilan,” Gobway added.

Akil is currently undergoing custodial debriefing at the headquarters of the 101st Infantry Brigade and JTF Basilan in Barangay Tabiawan, Isabela City, the capital of Basilan province.

He will subsequently be turned over to Basilan Provincial Police Office for proper disposition.

During the initial debriefing, Akil said he suffered starvation while evading the government forces, according to Gobway.

“He is happy that he now has a chance to start anew and live in peace,” he said.

“We hope that those who remain in hiding will follow the footsteps of Akil. Rest assured that we will give our full support during their reintegration process,” Vinluan said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137978

Defunding NTF-ELCAC act of ‘treason’: ex-NPA cadre

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 26, 2021): Defunding NTF-ELCAC act of ‘treason’: ex-NPA cadre (By Noel Punzalan)

ACT OF TREASON. Joy James Saguino alias 'Ka Amihan', former secretary of Guerilla Front 20 under Sub-regional Committee 1 of the New People’s Army’s Southern Mindanao Region, says defunding NTF ELCAC will deprive a development program that rebel returnees deserve. In a recent press conference in Magpet, Cotabato, Ka Amihan said (lawmakers’ move to defund or realign the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict’s (NTF-ELCAC) funds an act of treason. (Army’s 1002nd Brigade photo)

A former member of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) has described some lawmakers’ move to defund or realign the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict’s (NTF-ELCAC) funds as an act of treason.

“From our point of view as former rebels and to those victims of communist deception and exploitation, defunding NTF-ELCAC is an act of treason to the people,” said Joy James Saguino alias 'Ka Amihan', who served as secretary of Guerilla Front 20 under Sub-regional Committee 1 of the New People’s Army’s Southern Mindanao Region.

“Ka Amihan”, in a recent press conference here, said he is puzzled by the proposal to realign NTF ELCAC’s Barangay Development Program (BDP) budget of PHP16.5 billion for the development of 822 barangays cleared of insurgency.

“Bakit natin i-de-deprive ng isang kaunlarang programa na deserve nila (Why would we defund it? Why would we deprive a development program they [NPA surrenderers] deserve?) For how many years?,” he added.

She described the communist insurgency as worse than the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.

“Ka Amihan”, who is among the resource persons in the Nov. 24, 2020, Senate Committee on National Defense & Security, Peace, Unification and Reconciliation hearing on red-tagging, claimed he was recruited at the University of the Philippines Visayas in Iloilo as a member of League of Filipino Students (LFS).

Joining “Ka Amihan in the press conference the Army’s 1002nd Brigade command post in Magpet, North Cotabato were three other former rebels, along with North Cotabato Governor Nancy Catamco, Brigadier General Potenciano Camba, and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency 12 Director Eduardo Marquez.

Listen to former NPA rebels

Meanwhile, North Cotabato Governor Nancy Catamco said senators should listen to the former rebels who experienced poverty and the hardships of being in the communist movement.

“I think they do not understand the purpose of Executive Order 70, and maybe they should listen to Amihan, and other former rebels before they talk because they have a different experience there in the Senate compared to the former rebels,” Catamco said.

She believes that President Rodrigo Duterte will not go against his mandate in realigning the government’s anti-insurgency body to other projects.

BDP is a hallmark program of NTF ELCAC with the end goal of bringing development to former conflict-prone communities.

Antidote

Camba said each target BDP beneficiary has high expectations of the program with the PHP20-million that is more than a regular budget of a barangay.

“It will be of great service to the people that we can provide farm to market roads, school buildings, and water and sanitation projects with the particular allocation,” he said.

Camba added that the lack of projects and programs to affected barangay before paved the way for the insurgents to thrive over the years and that the BDP is the “antidote”.

Appropriations of the PHP20 million for each barangay include PHP12 million for 1-kilometer farm-to-market road; PHP3 million for classrooms; PHP1.5 million water and sanitation systems; PHP1.5 million for health stations; and PHP1.5 million for livelihood projects.

“We want to bring peace to communities who were victims of exploitation and radicalization infiltration and this is more than a Covid-19 pandemic because this communist insurgency is more than a virus killing millions,” he said.

For Major General Ernesto Torres Jr., Army’s 10th Infantry Division commander, the success of Executive Order 70 signed by President Duterte in 2018, and strong convergence of government agencies, the problem of insurgency is just an inch away to total eradication with the help of the people as part of the whole of the nation approach.

The CPP-NPA 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/1137993

Ranking female NPA leader surrenders in NoCot

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 26, 2021): Ranking female NPA leader surrenders in NoCot (By John Andrew Tabugoc)

SURRENDER. The mugshot of Lilia Cagulada Gecana alias Commander Ligaya of the NPA Guerrilla Front 72 and designated chairperson of Gabriela Malabuan Cluster. Gecana has a standing arrest warrant for multiple attempted murder charges. (Photo courtesy of Makilala MPS)

MAKILALA, North Cotabato – A high-ranking leader of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New Peoples’ Army (CPP-NPA) in North Cotabato facing criminal charges voluntarily surrendered to authorities here Sunday.

Maj. Arniel Melocotones, Makilala police chief, identified the surrenderer as Lilia Cagulada Gecana alias Commander Ligaya, 63, of the NPA Guerrilla Front 72 and designated chairperson of Gabriela Malabuan Cluster.

Gecana has a standing arrest warrant for multiple attempted murder charges issued by the Regional Trial Court, 12th Judicial Region, Branch 23 in Kidapawan City.

“The day before her surrender, our warrant officer received a text message from Gecana saying that she will voluntarily submit herself to authorities”, Melocotones said. “Her yielding is due to intense intelligence monitoring jointly initiated against her by the police and military."

Gecana is detained at the Makilala police custodial facility and is set to be presented before a local court for her commitment order.

The CPP-NPA 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/1138007

2 NPA rebels killed in Negros Occidental encounter

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 26, 2021): 2 NPA rebels killed in Negros Occidental encounter (By Nanette Guadalquiver )

ILLEGAL ITEMS. Troops of the Philippine Army’s 15th Infantry Battalion seized various firearms and ammunition after their clash with communist-terrorists in Ilog, Negros Occidental on Saturday (April 24, 2021). Two rebels were killed during the 40-minute encounter in Sitio Payranan. (Photo courtesy of 15IB)

Some two Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) fighters have been killed in an armed clash with troops of the Philippine Army’s 15th Infantry Battalion (15IB) in Barangay Pinggot, Ilog town in Negros Occidental on Saturday.

The 15IB reported on Monday that the cadavers were brought to a funeral parlor in Barangay Hilamonan in neighboring Kabankalan City.

There were no casualties among government troops during the 40-minute firefight with members of the NPA’s Platoon 3 Southwest Front of Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor in Sitio Payranan.

Col. Leonardo Peña, commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade, which supervises the 15IB based in southern Negros, commended the relentless efforts of the troops in their series of engagements with the communist-terrorists.

He also recognized the participation of the community in providing accurate and timely information to soldiers, a proof that the locals are tired of the “deceptions and whims” of the CPP-NPA.

“We have to guard the peace that we enjoy now and not lose our grip in working together so that the next generation will also enjoy it without the fear of being deceived,” Peña added.

Col. Erwin Cariño, commanding officer of the 15IB with headquarters in Barangay Tiling, Cauayan, said the people’s continuous support in providing information on the activities and location of the communist-terrorists have greatly contributed to their efforts in ending the local insurgency in Negros Island.

“We call on the remaining NPA to surrender while you still have time,” he added.

Government troops recovered from the slain rebels a Colt AR15 M-16 rifle, a caliber .45 pistol, a 12-gauge homemade shotgun, an anti-personnel mine with blasting and detonating cap, three short magazines, assorted live ammunition, subversive documents, and five backpacks.

The encounter in Ilog came a week after the clash between the CPP-NPA rebels and 15IB soldiers in Purok Yuring, Sitio Dash 7, Barangay Bulwangan, which also claimed the lives of two communist-terrorists.

The CPP-NPA 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/1138013

Defunding NTF-ELCAC to undo gains vs. insurgency: IP leader

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27, 2021): Defunding NTF-ELCAC to undo gains vs. insurgency: IP leader (By Alexander Lopez)

Datu Rico Maca, the Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of the town of San Miguel in Surigao del Sur. (PNA file photo)

The call of some senators to defund the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) would be a blow to the Barangay Development Program (BDP) now being implemented by local government units (LGUs) and would undo the gains of the government's campaign against the decades-old insurgency.

This, according to Datu Rico Maca, the Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of the town of San Miguel in Surigao del Sur, in an interview with the Philippine News Agency on Monday.

“I feel that some members of the Senate are not with us in the fight to end insurgency,” Maca said, emphasizing that it’s the communities and the locals who directly suffer from the terroristic activities of the communist New People’s Army (NPA).

He noted that the government has made major breakthroughs in its fight against insurgency through Executive Order No. 70 that President Rodrigo R. Duterte issued in late 2018.

Under the EO 70, NTF-ELCAC is tasked as the front-line body to coordinate the government's anti-insurgency response with various agencies and local government units.

“We have reached out to these far-flung villages where the residents have suffered for a long period of time from the hands of the NPA rebels. The realization of the BDPs is critical in completely freeing these residents from the hands of the terrorist rebels,” Maca said.

In San Miguel town, a total of six far-flung villages will directly benefit from BDP with a PHP20-million budget each.

These barangays, mostly populated by indigenous peoples (IPs), include Bitaugan, Bagyang, Calatngan, Carromata, Umalag, and Bolhoon.

Maca said the PHP20-million BDP budget would be utilized to construct access roads for the said barangays.

“These roads will facilitate the delivery of government services to the people of the six barangays. The NPA rebels hate roads because they do not want government services for the people. The rebels want to make these people live in poverty constantly, blame the government, and urge them to fight the government,” Maca said.

He also called on the senators to reconsider their decision and instead consider the wider impact of BPD projects on the lives of ordinary civilians.

Six senators have expressed interest in defunding the NTF-ELCAC, including the BDP, and want the funds diverted to the drive against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) in the country.

At present, a total of 822 barangays in the country will receive PHP20 million each for BDP project implementation, including road networks, classrooms, water and sanitation systems, health stations, and livelihood projects.

The CPP-NPA 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/1138009

Samar mayors junk calls to defund NTF-ELCAC

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27, 2021): Samar mayors junk calls to defund NTF-ELCAC (By Sarwell Meniano)

REMOTE VILLAGE. Matuguinao, Samar Mayor Aran Boller (right) visits a remote village in his town in this Nov. 28, 2020 photo. The mayor has expressed concern over realigning funds for the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, saying the move will deprive remote communities of the chance to benefit from development. (Photo courtesy of Aran Boller)

Mayors in Samar provinces have expressed concern over calls to realign the budget of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), saying the move will deprive remote communities of the chance to benefit from development.

Matuguinao, Samar Mayor Aran Boller said on Tuesday the proposal to defund the NTF-ELCAC, which includes allocations for Barangay (village) Development Program (BDP), shows insensitivity to the needs of rural communities.

“I wish our senators will realize that more people in remote areas died and more lives have been shattered due to armed conflict brought by the New People’s Army (NPA) than those who perished from Covid-19,” Boller told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) in a phone interview in reaction to reports that some senators are pushing for diversion of BDP funds to measures against coronavirus disease in the country.

“Residents in several communities have never seen a concrete road or path walk even at their village centers. This is their only chance to see development. We promised them development and we have to keep that promise through BDP," he added.

Matuguinao, a fifth-class town with a population of nearly 8,000, is a recipient of BDP with 12 formerly NPA-influence villages covered.

Each village is bound to receive PHP20 million for basic infrastructure and livelihood activities in 2022 under BDP.

The local government’s intensified campaign against insurgency compelled over 200 rebels in their town, including mass supporters to surrender this year.

In Silvino Lubos, Northern Samar, Mayor Leo Jarito said defunding the BDP is a big loss to local government units like them which has been on the frontline in the fight against aged-old insurgency.

“For several years, we have been pushing for the opening of access roads leading to the five villages considered as a priority for BDP. Fund diversion will stall this plan,” Jarito told PNA.

The mayor urged lawmakers to consider the plight of poor families in rural communities who have suffered from terrorist activities of the NPA before backing the fund realignments call.

At least five remote villages in Silvino Lubos town will be covered by the BDP.

Silvino Lubos, a fourth-class town has a population of over 15,000.

Several upland communities were influenced by the NPA due to poor road access and high illiteracy.

BDP is a hallmark program of NTF-ELCAC with the end goal of bringing development to former conflict-prone communities.

Of the PHP19 billion total budget of the NTF-ELCAC, PHP16.5 billion is allotted for the development of 822 villages cleared of insurgency.

Each village will get an outlay of PHP20 million with PHP12 million intended for the one-kilometer farm-to-market road, PHP3 million for classrooms, PHP2 million for water and sanitation systems, PHP1.5 million for health station, and PHP1.5 million for livelihood projects.

On December 4, 2018, the President issued Executive Order No. 70 creating the NTF-ELCAC and institutionalized a whole-of-nation approach towards obtaining sustainable peace in the hopes of putting an end to more than 50 years of local communist insurgency.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138118

Iloilo City urges sustained funds for barangay dev't

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27, 2021): Iloilo City urges sustained funds for barangay dev't (By Perla Lena)

RETAIN BDP FUND. Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas said on Monday (April 26, 2021) the budget for the Barangay Development Program (BDP) of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) would be a big boost to the development of barangays, especially those facing a communist insurgency. In a statement, he urged that the fund of the national task force be retained. (File photo by Arnold Almacen/CMO)

ILOILO CITY – Amid some solons’ call to defund the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), the city government here is urging sustained funds for the anti-insurgency body's Barangay Development Program (BDP).

In a statement released on Monday afternoon, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas said barangays can utilize their PHP20 million incentives “to fund buildings and facilities in their areas, and bring much-needed services to their constituents”.

“I firmly believe that the NTF-ELCAC’s budget will be a big boost to the development and infrastructure of barangays, especially those facing problems on the communist insurgency. As mayor of Iloilo City, I strongly oppose the proposed defunding of Local Government Support Fund-Support to Barangay Development Program (LGSF-SBDP),” he said.

He added that by allowing barangays to implement their programs and projects, they are also given “the autonomy to govern their people”.

“I have always believed in empowering the barangays by enhancing their capabilities, and encouraging transparency and accountability at all times,” he added.

Meanwhile, PHP16.5 billion of the PHP19 billion fund of the NTF-ELCAC was appropriated for the development of 822 barangays in the country that have been cleared of insurgency.

Each recipient barangay would receive PHP20 million for the following: 1-kilometer farm-to-market road worth PHP12 million; classrooms (PHP3 million); water and sanitation systems (PHP2 million); health station (PHP1.5 million); and livelihood projects (PHP1.5 million).

BDP is the hallmark program of the NTF-ELCAC with the end goal of bringing development to former conflict-prone communities.

Data furnished by the 3rd Infantry Division Public Affairs Office (3ID PAO) showed that barangays Dungon A, Dungon B, Ingore, Lapuz Norte, Sinikway, and Tacas of Iloilo City were included as among those beneficiaries of the BDP at PHP20 million each.

The six barangays of Iloilo City were among those cleared from insurgency from 2016 up to early 2019.

“Per our last meeting about the BDP about a month ago, the DBM (Department of Budget and Management) said that the funds are available subject to documentary requirements,” Maj. Cenon Pancito III, spokesperson for the 31D PAO, said in a phone interview.

He added that as per DBM guidelines, funds for barangays in municipalities will be released through the provincial government, and allocations for the villages in the cities will course through their city governments.

The utilization of the budget will be based on the needs assessment that was conducted during the conduct of the community support program (CSP).

“It will depend on the barangay development plan that was crafted by the barangay. However, we have allowable projects that will have an impact on ending the local communist armed conflict,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138124

Army thwarts NPA bomb plot in Leyte

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27, 2021): Army thwarts NPA bomb plot in Leyte (By Sarwell Meniano)

BOMB-MAKING FACTORY. A surrenderer shows to a soldier the tunnel used for making bombs by the New People's Army on the outskirts of Ormoc City on Monday (April 26). The military also recovered bomb-making materials and improvised explosive devices (IED). (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

The Philippine Army has discovered a tunnel used by the New People’s Army (NPA) to make explosives and recovered bomb-making materials and improvised explosive devices (IED) on the outskirts of Ormoc City on Monday.

Brig. Gen. Zosimo Oliveros, commander of the Philippine Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade, said on Tuesday the discovery of the tunnel and seizure of bombs in upland Patag village was made possible through the disclosure of alias "Saag", a member of the terrorist NPA operating in Leyte province under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee.

He surrendered to the Army’s 14th Infantry Battalion in McArthur, Leyte on Monday, yielding an M14 rifle and bullets.

“This is a good indication that many of the communist terrorist group members have come to their senses and are now helping the government to end this communist armed conflict. Although we can consider alias Saag's return to the government a success, we should just continue to be vigilant and alert, especially the construction of such an explosive bomb is just close to the community that can cause danger to us,” Oliveros said in a statement.

The rebel fighter abandoned the NPA after he realized that joining the communist terrorist group was a big mistake and did nothing to benefit the people.

Making bombs is proof of the CPP (Communist Party of the Philippines)-NPA's outright violation of International Humanitarian Law and the terrorist group's violent approach to advance their evil intentions, according to Oliveros.

The military official said they are stepping up their drive to stop the NPA from rebuilding their base masses in Leyte province.

He urged rebels to surrender since the government is willing to help them start a new, free, and peaceful life with their families.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138169

ASG bandit killed in military operation in Sulu

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27, 2021): ASG bandit killed in military operation in Sulu (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Google map of Barangay Danag, Patikul, Sulu.

An Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandit was killed in a clash Tuesday amid the focused military operation in Sulu province, military officials said.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said the troops under the Joint Task Force (JTF)-Sulu were conducting a combat operation when they clashed with a group of followers of ASG leader Mudzimar Sawadjaan around 7:23 a.m. in Barangay Danag, Patikul, Sulu.

“We have gained grounds so we are sustaining the momentum to possibly neutralize all the remaining terrorists in Sulu,” Vinluan said.

Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, JTF-Sulu commander, said the troops launched a combat operation after receiving a report that ASG members were sighted in the area.

Gonzales said the 15-minute running gun battle resulted in the death of an ASG bandit, while the remaining terrorists scampered in different directions.

Col. Benjamin Batara Jr., the Army's 1102nd Infantry Brigade commander, said the troops recovered the remains of the slain ASG member and brought them to Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital for identification.

Since January this year, a total of 84 ASG members were neutralized in Sulu seven of which were killed, 70 surrendered, and seven arrested.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138170

Charges filed vs. NPA rebels in Surigao burning incident

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27, 2021): Charges filed vs. NPA rebels in Surigao burning incident (By Alexander Lopez)

Authorities filed three criminal charges against several communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels involved in the burning of construction equipment in Surigao City, the chief of the Police Regional Office in Caraga (PRO-13) said Tuesday.

In a statement, Brig. Gen. Romeo M. Caramat, Jr. said charges of destructive arson, malicious mischief, and violation of Republic Act No. 9851 (Crimes against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide and other Crimes against Humanity were filed against Ligaya Aton, Gelan Ybañez, and other NPA personalities belonging to the Guerilla Front 16B of the NPA's North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.

Caramat said the cases were filed at the City Prosecutor’s Office in Surigao City on April 21.

Police said the rebels torched a backhoe, a transit mixer truck, and a generator worth PHP5 million during the April 12 attack on a construction firm in Barangay Mapawa, Surigao City.

The construction company was engaged in a farm-to-market road project in the area.

“This is a big leap forward to prosecute the assailants who have caused the delay of the construction of farm-to-market-road. The road projects could change the lives of the people for the better but have been hampered by the NPA atrocities,” Caramat said.

In a separate statement on Tuesday, Caramat also reported the filing of murder charges against NPA fighters responsible for the killing of Patrolman Bryan C. Gregorio.

Gregorio, 33, assigned at 2nd Surigao del Norte (SDN) Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC), was shot dead last April 20 in Barangay Poblacion in Bacuag, Surigao del Norte.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138119

Antique mayors support projects for rebel-affected villages

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27, 2021): Antique mayors support projects for rebel-affected villages (By Annabel Consuelo Petinglay)

ELCAC ORIENTATION. Residents of San Remigio, Antique during the orientation and medical mission held last December 2020 by the Antique Provincial Task Force ELCAC in San Rafael Elementary School. San Remigio Municipal Mayor Margarito Mission, Jr. and Sibalom Mayor Gian Carlo Occena have issued statements of support to the NTF-ELCAC projects to be implemented in their identified barangays. (PNA file photo by Annabel Consuelo J. Petinglay)

SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, Antique – Two town mayors in this province are looking forward to the implementation of projects in their barangays that were previously affected by the local insurgency.

In a statement on Tuesday, San Remigio Municipal Mayor Margarito Mission, Jr. said they fully support the farm-to-market road project in Bulan-Bulan to be funded under the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) Barangay Development Program (BDP).

“The project responds to the pressing need of the barangay and its people in the opening and concreting of a farm-to-market road (FMR) in the amount of PHP20 million,” he said, adding the road construction will provide access for people to bring their produce from their upland barangay down to the town market.

Barangays Bulan-Bulan in San Remigio town and Cabladan in the municipality of Sibalom are identified recipients of projects of the BDP.

From the PHP16.5 BDP funds, each barangay will receive PHP20 million.

Barangay Bulan-Bulan is around five to six kilometers away from Barangay Aningalan, which is the last barangay with a concrete road.

Pedro Raymundo, Bulan-Bulan chairperson, in a previous interview, said their village has been longing for a concrete road for so many years to easily bring their rice and other agricultural products to the town market.

Raymundo and other barangay representatives had their planning workshop for their BDP with the Department of the Interior and Local Government on October 13, 2020.

Meanwhile, Sibalom Mayor Occeña, in a statement, likewise expressed enthusiasm and support for the full implementation of barangay projects.

Occeña said the PHP20 million allocation for Barangay Cabladan will be used for the concreting of the one-kilometer FMR in Sitio Apong in the amount of PHP12 million; electrification of the 33 households in Sitio Costan costing PHP3 million; construction of the two-unit school buildings in Sitio Apong and Sitio Tiguidan at PHP2.15 million; and, construction of Level II water system worth PHP2.8 million.

“The residents of the hinterland Barangay Cabladan are already expecting for the projects to be implemented,” he said. The barangay is located 17 kilometers away from the town proper.

In a separate interview on Tuesday, Sibalom Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer Dominga Zarragosa said with the implementation of the Whole-of-Nation-Approach as mandated by Executive Order 70, residents of Cabladan have been receiving training and services from the government.

She added that villagers felt neglected in the past and were vulnerable to the influence of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

“Barangay Cabladan is a mountainous area that is in the boundary of San Joaquin and Leon of Iloilo province where the CNTs (communist NPA terrorists) are hiding,” Zarragosa said.

She added that she was told by Cabladan barangay captain Porfirio Cabigunda about the death of their chief village watchman 10 years ago perpetrated by CNTs thus they decided to arm themselves as protection against the insurgents.

“The residents even sold their cows and agricultural produce to buy arms for their protection,” she said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138211

NPA member nabbed in Sorsogon

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27, 2021): NPA member nabbed in Sorsogon (By Mar Serrano)

A New People’s Army (NPA) member was collared on Monday afternoon by police operatives at his residence in a remote village in Matnog, Sorsogon, a police report said Tuesday.

The Police Regional Office 5 (PRO5) identified the suspect as Jose Amante, 50, of Barangay Sua. He is a member of the Militia ng Bayan under the Jose Maria Estiller group of the guerilla front Larangan 2.

Police operatives armed with a warrant of arrest swooped down on the rebel's residence and arrested him at around 5:45 p.m.

The suspect, who is facing a criminal complaint for attempted murder, is detained at the town police station.

Meanwhile, an alleged notorious illegal drug pusher was nabbed also on Monday while selling PHP340,000 worth of suspected shabu in a drug sting in Polangui, Albay.

Maj. Maria Luisa Calubaquib, Police Regional Office (PRO5) spokesperson, on Tuesday said the suspect Randy Abonite Priolo, 39, a high-value target (HVT) drug dealer in Barangay Alomon, was caught in a buy-bust at around 11 a.m. in Barangay Kinale.

Seized from the suspect was a sachet of shabu weighing 50 grams and marked money.

The suspect and the seized illegal drugs were brought to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) custodial facility here.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138204

2 hurt in Cotabato City ambush

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28, 2021): 2 hurt in Cotabato City ambush (By Edwin Fernandez)

RIDDLED WITH BULLETS. The Toyota Hiace commuter van of the shooting victims had bullet holes (front and rear) after they were ambushed by still unidentified motorcycle-riding mem on Tuesday afternoon (April 27, 2021) in Barangay Tamontaka 3, Cotabato City. Police investigators are still trying to determine the identities of the suspects and the motive behind the attack. (Photo courtesy of CCPO)

Two persons were hurt when unidentified gunmen ambushed them along the national highway here despite the presence of commuters and motorists, the city police reported Wednesday.

Col. Rommel Javier, city police director, identified the victims as Anas Naga, 38; and Amer Diocolano, 36; who were onboard a white Toyota Hiace van heading to Barangay Tamontaka 3 when the ambush occurred at around 4 p.m. Tuesday.

“Two gunmen on a motorbike opened fire at them using .45 caliber pistols and quickly sped away,” Javier said.

Both victims sustained bullet wounds in different parts of the body.

Naga managed to drive the vehicle to the Cotabato Region and Medical Center.

In a phone interview on Wednesday, Naga told a local radio station that he saw the gunmen but could not identify their facial characteristics since they wore face masks and bonnets.

“What happened next is that they were firing on us,” he said in the vernacular.

Javier said police investigators are still trying to establish a lead on the identities of the perpetrators and the motive of the attack.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138253

Guns, grenades seized in wanted men’s lair in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28, 2021): Guns, grenades seized in wanted men’s lair in Maguindanao (By Edwin Fernandez)

ASSORTED FIREARMS. The arms cache found by policemen in a lair of two wanted men in Pandag, Maguindanao on Wednesday (April 28, 2021). Operatives of CIDG-BARMM have launched pursuit operations to arrest the duo. (Photo courtesy of CIDG-BARMM)

Agents of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (CIDG-BARMM) seized Wednesday assorted high-power firearms, gun parts, and explosives in the house of two wanted men in Maguindanao.

Maj. Esmael Madin, CIDG-BARMM Maguindanao field unit chief, said the wanted men--Joross Guimad and Joemar Sagandingan, both subjects of an arrest warrant for murder-- were already gone when they arrived at the suspects’ hideout in Barangay Kabuling, Pandag at 4 a.m.

“The house was already empty when we arrived,” Madin said.

Neighbors, however, told the authorities that the duo was at the house several hours earlier.

Seized at the suspects’ hideout were two fragmentation grenades, a rifle grenade, a .50-caliber Barrett sniper’s rifle, an M79 grenade launcher, gun parts, and six .38-caliber revolvers and ammunition.

Madin said pursuit operations are still ongoing against the two felons.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138256

NegOcc town residents tag CPP-NPA as ‘inhumane, unjust’

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28, 2021): NegOcc town residents tag CPP-NPA as ‘inhumane, unjust’ (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

CONDEMNATION. Placards calling for a stop to the killings, harassments, extortion, and deception of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army are carried by residents of E.B. Magalona, Negros Occidental, who attended the burial of Barangay Consing watchman Elmer Ortencio in Victorias City on April 25, 2021. Ortencio was abducted and killed by communist terrorists on April 13, the same day they torched about PHP17 million worth of heavy equipment being used for quarry operations. (Photo courtesy of 79th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

Residents of Barangay Consing and other groups in E.B. Magalona, Negros Occidental have denounced the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) for the death of a village watchman, the military reported on Wednesday.

During the burial of Elmer Ortencio, 45, at a public cemetery in neighboring Barangay XIV, Victorias City on April 25, the attendees led by family members and barangay officials, held a condemnation rally, carrying placards calling for a stop to the killings, harassments, extortion, and deception of the communist-terrorist group.

They condemned the “inhumane and unjust act” of the CPP-NPA over the abduction of Ortencip in Hacienda Margarita at around 3 p.m. on April 13.

More than two hours later, his body was found in a bamboo plantation. He sustained a gunshot wound in the head.

In the morning of the same day, the rebels also torched about PHP17 million worth of heavy equipment being used for quarry operations in the village.

Days later, the NPA’s Roselyn Jean Pelle Command issued a statement, admitting responsibility in the death of Ortencio, accusing him of being an active agent of the Army’s 7th Intelligence and Security Unit, who possessed several mission orders.

In a statement, Col. Inocencio Pasaporte, commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade based in Murcia town, acknowledged the active participation of the locals in the government’s thrust of restoring peace and bringing development to their community.

“They are already aware of the deceptive tactics of the CPP-NPA. They already know who to trust and collaborate with to attain their aspirations in life. Their all-out support indicates that they strongly condemn the hostilities perpetrated by the communist-terrorist groups,” he added.

Lt. Col. Gerard Alvaran, commanding officer of 79th Infantry Battalion with headquarters in Sagay City, threw his support to the move of the village residents in condemning the atrocities of the communist terrorists.

“This incident is another wake-up call to Negrenses to shun whatever support they give to the CPP-NPA. Let us join hands and continue to unmask their true character and finally put an end to their abuses and violence,” he said.

The CPP-NPA 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/1138298

Anti-insurgency village program alleviates poverty: prosecutor

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28, 2021): Anti-insurgency village program alleviates poverty: prosecutor (By Perla Lena)

BARANGAY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM. Associate Provincial Prosecutor Flosemer Chris I. Gonzales, spokesperson of the Western Visayas RTF –ELCAC, in a statement on Wednesday (April 28, 2021) said the barangay development program (BDP) can address the root causes of insurgency. The program, he said, is the government’s way of telling the people that they are not forgotten. (PNA file photo)

The Barangay Development Program (BDP) of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) addresses the root causes of the communist insurgency.

“The BDP is basically the government going down to the grassroots level, bridging the gaps between the 'haves and the have nots', making the people feel that the government is one with them, cares for them, and is doing something concrete to alleviate their poverty,” said Associate Provincial Prosecutor Flosemer Chris I. Gonzales, spokesperson of the Western Visayas RTF –ELCAC, in a statement on Wednesday.

He said the program is the government’s way of telling people in conflict-stricken areas that they are not forgotten.

Gonzales added that defunding the BDP would make the Communist Party of the Philippines– New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) terrorists happy while depriving people in the countryside of projects that would usher progress in their communities.

“These senators who call for the defunding of the BDP must bear in mind that the CPP-NPA is bound to benefit from their proposal,” he said.

He said that their choices are clear: to work for the defunding of the BDP and make the communist terrorist group (CTG) happy, or sustain the funding and make millions of Filipinos in the countryside happy.

Of the PHP19-billion budget of the NTF-ELCAC, PHP16.5 billion is allotted for the development of 822 barangays in the country that have been cleared of insurgency.

Gonzales said the RTF6 ELCAC is supportive of the BDP, local chief executives, and communities identified as recipients of the program.

In Western Visayas, 74 villages have been identified as recipients of PHP20 million each to fund identified projects based on their needs assessment and included in their barangay development plan.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138373

Court issues arrest warrant vs. 6 UCCP-Haran execs

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28, 2021): Court issues arrest warrant vs. 6 UCCP-Haran execs (By Che Palicte)

DAVAO CITY—An arrest warrant has been issued by the Davao City Regional Trial Court (RTC) against six administrators of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) Haran Center for child abuse.

The April 21 arrest warrant was issued against UCCP Bishop Hamuel Tequis, Rev. Daniel Palicte, Ephraim Malazarte, Jong Monzon, secretary-general of Pasaka Confederation of Lumad Organizations in Southern Mindanao (Pasaka-SMR), Lindy Trenilla, and Grace Avila -- all have been charged with two counts of violation of RA 7610 or Child Abuse Law.

The criminal cases stemmed from the complaint filed by the four members of the Indigenous peoples (IP) group from Davao del Norte in September last year against the leaders of the New People’s Army (NPA), including Haran's management.

The complainants, Ata-Manobo tribe members who were minors "during the time of the commission of the crimes," accused Haran officials of "harboring communist terrorist group" and for forcing them against their will "for the purpose of engaging them in armed activities, forced labor, involuntary servitude, using them in armed conflict, and for other exploitative purposes."

Since 2015, the Haran Center inside the UCCP compound on Fr. Selga St. here has been serving as a temporary shelter for displaced IPs from various Davao Region provinces and other parts of Mindanao.

Authorities, however, have accused the center of harboring communist NPA rebels and of allegedly serving as a training and recruitment ground for the communist rebel movement.

Triumph for IPs

Meanwhile, Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Undersecretary Lorraine Marie Badoy told Philippine News Agency (PNA) in an interview Wednesday, said the court decision was a triumph for the IPs and the Filipinos.

“The NTF ELCAC is rejoicing because this is a very clear and unequivocal victory for the Filipino people more so the IPs that were being marketed by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF). We are very happy that this has happened and the long arm of the law is finally catching up for the communist terrorist group (CTG) enablers,” said Badoy, who is also spokesperson of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

Badoy said the heinous crimes committed by Haran to the IPs, such as human trafficking, kidnapping, training child warriors, slavery, child abuse, must end.

“The worst human condition of the children who eventually died there was not even reported by the administrators to the city government. Let’s get justice for these IPs. This is the first step in a long journey for us to get justice and for us to heal our country,” she said.

Welcome development

Police Regional Office in Region 11 (PRO-11) director, Brig. Gen. Filmore Escobal, said the arrest warrant was a welcome development for the Philippine National Police (PNP).

“They have been exploiting the IPs, and in fact, it is a fake evacuation center. The warrant has been issued and we will implement it but they can also submit themselves and post bail and face the charges pressed on to them,” Escobal said.

“The IPs wanted to go out from that facility and go back to their communities. In fact, the province of Davao del Norte and the local government units have put up IP housing units for them,” he added.

He said the Regional Peace and Order Council of Davao Region (RPOC-11) has also ordered the closure of Haran.

In January 2020, RPOC-11 approved a resolution seeking the immediate closure of UCCP Haran Center for violating the Indigenous People’s Rights Act, as well as of committing child abuse and serious illegal detention offenses while engaging in human trafficking.

“Our goal is for its total closure and to stop centers like this from exploiting the IPs,” Escobal said.

Davao City Mayor Sara Z. Duterte said she is hoping that the children who died in Haran may "get the justice they deserve."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138318

24 ex-NPA fighters get cash aid in Agusan Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28, 2021): 24 ex-NPA fighters get cash aid in Agusan Sur (By Alexander Lopez)

SUPPORT TO FORMER REBELS. Alias 'Rey' is among the 24 former combatants of the communist New People’s Army who received PHP10,000 cash aid from the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict on Tuesday (April 27, 2021) in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur. Authorities have reiterated their call for the remaining rebels to surrender and accept the government's integration aid package. (Photo courtesy of 26IB)

At least 24 former combatants of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) who surrendered to the Army's 26th Infantry Battalion (26IB) this year received cash assistance from the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) of Agusan del Sur.

In a statement on Wednesday (April 28), the 26IB said the cash assistance distribution in Prosperidad town on Tuesday was facilitated by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) of Agusan del Sur.

Each of the former rebels received PHP10,000.

Among those who benefited from the support of the PTF-ELCAC was alias 'Rey', who thanked the government for the opportunities given to them when they decided to leave the rebel movement.

“Since I returned to the folds of the law, I received a lot of support from the government. This will help me renew my life, together with my family,” Rey was quoted as saying by the 26IB.

He also called on comrades to accept the government offer and voluntarily surrender.

Lt. Col. Reynald Romel A. Goce, assured the remaining NPA rebels in Agusan del Sur of government support once they decide to leave the movement and surrender.

"The government is more than willing to assist those who want to come back in the folds of the law. Once they surrender, we will be providing them the government programs and initiatives that would help them in re-building a more peaceful life together with their loved ones.” Goce said.

He said 74 of the 157 former rebels under the 26IB have already received benefits under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).

Another 74 are now waiting for the release of the benefits while nine ex-NPA combarants are being processed for enrolment to the ECLIP, Goce said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138359