Most wanted NPA leader in Mindanao killed in Davao de Oro

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 6, 2022): Most wanted NPA leader in Mindanao killed in Davao de Oro (By Che Palicte)

MOST WANTED. The most wanted commander of the New People’s Army (NPA), Menandro Villanueva, alias Bok, is killed by government troops in an encounter at Barangay Libudon in Mabini, Davao de Oro on Wednesday evening (Jan. 5, 2022). Villanueva was one of the founding members of the NPA in Mindanao during the 1970s together with Edgar Jopson and was considered one of the recognized high leaders of the Communist Party of the Philippines hiding in the strongholds of its armed wing, NPA. (Photo courtesy of 10ID)

The most wanted commander of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Mindanao was killed by government troops in an encounter at Barangay Libudon, Mabini, Davao de Oro on Wednesday evening (January 5), the 10th Infantry Division (10ID) said in a statement.

Menandro Villanueva alias "Bok," the longest-serving secretary of the NPA's Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) and currently the secretary of Komisyong Mindanao (KOMMID), commanding officer of the NPA’s National Operations Command (NOC), and member of the POLITBURO of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), was killed in the encounter.

In December last year, the Department of National Defense (DND) and Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) offered a PHP5.6-million cash reward to any individual who could provide information that would lead to Villanueva's arrest.

The 10ID added that a concerned citizen reported the presence of the NPA disrupting peace in the area.

Troops from the 1001st Brigade immediately responded to verify the report which resulted in an armed engagement with the NPA Regional Headquarters-SMRC where alias Bok was co-located.

“Alias Bok was hit in several parts of his body resulting in his death. Troops are still conducting pursuit operations to the fleeing members of the NPA,” the 10ID added.

Founding member

Villanueva is considered as one of the recognized high leaders of the CPP hiding in the strongholds of its armed wing, the NPA.

Villanueva is one of the founding members of the NPA in Mindanao during the 1970s together with Edgar Jopson.

During his student years in Ateneo de Manila, he was an activist under the Kabataang Makabayan (KM) and went underground when Martial Law was declared.

He supervised the operations of the CPP-NPA in the whole of Mindanao and directly controlled the operations of the communist group as head of the NOC.

Alias Bok has several warrants of arrests for multiple murder, double frustrated murder, arson, robbery with intimidation, and rebellion, among others.

Victory

Brig. Gen. Jesus Durante III, commander of the 1001st Brigade, lauded the troops’ prompt and deliberate actions which further contributed to the peace efforts of the whole Davao Region.

“The 51-year reign of terror of Menandro Villanueva is finally over. His victims were finally given justice,” he added.

He further renewed his call to the fleeing NPAs to surrender and avail of the government's program to achieve real peace.

"Surrender now while you still can. Don't wait to suffer the same fate as Menandro Villanueva. The government is always willing to accept you if you decide to return to the folds of the law." Durante added.

Meanwhile, MGen Ernesto Torres Jr., commander of the 10ID, thanked the troops for their outstanding performance in pursuing the top leadership of the SMRC and KOMMID.

“This is a clear manifestation that the CPP-NPA in the whole Mindanao is losing ground. Mindanao's most wanted terrorist is now finally neutralized by your Agila Troopers. They have nowhere to hide because the masses are already fed up with the abuses and extortion they perpetrated for more than five decades,” he said.

Torres added that the death of Villanueva was an indication that the end of the communist insurgency in Mindanao is already within reach.

Last December 24, troops of the 1001st Brigade also figured in an armed engagement with the same group that resulted in the death of Anna Sandra Reyes alias Kaye, the secretary of Regional White Area Committee (RWAC), SMRC.

Torres said the death of the two top personalities of the Central Committee of the CPP-NPA was a colossal blow that makes its downfall irreversible.

“10ID is still in pursuit against known NPA personalities namely Eric Casilao alias Wally/Elian and his party, wife May Casilao alias Gab, both high ranking members of SMRC,” 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.

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/1164657

Editorial: Breach of protocol

Editorial posted to the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jan 6, 2022): Breach of protocol

The ink has barely dried on the executive order creating a new office that will “heal the wounds caused by armed conflict and foster genuine peace, reconciliation, and unity” in the country, when a deadly clash erupted in Pikit, Cotabato that has created fresh tensions in a delicate part of Mindanao.

In the early hours of Dec. 29, 2021 — two days after President Duterte signed Executive Order No. 158 replacing the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity — a joint police and military contingent swooped down on Gokotan village in Pikit, Cotabato, killing six and wounding three policemen and a civilian.

Per the official account of regional police commander Brig. Gen. Alexander Tagum, the police and military were deep into the territory of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to serve an arrest warrant on Maula Manampan, the suspected leader of a car theft syndicate who was on the police’s list of most wanted persons. But they were allegedly fired upon by unidentified gunmen using high-powered firearms, leading to the hourlong firefight and the casualties.

Manampan was able to escape from his hideout under cover of darkness, Tagum said, but when they were clearing the area, the joint police-Army team discovered more than 440 assorted motorcycles in a makeshift warehouse, as well as bomb-making components and high-powered firearms including anti-tank rocket B-40 launchers.



“The presence of high-powered [unlicensed] firearms makes the area a suspected lair of a lawless group,” declared Lt. Col. Maria Joyce Birrey, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office in Soccsksargen.

A human rights group, however, raised a different scenario: Based on the accounts of some of the village residents, what transpired was not a legitimate operation but a “rubout.” Drieza Lininding, chair of the Moro Consensus Group that monitors the human rights situation of Muslims in the area, called for an investigation into the bloody incident by an independent rights body. “We condemn this barbaric act, and we demand justice,” he said, adding that the motorcycles were not stolen as claimed by the military but pawned items with proper documentation.

The fatalities included Badrudin Masulot Dalid, 65, owner of SMZ Marketing that buys and sells motorcycles; Badrudin’s daughter, Arbaya Dalid Panisares, 42, the store cashier; Sharif Kabunto, 18, son of MILF commander Satar Kabunto; and MILF members Saligan Hamsa, Asraf Dalid Masulot, and Harris “Piraw” Macagba.

The police report described those killed in the raid as motorcycle “thieves,” but residents disputed that characterization, as well as the allegation that the MILF community harbored members of the separatist armed group Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

Aside from the differing accounts of what transpired, the raid was a breach of the ceasefire protocols painstakingly agreed upon in 2014 by the government and the MILF, which currently heads a transitional government in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

“The operation is legitimate, but it failed to adhere to the ceasefire protocols of the peace process,” MILF spokesperson Von Al Haq said.

Under the protocols, government forces must first inform and coordinate with the MILF before any military operation is conducted so that their troops can be pulled away from the target areas, thus avoiding a repeat of the infamous January 2015 Mamasapano massacre in Maguindanao that left 44 government troops dead.

Anwar Alamada, chair of the MILF committee in the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (Ahjag), a cooperative mechanism between the MILF and the Armed Forces of the Philippines that monitors violations of the truce under the peace deal, lamented the disregard for the ceasefire protocols, and expressed his intention to file a protest with the Ahjag.

MILF forces so far have not retaliated in kind. The bodies of the dead have been retrieved and members of the ad hoc group have “pacified the tension” in the restive village, according to the MILF. But that fragile peace may not hold for long if the killings of residents and the violation of ceasefire protocols are not addressed, and more such breaches are allowed to continue in MILF-designated areas.

Uncoordinated operations on either side will hamper efforts of the fledgling autonomous region to keep the peace, bring in investments, and fulfill its promise to provide the Bangsamoro a better life. Peace remains fragile in the area, and utmost goodwill and trust are needed from both the government and the MILF to ensure that the hard-fought gains of the accord now governing these communities, only lately recovering from decades of strife, do not go to waste.

https://opinion.inquirer.net/148373/breach-of-protocol

CPP/North Central Mindanao RC: Determinadong isulong ang demokratikong rebolusyong bayan! Pagpugayan ang Partido sa pamumuno sa digmang bayan!

Propaganda statement posted to the PRWC Newsroom (Jan 5, 2022): Determinadong isulong ang demokratikong rebolusyong bayan! Pagpugayan ang Partido sa pamumuno sa digmang bayan!

COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES

NORTH CENTRAL MINDANAO REGIONAL COMMITTEE

January 5, 2022

Ngayong araw, buong galak at sigla nating ipagdiwang ang ika-53 anibersaryo ng muling pagkakatatag ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas. Nararapat lamang na maging makulay ang paggunita sa ating rehiyon sa okasyong ito dahil higit tayong napanday sa buhay at kamatayang pakikibaka ngayong taon. Kasabay nito, ibigay din natin ang pinakamataas na pagpupugay sa Partido dahil patuloy nitong napamunuan ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan sa rehiyon. Gawin nating tuntungan ang natipong mga aral mula sa mga karanasan upang humakbang tayo pasulong mula sa ating mga kahinaan at kahirapan at ibayong isulong ang digmang bayan sa mas mataas na antas.

Sa okasyong ito, ibinibigay din natin ang pinakamataas na pagpupugay para sa 20 rebolusyonaryong martir na nag-alay ng kanilang buhay ngayong taon. Sinasaluduhan ng PKP-NCMR sina Ka Jorge “Oris” Madlos, Ka Pika, Ka Remix, Ka Dagol, Ka Smart, Ka Sansoy, Ka Jayse, Ka Dems, Ka Agreb, Ka Kiblar, Ka MK at iba pang martir sa rehiyon. Ang huwaran at magiting nilang pagsasakripisyo ay nagbibigay ng dagdag na tatag at alab sa mga rebolusyonaryo upang ipagpatuloy ang kanilang mga nasimulan.

Mabuwal man ang pinakamalaking puno sa kagubatan, magbibigay ito ng puwang para sa pag-usbong ng mas marami pa—ito ang pinanghahawakan ng mga rebolusyonaryo sa rehiyon nang dinakip at walang-awang pinatay ng pasistang Armed Forces of the Philippines si Ka Oris kasama ang kanyang medik na si Ka Pika. Mananatiling buhay ang ambag at alaala ni Ka Oris at ang kanyang kamatayan ay higit pang nagpaalab sa makauring pagkamuhi ng mga rebolusyonaryo.

Pinagpupugayan din ng Partido ang lahat ng Pulang kumander at mandirigma ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan sa rehiyon na matiyagang sumuong sa lahat ng sakripisyo upang ipagpatuloy at paigtingin ang armadong paglaban. Alinsunod sa absolutong pamumuno ng Partido, patuloy na nagpupunyagi ang ating mga Pulang mandirigma na palalimin at palawakin ang baseng masa upang mas lumawak pa ang saklaw at maniobrahan nito at epektibong mabigo ang atake ng kaaway. Sa gitna ng labis na kalupitan ng kaaway, mapangahas pa ring nakikipaggitgitan ang BHB upang pukawin, organisahin at pakilusin ang masang magsasaka. Dahil dito, nananatiling mahigpit ang ugnayan ng BHB sa masa at nagbibigay ito ng malaking suportang moral at materyal sa armadong rebolusyon.

Mataas din ang pagsisikap ng mga yunit ng BHB na mapanatili at mapatibay pa ang kanilang lakas sa pamamagitan ng tuluy-tuloy na pagtatasa at paglalagom ng kanilang mga rebolusyonaryong tungkulin. Patuloy na nakatindig ang karamihan sa mga larangang gerilya ng BHB sa rehiyon dahil sa mahigpit na pagtangan sa gerilyang taktika ng paglilipat, dispersal at konsentrasyon.

Nitong taon, naranasan ng ating mga Pulang mandirigma ang iba’t ibang tipo ng malupit na bigwas ng estado at ng berdugong AFP. Brutal at walang-pakundangang ginamit ng AFP ang kanilang abanteng mga kagamitan, tulad ng FA-50 jet fighters, at tusong binomba ang mga kampo ng BHB. Subalit pinatunayan ng BHB sa rehiyon na hindi nito magagapi ang rebolusyonaryong armadong paglaban at, sa katunayan, pinag-aralan at ginawan nila ito ng epektibong mga hakbang upang iwasan ang malaking pinsala na dulot nito. Laging pinanghahawakan ng BHB ang prinsipyong itinuro ni Kasamang Mao Zedong na “ang mamamayan, hindi ang mga bagay, ang mapagpasya.” Samakatwid, kahit pa nasa kaaway ang abanteng sandata at mga bomba, nasa BHB naman ang umaapaw na suporta ng mamamayan.

Sa harap ng nakapokus na mga operasyong militar, nakapaglunsad pa rin ngayong taon ang BHB-NCMR ng 55 aksyong opensiba laban sa mga pasistang tropa ng AFP, PNP, CAFGU, mga tropang paramilitar at laban sa mga mapangwasak na multinasyunal na plantasyon. Sa mga aksyong ito, umabot sa 120 ang kaswalti ng kaaway kung saan 70 ang napatay at 50 ang nasugatan sa mga labanan.

Dagdag pa, matikas din ang pagsaludo ng PKP-NCMR sa lahat ng masang api at pinagsasamantalahan sa rehiyon. Kayo ang nagsisilbing bukal ng sigla at katatagan ng buong rebolusyonaryong pwersa. Nararapat lamang na ipagpatuloy ang inyong walang-takot na paglantad at paglaban sa kalupitan ng rehimeng US-Duterte. Kailangan ring tuluy-tuloy ninyong igiit ang inyong batayang interes, laluna ang interes sa lupa, disenteng buhay at hanapbuhay, sahod, at iba pang kahalintulad. Walang anumang kalupitan ng estado ang makakahadlang sa inyong nagkakaisang lakas.

Kasabay nito, masaya ang lahat ng rebolusyonaryong pwersa na palaging makasalamuha at makasama ang masang kanilang pinaglilingkuran laluna kung maririnig namin mula sa inyo ang mga katagang: “matagal na namin kayong hinihintay.” Maraming salamat sa inyong walang-sawang pagsuporta at pagsagawa ng mga inisyatiba upang ipagpatuloy at paigtingin ang demokratikong rebolusyong bayan.

Sa gayon, nananatiling mataas ang determinasyon at kasiglahan ng lahat ng rebolusyonaryong pwersa sa rehiyon para isulong ang digmang bayan. Sa gabay ng Marxismo-Leninismo-Maoismo, higit na kailangan natin ngayon ang matalas at wastong paglapat sa unibersal na teorya sa ating rebolusyonaryong pagkilos. Dapat seryoso nating pag-aralan ang lahat ng karanasan at paunlarin ito sa pamamagitan ng mas mataas na antas ng rebolusyonaryong praktika. Lagi’t lagi nating ipinapaalala sa lahat ng kadre at rebolusyonaryo na magsikhay sa pag-aaral at iwaksi ang empirisismo.

Sa darating na mga buwan, inaasahan nating ibubuhos na ng malupit na rehimeng US-Duterte ang “huling tulak” nito upang kamtin ang hangal na hangaring puksain ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan sa rehiyon. Sa gayon, dapat ihanda ng lahat ng rebolusyonaryo ang kanilang mga sarili sa lahat ng haharaping sakripisyo at hirap upang biguin ito. Mabigat man ang mga sakripisyo,sigurado tayong panandalian lamang ito sapagkat inamin mismo ng reaksyunaryong gubyerno na bigo ito sa kanilang todo-gera laban sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan.

Kailangang iangat ang diwang mapanlaban at determinasyon ng lahat ng kadre at myembro ng Partido, mga Pulang kumander at mandirigma, at aktibistang masa upang biguin ang paninibasib ng kaaway. Laging nariyan ang masa na ating masasandalan at handang umanib sa ating paglaban.

Mula 2018 hanggang sa kasalukuyan, bagaman wala nang malalaki, hayag at makulay na mga pagdaraos sa anibersaryo ng Partido, tuloy ang mga sikreto, maliitan at lihim na pagdaraos nito. Ito ay dahil sa lupit ng hambalos at tuluy-tuloy na atake ng kaaway kahit sa panahong may deklaradong tigil-putukan. Gayunpaman, sa gitna nito, hindi ito naging balakid sa masaya at maalab nating pagdaraos sa anibersaryo ng Partido. Batid natin hanggang ngayon, na ang tunay na pagdiriwang sa espesyal na araw ng Partido ay ang pagdiriwang sa ating mga tagumpay at pagbati sa napangibabawang mga hirap. Kasabay nito ay ang higit pang pagpapayabong sa ating makasaysayang paglaban para sa pambansang paglaya at demokrasya at kamtin ang pantay-pantay at sosyalistang lipunan na hahawan ng landas tungong komunismo.

Mabuhay ang ika-53 anibersaryo ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas!
Mabuhay ang Bagong Hukbong Bayan!
Mabuhay ang nakikibakang mamamayan!
Isulong ang digmang bayan sa mas mataas na antas!

https://prwcinfo.wordpress.com/2022/01/05/determinadong-isulong-ang-demokratikong-rebolusyong-bayan-pagpugayan-ang-partido-sa-pamumuno-sa-digmang-bayan/

CPP/NPA-Cagayan Valley ROC: Taas kamao at militanteng pagpugay kay Ka Oris, ang bandila ng armadong paglaban at bandila ng pulang kapangyarihan

Propaganda statement posted to the PRWC Newsroom (Jan 5, 2022): Taas kamao at militanteng pagpugay kay Ka Oris, ang bandila ng armadong paglaban at bandila ng pulang kapangyarihan

CAGAYAN VALLEY REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND (FORTUNATO CAMUS COMMAND)

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY, NPA-CAGAYAN (HENRY ABRAHAM COMMAND)

January 5, 2022

Pagsamahin man ang timbang ng gahiganteng mga bundok ng Siera Madre at Cordillera na kapwa’y tumatanaw sa lambak ng Cagayan, ay malayong mas mabigat pa rin ang kahulugan at kabuluhan ng kamatayan ng lumaban sa imperyalismo, pyudalismo, at burukrata kapitalismo. Ito ay si Ka Oris.

Bilang kumander at tagapagsalita ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan, gumanap siyang sagisag ng magiting na armadong paglaban ng mamamayan sa diktadurang US-Marcos hanggang sa kasalukuyang paghahari ng tiranikong rehimeng US-Duterte. Simbolo siya ng pag-unlad at paglakas ng pulang kapangyarihang pampulitika sa kanayunan, simbolo ng hangarin ng masa na itayo ang bagong estado. Isang dumadagundong na boses ng pag-aalsa na yumugyog at kinatakutan ng mga bulok, abusado, kriminal, korap, at teroristang rehimen.

Mawawasak man ang isang kumakatawan, hindi kailanman mapapawi ang paninindigan at adhikain na tinanggap, yinakap at minahal ng masang anakpawis. Mas masugid pang ipaglalaban ito sa bawat pagpaslang, brutalidad, pagpapahirap, at karahasan ng pasistang estado.

Ang katawan ni Ka Oris ay wala na. Subalit ang kanyang diwa ay malayang dumadapo sa mga eskwela, pabrika, komunidad ng maralita, bukid, bundok, tabing dagat, at sonang gerilya sa buong lambak ng Cagayan. Sa mga pulong, sa pag-aaral ,at sa pagpapatupad ng tungkulin, nakalahok ang pamanang dedikasyon, talino, at karanasan ni Ka Oris.

Habampanahon kasama siya sa mga protesta, kulturang pagtatanghal, barikada, kwentuhan, welga, produksyon, martsa, biruan, pag-oorganisa, maniobra, kainan, at labanan. Kasama siya sa bawat hakbang ng libong liko’t ikot ng mapanganib na landas ng rebolusyon.

Sa bawat kalabit ng gatilyo at bugso ng punglo, sa bawat makakamit ng rebolusyong agraryo, at sa bawat tagumpay ng pakikibakang masa ay hakbang-hakbang na malilikha ang di matitinag na bantayog ni Ka Oris at lahat na bayani ng digmang bayan. Ito ang bantayog ng wasto at tapat na rebolusyonaryong praktika na magbibigay daan sa pagsulong ng kasaysayan.

Hindi malalabag ang batas ng pag-unlad ng kasaysayan. Kahit sa lupang libingan ay tutubo ang sampaguita at papatakan pa rin ng ulan. Mula sa kabundukan at kapatagan na pinaulanan ng bala at bomba, at pinaghasikan ng lagim ng pasistang rehimeng US-Duterte, ay sisibol ang mga bagong kasamang taglay ang ibayong sigla sa paglahok sa armadong pakikibaka. Ang mga tiranyo at berdugo na nagtatangol sa sistemang malakolonyal at malapyudal ang magpapabilis sa pagluwal ng mas marami pang bagong Ka Oris.

Higit pa ngayon ang determinasyon ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan at ang masang inaapi sa lambak ng Cagayan na sumunod sa iginuhit na huwarang landas ni Ka Oris at taas-noong iwagayway ang bandilang pula. Ang kanyang dakilang kamatayan ay magbibigay ng panibagong buhay at sigla sa matapang na martsa patungo sa mas mataas na antas ng digmang bayan hanggang sa ganap na tagumpay. Taglay sa puso’t isip ng bawat kadre at mandirigma ang imortal na apoy ng alaala ni Ka Oris, ang kumikislap na liwanag ng kamulatang Marxismo-Leninismo-Maoismo, at ang lumulupig na liyab ng armadong pakikibaka.

Isasara itong mensahe sa pamamagitan ng pag-alay ng adaptasyon ng ilang bahagi ng tula na nilikha ni Amado V. Hernandez…

Maari nilang patayin
ang isang libong estudyante,

lurayin ang isang libong
mabangong bulaklak
ng kabataan ng lahi,

kitlin ang isang libong
manggagawa
at laksalaksang magbubukid.

Subalit ang bayan
ay hindi nila mapipigil,
bagkus lalong titibay ang pagkakaisa,
magbubuhos ng lakas

na gaya
ng nagngangalit na unos,
ng kumukulong bulkan,
ng nag-aalimpuyong sigwa.

ang kagitingan mo, (Ka Oris)
ay pamana
at patnubay
ng mga naiwan sa landas,
ang iyong dalisay na dugo
ay magpapatingkad

sa luwalhati
ng ngumingiting bukas
“ng isang sosyalistang Pilipinas!”

Mabuhay si Ka Oris,
Mabuhay ang rebolusyong Pilipino!

https://prwcinfo.wordpress.com/2022/01/05/taas-kamao-at-militanteng-pagpugay-kay-ka-oris-ang-bandila-ng-armadong-paglaban-at-bandila-ng-pulang-kapangyarihan/

CPP/CIO: Condemn and resist the “no bakuna, no labas” policy

Propaganda statement posted to the PRWC Newsroom (Jan 5, 2022): Condemn and resist the “no bakuna, no labas” policy

COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES

MARCO VALBUENA

CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER

January 5, 2022

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) calls on the Filipino people to condemn and oppose the downright authoritarian “no bakuna, no labas” policy being proposed by the Covid-19 Interagency Task Force (IATF). The plan to extend nationwide the imposition of vaccine mandates earlier implemented in the National Capital Region (NCR) will result in widespread violations of human rights and extreme hardships on the people. It will effectively discriminate or deny rights to more than half the country’s population.

The “no bakuna, no labas” proposal by Duterte’s officials merely seeks to obscure the gross neglect of the Duterte government of the public health system amid the pandemic, and pass the blame on people for its continuing failed response to the pandemic. Even in the face of the anticipated new surge of infections, there remains no system of mass testing, especially for the broad masses of toiling people, who continue to be burdened by expensive testing and loss of income when forced to quarantine. Nor were there preparations to strengthen public hospitals and hire new medical personnel, retrofit schools to allow the safe conduct of in-person classes, nor moves to ensure health-safety in workplaces. The government did not even ensure the supply of medicine resulting in some shortages.

The Party promotes and encourages the people to get vaccinated against Covid-19 as a way of increasing their protection from the virus or from severe symptoms of the disease. However, it is wrong to require people to get vaccinated for them to avail of essential public service, from transportation to education. Requiring or mandating people to get vaccinated is discriminatory, oppressive and burdensome.

More than 50% of Filipinos remain unvaccinated primarily because of the lack of supply and because of the lack of access to vaccines. Although vaccines are free, a large part of the population cannot afford to go to the limited number of vaccination centers. Some have chosen not to get vaccinated out of legitimate concerns especially in the face of lack of transparency by big pharmaceuticals who monopolize vaccine production.

The Party condemns how government officials, big business and some media outfits vilify and heap blame on unvaccinated people as if they are the cause of the new pandemic surge.

Imposing a vaccine mandates will effectively violate the social, economic and civil rights of more than half the country’s population. Such vaccine mandates will also result in widespread social and economic dislocation, especially in areas where there are low rates of vaccinations.

Based on the experiences of different countries during the past year, it is clear that insufficient and slow roll-out and inequitable distribution of vaccines will not stop the pandemic, nor will lockdowns and restrictions.

There must always be a system of free mass testing and rapid contact tracing to detect and stop the spread of the virus. There should also be sufficient funds for subsidies to compensate workers who might be compelled to be placed under quarantine.

https://prwcinfo.wordpress.com/2022/01/05/condemn-and-resist-the-no-bakuna-no-labas-policy/

Kalinaw News: Aurora Reservist Shooters Association, composed of Army and Air Force Reservist conduct feeding program

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 5, 2022): Aurora Reservist Shooters Association, composed of Army and Air Force Reservist conduct feeding program



At least 350 children benefited from a feeding program conducted by Aurora Reservist Shooters Association Inc. (ARSAI) together with the troops from 91st Infantry (SINAGTALA) Battalion, Philippine Army in Sitio Cemento, Barangay Zabali, Baler, Aurora on December 30, 2021.

The group prepared hot meals, nutritious food, bread, eggs, and packs of rice at Cemento Covered Court wherein the children together with their parents lined up for distribution.

Jason Francisco de Asis, President of ARSAI said that the activity was part of their feeding program for undernourished children in public daycare centers, kindergarten, and elementary school.

“Our groups were reaching out to the people to make sure that our programs will reach the people at the grassroots level in this province,” de Asis said.

Meanwhile, LTC Reandrew P. Rubio, 91IB Commanding Officer cited the joint efforts of the troops in assisting the needy and emphasized that his unit together with the stakeholders and LGUs will continue to conduct the same outreach program in the whole province.

Major General Andrew D. Costelo PA, Commander of 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army expressed his gratitude to ARSAI for being the Army’s partner in these kinds of humanitarian activities benefiting the children.

“Hindi lang sa oras ng kalamidad o anumang emergency kayo nakakatuwang, kundi sa ganito ring pag-aabot ng tulong sa mga nangangailangan. Nawa’y magpatuloy pa ang ganito nating ugnayan para makatulong sa bayan,” said MGen Costelo.

[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/aurora-reservist-shooters-association-composed-of-army-and-air-force-reservist-conduct-feeding-program/

Kalinaw News: Newly Hailed 9ID Commander Committedly Signs Joint Security Plan for a Secure 2022 Polls

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 5, 2022): Newly Hailed 9ID Commander Committedly Signs Joint Security Plan for a Secure 2022 Polls



CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur-The Regional Joint Security Control Center (RJSCC) in Bicol has been officially activated today, January 5 in preparation for the upcoming 2022 National and Local Elections.

Chaired by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), the RJSCC’s first coordinating conference focused on the activities and timeline of elections, especially on the Army and PNP’s security preparations.

Present during the conference which was held at the COMELEC Regional Office V, Regional Government Center in Rawis, Legazpi City were Atty. Rafael Olaño, Regional Election Officer; MGEN ALEX DC LUNA PA, Commander, Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB);PBGEN JONNEL C ESTOMO, Regional Director, Police Regional Office 5 (PRO-5); and Commodore Giovanni Bergantin, Commander, Coast Guard District Bicol.

During their presentation, the AFP and PNP stressed that COMELEC checkpoints and gun ban will commence at the start of the election period on January 9.

One of the highlights of the meeting was the signing of the Joint Security Plan to make sure that the conduct of the 2022 polls is secure, accurate, safe and fair.

In his message, MGEN LUNA stressed that 9ID will immediately designate military officers per province who will oversee the security measures that will be implemented by the Army.

“Let us open our communication lines para sa anumang koordinasyon natin sa isa’t isa sa darating na 2022 elections,” MGen. Luna 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/newly-hailed-9id-commander-committedly-signs-joint-security-plan-for-a-secure-2022-polls/

Kalinaw News: MGen. Luna is the New Top Military Officer of Bicol

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 5, 2022): MGen. Luna is the New Top Military Officer of Bicol



CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur-New Year means new Division Commander for the 9th Infantry (SPEAR) Division as it warmly welcomed MGEN ALEX DC LUNA PA, its newly-installed Division Commander, Tuesday, January 4.

In a Change-of-Command Ceremony led by LT. GEN. ROMEO BRAWNER JR, the Commanding General of the Philippine Army, MGEN LUNA replaced his mistah, BGEN ADONIS R BAJAO, the Acting Division Commander of 9ID and will now serve under the Office of the Internal Auditor at the General Headquarters of the AFP.

In his assumption speech, MGEN LUNA said that he is humbled to be the 16th Division Commander of 9ID which he considered as his second home.

“Ang humarap sa inyong lahat bilang bagong pinuno ng 9th Infantry Division na ngayon nasa labing pitong taon na simula ng maitatag… napakasarap bumalik sa aking tinuring na pangalawang tahanan dito sa Kabikolan,” MGen. Luna said.

The reason why the Spear Division is close to his heart is because he was already assigned here from 2007 to 2009 as the Assistant Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations, G7 and Battalion Commander of 42nd Infantry Battalion (42IB).

Meanwhile, Lt. Gen. Brawner lauded BGen. Bajao’s accomplishments which significantly contributed to the Army’s intensified campaign against insurgency.

He also congratulated MGen. Luna and expressed his confidence to his brand of leadership.

[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/mgen-luna-is-the-new-top-military-officer-of-bicol/

Kalinaw News: 3rd Infantry Division army troops distribute relief goods from Landers Superstore to over 3,400 families in Central Visayas

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 5, 2022): 3rd Infantry Division army troops distribute relief goods from Landers Superstore to over 3,400 families in Central Visayas



Troops of Joint Task Group Cebu composed of personnel from Charlie Company, 82IB; 14th CMO Battalion and 9th Marine Battalion Landing Team (MARU) under the leadership of COL JERRY T BORJA, Group Commander, JTG-Cebu, in collaboration with the Local Government Units of Lapulapu City headed by Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan, distributed relief food packs and bottled mineral water to the affected families/households who were victims of typhoon Odette in the following areas namely: Sitio Toril, Brgy Canjulao; Brgy Babag; Brgy Calawisan; Brgy Marigondon; Brgy Subasbas all in Lapulapu City from 02-03 January 2022.

On 02 January 2022 in Brgy Canjulao: more or less 2,000 families from 19 Urban Poor Organizations received 1,175 packs, 5kg each of Rice and 1,352 bottles (500ml) of Mineral Water

On 03 January 2022 in Brgy Babag, Brgy Calawisan, Brgy Marigondon and Brgy Subasbas with more or less 1,400 beneficiares received 1,464 food packs containing cans of sardines, tuna, corned beef, pork beans, sausage, spam and packs of noodles, pancit canton and brown sugar and 1,400 bottles of mineral water.

“Let’s continue doing ‘Bayanihan’ to help Odette-hit communities recover from the trauma and damage brought by the typhoon. Rest assured that your Army in Western and Central Visayas will be your partner in helping and delivering the needed assistance to our countrymen. Let’s us work hand-in-hand to overcome this challenge and together we rise as one,” said MGen Benedict Arevalo, Commander, 3ID.

[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/3rd-infantry-division-army-troops-distribute-relief-goods-from-landers-superstore-to-over-3400-families-in-central-visayas/

Kalinaw News: Fighters to Farmers : A fresh start for former asg members in sulu

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 5, 2022): Fighters to Farmers : A fresh start for former asg members in sulu

January 05, 2022, Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista, Jolo, Sulu – On new year’s day, “Fighters to Farmers” program was launched by Army Special Forces in Brgy Bud Bunga, Talipao, Sulu.

“This food on the table concept was a success in empowering communities in Basilan. We believe that this will also boost our PCVE efforts here in Sulu,” said 2nd Special Forces “Sabertooth” Battalion (2SFBn) Commander Ltc Benito Ramos Jr.

According to him, the military and the Provincial Task Force in Ending Local Armed Conflict have constructed several enabling facilities to include a two kilometer water system from Tubig Dakula, Brgy Upper Sinumaan to Brgy Bud Bunga.

“This year, Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) returnees from Talipao are programed to undergo agriculture workshops to be facilitated by soldiers who have knowledge in practical and traditional farming techniques. They will also be acquainted with the use of technologies including motorized tillers to increase efficiency and yield,” Ltc Benito added.

Meanwhile, Cpt Ron T Villarosa Jr, Commanding Officer of 6th Special Forces Company and Project Convener of “Fighters to Farmers” gave a glimpse how this project will affect the security landscape.

“Food is peace served on the table. By empowering the ASG Returnees and the community with the means to provide for their basic needs, we are reducing the vulnerability of the ASG Returnees and the community to be dragged into conflict in exchange for food, money, or other subsistence.”

For his part, Joint Task Force – Sulu and 11th Infantry Division MGen William N Gonzales commended the troops for their ingenuity in confronting security threats. “This kind of initiative showcase how committed and professional our modern army is. We strive to become experts in project development and community organizing through the aid of our partner agencies.”

To note, two former ASG members identified as Sibakkal Salahuddin, 55, and Isbain Sakilan, 49, yielded to 2SFBn on New Year’s Day. They were received by 1101st Infantry Brigade Commander BGen Eugenio Boquio.

[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/fighters-to-farmers-a-fresh-start-for-former-asg-members-in-sulu/

2 ex-NPAs, late rebel's mom, get housing aid from gov't

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 5, 2022): 2 ex-NPAs, late rebel's mom, get housing aid from gov't (By Liza Agoot)

HELP FOR EX-REBELS. Two former rebels and the mother of another who has passed away each receive on Tuesday (Jan. 4, 2022) a check worth PHP450,000 as the government’s assistance for the construction of their house. The housing aid is among the many other forms of support the government gives to allow those who have returned to the fold of the law to have a better life. (PNA photo courtesy of 5ID)

The government, through the National Housing Authority (NHA), has awarded PHP450,000 worth of housing assistance to three former New People's Army (NPA) rebels who earlier laid down their arms and returned to the fold of the law.

In a press release sent to the media on Wednesday, Capt. Rigor Pamittan, chief of the 5th Infantry Division (5ID) Public Affairs Office, said the former rebels (FRs) received on Tuesday their housing assistance from the NHA-Region 2 (Cagayan Valley) under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

He said that alias “Bryan” and alias “Alex” who are both from the province of Kalinga, and the mother of the late alias “Gabby” from Cagayan, received PHP450,000 each for the construction of their house.

Pamittan said the amount was computed based on the engineering and architectural design of the NHA where each house has two bedrooms, a living and dining room, kitchen, and a comfort room.

He, however, clarified that the design could be altered based on the desire of the beneficiary.

The housing assistance is among the several components of the government’s support program that aims to improve or change the lives of the FRs who have opted to reembrace the government and again pledge their allegiance in support of efforts to attain peace.

Livelihood, education, firearms remuneration and most of all, a better life with their families, are given by the government to the former rebels, Pamittan said.

He said the FRs, during the turnover ceremony at the 5ID headquarters in Gamu, Isabela, thanked the NHA and the 50th Infantry Battalion for allowing them to have a comfortable house for their family.

He also said the mother of the late alias “Gabby” emotionally thanked the agency and the 17th Infantry Battalion for giving them assistance and benefits even though her child had died.

“Nagpapasalamat talaga ako dahil hindi lang sa aking anak ang tulong ng gobyerno. Kahit wala na siya, hindi pa rin kami pinapabayaan ng kasundaluhan at ng mga ahensya ng ating pamahalaan. Yung benepisyo na para sa anak ko ay napapakinabangan namin. Kaya maraming salamat sa lahat ng tumutulong sa amin (Thank you because the government is not just helping my son. Even if he is already dead, the Armed Forces and the other agencies in government do not forget us. The supposed assistance for my son is also benefiting us. Thank you very much for all the help),” Pamittan quoted the mother as saying.

The housing assistance that the former rebels received is provided for under Administrative Order No. 10-2018 of President Rodrigo Duterte centralizing the government’s effort for the reintegration of former rebels.

Maj. Gen. Laurence Mina, 5ID commander, said the government will not falter in assisting the FRs and their family. “You have entrusted us your confidence when you returned to the folds of the law. It is our time to give what you deserve under the E-CLIP intended for you,” he said.

He encouraged the remaining members of the communist terrorist group to return to the fold of the law to experience positive changes in their lives through the assistance of the government under the whole-of-nation approach.

The Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the 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/1164554

Army Special Forces launch ‘fighters to farmers’ program in Sulu

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 5, 2022): Army Special Forces launch ‘fighters to farmers’ program in Sulu (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

FIGHTERS TO FARMERS. The Army's 2nd Special Forces Battalion launches on Wednesday (Jan. 5, 2021) the "fighters to farmers" program to provide sustainable livelihood to former members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Talipao, Sulu. A total of 14 ASG members have surrendered to government authorities in Talipao, Sulu since September last year. (Photo courtesy of the 11ID)

The Army’s 2nd Special Forces Battalion (2SFBn) has launched the “fighters to farmers” program to provide sustainable livelihood to formers members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Talipao, Sulu.

Lt. Col. Benito Ramos Jr., 2SFBn commander, said Wednesday that the program aims to put food on the table of ASG surrenderers and their families.

“This food on the table concept was a success in empowering communities in Basilan. We believe that this will also boost our PCVE (Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism) efforts here in Sulu,” Ramos said in a statement.

Ramos said the military and the Provincial Task Force in Ending Local Armed Conflict (PTF-ELAC) have constructed several enabling facilities to include a two-kilometer water system from Sitio Tubig Dakula, Barangay Upper Sinumaan to Barangay Bud Bunga in the municipality of Talipao.

The PTF-ELAC is Sulu’s version of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

He said that the ASG surrenderers from Talipao town are programmed to undergo workshops in agriculture workshops to be facilitated by soldiers who know practical and traditional farming techniques.

“They (ASG surrenderers) will also be acquainted with the use of technologies including motorized tillers to increase efficiency and yield,” he added.

Capt. Ron Villarosa Jr, 6th Special Forces Company commander and project convener of the “Fighters to Farmers’ program, said the project will help change the security landscape of the province.

“Food is peace served on the table. By empowering the ASG surrenderers and the community with the means to provide for their basic needs, we are reducing the vulnerability of the ASG surrenderers and the community to be dragged into the conflict in exchange for food, money, or other subsistence,” Villarosa said in a separate statement.

Since September last year, 14 ASG bandits have surrendered to government authorities in Talipao, Sulu.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, 11th Infantry Division commander, commended the troops for their ingenuity in confronting security threats in the province.

“This kind of initiative showcase how committed and professional our modern Army is. We strive to become experts in project development and community organizing through the aid of our partner agencies,” said Gonzales, who is also the Joint Task Force (JTF)-Sulu commander.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1164576

NPA leader yields due to hardships, trauma

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 5, 2022): NPA leader yields due to hardships, trauma (By Perla Lena)

SURRENDER. Col. Gilbert Gorero (center), Director of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) talks to alias "Banban"/"Tatang" (right), a resident of Barangay Bikil, Tubungan, Iloilo who surrendered to the government on Tuesday (Jan. 4, 2022). Gorero said the hardships and his traumatic experience during the December 1 operations of government troops in their hideout in Barangay Alimodias, Miagao led "Tatang" to surrender. (Photo courtesy of Col. Gilbert Gorero)

A squad leader of the New People's Army (NPA) operating in the southern part of Panay surrendered to the police Tuesday night due to hardships living in the mountain and his traumatic experience during a military operation in their hideout last December 1.

Col. Gilbert Gorero, Director of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO), on Wednesday, identified the surrenderer as 36-year old alias "Banban"/"Tatang" of Barangay Bikil, Tubungan, Iloilo, and former team leader of Squad 1 of the Mt. Napulak Command of the Southern Front Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA.

The squad's areas of operation cover the portions of Miagao, San Joaquin, and Igbaras in Iloilo Province and Antique.

“He was one of those CTG (communist terrorist group) that was the subject of a military operation in Miagao, Iloilo on December 1. It was a very traumatic experience he said and he wanted to have a safe and peaceful life,” Gorero said.

After that operation, the surrenderer joined other NPA members who went into hiding but decided to leave the armed movement on Dec. 29, 2021, almost six years since he left his home to be part of the terrorist group.

Gorero said "Tatang" worked as a farm laborer and was exposed to the NPA movement by attending a caucus. He was attracted by the promise to have a better life "should they win in their cause".

However, for all the years that he was in the movement, "Tatang" felt nothing but fear which was heightened by the December 1 military operation.

The surrender on January 4 was facilitated by several civilians, Gorero added.

“It was his own decision. He also would like to avail of the opportunity that is being offered by the government under Executive Order No. 70 (Whole of the Nation Approach) like the ECLIP (Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program),” the police official said.

“We are looking forward that he could convince the others to surrender. His surrender is a manifestation indeed that the government is serious in providing a better future for our people, especially the former rebels,” Gorero added.

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/1164632

Army vows continued support in typhoon relief ops

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 5, 2022): Army vows continued support in typhoon relief ops (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

INTERNET CONNECTION. Soldiers from the 302nd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army install a very small aperture terminal (VSAT) in Bais City, Negros Oriental to provide temporary communication and internet connectivity. Bais City is among the worst-hit areas by Typhoon Odette in mid-December. (Photo from the Facebook page of the 302nd Infantry Brigade)

The commander of the Philippine Army's 302nd Infantry Brigade based in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental on Wednesday vowed continued support and participation in relief and rehabilitation efforts in the province following the devastation caused by Typhoon Odette in mid-December.

Col. Leonardo Peña told the Philippine News Agency in an interview that they are providing military personnel, logistics, transportation, and security, among others to many areas in Negros Oriental that were badly hit by the typhoon and struggling to recover from the devastation.

“Actually, the military is just providing a support role now after different sectors are pooling their resources and the recovery efforts are led by the local government units (LGUs),” he said in mixed English and Cebuano.

The Army took on an active role in clearing and rescue operations immediately after the typhoon.

Peña also said they are also providing “limited engineering efforts” from the 54th Army Engineering Brigade.

Meanwhile, acting Sec. Roger Mercado of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) made a quick visit to Negros Oriental on Wednesday to inspect the damage wrought by Typhoon Odette.

Peña said the DPWH chief came from Cebu province on board a Philippine Air Force Blackhawk helicopter which landed at the brigade headquarters in Camp Leon Kilat, Tanjay City.

Gov. Roel Degamo held a briefing with Mercado on the damaged infrastructure in the province.

A report from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) showed that as of Jan. 5, the partial amount of damage to DPWH infrastructure has amounted to PHP16.65 million in the 1st Engineering District; PHP159 million in the 2nd Engineering District; and PHP20.3 million in the 3rd Engineering District.

These infrastructures include roads and bridges, among others.

The Provincial Engineering Office also reported some PHP600 million worth of infrastructures that were damaged by “Odette” and the cost of restoration is pegged at some PHP1.8 billion.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1164631

PH to get more Black Hawk choppers as initial funds released

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 5, 2022): PH to get more Black Hawk choppers as initial funds released (By Priam Nepomuceno)

File photo

The Philippines will have more assets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) missions as initial funding for the acquisition of 32 additional Polish-made S-70i "Black Hawk" combat utility helicopters were released on December 27.

"We are delighted with the release of the SARO (Special Allotment Release Order). We really need more helicopters, primarily for HADR missions," Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Tuesday night when asked to comment on the initial budget release for the acquisition of the aircraft.

The S-70i units of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) are currently hard at work, transporting relief supplies and rescue personnel to areas battered by Typhoon Odette last month.

They have also been utilized to transport coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccines in geographically isolated areas in the country.

The Department of Budget and Management on December 27 released a SARO to the defense department, amounting to PHP1.6 billion "to cover the initial funding requirement for the additional utility helicopters acquisition project of the Philippine Air Force under the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program."

Lorenzana earlier expressed hope that the contracts for the S-70is and six offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) would be finalized and signed by this month.

He also said the government has allocated PHP62 billion for the acquisition of 32 "Black Hawk" combat utility helicopters for the PAF and six OPVs for the Philippine Navy.

The PAF earlier completed the acquisition of 16 "Black Hawk" helicopters from the Polish company PZL Mielec worth USD241 million (about PHP11.5 billion).

The first batch of six "Black Hawk" helicopters was delivered in November 2020, followed by the second batch of five in June that was formally accepted, turned over, and blessed in a simple ceremony on October 13.

The last batch of five choppers was delivered on November 8 and formally accepted by the PAF on December 3.

One unit of the initial six units delivered to the country crashed on June 24, 2021 while on a night-flying exercise.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1164532

BRP Tausug brings relief aid to 'Odette'-hit Visayas areas

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 5, 2022): BRP Tausug brings relief aid to 'Odette'-hit Visayas areas (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of Philippine Navy

The Philippine Navy (PN) said Wednesday one of its landing craft, the BRP Tausug (LC-295), has been conducting various sealift, and humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) operations in areas devastated by Typhoon Odette in the Visayas.

"Since December 18, LC-295, under the operational control of the Naval Forces Central, has been conducting sorties of sealift and HADR missions to assist those who were severely affected by this calamity," PN spokesperson Commander Benjo Negranza said in a statement.

He said the BRP Tausug was the first Navy vessel to respond right after the onslaught of "Odette" in the region.

It hauled construction trucks and vehicles from Cebu to Tubigon, Bohol for road-clearing operations, along with 29 personnel of the 53rd Construction Brigade, Philippine Army under the Visayas Command.

"The vessel also transported water treatment machines, tons of food packages, relief goods, generator sets, and other essential relief items to Cebu, Bohol, and Negros," Negranza said.

On January 2, the ship assisted the BRP Subanon (LC-291) in San Jose Buenavista Port, Antique by transferring 11.4 tons of relief goods and other materials for a sealift mission for Cebu and Bohol.

"The ongoing relief efforts of the PN landing craft demonstrate the Navy's unwavering commitment to providing prompt and assistance to our fellow Filipinos affected by this recent calamity," Negranza added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1164544

Lorenzana in isolation after latest Covid-19 exposure

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 5, 2022): Lorenzana in isolation after latest Covid-19 exposure (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (File photo)

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana announced that he is in isolation again after being exposed to four persons in his household who contracted the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

Lorenzana made this disclosure during the Cabinet meeting with President Rodrigo R. Duterte Tuesday night, which he attended virtually.

"Hindi po ako nakadalo diyan, Mayor, dahil na-expose ako sa positive na Covid case. Apat na tao sa bahay namin ang positive (I will not be able to attend (the meeting), Mayor, because I got exposed to Covid. Four people in my house were confirmed with Covid)," he added.

Last November 16, Lorenzana, who was fully vaccinated, tested positive for Covid-19 but was later cleared of the disease following another reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test on November 19.

This was the second time for 2021 that the defense chief tested positive for Covid-19.

In April of the same year, Lorenzana went on quarantine to avoid infecting others in the Department of National Defense (DND) after being positive for the disease.

In 2020, the DND chief tested negative for Covid-19 in March and April after coming into close contact with people infected with the virus.

'Odette' relief efforts

In the same meeting, Lorenzana said around 7,493 soldiers are deployed in Regions 4B, 6, 7, 10, and 13 to help in relief efforts for "Odette". Also deployed are 769 land transport which includes 6x6 trucks, 28 aircraft including C-130 and C-295 transports, and helicopters, and 27 ships.

"Ang misyon po ng mga ito ay to support the transportation requirements of those who are making the relief operations. Kasama na rito ‘yung mga relief goods na galing sa NDRRMC (National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council) DSWD (Department of Social Welfare and Development), DOH (Department of Health), DICT (Department of Information and Communications Technology) personnel, at saka iba pa (Their mission is to support the transportation requirements of those making the relief operations. These include the relief goods coming from the NDRRMC, DSWD, DOH, DICT and their personnel)," he added.

As of Tuesday, Lorenzana said the Philippine Air Force aircraft has so far transported 461 individuals along with 300,000 kilograms of relief supplies. While Navy ships have transported 1,225 people and 3 million kilograms of supplies from Manila going to Cebu, Bacolod, Bohol, and Siargao, and Surigao.

"The Philippine Army was able to transport 12 truckloads of relief goods, transported to Surigao and nine truckloads of relief goods sent to Leyte," Lorenzana said

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1164565