PH Air Force Black Hawk choppers sent to Mindanao

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 5, 2021): PH Air Force Black Hawk choppers sent to Mindanao (By: Frances Mangosing)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines has deployed S-70i Black Hawk combat utility helicopters to Mindanao.

Four units were sent to the Eastern Mindanao Command on Thursday (Nov. 4). Two were stationed at Tactical Operations Wing-Eastern Mindanao in Davao City. Another two were at Tactical Operations Group 10 Headquarters, Lumbia Airport in Cagayan de Oro City.

“The arrival of these Black Hawk choppers happened at a very opportune time to aid our hardworking troops in the pursuit of genuine peace and development in Eastern Mindanao,” said Eastmincom chief Lt. Gen. Greg Almerol.

Eastern Mindanao is a bailiwick of communist insurgents. Last week, top New People’s Army leader Jorge Madlos was killed in Bukidnon in what the military said was a clash but which communist rebels said was an ambush.

The Tactical Operations Wing-Western Mindanao in Zamboanga City received two helicopters on the same day. These will be used to support combat missions and humanitarian aid in Soccsksargen up to the Sulu archipelago.

“We are very grateful that the top brass considered the deployment of these air assets which will greatly contribute to the accomplishment of our missions here in Western Mindanao,” said Western Mindanao Command chief Maj. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr.

Procurement program

The Philippine government earlier procured 16 units of Black Hawk helicopters — built by Poland’s PZL Mielec, a subsidiary of American firm Lockheed Martin — for P12.1 billion, to replace the aging Vietnam-era Hueys (UH-1H) mainly used for transport tasks.

Eleven Black Hawk units have been delivered since last year but 10 are currently in service, after one crashed in June. Five units have yet to be delivered.

The PAF recently retired some of its aging Hueys as it seeks new helicopters. President Rodrigo Duterte earlier this year approved the acquisition of additional helicopters after a spate of crashes since last year although it was unclear if funding is available.

The Philippines and Poland signed an agreement in April that would allow government-to-government deals on defense procurement, which could include additional Black Hawk helicopters.

Helicopters are crucial in the Philippines, an archipelago of more than 7,600 islands, where transport is difficult especially during calamities. They are used in search and rescue missions, close air support, medical evacuation and disaster response.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1510949/2-ph-air-force-black-hawks-off-to-western-mindanao

NPA rebel surrenders, turns in firearm in Eastern Samar

From the Sun Star-Tacloban (Nov 5, 2021): NPA rebel surrenders, turns in firearm in Eastern Samar (RONALD O. REYES)

AN ALLEGED member of the New People’s Army (NPA) voluntarily returned to the fold of the law and handed over his firearm to the authorities in Arteche, Eastern Samar, the Eastern Visayas police regional command said Friday, November 5, 2021.

The former rebel was identified as alias Joshua, a member of NPA's Yunit Militia.

He turned in one .38 revolver with three live ammunition during his surrender on November 3, 2021.

The surrender was facilitated by operatives of 801st Maneuver Company-Regional Mobile Force Battalion 8, Regional Intelligence Unit, and San Policarpo Municipal Police Station.

“This extraordinary representation of the former rebel is a clear basis that the programs devised by the government to combat and end the armed struggle of our country are indeed effective,” the police regional command said.

Authorities said they have endorsed the former rebel to enroll and avail the national government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip).

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1912304/Tacloban/Local-News/NPA-rebel-surrenders-turns-in-firearm-in-Eastern-Samar

MILF decommissions 14,000 more fighters

 From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 6, 2021): MILF decommissions 14,000 more fighters (By: Bong S. Sarmiento)

PUT BEYOND USE In this 2019 photo taken in Maguindanao, police and other officials inspect firearms issued to former Moro Islamic Liberation Front fighters before these weapons are deactivated. — BONG S. SARMIENTO

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) is set to decommission starting on Monday 14,000 more combatants of its armed wing, the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) as part of its commitment to a 2014 peace deal with the government.

This comes almost two years after 12,000 MILF fighters and their weapons began to be deactivated in September 2019, presided by President Duterte.

Lt. Col. Mohammed Shalleh Ismail, deputy chief of staff of the Independent Decommissioning Body (IDB), said the decommissioning ceremonies on Monday will start at 8 a.m. at the Old Provincial Capitol in Barangay Crossing Simuay, Sultan Kudarat town, Maguindanao province.

Ismail said the number of individuals who were allowed to enter the venue would be limited in compliance with the COVID-19 health protocols.

The decommissioning process is overseen by the IDB, which is currently chaired by Turkish Ambassador to the Philippines Ahmet Idem Akay, who is expected to preside over Monday’s rites.

Under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, decommissioning seeks to “put beyond use” the BIAF’s forces and weapons, and transition its fighters to “productive civilian life.”

Monday’s event will kick off the third phase of the BIAF’s decommissioning process, and involves 2,500 weapons to be put out of use.

As part of the peace deal with the government, the MILF has sought the decommissioning of 40,000 combatants. During the first phase, which was largely ceremonial, presided by then President Benigno Aquino III in 2015, 145 BIAF members and 75 high-powered weapons were deactivated.

Benefits due

In the second phase, 2,100 assorted weapons and more than 500 ammunition were turned over by former MILF combatants to the IDB. The second phase of the process was completed in March 2020, at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The third phase of the decommissioning process was supposed to roll out last year had it not been hampered by the pandemic.

Each decommissioned BIAF member is set to receive P100,000 in cash assistance.

During a budget hearing last September, presidential peace adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. said the decommissioned combatants will also benefit from a socioeconomic development package to be rolled out for them and their communities.

Ariel Hernandez, cochair of the Joint Normalization Committee, said the rollout of the third phase of decommissioning is a positive step for the Bangsamoro peace process.

Apart from the Turkish ambassador, also expected to grace Monday’s rites are Undersecretary David Diciano and Bangsamoro Education Minister Mohagher Iqbal, chairs of the peace implementing panels of the government and the MILF, respectively.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1511060/milf-decommissions-14k-more-fighters

Commentary: Issues emerging from 1980s Afghanistan place PH in the cross-hairs of global terror

Commentary posted to the Manila Times (Nov 6, 2021): Issues emerging from 1980s Afghanistan place PH in the cross-hairs of global terror (By Rafael Alunan 3rd)

 

Rafael Alunan 3rd

[Remarks of Philippine Council on Foreign Relations Chairman Rafael Alunan 3rd, at a webinar on the "Repercussions of the Now Taliban-led Afghanistan to Philippine National Defense, Security and Public Safety," held on Nov. 3, 2021]

TODAY's webinar aims to dissect a most troubling development in Afghanistan with potentially harmful repercussions for the Philippines and the world.

When Afghanistan fell to the Taliban three months ago with breathtaking speed, I recalled my days as chairman of the National Committee on Anti-hijacking and Terrorism, one of several hats I wore as Secretary of the Interior and Local Government under President Fidel Ramos.

In 1989, the USSR quit Afghanistan 10 years after invading it. Its government and economy were on the ropes. It eventually collapsed in 1991. While it was there, the US collaborated with Pakistan's ISI (or Inter-Services Intelligence) to fund, train and arm anti-Russian mujahideen and wage a successful CIA-directed guerrilla war against Russia. Among them was Osama bin Laden.

Radicalized Filipinos fought there, too, recruited from the ranks of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). They were aided by bin Laden's brother-in-law Jamaal Khalifa who operated a network of companies and NGOs to fund terrorist activities, and the travel needs of local and foreign elements.

When I was dispatched to Pakistan by President Ramos to meet with President Benazir Bhutto to firm up intelligence ties and, later, to other parts of the world for other missions in preparation for the first Counter-Terrorism Summit in Asia in February 2016, I was joined by a cross-section of the AFP-PNP-NSC community to meet their counterparts. Fighting terror required unity, solidarity and teamwork, and the team I brought along symbolized that.

Filipino recruits

Vital intelligence information was either obtained or confirmed in those trips. Among them:

– MILF chief Hashim Salamat had a direct line to Osama.

– Filipino recruits were sourced from the MNLF and MILF, and from Egyptian, Pakistani and Saudi Arabian universities. Others were radicalized overseas workers.

– Their cover was to undertake religious studies in Islamabad.

– The real intent was to smuggle them into Afghanistan for OJT, or "on-the-job-training," after receiving military training in Peshawar.

We also learned that:

– America left behind millions of firearms and heavy weapons, including Stinger Manpads, after the USSR retreated in defeat.

– Those weapons were smuggled out by gunrunners or by radical groups to wage their local wars of liberation through terror.

That explains, in a nutshell, the birth of the Abu Sayaff Group led by the late Abdurajak Janjalani, its long trail of terror to this day, and the source of inspiration for other jihadist black flag groups allied with either al-Qaida or the Daesh.

Afghanistan was al-Qaida's strategic base to wage its global war of terror against the US and allied countries. The Taliban protected it in Afghanistan and Pakistan. The once strategic partners against the USSR turned on each other to advance their now divergent core interests.

FYI, 9/11 had its origins in the Philippines, featuring al-Qaida's failed Oplan Bojinka — the plot to kill Pope John Paul 2nd and plant bombs on 11 US airliners including a kamikaze attack on the CIA's headquarters in Langley, Virginia. But that's another story for another time. I only brought it up because the train of events emanating from Afghanistan, from the 1980s to the present, have placed the Philippines in the crosshairs of terrorism and the global war on terror.

After 9/11, America returned to Afghanistan to find bin Laden. It also re-invaded Iraq. Yet, after Saddam Hussein was overthrown, and after bin Laden was killed in Pakistan, America stayed on. It sparked outrage that gave birth to other black flag groups, most especially the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, or IS, known by its Arabic acronym Daesh, that unleashed waves of terror in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Near East and Southeast Asia. We were not spared.

We suffered many casualties — both uniformed and civilian — in ambushes, bombings, raids and massacres without any regard for collateral damage. Meanwhile, America's two-decades-long war on terror — its longest on record — resulted in failure after spending $2 trillion on its war machine and propping up interim governments.

Full circle

America's gone full circle with the Taliban. For 10 years, as mujahideen, they were allied against the USSR. Then, for 20 years, America and its NATO allies fought the Taliban. Despite its humiliation last August, America is offering to help the Taliban fight IS but, more likely, to fend off China's diplomatic advances to gain a foothold in Afghanistan. That only goes to show that in international relations there are no permanent friends, only permanent interests.

Meanwhile, the presence of Jemaah Islamiyah, al-Qaida's Southeast Asian arm, is still felt in Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines. Black flag-inspired groups are still terrorizing parts of Mindanao with Marawi as Exhibit A, and, most recently, the death of Salahuddin Hassan, leader of the Dawlah Islamiyah in Central Mindanao. With Afghanistan firmly in Taliban hands, with America trying to prevent them from orbiting around a pro-active China, terrorism could once again be exploited in the shadows and exported worldwide in unimaginable ways.

That backdrop was necessary to help me explain why we're holding today's webinar. The global war on terror involved military forces, police forces, and intelligence units from many nations and institutions where national defense, internal security and public safety policies, as well as planning and operations, were closely intertwined, where the principle of "need to share" information, expertise and resources is as crucial today against terrorism as yesterday's.

What steps, what measures?

Hence, our webinar today to discuss the complex situation and potential repercussions of Afghanistan's fall to the Taliban on our national defense, security and public safety.

– What steps have been taken by the Department of National Defense to deal with large-scale domestic and foreign threats with respect to reorienting, retraining, rearming and re-positioning the Armed Forces (AFP)?

– What measures are being undertaken by the DILG-PNP to detect and foil terror plots from harming society? Is it ready to take over the internal security role of the AFP?

– In what ways should the intelligence community be reinvented to ensure real-time situational awareness for all its stakeholders in the government?

– Is the Anti-Terrorism Act being effectively applied?

– What else is needed by way of legislation, executive orders and international agreements to effectively combat terrorism?

[Rafael M. Alunan 3rd chairs the Harvard Kennedy School Alumni Association Inc. and the Philippine Council for Foreign Relations. He served in the Cabinets of President Corazon C. Aquino and President Fidel V. Ramos as Secretary of Tourism and Secretary of the Interior and Local Government, respectively.]

https://www.manilatimes.net/2021/11/06/opinion/columns/issues-emerging-from-1980s-afghanistan-place-ph-in-the-cross-hairs-of-global-terror/1821126

Kalinaw News: Rebuilding the peace, rebuilding Maluso

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 5, 2021): Rebuilding the peace, rebuilding Maluso



MALUSO, Basilan – A total of one hundred four (104) loose firearms were presented by the Local Government Unit of Maluso headed by the Municipal Mayor Hanie Bud to Colonel Frederick M Sales, the Deputy Commander of Joint Task-Force Basilan/101st Infantry Brigade, during the ceremonial stenciling and inventory of Small Arms and Light Weapons Program here at Municipal Townhall on November 05, 2021.

The SALW Program is a component of the normalization process under the Comprehensive Agreement of Bangsamoro which aims to reduce and control the significant number of illegal firearms within the community.

Mayor Bud expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the 4th Special Forces Battalion headed by Lieutenant Colonel Alex D. Ampati for the unwavering support in sustaining the peace and development in the municipality.

“Insha Allah, tuluy-tuloy na ang kapayaan sa Basilan, kaya tayo ay dapat magkaisa at magtulungan tungo sa kaunlaran.” Mayor Bud said.

Colonel Sales lauded the collaborative effort of the local government and all the barangay leaders in sustaining the SALW program in the municipality.

“Para sa ating mga anak at apo ng Basilan ang ating ginagawang programang pangkapayapaan, kaya dapat nating suportahan ang SALW program para sa tuluy-tuloy na katahimikan ng ating bayan.” Col. Sales expressed.

Mr. Manny Muarip – Provincial Administrator, Police Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Usman – Basilan PPO, and different government agency heads and stakeholders attended and showed support on the activity conducted.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/rebuilding-the-peace-rebuilding-maluso/

Kalinaw News: ARESCOM Trains more reservist in Sulu

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 5, 2021): ARESCOM Trains more reservist in Sulu



November 05, 2021 – KutaHeneralTeodulfo Bautista – On November 02, 2021, Basic Citizen Military Training (BCMT) Class 02-2021 formally opened in Brgy Liang, Patikul, Sulu with 1102nd Infantry Brigade Commander Col Giovanni T Franza as guest of honor and speaker.

“These 300 reservist applicants will undergo a 45-day training that will prepare them to be part of the Citizen Armed Force. They will be trained on basic soldiery and relief and rescue operations. The course shall also include subjects on disaster response, moral virtues, patriotism and discipline that will arm them with knowledge on how to assist in their community in terms of socio-economic development,” said Ltc Andres A Soriano, Commanding Officer of Army Reserve Command (ARESCOM)’s 906th Community Defence Center.

In an interview, trainee 40 year old Mr Laurel Ahajan expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to join the reserve force. “Hindi napobagosa akin ang pagtulong, sapagkat ang pagiging miyembro ng Kabalikat Civicom ay hindi kalayuan sa layunin ng pagiging reservist. Sa edad ko pong ito, naisipan kong mag apply upang madagdagan ang aking kaalaman, magkaroon ako ng mga bagong kasanayan at higit sa lahat matulungan ko mismo yung sarili kong probinsiya.”

Per 11th Infantry Division Commander MGen William N Gonzales, the number of applicants has doubled from the previous batch.

“BCMT class 01-2021 became the first ever Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion in Sulu. In consists of 215 army reservist, three of which are reservist officers. Mukhang maraming na-inspire kaya dumami ang nag-apply para dito sa second batch. These volunteers undergoing training will also be part of the aforementioned battalion. I’m glad seeing that we have volunteers from all walks of life. Mayroong mga matanda, maybata, lalaki, babae. Mayroong mga taga-bukid, mayroon ding mga pumapasok sa opisina.” said Mgen Gonzales.

According to the training committee, the said training is set to conclude on December 14,2021. However, those who have full-time work and are only available to attend during weekends will graduate after completing 45 days program of instruction.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/arescom-trains-more-reservist-in-sulu/

Kalinaw News: Blackhawk helicopters deployed in WestMinCom AOR

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 5, 2021): Blackhawk helicopters deployed in WestMinCom AOR

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – November 05, 2021 the Tactical Operations Wing-Western Mindanao (TOW-WM), the major Air Force unit under the command and control of the Western Mindanao Command, received S70i Blackhawk Utility Helicopters on November 4, 2021. The helicopters will be utilized to perform various missions in Western Mindanao including support in combat operations and quick response for humanitarian aid.

WestMinCom Commander, Maj. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr. said that the deployment of the Blackhawk helicopters will boost the capability of the armed forces in both lethal and non-lethal operations. “We are very grateful that the top brass considered the deployment of these air assets which will greatly contribute to the accomplishment of our missions here in Western Mindanao,” the commander expressed.

Prior to the welcome ceremony at Edwin Andrews Air Base in Barangay Sta. Maria, the helicopters orbited the City of Zamboanga and performed descend procedure for a low pass over the entire city before making a direct-perpendicular land at EAAB ramp toward the 206th ramp. Highlights of the welcome ceremony were the playing of the Mabuhay Hymn by the 530th Band and the spraying of water from two fire trucks positioned on the opposite sides of the helicopters.

The momentous event was witnessed by Brig. Gen. Arturo Rojas, WestMinCom’s Deputy Commander for Operations; Brig. Gen. Elpidio Talja, Jr., Deputy Commander of the Air Combat Command; and Col. Dennis Estrella, Wing Commander of TOW-WM.

“Expect that with the deployment of the Blackhawk helicopters in our unit, our operations will greatly improve as these helicopters have larger capacity and more impressive horsepower allowing a faster and longer-range transport. In addition, the said helicopters have the ability to absorb high-impact velocities enabling it to withstand strong turbulent winds,” Col. Estrella said.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/blackhawk-helicopters-deployed-in-westmincom-aor/

Another 14,000 MILF fighters set for deactivation starting Nov. 8

From MindaNews (Nov 5, 2021): Another 14,000 MILF fighters set for deactivation starting Nov. 8 (By BONG S. SARMIENTO)

MILF weapons that were deactivated during Phase 2 in September 2019. MindaNews file photo by BONG SARMIENTO

Another 14,000 fighters of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) will be decommissioned starting Monday, 8 November, 20 months after the deactivation of 12,000 MILF fighters were completed, MindaNews learned Friday.

The Independent Decommissioning Body (IDB), which is tasked to oversee the deactivation of MILF fighters and their weapons, has sent out letters to government and MILF officials invited to grace another milestone in the Bangsamoro peace process.

Lt Col Mohammed Shalleh Ismail, IDB deputy chief of staff, said the Phase 3 decommissioning process of MILF combatants will be held Monday starting 8 a.m. at the Old Provincial Capitol in Barangay Crossing Simuay, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.

Ismail said that in compliance with the COVID-19 health protocols, the number of individuals who will be allowed to enter the venue will be limited.

Turkish Ambassador to the Philippines Ahmet Idem Akay, the IDB chairperson, will spearhead the activity, which will include the signing of the wall of commitment for the Phase 3 decommissioning process.

Invited to grace Monday’s event are Undersecretary David Diciano, chair of the government peace implementing panel, and Bangsamoro Education Minister Mohagher Iqbal, chair of the MILF peace implementing panel.

Ariel Hernandez, co-chair of the Joint Normalization Committee representing the government side, noted the rolling out of the third phase of deactivating the MILF forces is a positive step for the Bangsamoro peace process.

This phase would include 14,000 MILF fighters and about 2,500 assorted weapons, based on the list submitted earlier by the MILF to the IDB.

The Phase 3 involves 35 percent of the 40,000-strong MILF, which waged a decades-old war with the government in a bid for Muslim self-rule in Mindanao.

Hernandez earlier said the government and the MILF peace implementing panels have been earnestly working for the normalization process to be felt in MILF communities.

The decommissioning of MILF forces is among the major provisions of the normalization aspect of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), the final peace agreement signed by the government and the MILF in 2014 after 17 years of negotiations.

The normalization phase seeks to help combatants transform into civilian lives and the recognized MILF camps into peaceful and productive economic zones.

President Rodrigo Duterte led the ceremonial decommissioning of 12,000 MILF fighters for the Phase 2 in September 2019, also held at the Old Provincial Capitol in Sultan Kudarat town.

“This is a huge step of achieving lasting peace in Mindanao,” the President had said.

MILF fighters who were deactivated during Phase 2 in September 2019. MindaNews file photo by BONG SARMIENTO

Each deactivated MILF fighter received P100,000 cash and a package of socio-economic promises totaling to P1 million, including education and livelihood training programs.

Last September, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez, Jr. clarified in a Senate budget hearing that the P1 million earmarked for each of the decommissioned MILF fighters is the estimated monetary value of the socioeconomic package they are meant to receive.

“Na-misinterpret po nila na, actually gusto nila na cash (‘yung P1 million) but we cannot do that, we cannot afford. Yung P1 million na ‘yun ay some sort of tinatawag natin na ten-year program for the combatants,” he said in a statement issued by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).

Under Phase 2, at least 2,100 assorted weapons and more than 500 ammunition were also turned over by former MILF combatants to the IDB, according to OPAPP data. Phase 2 covers 30 percent of the armed members of the MILF.

It was completed in March 2020, at a time when the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic started to rear its ugly head in the country.

The Phase 3 of the decommissioning process was supposed to roll out last year but the pandemic hampered its implementation.

In 2015, the late President Benigno Aquino III led the Phase 1 of the decommissioning process involving 145 MILF fighters and 75 high-powered weapons also in Sultan Kudarat town.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2021/11/another-14000-milf-fighters-set-for-deactivation-starting-nov-8/

Black Hawk choppers boost Westmincom combat capability

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 5, 2021): Black Hawk choppers boost Westmincom combat capability (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

BLACK HAWKS. Two S70i Black Hawk helicopters circle over Zamboanga City before landing at the Edwin Andrew Air Base on Thursday (Nov. 4, 2021). Maj. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr., Western Mindanao Command chief, announced Friday (Nov. 5, 2021) the deployment of the two helicopters to the Tactical Operations Wing - Western Mindanao (TOW-WM) unit of the command. (Photo courtesy of Westmincom)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) got a capability boost both in combat operations and disaster response with the arrival of two Black Hawk utility helicopters.

On Friday, Maj. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr., Westmincom chief, announced that the Tactical Operations Wing - Western Mindanao (TOW-WM), the major air force unit under the command, had received the two S70i Black Hawk utility helicopters from the AFP general headquarters.

Rosario said the deployment of the two Black Hawk helicopters would boost the capability of the military in this part of the country in both lethal and non-lethal operations.

The helicopters, he said, would be used to perform various missions in Western Mindanao, including support in combat operations and quick response for humanitarian aid.

“We are very grateful that the (AFP) top brass considered the deployment of these air assets, which will greatly contribute to the accomplishment of our missions here in Western Mindanao,” Rosario said.

Col. Dennis Estrella, TOW-WM commander, said the two Black Hawk helicopters could absorb high-impact velocities, enabling them to withstand strong turbulent winds.

“Expect that with the deployment of the Black Hawk helicopters in our unit, our operations will greatly improve as these helicopters have larger capacity and more impressive horsepower, allowing a faster and longer-range transport,” Estrella said.

The two helicopters arrived Thursday at the Edwin Andrews Air Base (EAAB), home of the TOW-WM in Barangay Sta. Maria, this city.

Before the welcome ceremony at EAAB, the choppers orbited and performed a descent procedure for a low pass over the entire city before making a direct-perpendicular land toward the 206th ramp.

Highlights of the welcome ceremony were the playing of the Mabuhay Hymn by the 530th band and the spraying of water from two fire trucks positioned on opposite sides of the helicopters.

Aside from Estrella, the momentous event was also witnessed by Brig. Gen. Arturo Rojas, Westmincom’s deputy commander for operations, and Brig. Gen. Elpidio Talja Jr., the air combat command deputy commander.

The S-70i Black Hawk helicopter is the latest in the family of Black Hawk multi-mission aircraft.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158855

Village caravan reaches Antique’s upland town

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 5, 2021): Village caravan reaches Antique’s upland town (By Annabel Consuelo Petinglay)

FEEDING PROGRAM. Policemen hold feeding program in Barangay Nagbangi I in San Remigio, Antique on Nov. 4, 2021. Antique Provincial Police Office Information Officer Rossini Mena said Friday (Nov. 5, 2021) their feeding program is part of the Duterte's Legacy Barangayanihan caravan. (Photo courtesy of APPO)

The Duterte’s Legacy Barangayanihan caravan has reached Antique’s upland town for the second time this year bringing various services of the government to residents.

Antique Provincial Police Office (APPO) Information Officer Rossini Mena said in an interview on Friday that policemen, in coordination with other government agencies, visited Barangay Nagbangi I in San Remigio, Antique on November 4.

The caravan was held at Nagbangi I Elementary School, which is about 15 kilometers away from the town proper.

“We conducted information and education campaign about the different government training programs the residents could avail of,” she said.

The police also distributed food packs to 200 residents and gave food to 50 children.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the local government unit of San Remigio led by Mayor Margarito Mission, Jr. gave food packs consisting of rice and various grocery items.

The Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA) also distributed cloth face masks.

The local police provided free blood check-ups and distributed vitamins with the help of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO).

Residents were briefed on organic farming and thereafter were given vegetable seedlings such as string bean, okra, cucumber, and cabbage by the Department of Agriculture (DA) Agricultural Program Coordinating Office.

Last Oct. 20, a similar event was also held in Barangay Osorio II.

Mena said the two mountainous barangays in San Remigio reportedly have a presence of the New People’s Army thus they need to raise the awareness of the locals for them to avoid being recruited.

“We also have to let the people know about the support and services of the government so they could access skills training particularly from TESDA to help them in their livelihood,” she said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158854

Army-led Duterte Legacy caravan serves N. Ecija residents

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 5, 2021): Army-led Duterte Legacy caravan serves N. Ecija residents (By Jason De Asis)

BARANGAYANIHAN. Members of the Philippine Army distribute food packs during the Duterte Legacy: BARANGAYanihan Caravan Towards National Recovery in Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija on Thursday (Nov. 4, 2021). Residents also availed themselves of free haircuts and medical checkups. (Photo courtesy of Army 91IB)

The Philippine Army and other government agencies spearheaded the “Duterte Legacy: BARANGAYanihan Caravan Towards National Recovery” in Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija on Thursday.

Lt. Col. Reandrew P. Rubio, commander of the 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion, said in an interview on Friday that the activity brought the services of the government to the general public and at the same time, informed the community about the government’s programs, policies, accomplishments, and efforts that have brought real change.

The services included free haircuts, medical checkups, distribution of leaflets of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), and Army recruitment efforts.

The E-CLIP provides financial assistance to former rebels who have abandoned the armed struggle and rejoined the government.

The Municipal Agriculture Office gave away vegetable seedlings while the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office distributed 120 used clothes and 100 food packs.

The conduct of the series of Duterte Legacy Barangayanihan Towards National Recovery is part of the overall implementation of provincial and municipal task forces to end local communist armed conflict in the Army's area of operations, Rubio said.

“This is one way of expressing our support to local government units and national government agencies in the delivery of basic services, especially in the ongoing retooled community support program to address the issues that are being exploited by the communist terrorist groups. We are not just fighting against the enemy of the state but act as partners for lasting peace and development,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158886

New Soccsksargen top cop assumes post

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 5, 2021): New Soccsksargen top cop assumes post (By Richelyn Gubalani)

TOP COP. Brig. Gen. Alexander Tagum, the newly designated director of the Police Regional Office-12, vowed on Friday (Nov. 5, 2021) to continue the innovations and build on the gains and accomplishments of the regional police office, especially in terms of maintaining peace and order. Tagum formally took over the post from Brig. Gen. Michael John Dubria in a ceremony presided by Philippine National Chief, Gen. Guillermo Eleazar at the regional police headquarters in Barangay Tambler, General Santos City. (PNA photo by Richelyn Gubalani)

Brig. Gen. Alexander Tagum assumed on Friday as the new director of the Police Regional Office in Soccsksargen (Region 12).

Tagum, who previously served as director of the Philippine National Police (PNP)-Highway Patrol Group (HPG), formally took over the post from Brig. Gen. Michael John Dubria in a ceremony held at the regional police headquarters in Barangay Tambler here.

The change of command was personally presided by PNP Chief, Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, and witnessed by top government officials in the region.

In his speech, Tagum committed to continue the innovations started by Dubria and build on the gains and accomplishments of the regional police office these past years.

These include the continuing expansion and development of the PRO-12 headquarters, the institutionalization of the PNP’s internal cleansing program, and the enhancement of the operational capabilities of police offices and stations.

Tagum, who hails from Kidapawan City and had served various posts in the area, said he is “deeply honored and felt so blessed” to be back in the region.

He appealed for support from local government leaders and other stakeholders in the pursuit of their mandate to “serve and protect our people”.

“I will count on all friends among the political leaders in the region to help us achieve our objectives of maintaining the peace and order in their respective localities,” he said.

Tagum said he will sustain the crusade started by President Rodrigo Duterte against criminality, corruption, terrorism, and illegal drugs.

He vowed to tap more local stakeholders to serve as force multipliers in protecting communities in the region’s four provinces and four cities as well as in the continuing fight against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

Soccsksargen comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and North Cotabato, and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, and Kidapawan.

The official acknowledged that they will be facing various challenges in the coming months, especially in the run-up to May 2022 local and national elections but assured that they will be ready for it.

Prior to his PNP-HPG stint, Tagum served as city director of Davao City and provincial director of North Cotabato. He is a member of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Tagapagkalinga Class of 1991.

Dubria, who is also a former Davao City police director, assumed the region’s top police post at the onset of the Covid-19 spread in the region in May last year.

He has been designated as the new chief of the Directorate for Intelligence at the PNP national headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158917

Army ensures safety of residents in central Negros clash site

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 5, 2021): Army ensures safety of residents in central Negros clash site (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

POST-CLASH RECOVERY. Some of the items recovered by soldiers after a clash with New People’s Army terrorists in Barangay Quintin Remo in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental on Wednesday (Nov. 3, 2021). On Friday (Nov. 5), the 62nd Infantry Battalion ensured the safety of the village residents from the extortion activities of the CPP-NPA. (Photo courtesy of 62nd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

The Philippine Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion (IB) has ensured the safety of residents in the far-flung Barangay Quintin Remo in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental after government troops clashed with communist rebels in the area on Wednesday afternoon.

More than 800 residents from about four sitios (hamlets) were evacuated to various areas while the soldiers were conducting clearing operations until the day after.

2nd Lt. Mary Liza Joy De Guzman, civil-military operations officer of 62IB based in neighboring Isabela town, told the Philippine News Agency that the displaced residents have started to return home on Friday.

“They were given instructions that they are now allowed to go home,” she said, adding that Mayor Ella Celestina Garcia-Yulo also wanted to make sure that the residents are already safe.

De Guzman said the residents were provided food assistance by the municipal government on Thursday and Friday, and the soldiers secured the personnel who came to distribute food packs to the people in the village.

“We assure the residents that we will keep them safe from extortion (of the communist-terrorists). Troops of 62IB, with the help of 79th Infantry Battalion, are in the area to secure them, not to harm them,” she added.

The troops launched a combat operation on Thursday afternoon after they were informed by a concerned citizen of the presence of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in the village, planning to extort and derail the construction of the farm-to-market road located in the provincial boundary on the side of Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

Two soldiers of the 79IB were killed while four others were also wounded after the troops engaged about 25 rebels in an hour-long clash in Sitio Tiyos.

In a statement, Lt. Col. Melvin Flores, commanding officer of 62IB, thanked the active participation of the residents of Barangay Quintin Remo and Barangay Trinidad in Guihulngan City in ending insurgency in their respective communities.

“The communist-terrorists planned to extort from the construction firm and regain their masses in Barangay Trinidad. Again, we are calling on the remaining members of the NPA to lay down their arms and surrender or else, the Unifier troopers will tirelessly hunt you anywhere,” he added.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158904

AFP rolls out Covid-19 vax for troops' minor dependents

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 5, 2021): AFP rolls out Covid-19 vax for troops' minor dependents (By Priam Nepomuceno)

SLEEVES UP. A minor dependent of a soldier gets her first dose of the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine at the V. Luna Medical Center on Nov. 3, 2021. The vaccination of military dependents aged 12 to 17 will run from November 3 to 8. (Photo courtesy of AFPHSC)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines Health Service Command (AFPHSC) has rolled out its coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccination drive for military dependents aged 12 to 17.

"The AFPHSC through the Victoriano Luna Medical Center (VLMC), one of its operating units, opened up its latest Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccination roll-out to military dependents aged 12–17 years old," it added in a statement Thursday night.

The vaccination is being held at the AFPHSC Basketball Court, Camp Victoriano K. Luna, V. Luna Avenue, Quezon City, and will run from November 3 to 8.

The VLMC vaccination team is headed by Maj. Vicente Vila II, with Maj. Carrol Mae Asia, as assistant leader.

Minor vaccinees are required to comply with the following requirements as prescribed by the Department of Health:

*Philippine Statistics Authority Birth Certificate;

*ID card of accompanying parent;

*For guardians other than the parents, duly notarized Certificate of Guardianship; and

*Medical Certificate/ Clearance from the Department of Pediatrics, VLMC.

As of Thursday, around 426 vaccinees have received their first dose of the Covid-19 jabs. This number is expected to increase significantly in the succeeding days of the program.

"The AFPHSC stands firm on its commitment as the people’s partner in promoting good health through Disease Prevention; Prompt Diagnosis and Treatment; and Rehabilitation in order to provide a five-star health care delivery system that will benefit all military personnel, their direct dependents, and other authorized civilians," it added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158838

PH Army to enhance capability dev't programs with Thai military

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 5, 2021): PH Army to enhance capability dev't programs with Thai military (By Priam Nepomuceno)

ALLIES. Capt. Pakpoom Muensri (left), Thailand's naval attaché to the Philippines, receives a token of appreciation from Philippine Army commander Lt. Gen. Andres Centino Jr. (right) during his introductory call at the PA headquarters on Thursday (Nov. 4, 2021). Centino assured that the PA will continue to enhance its capability development program with the Thai military. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

The Philippine Army (PA) has expressed its commitment to the continued enhancement of its capability development program with the Thai military.

PA commander Lt. Gen. Andres Centino Jr. gave this assurance during the introductory call of Thailand's new naval attaché, Capt. Pakpoom Muensri to him at the Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Thursday.

Muensri was accompanied by Group Capt. Soonthorn Pongampai, Thailand's defense and air attaché to the Philippines, during his visit.

"The CGPA (Commanding General Philippine Army) assured both officers of the PA's strong desire to sustain military cooperation and enhance capability development programs with the Thailand Army. Lt. Gen. Centino also highlighted the upcoming renewal of the Terms of Reference as a testament to the PA’s genuine commitment to strengthen its relationship with the Royal Thai Army," Army spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement Thursday night.

Centino also thanked Bangkok for its support to the PA through the years.

"We look forward to our future activities and engagements that will further strengthen our military relations,” he added.

Meanwhile, Muensri thanked Centino's time and warm accommodation as he pledged to foster the military relations of both countries.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158842

EU, Germany launch P1-B peace, dev't project in Mindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 5, 2021): EU, Germany launch P1-B peace, dev't project in Mindanao (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

The European Union (EU) and the German government launched a four-year project with a total budget of EUR18 million (approximately PHP1 billion) to support Mindanao's peace and development agenda.

The program, called "Strengthening the Implementation of Regional and Local Peace and Development Agendas in Mindanao (SPADe)", seeks to promote a peaceful, cohesive, secure, and "inclusively developed Mindanao".

The EU Delegation on Friday said special attention would be given to vulnerable and marginalized groups such as smallholder farmers, fisherfolk, indigenous peoples, internally displaced persons, women, and the youth.

“This new project is consistent with our EU vision, which calls for an integrated approach to conflicts, supports state and societal resilience, addresses extreme poverty, inequality, and chronic fragility,” EU Ambassador Luc Véron said.

German Ambassador to the Philippines Anke Reiffenstuel said this reflects Germany's commitment to contributing to the peacebuilding process in the region.

SPADe will be implemented by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH on behalf of the German government, from 2021 to June 2025 in select areas in the region.

The project is under the EU's Mindanao Peace and Development Programme (MinPAD RISE) and co-funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development.

"With the GIZ project, the German development cooperation complements the EU-funded MinPAD RISE Programme and continues Germany’s commitment for a peaceful and successful socio-economic development of Mindanao," Reiffenstuel said.

For a span of more than four years, SPADe will focus on the following:
- Agricultural and fishery value chain development and investment promotion
- Capacity building and strengthening cooperatives
- Good governance promotion
- Support equitable and sustainable access to natural resources
- Empowerment of vulnerable groups

The EU said SPADe would support the Regional Peace and Order Councils, Regional Development Councils, and non-state actors in implementing local and regional peace and development agendas.

It will also help improve the services of agricultural cooperatives to their members and promote climate-smart agricultural value chains.

The program officially kicked off during a virtual ceremony hosted by MinDA on November 4.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158862

AFP chief urges troops to join search for outstanding Pinoys

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 5, 2021): AFP chief urges troops to join search for outstanding Pinoys (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of AFP

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff, Gen. Jose Faustino Jr., on Friday urged all members of the military to join the Metrobank Foundation Inc.’s (MBFI) Search for Outstanding Filipinos.

“As the Chief-of-Staff, I urge all the members of the AFP to join the Metrobank Foundation in the search for the recipients of this award for 2022. Let us take pride in our fellow soldiers and nominate who we think are most laudable,” Faustino said in a statement.

Since 1985, the Metrobank Foundation has honored a total of 685 Outstanding Filipinos -- 372 teachers, 163 soldiers, and 150 police officers.

Eligible to join in the search are soldiers, police officers, and teachers who have a minimum of 10 years of service with at least “very satisfactory” rating in the last decade.

Those set to retire must have at least three remaining years of service.

They must have exhibited good moral character and must not have been charged guilty in any administrative or criminal case. For the AFP, qualified commissioned officers (Captain to Colonel) must have completed a bachelor’s degree while enlisted personnel (Corporal to Chief Master Sergeant) must have completed at least a high school degree.

On Thursday, nominations for the prestigious award were officially launched at a virtual occasion led by MBFI president Aniceto Sobrepeña.

AFP deputy chief-of-staff, Vice Admiral Erick Kagaoan, attended the multi-sectorial activity with representatives from the Philippine National Police, Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, Philippine Savings Bank, Rotary Club of Makati Metro, and Rotary Club of New Manila East.

The MBFI’s Outstanding Filipino Award seeks to recognize four teachers, three soldiers, and three police officers for inspiring and influencing their peers and communities through service beyond and above the call of duty.

Each of them must have transformed a community with a lasting positive impact on people and to the country.

“Our esteemed institution is filled with outstanding men and women who are truly qualified to be nominated for the award. In times of peace or crisis, we have seen our brave soldiers stepping up to heed the call of duty and beyond in order to save lives, secure properties, and support in the delivery of basic needs,” Faustino said.

He added that he is grateful the AFP has partnered with stakeholders like the Metrobank Foundation who honor and respect the hard work of all teachers, soldiers, and police officers especially during these trying times brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Faustino also said that he is thankful for the foundation for bestowing due recognition that our personnel truly deserve.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158867

PH, Spain sign intel protection pact

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 5, 2021): PH, Spain sign intel protection pact (By Priam Nepomuceno)

The Philippines and Spain signed an agreement on the "Protection of Classified Information in the Field of Defense" on Thursday.

"Recognizing the importance of information sharing in fostering mutual understanding and closer cooperation between security partners, an agreement between the Department of National Defense (DND) of the Republic of the Philippines and the National Intelligence Center (CNI) of the Kingdom of Spain on the Protection of Classified Information in the Field of Defense, was signed on 4 November 2021 in Madrid," DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said in a statement on Friday.

The signing of the agreement is one of the highlights of Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana's official visit to Spain, he added.

The agreement provides a framework to regulate the exchange of all classified information in the course of bilateral defense cooperation, including but not limited to defense equipment acquisitions and transfer of technology.

"It is an important step to further deepening Philippines-Spain defense relations, as the two countries both endeavor to develop their defense capabilities and promote their shared interest in a rules-based international order," Andolong said.

On November 2, Lorenzana met with Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles where they discussed matters of mutual interest, including the importance of strengthening partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region, fostering multilateral cooperation, and jointly addressing the global issue of climate change.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158916

Nothing wrong with UPV, RTF6-ELCAC execs dialogue: ex-NPA cadre

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 5, 2021): Nothing wrong with UPV, RTF6-ELCAC execs dialogue: ex-NPA cadre (By Marita Moaje)

EXCHANGE. University of the Philippines Visayas Chancellor, Dr. Clement Camposano (left), hosts a dialogue with Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict in Region 6 officials at the Miagao, Iloilo campus on Oct. 29, 2021. He said UP welcomes all ideas and communication even if the State University does not agree with all of them. (Photo courtesy of Clement Castigador Camposano Facebook)

The recent dialogue between the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) and the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict in Region 6 (RTF-ELCAC 6) was an opportunity to exchange ideas and promote freedom of expression.

As for those who opposed the talk, a former UP student who joined and eventually turned her back on the New People’s Army (NPA) had this to say in response to their negative reactions: "What’s wrong with the dialogue?"

“NTF-ELCAC not welcome? So, who’s welcome?” asked Alma Gabin, a former NPA cadre and organizer in Eastern Visayas, in a statement issued on Friday.

Gabin was referring to the October 29 meeting led by UPV Chancellor, Dr. Clement Camposano, who received members of the RTF 6-ELCAC and gave them a tour of the UPV campus in Miagao, Iloilo.

Reading materials and copies of a coffee table book published by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples were given by the RTF-ELCAC 6 visitors to the UPV head.

Gabin said a group of 49 organizations, composed mostly student councils and student publications staff including Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-linked Kabataan party-list, Anakbayan, League of Filipino Students, Karatula, and Youth Act Now, condemned the dialogue.

She said the group called Defend UP tried to represent the whole UP Visayas community “by using the plain-folk propaganda technique to persuade us that their thought is excellent since it is shared by the great majority of people. This can be seen in their words like malaking sampal sa mga iskolar ng bayan (slap on the country’s scholars), karapatan ng mga estudyante at kawani (rights of students and staff), etc."

Free exchange

For transparency, Camposano posted on his Facebook page that he hosted the NTF-ELCAC “in the spirit of dialogue”.

The post was met with criticisms from former and current students, faculty, and alumni on social media but Camposano defended his action.

“To those asking why I bothered to host and engage those who have red-tagged UPV students and faculty members, here's the simple answer: I prefer not to censor those who would want to censor us by closing the doors on them. Because I would rather that we walk the talk, that we practice what we preach. Because the freedom of expression that the University represents extends to those whose ideas we don't like,” his post read.

Gabin lashed back at the organizations that claimed to defend the university.

“As vanguard of critical thinking and activism, I call on the UP community to answer these questions: Defend UP from what? Defend UP from whom?” she asked.

As an education officer of the CPP for 16 years and an organizer of national democratic mass organizations within UP premises, Gabin said she is certain they do not represent the students.

“They hastily issued a statement without a proper democratic consultation among the students of their respective departments and colleges. These few leaders advocate democracy and academic freedom yet a simple element of academic freedom (due consultation) wasn’t practiced. Look who’s monopolizing the discourse? Who’s the real threat to academic freedom?” Gabin said.

In his Facebook post, Camposano underscored UP’s commitment to academic freedom and its openness to dialogue.

“The one thing that defines UP is that we are open to the free exchange of ideas. This engagement should be seen in that light,” he said, adding it is important to hear from the officials and representatives of the task force as well as “for the RTF to see where we are coming from as a university, based on our mandate and our tripartite function of teaching, research, and extension”.

Camposano was joined in the meeting by Vice-Chancellor Harold Monteclaro; UPV legal counsel Nellie Jo Regalado; Alumni Director Prof. Rey Gonzales; Prof. Julie Prescott, Office of the Chancellor Project Development Assistant Anna Razel Ramirez, Security Service Force chief Raymund Germarino; and executive assistant to the Chancellor Eloisa Jamolo, among others.

The NTF-ELCAC team included Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales, Lt. Col. Constander Cahayon, Lt. Col. Tony Timbal, Major Ruel Llanes, Lemwel Casas, Lt. Rafman Altre, Capt. Apitong, Major Ashley Cruz, Major Rey Tolosa, and former rebels Winnie Dobleza and “Ka Boy”.

Representatives of the Department of the Interior and Local Government and Commission on Higher Education, and another rebel returnee, James Saguino, attended the meeting virtually.

The UPV - University Student Council, in a post on November 1, said they drafted a letter addressed to the Office of the Chancellor “requesting full disclosure of (1) minutes of their dialogue and (2) titles and sources of the books/reading materials that were accepted”.

MEETING. University of the Philippines Visayas Chancellor Dr. Clement Camposano (front, 4th from left) and Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict Region 6 officials pose in front of the Oblation at the Miagao, Iloilo campus on Oct. 29, 2021. Camposano gave his guests a tour of the campus. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army Spearhead Troopers)

Call for transparency

Gabin challenged the group calling for transparency to practice the same.

“You want transparency? I am challenging the leaders of these organizations to practice what they preach. Show us how you have come up with your strong statements. Show the public what’s transpiring during your discussions of various issues, your discussions of MKLRP (Maikling Kurso sa Lipunan at Rebolusyong Pilipino), and other teach-in activities inside the campus. Show us your books based on your organization’s curriculum. You can use Facebook live or simple video documentation will do. Let the public decide who’s curtailing the people’s freedom and who’s killing the voice of the people,” Gabin added.

She also called on all UP students to exercise genuine academic freedom by demanding democratic consultation from such organizations before issuing statements.

Gabin said the CPP-New People’s Army (NPA) should stop using the students for its own interests.

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.

The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the National Democratic Front as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and separate part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158935

I’m not incoming PNP chief: Sermonia

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 5, 2021): I’m not incoming PNP chief: Sermonia (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

Philippine National Police chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar (File photo)

The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group is investigating the circulation of a fake news post on social media that alleged Maj. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia is the next PNP chief.

President Rodrigo Duterte has yet to make an official announcement of his appointee to the top PNP post.

Sermonia, PNP Director for Operations, slammed the circulation of a social media card in Facebook announcing the Retirement Honors and Change of Command ceremony of “outgoing Chief PNP” Gen. Guillermo Eleazar while naming him “incoming Chief PNP”.

The same post also welcomed Duterte to the supposed ceremony on Nov. 12.

“This is to inform the public that this post never came from us. It is malicious and we take offense from whoever orchestrated this. We believe this is the work of saboteurs who wish to put malice on the President's upcoming appointment of the new Chief PNP,” Sermonia wrote, also on Facebook.

“To those who want to put in harm’s way the candidates for the top most position, I warn you that you will be held accountable for your crime.” Sermonia said.

Eleazar will step down from the service on November 13 as he reaches the mandatory retirement age of 56.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158927

Calls mount to disqualify Kabataan, Gabriela from 2022 polls

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 5, 2021): Calls mount to disqualify Kabataan, Gabriela from 2022 polls (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

PETITION TO DISQUALIFY. Members of the League of Parents of the Philippines, Liga Independencia Pilipinas, and Yakap ng Magulang, and parents of minors recruited by militant organizations, gather outside the Commission on Elections main office in Intramuros, Manila on Friday (Nov. 5, 2021). They intensified their call to cancel the registration of party-list groups Kabataan and Gabriela. (PNA photo by Lade Kabagani)

Multi-sectoral organizations on Friday urged anew the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to disqualify party-list groups Kabataan and Gabriela from the 2022 elections because of their links with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

Members of the League of Parents of the Philippines, Liga Independencia Pilipinas, and Yakap ng Magulang, along with parents of minors who have been recruited by CPP-NPA organizations, staged a rally outside the Comelec main office at the Palacio del Gobernador in Intramuros, Manila to renew their call for the cancellation of the registration of the two party-list groups.

Earlier this year, Angela Aguilar, a former CPP cadre and Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) member, filed a petition before the poll body to disqualify "the party-list groups that are identified sympathizers of the communist terrorist groups (CTGs)".

The petition also urged the Comelec to revoke the registration of other party-list groups under the Makabayang Koalisyon ng Mamamayan (Makabayan) Bloc, including Bayan Muna, Anakpawis, ACT, Integrity, Equality, Leadership, and Action, General Assembly Binding Women for Reforms.

In a statement, the anti-communist groups believe that the militant party-list groups are violating the provisions of the Republic Act 7941 (Party-List System Act), saying "they are pretending as the voice of marginalized Filipinos to protect the communist armed struggle".

"Specifically, they have violated the provision on receiving foreign assistance and grants to pursue their terroristic acts," the statement read.

The groups said the party-lists are expanding toward infiltrating other sectors such as the academe and professionals.

Student recruitment

In an interview, Hands Off Our Children member and Yakap ng Magulang founder Relissa Santos Lucena appealed to the Comelec to swiftly act on their petition.

Lucena, mother of Alicia Jasper who was recruited by Anakbayan and is an active member of the Kabataan party-list, said they can only "live in peace" once the Comelec would provide positive feedback on their calls against the CPP's legal fronts.

Lucena lamented these party-lists, particularly Kabataan, are manipulating the House of Representatives to accumulate funds "to sustain their communist mass movement and to lure more minors to join the armed struggle".

Most of the former NPA rebels who were recruited from the prominent state universities in Metro Manila, she said, could testify that the Kabataan party-list has been part of the underground mass movement of the CTGs.

She also cautioned other parents who have sent their children to universities and schools known to be infiltrated by the CPP-NPA-NDF "to be wary and always be vigilant" against militant organizations that are recruiting new members for armed revolution.

"Nagre-recruit sila ng mga kabataan sa mga universities and colleges para gawing mga future members at cadres ng NPA kung saan doon sa kalibliban ng mga kabundukan ay magmu-multiply sila (They are recruiting more children in the universities and colleges to become future NPA members and cadres and they go to far-flung communities, in the mountains, to multiply)," Lucena said.

Hands Off Our Children member and Yakap ng Magulang Founder Relissa Santos Lucena (PNA photo by Lade Kabagani)

Elago’s lies

Lucena also slammed outgoing Kabataan party-list Representative Sarah Elago for continuously denying her connection with the CPP-NPA-NDF.

"Si Sarah Elago po ay isang sinungaling. At ang mga ebidensya po ay hindi na niya maikakaila dahil 'yung mismong mga former rebel na nakasama ay sila mismo ang magpapatotoo ng koneksyon nila sa komunistang grupo (Sarah Elago is a liar. The evidence cannot be denied anymore because even the former rebels who were with her could testify their connection with the communist groups)," she said.

Lucena said the Comelec should also look into the "pretentious" activities of the party-list groups.

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.

The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the NDF as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and separate part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158934