PAF eager to work with new admin for modernization efforts

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 5, 2022): PAF eager to work with new admin for modernization efforts (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Screengrab from RTVM

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) will coordinate and work with the new administration to ensure that the service's modernization will continue without fail.

"We will continue to work, and help the new leadership make the pronouncement a reality, our Technical Working Group is working round the clock to be able to present viable projects and solutions to challenges for the PAF modernization," PAF spokesperson Col. Maynard Mariano said in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA) Tuesday.

His remark comes after President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. guaranteed that the Air Force will be made "stronger, bigger, and effective" under his watch.

The President made the assurance during the celebration of the PAF's 75th founding anniversary at Clark Air Base in Mabalacat City, Pampanga last July 1.

He added that these preparations will allow senior military and defense leaders to make a decision on the PAF's modernization requirements.

"(Preparing these viable projects and solutions will) make it ready for senior AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines)/DND (Department of National Defense) senior leadership decisions," Mariano said.

Marcos, in his anniversary message to the PAF, vowed to continue the ongoing defense initiatives to enable the PAF to keep the country "free, progressive, and secured”.

"The ongoing defense modernization effort is in coordination with the basic prerequisites that would complement this administration's vision for a stronger, bigger, and effective air force, capable of defending and maintaining our sovereign state and of assisting our people in times of dire consequences and today's reality," he added.

The President also said he will seek further improvement of the aerial and surveillance capabilities of the PAF, considering that the Philippines has territorial disputes with other countries.

He vowed to equip the PAF with additional "state-of-the-art" fighter planes and arm these with more firepower.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178205

Delivery of Israeli-made missile launchers seen before year-end

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 5, 2022): Delivery of Israeli-made missile launchers seen before year-end (By Priam Nepomuceno)

The Philippine Air Force on Tuesday (PAF) announced that the first two of three SPYDER air defense missile systems will be delivered by the last quarter of this year.

"The SPYDER Philippines Air Defense System is very much on time, delivery will be earlier than scheduled (January 2023), it will be in the country by end of November to the first week of December. The project is for three batteries, the first delivery will be two batteries," Air Force spokesperson Col. Maynard Mariano said in a message to the Philippine News Agency Tuesday.

Battery refers to the grouping of missile launchers. A normal battery consists of three or more missile launchers.

SPYDER is short for Surface-to-Air Python and Derby mobile-air defense system that was developed by the Israeli defense technology firm, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, with assistance from Israel Aerospace Industries.

Mariano added that the last SPYDER battery will be delivered along with a missile maintenance facility which will be built in the Philippines, giving military personnel the capability to maintain the weapon system.

"We have upgraded the program, the last battery will be delivered with a missile maintenance facility to be built in the country at no expense to the government. There will be a technology transfer that goes with this and it will make us capable of maintaining missile systems and will greatly help in the sustainment of the program," Mariano said.

Earlier, the PAF said it can now train on various surface-air missile engagement techniques after it formally accepted its first missile simulator, the SPYDER Philippines Air Defense Systems (SPAD) Simulator-Training Center last April 26.

The facility is located at the Basa Air Base in Floridablanca, Pampanga.

"The SPADS Simulator-Training Center is the AFP’s (Armed Forces of the Philippines) first missile training center, which will serve as a training ground for future missile operators to prepare them for real-world challenges, as well as to increase personnel knowledge, skills, and develop the right attitude for air and missile defense," he said.

The SPAD Simulator-Training Center is part of the Ground Base Air Defense System (GBADS) acquisition project of the PAF, which seeks to enhance the military's defense capabilities.

The simulator training center aims to develop three different capabilities -- detection through radar, command, and control, and missile firing.

It is also custom-made for the men and women of the PAF to utilize in their training on advanced air defense techniques.

The Notice of Award for the GBADS acquisition project was released in 2019.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178207

Constant military exercises highlight PH-US strong ties: Army

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 6, 2022): Constant military exercises highlight PH-US strong ties: Army (By Priam Nepomuceno)

IRONCLAD ALLIANCE. Filipino and American soldiers train together during the live-fire drill at the Crow Valley Gunnery Range in Barangay Santa Juliana, Capas, Tarlac on March 31, 2022. The Philippine Army on Tuesday (July 5, 2022) said continuing exercises between Filipino and American troops highlight the strong relationship between the Philippines and the United States. (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Army)

The Philippine Army (PA) on Tuesday night said continuing military exercises between the force and its American counterparts highlight the strong relations between the two nations.

"PA troops regularly train side by side with American soldiers in joint and combined military exercises, such as the annual 'Salaknib' and 'Balikatan'. 'Salaknib' is an annual exercise between PA and US Army Pacific (USARPAC) geared at enhancing readiness and tactical interoperability of both armies," Army spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement, in commemoration of the 76th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Manila that formalized diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the United States on July 4.

Trinidad added that the "Balikatan", a joint exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the US Indo Pacific Command, is aimed at strengthening tactics, techniques, and procedures covering a wide spectrum of military operations.

In 2013, the PA and USARPAC delegates forged terms of reference that created the executive steering group composed of key leaders of the two land forces.

Another cornerstone of the Philippines-US military alliance is the 2014 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), which advances the implementation of the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) signed by both countries on Aug. 31, 1951.

The MDT laid the foundation for an ironclad alliance between Filipinos and American troops.

Manila and Washington DC also signed the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) in 1998, which provided a framework for access procedures covering US military personnel who enter Philippine territory.

The two countries also signed a Mutual Logistics Support Agreement in 2002 and established a Security Engagement Board in 2006.

PA Chief, Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., earlier paid tribute to the “ironclad alliance” between the two nations.

“Over the years, the Philippine Army and the US Army Pacific have remained united through the long-standing bilateral relations in pursuit of the common goal of maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178299

US, Swedish planes top choices for multi-role fighter deal: PAF

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 6, 2022): US, Swedish planes top choices for multi-role fighter deal: PAF (By Priam Nepomuceno)

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Tuesday said it is in the process of choosing between the latest model of the American-made Lockheed Martin F-16s and the Swedish-made Saab JAS-39 for its multi-role fighter (MRF) project.

"(The) two last contenders, (for the PAF MRF project are the) F-16V Block 50/52 Variant and the JAS-39 Gripen C/D+ Version," PAF spokesperson, Col. Maynard Mariano, said.

Mariano said while the MRF project has been approved, the government has yet to allocate funds for it.

"For the MRF, the project is approved with the issued Acquisition Memorandum Decision, the government will still find a way to fund the said project," he added.

The F-16V is the latest and most advanced F-16 in operation to date and is considered the foremost combat-proven fourth-generation MRF.

It is equipped with advanced radar systems that allow greater detection and tracking capabilities, along with advanced air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons.

Meanwhile, the JAS-39 "Gripen" C/D is classified as the most reliable "swing-role combat aircraft" available in the world.

The "C" version is a single-seat aircraft while the "D" version is a two-seater configuration.

The Swedish-made fighter requires minimal personnel and ground support equipment for dispersed operations and can operate from small unprepared roads. It is also equipped with sophisticated radar and sensors and weapons.

Earlier, PAF Chief, Lt. Gen. Connor Anthony Canlas Sr., said the service's MRF project has been approved by former president Rodrigo R. Duterte.

The contract for the MRF project may be signed this year, Canlas said, adding that the PAF's requirement for the project stipulates that the offered aircraft must be "fourth generation or higher."

The project also requires 12 MRFs at least capable of patrolling the country's protected waters and airspace.

The MRF is part of Horizon Two of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program slated for 2018 to 2022, which aims to acquire more equipment for external defense.

Any aircraft that will be selected must be able to integrate with existing radar systems that have a range of about 250 nautical miles.

Once these MRFs are acquired, the PAF, with the help of these radar systems, can be deployed to determine whether the aircraft flying over the country's airspace is friendly or hostile.

These proposed MRFs are expected to augment the existing fleet of 12 South Korean-made Mach 1.5-capable FA-50PH jet aircraft acquired from 2015 to 2017 by the PAF as its first supersonic aircraft after the decommissioning of its Northrop F-5 "Tiger" jet fighters in 2005.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178302

Sandigan convicts ex-military comptroller

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 6, 2022): Sandigan convicts ex-military comptroller (By Benjamin Pulta)

The Sandiganbayan has sentenced former military comptroller, retired Maj. Gen. Carlos F. Garcia, to serve up to 14 years in jail and pay more than PHP407 million on bribery and money laundering-related charges.

In its eight-page decision promulgated on July 5 and written by Associate Justice Oscar Herrera Jr., the anti-graft court found Garcia guilty of direct bribery and sentenced him to four to eight years in prison and a fine of PHP406.3 million or three times the value of the gifts he received.

The tribunal also sentenced him to four to six years imprisonment and fined him PHP1.5 million for the separate charge of “facilitating money laundering.”

Garcia had entered into a plea bargaining agreement with the Office of the Ombudsman in 2010 where he agreed to plead guilty to the lesser offense of direct bribery instead of the original charge of plunder and to "facilitating money laundering" instead of money laundering.

The charges arose from the wealth he accumulated from 1993 until his retirement in 2004 when he served as deputy chief of staff for comptrollership.

Likewise named in the charges were his wife Clarita D. Garcia and children Ian Carl D. Garcia, Juan Paulo D. Garcia, and Timothy Mark D. Garcia.

The prosecutors said Garcia acquired funds, landholdings, and other real and personal properties "by receiving commissions, gifts, shares, percentages, kickbacks, or other forms of pecuniary benefits, like shopping money or gratitude money" in connection with government contracts.

As part of the plea-bargaining agreement, he was directed by the Sandiganbayan in 2010 to transfer the properties covered in the agreement of PHP135 million worth of cash and real and personal properties in favor of the state.

The Supreme Court in September 2020 dismissed a petition filed by the Solicitor General questioning the plea bargaining agreement between Garcia and the Office of the Ombudsman.

The court also ordered that alias warrants be issued against Garcia's families with the cases archived until upon their arrest or voluntary surrender.

Associate Justices Michael Frederick L. Musngi and Arthur O. Malabaguio concurred.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178357

Marcos to adhere to law on key AFP officials’ fixed 3-year term

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 6, 2022): Marcos to adhere to law on key AFP officials’ fixed 3-year term (By Azer Parrocha)

File photo

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. will adhere to the law granting a fixed three-year term for key officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Malacañang said Wednesday.

Press Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles said Marcos would keep AFP Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Andres Castor Centino, in his post until the end of his fixed three-year term in February 2023.

“This is a law, right? And it’s been passed so the President adheres to the law. Whatever is stated in the law. If his term has been during the time of the effectivity of the law, then the President will abide by that,” she said in a Palace press briefing.

Cruz-Angeles was referring to Republic Act (RA) 11709 that was signed by former president Rodrigo Duterte in May 2022, which ensures the AFP chief of staff would serve for three fixed years.

This ends the “revolving door” policy that gave rise to military chiefs serving for only a few months before mandatory retirement.

Aside from the AFP chief of staff, other military officials who will get a fixed three-year term are the vice chief of staff; deputy chief of staff; commanding general of the Philippine Army; commanding general of the Philippine Air Force; flag officer in command of the Philippine Navy; unified command commanders; and inspector general.

Under RA 11709, the tour of duty of these military officers will commence on the date the appointment is signed and will occupy the post for three consecutive years unless terminated by the President, provided that those mentioned will not be eligible for any other position in the AFP unless promoted to the position of chief of staff.

Asked if the President has already come up with a list of Centino’s successors, Cruz-Angeles said it was too early to do so.

“It’s really speculative at the moment,” she said.

Centino was named AFP chief of staff on Nov. 12, 2021. He was born in Tacloban City on Feb. 4, 1967.

He is the 57th AFP chief and the 11th under Duterte in less than six years.

New FDCP chair

Meanwhile, Cruz-Angeles confirmed that Marcos has named actor Tirso Cruz III as the new chairperson and chief executive of the Film Development Council (FDCP), replacing Liza Diño-Seguerra.

Diño-Seguerra was reappointed as the national film agency’s chair in March. She was supposed to serve for another three-year term that lasts until 2025.

On July 1, Malacañang issued Memorandum Circular 1 declaring certain positions in the Executive Department vacant.

Under MC 1, all presidential appointees holding co-terminus appointments, as well as those occupying posts created in excess of the authorized staffing pattern, are deemed separated from office effective noontime of June 30, the time when Marcos took oath as the country’s 17th president.

Also deemed separated from service are non-Career Executive Service Officials (CESO) occupying Career Executive Service (CES) positions and contractual or casual employees.

Cruz-Angeles said this memo applies to Diño-Seguerra.

“I think she (Diño-Seguerra) would fall under Memorandum Circular No. 1 and therefore the appointment is correct,” she said.

Diño-Seguerra earlier assured the public in a video message on her Facebook page that she is aware of her successor in her FDCP post.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178369

BRP Andres Bonifacio ready to boost PH naval presence in WPS

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2022): BRP Andres Bonifacio ready to boost PH naval presence in WPS (By Priam Nepomuceno)

BRP Andres Bonifacio (Photo courtesy of Wescom)

The Philippine Navy's offshore patrol vessel BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS-17) is now ready to perform its territorial defense functions while assigned to the Puerto Princesa, Palawan-based Western Command (Wescom).

"She is ready to perform her territorial defense functions at WESCOM. PS-17 is indeed very mission-capable and I am confident that she will significantly strengthen our naval presence in the West Philippine Sea and secure our oil platforms," Wescom chief Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos said in a statement late Wednesday.

He was aboard the ship when it passed by the Galoc Oil Field which is located 60 kilometers northwest of Palawan. Galoc Field is one of the Department of Energy’s service contracts which is being secured by Wescom, as well as the Malampaya Gas Fields and the Nido and Matinloc Oil Platforms.

Carlos was very satisfied with the performance of the vessel from Sangley Point in Cavite City to El Nido, Palawan.

Wescom covers the Palawan area and the West Philippine Sea. The ship was undergoing repairs to its mission-critical pieces of machinery before its deployment.

Carlos visited BRP Andres Bonifacio on July 4 and boarded the ship before the ship set course to the Wescom area.

The visit was also an opportunity for the Wescom chief to ensure the mission-readiness of all assets being deployed in the country's last frontier.

The ship arrived at Wescom joint operation area around 1:04 a.m. Wednesday after departing 1 p.m Tuesday off Sangley Point, Cavite.

The BRP Andres Bonifacio is one of the three Del Pilar-class ships which are the former US Coast Guard Hamilton-class cutters that were converted into frigates. Other ships of the class are the BRP Gregorio del Pilar (PS-15) and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16).

Each ship has a gross tonnage of 3,250 tons, a length of 378 feet, a beam of 43 feet, and a draft of 15 feet while its propulsion systems consist of two diesel engines and two gas turbine engines, giving it a top speed of 29 knots.

It has a cruising range of 14,000 miles, a sea and loiter time of 45 days, and is armed with a 76-mm. Oto Melara automatic cannon, 25-mm. and 20-mm. light cannons and .50-caliber machine guns.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178415

Faustino assures support for OCD initiatives

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2022): Faustino assures support for OCD initiatives (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of DND

Department of National Defense (DND) officer-in-charge, Senior Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr., has assured the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) of all the support the agency needs in protecting the country and its citizens from the effects of calamities.

"OCD can be assured of the support of the DND leadership as it continues its mission to protect the people, build resilience and promote the country’s development,” he said during his first official visit to the agency Wednesday.

Faustino also commended the OCD and its regional offices for all the accomplishments in the field of disaster risk reduction and management and for ensuring the safety of the Filipino people against all threats of disaster.

He also acknowledged the sacrifices of the leaders and personnel of OCD all throughout the various emergencies that the country faced.

Faustino was welcomed by OCD administrator, Undersecretary Ricardo Jalad, during his visit to the agency's new administration building in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

He and his party were given a comprehensive briefing on the mandate, programs, and activities of the OCD including its functions as the executive arm of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).

Jalad also presented Faustino and the other new DND officials with the accomplishments and thrusts of the OCD as well as an overview of the Philippine DRRM System.

Faustino was also introduced to his role as chairperson of the NDRRMC and the upcoming DRRM engagements which the DND OIC is expected to attend in 2022.

In a turnover activity held last July 1, Faustino vowed to continue the advancement of the country’s defense establishment started by his predecessor Delfin Lorenzana.

Faustino, a retired Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff, will assume office as Defense Secretary on November 13, after the one-year appointment ban on retired military officials.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178412

PCOO reorganized, renamed as Office of the Press Secretary

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2022): PCOO reorganized, renamed as Office of the Press Secretary (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

Then PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar (left) and current Press Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles (right) (File photo)

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., through an executive order (EO), has ordered the reorganization of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) and its attached agencies, as well as its renaming as the Office of the Press Secretary (OPS).

Under EO 2 inked on June 30, the OPS shall be headed by a Press Secretary which shall have an Assistant Secretary with support staff of not more than 20 personnel.

The issuance of EO 2 came the same day when Marcos, as well as Press Secretary Beatrix Rose "Trixie" Cruz-Angeles took their oath of office.

Cruz-Angeles confirmed Thursday the issuance of EO 2 which takes effect immediately.

EO 2 repeals EO 4 and EO 111 inked in 2010 and 2020, respectively.

EO 4 creates the PCOO while EO 111 reconstitutes the Office of the Presidential Spokesperson and abolishes the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office.

"There is a need to rationalize and consolidate the communications arm of the Administration for a more efficient delivery of public policy to the general public," EO 2 said.

The OPS personnel will be appointed by Cruz-Angeles and approved by Executive Secretary Victor Rodriguez "in the exigency of service and in accordance with civil service law and rules," according to the new EO.

In addition, there shall be undersecretaries for Operations, Plans and Policies; Administration, Finance and Procurement; Legal Affairs; Media Accreditation and Relations; Digital Media Services; Print Media Services, and related government-owned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs) and attached agencies; and Special Concerns.

Each undersecretary shall have assistant secretaries and support staff.

OPS powers and functions

EO 2 states that the OPS has the authority to "pronounce, on behalf of the President, matters pertaining to his actions, policies, programs, official activities, and accomplishments.

The OPS is also tasked to develop and implement necessary guidelines and mechanisms pertaining to the delivery and dissemination of information on policies, programs, official activities, and achievements of the President and the Executive Branch.

It is likewise mandated to coordinate the crafting and development of the messaging system under the Office President (OP) and the Executive Branch, as well as to supervise its attached agencies and GOCCs for purposes of further strengthening the system of information delivery to the public.

The EO also directs the OPS to establish and maintain rapport with private media and other similar entities and stakeholders.

Abolished divisions and units

According to the EO, all existing divisions and units of the PCOO shall be organized and reorganized under the areas of concern of the undersecretaries of the OPS.

"All redundant positions, divisions, and units, as may be determined by the OP, shall be abolished," the order read.

EO 2 also orders the abolition of the Office of the Presidential Spokesperson and the transfer of its permanent personnel, equipment, and functions to the OPS.

Attached agencies, bureaus and offices

APO Production Unit, Bureau of Broadcast Services, Intercontinental Broadcasting Corporation, National Printing Office, News and Information Bureau, and People's Television Network shall be attached to the OPS for purposes of "supervision, control, and budget clustering," based on the EO.

Radio Television Malacañang, which was previously under the supervision of the then PCOO, shall be placed under the direct supervision and control of the Presidential Management Staff.

On the other hand, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) shall be under the direct supervision of the OP.

"The PIA shall absorb the following offices previously under the control and supervision of the PCOO: Bureau of Communications Services; Freedom of Information-Program Management Office; and Good Governance Office," EO 2 said.

The PIA, the EO provides, shall continue to be headed by a Director-General, with the rank of Undersecretary, and shall be entitled to four Deputy Directors-General with the rank, salary, and emoluments of Assistant Secretary, and four Assistant Directors-General with the rank, salary, and emoluments of Director IV.

The PIA Deputy and Assistant Directors-General shall be entitled to their respective support staff, while the Deputy Directors-General and Assistant Directors-General shall support the plans, programs, and policies of the PIA and the OP in developing communications and various priority thrusts.

The Divisions and Regional Offices of the PIA shall each be headed by a Director II, to be appointed by the Director-General, subject to existing civil service rules.

"The Director-General, Deputy Directors-General, Assistant Directors-General, and Directors II positions shall be included in the plantilla positions and shall be considered for eligibility and ranking under the Career Executive Service regulations," the order read.

All concerned offices shall cause for the rationalization of staffing patterns, subject to the approval of the Department of Budget and Management.

The budget of the reorganized offices shall be sourced from the remaining budget of the PCOO, its attached agencies, and the OP, for the current year. The succeeding years' appropriation for the said offices shall be prepared in accordance with regular government budget procedures.

All agencies shall continue to discharge their respective functions and responsibilities as defined under existing laws or issuances.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178409

Duterte admin made significant gains vs. NPA: AFP

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2022): Duterte admin made significant gains vs. NPA: AFP (By Priam Nepomuceno)

File photo

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it has achieved significant gains against the New People's Army (NPA) communist terrorist group by reducing the number of its guerrilla fronts by almost 74 percent under the administration of former president Rodrigo Duterte.

"(As)far as the military is concerned, we have achieved significant gains in the conduct of military operations against the threat, I'm referring to the armed threat (posed by the NPAs), (we reduced them) almost 74 percent, there used to be 89 guerilla fronts when President (Rodrigo) Duterte assumed office in 2016 but as of 30 June this year they were reduced to 23," said AFP acting spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar when asked to assess the Duterte administration's efforts against the NPA in a hybrid press briefing Thursday.

"Now I think it's the stubbornness of the CPP not to abandon (the) armed struggle, they are still clinging to it, hoping that if this call for the CPP to abandon (the) armed struggle (gains momentum) because it is destroying our country, probably we can force them to do so," Aguilar said.

Also, the AFP spokesperson added that the NPA insurgency is not only a problem of the military and requires a whole-of-nation approach to resolve.

"The insurgency is not just a military problem, it has many factors, it has so many facets so we have to address it, a whole-of-nation approach," Aguilar said even as he requested the help of the media in addressing the issue.

And while it is the duty of the AFP to suppress the armed rebellion, Aguilar also said efforts are also needed to address the reasons or issues being raised by those joining the ranks of the communist terrorists.

"It is our duty to suppress armed rebellion but we also have to address the supply of those who are joining this insurgency, so that involves other government agencies and that's the reason why the NTF-ELCAC (National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict) have several clusters, each of these clusters are addressing specific sectors from which the CPP is recruiting its members so by stopping the inflow of human resources to the underground movement is a critical task that we have to, that the government has to address as a whole," he added.

When asked for an exact figure on how many NPAs were killed, surrendered and the remaining forces of the communist terrorists, Aguilar said he would rather say that the AFP has "regained or recovered more than 25,000 members, supporters, and sympathizers of the underground movement."

"This is a very big number which (is) actually a strategic victory that we have achieved, we don't say that it is a military accomplishment but it is a whole-of-nation accomplishment because even you, (the) media have contributed in spreading the good news of the E-CLIP (Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program), the implementation of E-CLIP that gives the former rebels a new direction to start a new life," he added.

As of this time, Aguilar said the number of remaining armed NPAs is around 2,000 but these numbers are still for validation.

"Now as to the number of armed components, they are reduced to more or less 2,000 or less so we can, we are still waiting for the figure that will be validated later on," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178431

Key officials' fixed term law ensures continuity of AFP programs

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2022): Key officials' fixed term law ensures continuity of AFP programs (By Priam Nepomuceno)

File photo

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Thursday Republic Act (RA) 11709 will allow continuity in all campaigns and programs implemented by the military.

"We can expect that there will be continuity in the campaigns that we are implementing. The AFP supports it because it will support the professionalization of the Armed Forces, further professionalization, we can prevent (the) revolving door scheme and therefore we can also retain who is the best among us in the service," AFP acting spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said in a press briefing.

RA 11709 which took effect on July 1 is formally known as "An Act Strengthening Professionalism and Promoting the Continuity of Policies and Modernization Initiatives in the Armed Forces of the Philippines, by Prescribing Fixed Terms For Key Officers Thereof, Increasing the Mandatory Retirement Age of Generals/Flag Officers, Providing for a More Effective Attrition System, And Promoting Funds Therefor".

Since this is already a law, Aguilar said the AFP will follow but they are waiting for the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) so they will know how to implement it at "ground level."

Aguilar said he is still to hear any opposition against the law.

"Now I have not heard any grumbling yet, the Armed Forces is a professional organization and we will support anybody who will be put in a position to lead us," he added.

On Wednesday, Press Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles said President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. will adhere to the law, which means AFP Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Andres Castor Centino, will stay in his post until the end of his fixed three-year term in February 2023.

Under the law, the AFP chief-of-staff, vice chief-of-staff, deputy chief-of-staff, heads of the major services (Army, Navy, and Air Force), unified command commanders and inspector general will have a three-year term of office "unless sooner terminated by the President."

The President may extend the AFP chief-of-staff's tour of duty in times of war or other national emergency declared by Congress. Also, the law gives the Philippine Military Academy superintendent a tour of duty of four years, "unless sooner terminated by higher authority."

Meanwhile, the law provides for the compulsory retirement of military personnel at 56 or 30 years' satisfactory active duty, whichever is later - for those in the grades of second lieutenant/ensign (O-1) to colonel/captain (O-6). For those in the grades of brigadier general/commodore (O-7) to lieutenant general/vice admiral (O-9), the retirement age will be 59 or the maximum tenure-in-grade, whichever comes earlier.

Officers or enlisted personnel may avail of optional retirement upon accumulation of at least 20 years' satisfactory active duty.

The law also provides that officers and enlisted personnel shall be retired one rank higher from the last rank held, provided that retirement benefits shall be based on the permanent grade last held, though this will not apply to those still in active duty prior to the effectivity of the law; and provided that the said retirees will form part of the Reserve Force.

It also limits the number of general officers to 0.01 percent of the AFP's total strength and will reduce the number of its general officers from the present 196 to 153, which is believed to be the optimal number of generals to efficiently and competently lead the military.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178435

Lawmakers push reinstatement of mandatory ROTC

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2022): Lawmakers push reinstatement of mandatory ROTC (By Wilnard Bacelonia)

File photo

Some senators are determined to revive the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program as a mandatory subject for Filipino students.

Reviving the ROTC, Senator Francis Tolentino said on Thursday, would instill discipline, a sense of leadership, teamwork, and patriotism among the youth.

"Notably, the program would be conducted during the youths’ formative years, thus, molding them at a prime age to be nationalistic citizens prepared to uphold the Philippine Constitution," Tolentino said in his Manila Bulletin column.

He said this would be also very helpful in the government's campaign for disaster response preparedness and would play a significant role in times of calamities and disaster relief operations.

Tolentino, a Brigadier General of the Philippine Army Reserve, cited a provision under the 1987 Constitution saying, “The prime duty of the government is to serve and protect the people. The government may call upon the people to defend the State and, in the fulfillment thereof, all citizens may be required, under conditions provided by law, to render personal military or civil service.”

"To truly enjoy democracy and our independence as a nation, we should insure the country’s freedom and safety," he said.

Both Senators Robin Padilla and Ronald Dela Rosa included the revival of mandatory ROTC in their respective top 10 priority bills for the 19th Congress.

Dela Rosa said in a recent interview his ROTC bill, the top two among his priority measures, is a "milder version" compared to the mandatory two-year military service being pushed by Vice President Sara Duterte.

The former Philippine National Police Chief's version of the mandatory ROTC program, if passed into law, will be introduced in Grades 11 and 12 in both public and private schools, while an advanced ROTC program will be available in the first two years of higher education for those who want to become officers.

Duterte has been hoping that the revival of ROTC will be included in President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s priority legislative agenda.

During the campaign period, Duterte, who is also the designated Department of Education Secretary, vowed to push for mandatory military service for Filipinos aged 18 years old if she wins as vice president.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178438

Reds talk peace but attack soldiers: NTF ELCAC

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2022): Reds talk peace but attack soldiers: NTF ELCAC (By Marita Moaje)

PNA file photo

The Communist Party of the Philippines-New-People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) has again shown its true color by announcing that it is open for a peace talk with the new administration but launched another landmine attack against government forces.

This, as National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) spokesperson for Legal Affairs Flosemer Chris Gonzales condemned the most recent atrocity by the CPP-NPA-NDF using anti-personnel mine that injured seven soldiers in Mapanas, Northern Samar on Tuesday.

“Clearly, these CPP-NPA-NDF terrorists have shown their treachery and duplicity by talking about peace and at the same time disrupting the peace by attacking soldiers using banned anti-personnel mines,” Gonzales said in a statement on Wednesday. “The CPP-NPA-NDF is definitely not to be trusted”.

The seven soldiers of the 20th Infantry Battalion were part of the community support program team conducting peace keeping operations in Brgy. Magsaysay, Mapanas, Northern Samar.

Gonzales said the CPP-NPA-NDF uses banned anti-personnel mines as a matter of policy in their terroristic attacks against soldiers, police officers, and civilians.

He said this most recent attack “is a clear and glaring proof that the CPP-NPA-NDF is, and will always be, an enemy of peace and of the Filipino people”.

Gonzales emphasized that terrorists deserve to be given the full measure of the law as they have no respect for life and for the fundamental civil liberties under a democratic government.

The CPP-NPA-NDF earlier issued a statement attempting to justify their use of the banned anti-personnel mines.

This admission, Gonzales said, clearly shows that the attack is premeditated and is sanctioned by the CPP-NPA-NDF terrorist leadership.

“This is the same group of hard-core terrorists who said, thru Joma Sison, that ‘the CPP is not closing its doors for peace negotiations with the Philippine government’,” he said.

The NTF ELCAC said the Northern Samar attack should remind the public that the only way to peace when dealing with the CPP-NPA-NDF is for them to surrender unconditionally and for them to face the consequences of their decades of crimes and atrocities against the Filipino people before the courts of law.

“Never again shall we allow ourselves to be deceived by the CPP-NPA-NDF,” he said.

Gonzales, meanwhile, commended the men and women of the 8th ID of the Philippine Army for their courage and commitment in protecting and securing the people of Samar from the CPP-NPA-NDF terrorist organization.

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 NDF has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the ATC on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178460

Screening needed to ensure equitable representation in BTA

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2022): Screening needed to ensure equitable representation in BTA (By Filane Mikee Cervantes)

Basilan Rep. Mujiv Hataman (File photo)

A lawmaker on Thursday said a screening committee should be formed to make sure that all appointments to the 80-seat Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) are based on "merit, proven competence, and unassailable integrity".

Basilan Rep. Mujiv Hataman said if President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. decides to exercise his appointive power under the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), he should form a screening panel of equally competent personalities who can vet candidates for the BTA appointments independently and free of any political influence.

“Nais natin na masiguro na ang mga uupo sa susunod na BTA ay may sapat at angkop na kakayahan para matugunan ang lahat ng pangangailangan ng Bangsamoro at ng mamamayan nito. Kaya ang aking mungkahi: masusing kilatisin ang sinumang maa-appoint dito (We have to ensure that those who will be sitting as members in the next BTA should have the right skills to address all the needs of the Bangsamoro and its constituents. That's why this is my suggestion: thorough assessment of anyone who will be appointed),” Hataman said.

Hataman said under the law, the BTA has 80 members appointed by the President who were earlier set to serve until 2022, the end of the transition period.

He, however, pointed out that the 18th Congress enacted into law Republic Act No. 11593 last year, which extended the transition period for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) government from 2022 to 2025 and postponed the 2022 BARMM elections.

According to the new law, the President may exercise his powers to appoint new members of the BTA that will serve until June 30, 2025 or until the election of their successors.

Hataman said “equitable representation” should be one of the main guiding principles when appointing members of the BTA, noting that all areas, sectors and ethnicities should be properly represented in the BARMM transition government.

"Kailangan natin siguraduhin na walang madedehado (We have to make sure that no one will be at a disadvantage). There should be equitable distributions of seats. Hindi lamang ito BARMM ng iilan. Ito ay pamahalaan ng lahat nang nasa Bangsamoro (This is not just the BARMM of a selected few. This is a government for all living in the Bangsamoro),” he said.

Hataman earlier proposed a midterm review of the BTA’s accomplishments to assess where the national government can provide additional support for the transition body's initiatives.

"We have to make sure that the BOL is implemented well," Hataman said. "We must ensure that the mandate of the transition authority covers all the areas of governance that will best benefit the people of the BARMM."

In his July 4 memorandum, BTA Speaker Pangalian Balindong has directed all members of the regional parliament to continue working amid a Palace memorandum order on presidential appointees or co-terminus personnel.

“BTA members of parliament may continue to hold office and discharge their functions beyond June 30, 2022,” Balindong said.

Balindong cited Republic Act No. 11593, which states that notwithstanding the end of the term of President Rodrigo Duterte, all members of the BTA parliament are allowed to continue in office and discharge their official functions, duties, and responsibilities, consistent with the intentions of the law until June 30, 2025.

“This is without prejudice to the constitutionally-granted power of the current President to appoint a new set of BTA parliament within his term,” he added.

The Memorandum Circular 1 declared as vacant “certain positions in the departments, offices, agencies, and bureaus in the Executive Department” effective noon of June 30, including “all Presidential appointees whose appointments are classified as co-terminus.”

Minister Naguib Sinarimbo, a lawyer, clarified BARMM is not covered by MC1.

“We are an autonomous region with an asymmetric relation with the national government,” Sinarimbo said. “The BTA, as the parliament combines the legislative and executive powers of the Bangsamoro government and is not under the executive.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178467

PBBM swears in Lorenzana as BCDA chair, 8 more execs

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 8, 2022): PBBM swears in Lorenzana as BCDA chair, 8 more execs (By Azer Parrocha)

New Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) chair Delfin Lorenzana (file photo)

Former Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana took his oath as the new chairperson of the board of directors of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) before President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. in Malacañan Palace on Thursday.

The Office of the Press Secretary (OPS) confirmed Lorenzana’s appointment in a message to reporters.

Former Solicitor General Jose Calida took his oath as chairperson of the Commission on Audit. Marcos announced Calida’s appointment late last month.

Diorella Maria Sotto-Antonio, chief of staff and daughter of former Senate President Vicente Sotto III, also took her oath as Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) chairperson.

Sotto also shared photos of his daughter posing for a photo with the President.

Other officials who took their oath were:

–Cesar Chavez, Undersecretary - Department of Transportation

–Emerald Ridao, Undersecretary - Office of the Press Secretary

–Franz Imperial, Undersecretary - Office of the President

–Honey Rose Mercado, Undersecretary - Presidential Management Staff

–Bianca Cristina Cardenas Zobel, Social Secretary

–Gerald Baria, Undersecretary - Office of the President

In a separate statement, the Department of National Defense (DND) congratulated Lorenzana for his appointment.

"The DND is confident that (former) Secretary Lorenzana will steer the BCDA towards a stronger collaboration not only with the AFP but with all its stakeholders for the development of vibrant economic hubs and communities in different parts of the country," DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said.

The BCDA is a government-owned and controlled development corporation created by law to develop former US military bases and properties.

With the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) as its major beneficiary, the BCDA has contributed to the funding of the AFP Modernization Program for the past years.

The BCDA also engages in public-private partnerships to push forward public infrastructure such as tollways, airports, seaports, and also major real estate developments.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178489

Japan seeks free Indo-Pacific; 'stronger' defense ties with PH

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 8, 2022): Japan seeks free Indo-Pacific; 'stronger' defense ties with PH (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

Japanese Ambassador Koshikawa Kazuhiko and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (Photo courtesy of BBM Media Office)

The Japanese government said it "strongly expects" to strengthen defense cooperation with the Philippines under President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to achieve a "free and open" Indo-Pacific.

Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko said the regional security environment has become "more testing and uncertain at a remarkably faster speed".

"Japan has reinforced our commitments to peace and stability of the region in order to achieve a free and open Indo-Pacific," he said in a speech during a reception for the 68th anniversary of the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF).

"[W]hat is important is close cooperation among like-minded countries bonded by such universal values and principles as freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. This is why the Philippines is one of our most reliable partners," he added.

The envoy cited activities in the South China Sea, which he described as disrespect to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

"Turning our eyes to the South China Sea, is international law really being respected? Neither international law, in particular the UNCLOS, to which all relevant parties agreed after years of dialogue and tireless efforts, nor the 2016 award rendered by the Arbitral Tribunal under the said Convention, is being complied with," he said.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, in his May 2022 telephone call with Marcos, sought "close coordination" with the Philippines for the realization of a free Indo-Pacific.

Apart from defense, the two countries also have a close relationship in diplomacy, economy, and culture.

Japan is the top Official Development Assistance partner of the Philippines in several areas such as infrastructure, maritime law enforcement, disaster prevention, health, agriculture, education, human resource development, space development, Mindanao Peace Process, Marawi reconstruction, and grassroots projects, among others.

"(The JSDF anniversary celebration) is a salute to the golden age of our strategic partnership," Koshikawa said.

"I am convinced that this partnership continues to be successful with the new President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his administration, and my sincere appreciation goes to all of those who have contributed and worked hard to get us where we are now," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178496

AFP eyes raps vs. Reds behind N. Samar landmine attack

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 8, 2022): AFP eyes raps vs. Reds behind N. Samar landmine attack (By Priam Nepomuceno)

File photo

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it will file charges against the New People's Army (NPA) for its landmine attack that wounded seven soldiers in Mapanas, Northern Samar last July 5.

"As stated by our commander there, Maj. Gen. (Edgardo) De Leon (of the 8th Infantry Division) that we will be filing cases against the perpetrators for violation of Republic Act 9851 (An Act Defining And Penalizing Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide And Other Crimes Against Humanity, Organizing, Jurisdiction, Designating Special Courts, and For Related Purposes), and other cases probably frustrated murder because what they did is a criminal act and it is in violation of the International Law," AFP acting spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said when asked for updates about the incident in a hybrid press conference Thursday.

Earlier, Department of National Defense officer-in-charge, Senior Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr. said the NPA landmine blast is in violation of the Ottawa Convention which prohibits the use of landmines.

"What we want to achieve is to make sure that they don't do the same act again so that it will put the life of our people in danger not just the military but including the civilians because the place where they put these mines is a place (also used by civilians) so anybody could be passing that place and we hope that they will not do it again," Aguilar added.

The Communist Party of the Philippines-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 inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178501

ASG member wanted for kidnapping nabbed at NAIA

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 8, 2022): ASG member wanted for kidnapping nabbed at NAIA (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

Photo courtesy of SPD

Operatives of the Southern Police District (SPD) arrested an Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) member wanted for kidnapping since 2012 at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 in Pasay City.

In a statement Friday, SPD director, Brig. Gen. Jimili Macaraeg said the suspect, Hajar Binadbul Mubina alias "Abu Asrie", "Mheiradz", "Muadz", "Muhadz", 30, a native of Bubuan Island, Basilan was arrested on Thursday night upon his arrival from Malaysia.

The initial report revealed that operatives of the SPD's Station Intelligence Section, Pasay City police, and Bureau of Immigration (BI) Anti-Terrorism Group conducted an intelligence-driven operation that resulted in the arrest of Mubina, who has a standing warrant of arrest issued by a Zamboanga court on charges of kidnapping with no bail recommended.

Mubina is a member of ASG based in Basilan under its slain leader Furuji Indama. He has also been involved in around four encounters with the military. However, he denied that he had killed any soldier because they fire their guns in one direction without seeing their targets.

He left the group in 2015 and went to Malaysia to evade arrest and criminal prosecution.

While in Sabah, he was able to secure a fake ID card or permanent residence card. He created a Facebook account under the name of "Mhieradz Zhiadqie IV” to get in touch with his former ASG comrades.

In August 2017, the Royal Malaysian Police barged into Mubina's house in Kuala Lumpur and arrested him together with seven Filipino neighbors for terrorism-related offenses with no right to counsel.

Mubina claimed that the Malaysian police accused him of plotting an attack during the Southeast Asian Games and Merdeka Celebration in the Malaysian capital.

He was due for release on Aug. 30, 2021, but the Tapah Prison in Malaysia was placed under an enhanced movement control order due to the coronavirus pandemic which delayed his release.

Mubina is temporarily under the custody of the SPD's District Special Operation Unit for proper disposition pending the issuance of the commitment order from the Zamboanga court.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178508

PH, Thai armies host meet for 2023 bilateral activities

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 8, 2022): PH, Thai armies host meet for 2023 bilateral activities (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of Philippine Army

The Philippine Army (PA) hosted the seventh iteration of the Steering Group Meeting whose goal is to finalize its 2023 bilateral activities with the Royal Thai Army (RTA).

"Delegates from both Armies tackled bilateral engagement plans for 2023, with Acting Chief of Staff Philippine Army and concurrent Army Inspector General Maj. Gen. Roy M. Galido and Director-General for Operations Maj. Gen. Thongchai Rodyoi spearheading the discussions," PA spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement Thursday night.

The three-day meeting started last July 5, he added.

The terms of reference (TOR), which established the PA-RTA Steering Group, was signed by representatives of both armies in 2015.

"The PA-RTA Steering Group Meeting is held yearly and hosted alternately by both Armies. It serves as a venue for the development of annual and medium-term PA-RTA activities mutually beneficial for both armies," Trinidad said.

The PA has an existing medium-term engagement plan with RTA, covering areas of cooperation such as intelligence, cyber-warfare, civil-military operations, armor, infantry, and counter-swarm.

Trinidad added the PA chief Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. and Royal Thai Army Attaché to Jakarta Senior Col. Kittisak Petchnoi discussed the strengthening of bilateral military education and training and updating the TOR between the two services at the sidelines of the 2022 Asian Defense and Security Conference and Exhibit in Pasay City last April.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178506

ELCAC Act will sustain momentum vs. insurgents: senator

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 9, 2022): ELCAC Act will sustain momentum vs. insurgents: senator (By Wilnard Bacelonia)

Contributed photo

The country cannot afford to lose the gains and momentum achieved by the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) during the Duterte administration.

Senator Ronald dela Rosa thus filed the ELCAC Act, one of his priority bills in the 19th Congress, to further equip the country in fighting insurgency and assure the continued destruction of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army - National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and its front organizations.

"I just want to achieve continuity of the ELCAC programs. Basically, this is just the same with the EO (Executive Order) 70 signed by (former) president (Rodrigo) Duterte. I just want to put it into legislation so that whoever sits as the President, it doesn't matter. The law is already there so the ELCAC programs will continue," he said in an interview with a news channel on Friday.

EO 70, signed in December 2018, created the NTF-ELCAC to “provide an efficient mechanism and structure for the implementation of the whole-of-nation approach to aid in the realization of collective aspirations for inclusive and sustainable peace.”

It has 12 national clusters chaired by Cabinet Officers for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) in assigned regions.

"Almost all the front committees of the CPP-NPA-NDF, I think dalawa or tatlo na lang ang (just two or more are) remaining guerilla fronts ng (of) CPP-NPA-NDF that were not demolished by the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Almost all of their fighters have surrendered, went back to the fold of the law because of the efforts of NTF-ELCAC," dela Rosa added.

The ELCAC Act aims to institutionalize the inter-agency body, making it permanent despite changes in the national leadership.

National Security Adviser Clarita Carlos previously said she is in favor of the continuation of NTF-ELCAC.

"Yes! Kasi (Because) those are the ones that work eh. Hindi ba kadugtong 'yan ng (Isn’t that part of the) local peace council,” Carlos told Radyo Pilipinas in an interview.

She also expressed her desire to continue the negotiations with the insurgents while focusing on education, livelihood, and bringing more opportunities to residents of conflict-affected areas.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178544

US ambassador to PH set to arrive this July: envoy

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 9, 2022): US ambassador to PH set to arrive this July: envoy (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

US Ambassador-Designate to the Philippines MaryKay Loss Carlson (Photo courtesy of the US Embassy in Argentina)

United States Ambassador-Designate to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson is set to finally arrive in Manila before the end of July, the embassy said Friday.

"We are very excited to welcome very soon our new ambassador. She'll be here in the Philippines by the end of the month," US Embassy Chargé d'Affaires Heather Variava said on the sidelines of a reception for the 246th anniversary of US Independence.

Variava said Carlson is in Washington DC to prepare for her tour of duty.

"She's now in Washington having meetings, preparing to come here to the Philippines. Stay tuned, there's a lot more to come with the new ambassador," she added.

Carlson succeeds former US ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim, who ended his tour of duty in October 2020.

For more than a year, the embassy was headed by a chargé d'affaires until Carlson was finally nominated and confirmed this year.

Former chargé d'affaires John Law led the embassy before Variava, who will serve as Carlson's deputy once she arrives in Manila.

Variava said there is "a lot to look forward to" in the two nations' partnership, particularly on security and its Indo-Pacific Economic Framework.

"We here at the embassy, as well as our partners in the United States, look forward to working closely with President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. and his team to secure a prosperous, healthy, and safe future for the peoples of both our nations," she said.

"We wish the new President good health and a safe recovery," she added after Malacanang's announcement that Marcos had tested positive for the coronavirus disease 2019.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178573

Galvez stays as peace adviser in holdover capacity

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 9, 2022): Galvez stays as peace adviser in holdover capacity (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (File photo)

Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. will remain the head of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) until the end of this year to ensure that there will be no interruption or disruption of peace programs and activities.

The memorandum order received by OPAPRU on Friday from the Office of the President, dated June 30 and signed by Executive Secretary Vic Rodriguez, authorizes Galvez to “continue in office in a holdover capacity until December 31, or until his replacement has been appointed or designated, whichever comes first, unless he is reappointed in the meantime” and "shall take effect immediately.”

In his message marking the celebration of Eid al-Adha on Saturday, Galvez said the Marcos administration is determined to continue the implementation of the comprehensive Philippine peace process, especially in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

“Today, we honor the sacrifices made by millions of Hujjaj from all over the world as they conclude their annual Hajj or holy pilgrimage in the blessed land of Mecca in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” Galvez said in a statement.

“As nations across the globe confront the challenges caused by armed conflict, poverty, inequality, and the current health crisis, may all of us be inspired by the remarkable journey made by members of the Islamic faith,” he added.

Eid al-Adha, the Arabic term for the Feast of Sacrifice, is an annual festival that marks the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham in Christianity and Judaism) sacrificing his son Ismail because Allah (God) implored him to.

“When they converged in the Kaabah, the Muslim people demonstrated that despite differences in their nationality, culture or station in life, they are united by their faith in The Almighty Allah,” Galvez said.

Galvez hopes that the solidarity shown by the Ummah (Islam nation) will serve as a “shining example” to the Filipino people and encourage them to remain united and work together in pursuit of the “collective vision of achieving a just and lasting peace in our country.”

“The Marcos administration is inspired by the lessons imparted by the Eid al-Adha,” he said. “May this blessed day bring peace, unity, harmony, and spiritual renewal among the Muslim Ummah around the world.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178587

Army seeks CHR probe on use of NPA mines in N. Samar

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 6, 2022): Army seeks CHR probe on use of NPA mines in N. Samar (By Sarwell Meniano)

EVACUATION. A Black Hawk helicopter was sent to Mapanas, Northern Samar to evacuate seven soldiers injured by anti-personnel mine explosion planted by the New People's Army (NPA) on July 5, 2022. The Philippine Army on Wednesday (July 6) urged the Commission on Human Rights to investigate the use of banned explosives by the NPA. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

The Philippine Army has urged the Commission on Human Rights to investigate the use of anti-personnel mines by the New People’s Army (NPA) in Northern Samar that injured seven soldiers.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Col. Perfecto Peñaredondo, commander of the Army’s 803rd Infantry Brigade, condemned the communist terrorist group for its blatant violation of the use of banned explosives.

“I urged the community and the local governments to condemn this dastardly act of the NPA terrorists and I also called the attention of the Commission of Human Rights to investigate these continuous violations of Human Rights, Ottawa Convention, International Humanitarian Law and Republic Act 9851 perpetrated by the NPA in Northern Samar,” Peñaredondo said.

On Tuesday, at least seven soldiers were injured when NPA members detonated anti-personnel mines in the upland village of Magsaysay in Mapanas, Northern Samar.

Soldiers were patrolling the area when rebels detonated the mines around 6:15 a.m.

All soldiers, who suffered multiple injuries, are now in stable condition, according to the military.

After the explosion, the eight soldiers who escaped the blast engaged 20 NPA fighters in a 10-minute gun battle. The enemies fled since their firepower is weak.

Magsaysay village is about 13 kilometers away from the highway and the farthest community in Mapanas town.

It is considered a stronghold of the communist terrorist group after soldiers managed to rid several communities in Northern Samar province of NPA threats.

About 30 NPA fighters were sighted in the hinterlands of Magsaysay, identified as the remaining active platoon in the province.

The village is a recipient of a PHP63 million road project from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process funded in 2018 but was delayed due to NPA threats.

This was the second incident of NPA-detonated mines blast in Northern Samar this year.

On April 4, a roadside blast planted by the NPA killed two police officers and injured four others in San Miguel, Las Navas town.

Peñaredondo said the National Democratic Front (NDF), the self-proclaimed organizational representative of the NPA, should be held liable for not taking efforts to stop the NPA, its armed wing, from its continuing production, stockpile, transport, and use of “crudely manufactured mines.”

The practice, according to the official, poses danger to the lives of the people in the communities where they lay the mines.

The Communist Party of the Philippines-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 inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178306

Ranking NPA couple surrenders in Zambo Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 6, 2022): Ranking NPA couple surrenders in Zambo Norte (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

NPA COUPLE SURRENDERS. A couple identified as ranking members of the New People's Army (NPA) surrenders Tuesday (July 5, 2022) to the Army’s 97th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Del Pilar in Piñan, Zamboanga del Norte. The couple is welcomed by Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, the Army’s 102nd Infantry Brigade commander (left), and Lt. Col. Nolasco Coderos Jr., the 97th Infantry Battalion commander (right). (Photo courtesy of 97IB)

A ranking New People’s Army (NPA) rebel couple has surrendered amid a continuing government offensive against communist rebels in Zamboanga del Norte, a military official said Wednesday.

Lt. Col. Nolasco Coderos Jr., commander of the Army’s 97th Infantry Battalion, said Benedicto Granada and his wife, Gina, surrendered Tuesday night at their headquarters in Barangay Del Pilar, Piñan municipality.

Benedicto was the deputy secretary of the defunct NPA Guerrilla Front Big Beautiful Country (GF BBC), while his wife, Gina, acted as front secretary.

Coderos said the couple was convinced to give themselves up after all the remaining NPA groups in the Zamboanga Peninsula had been dismantled.

“This is a result of our continuous military operations to pursue the remnants of dismantled NPA groups in our area of operations,” Coderos said.

He said the couple was subjected to medical examination following their surrender.

In April this year, Zamboanga del Norte was declared “insurgency-free” by a resolution of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

Coderos said the couple is placed under the protective custody of the Army while they undergo debriefing. Their enrollment in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) has also been processed.

ECLIP is a government program that aims to help members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and Militia ng Bayan to restore their allegiance to the Philippine government.

Through the program, the former rebels are reintegrated back into the community, be with their families, and start over.

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 inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178330

NPA rebel surrenders in Masbate

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 6, 2022): NPA rebel surrenders in Masbate (By Connie Calipay)

Google map

A member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) surrendered to police authorities in Placer, Masbate on Monday.

A report from Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) on Wednesday identified the surrenderer as “Ka Jack”, 44, a resident of Barangay Poblacion, Placer town.

He is a member of the Militia ng Bayan under Platoon 1, Larangan 2, Komite ng Probinsya 4, Bicol Regional Party Committee under the Jose Rapsing Command in Masbate.

"The joint elements of Placer Municipal Police Station and Masbate 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company, facilitated the surrender of 'Ka Jack' after conducting a series of negotiations and information campaigns with regard to National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict E.O (Executive Order) 70.," said Major Malu Calubaquib, PRO-5 spokesperson in a statement.

Calubaquib said the surrenderer was recruited by a certain “Ka Reynan” at Sitio Pandayan, Barangay Puro, Placer in 1992 while only 15 years old.

The police said, "Ka Jack" was undergoing debriefing and profiling to be enrolled in the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Integrated Livelihood Program (E-CLIP).

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 inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178319

Another batch of Negros ex-rebels get livelihood aid from gov't

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 6, 2022): Another batch of Negros ex-rebels get livelihood aid from gov't (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

LIVELIHOOD AID. Eight former Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) members in Central Negros receive livelihood kits from the government through the Department of Trade and Industry. The distribution of the livelihood assistance under the DTI's Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa was held on Tuesday (July 5, 2022) at Camp Tirambulo in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental; and in Isabela town, Negros Occidental. (Photo courtesy of the 62IB, Philippine Army)

Eight more former rebels of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in Central Negros have received livelihood kits from the government as part of its efforts to end the insurgency.

A media release from the 62nd Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army on Wednesday said the former rebels got the livelihood kits on Tuesday at Camp Tirambulo in Barangay McKinley, Guihulngan City in Negros Oriental, and in Barangay Libas, Isabela town in Negros Occidental.

The Guihulngan City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict and the 62IB, in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Negros Oriental, turned over the agency’s livelihood assistance under its Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa (DTI-PBG).

Of the eight former rebels, three were former NPA combatants while five were Milisyang Bayan members who surrendered due to “extreme hardship and neglect from their leaders in the organization”.

Five of them received 10 goats, two got sari-sari store kits, while another one received a cellphone with a freeloader.

Last June 21, the first batch of 24 former rebels also got the same livelihood assistance, the 62nd IB said.

Brig. Gen. Inocencio Pasaporte, commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, told the Philippine News Agency that the various forms of assistance handed over to former rebels signify the “sincere effort” of the government to help them start a new life.

“This is where we can see that government agencies involved in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) are sincerely doing their part in providing former rebels with livelihood assistance so they can reintegrate into society and return to a normal life,” Pasaporte said.

He called on the other members of the NPA to give up the armed struggle and surrender because the government will be on hand to assist them in improving their lives, he 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 National Democratic Front has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178371

4 NPA rebels killed in southern Negros clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 6, 2022): 4 NPA rebels killed in southern Negros clash (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

SEIZED. Items recovered by army and police troops following an encounter with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army rebels in Barangay Santol, Binalbagan town in Negros Occidental on Wednesday morning (July 6, 2022). Four communist rebels died during the clash, a report from the Philippine Army said. (Photo courtesy of 94th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

Four Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) rebels died in a clash with government forces in the remote Barangay Santol in Binalbagan, Negros Occidental on Wednesday morning.

Army and police troops engaged at least 14 rebels after identifying their location in Sitio Amilis at past 9 a.m., a report from the Philippine Army said.

Lt. Col. Van Donald Almonte, commander of the 94th Infantry Battalion (94IB), said they were able to launch a successful operation based on the “timely and accurate information” provided by former rebels and other residents of Barangay Santol.

“This is a manifestation that the villagers no longer support the communist ideology,” he added.

As of posting time, the fatalities have not yet been identified, but they belonged to the NPA’s Central Negros 2, Komiteng Rehiyong-Negros Cebu Bohol Siquijor.

Troops recovered the bodies of the four rebels along with several firearms, various supplies, and personal items at the encounter site.

According to the 94IB, the NPA rebels were involved in the ambush of personnel of the Binalbagan Municipal Police Station in Barangay Bi-ao last February.

Two policemen were then injured when the NPAs detonated an anti-personnel mine by the roadside.

The rebels fired at the policemen who were responding to a call for assistance, and when they fired back, the enemy set off the landmine.

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 National Democratic Front has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178391

1 remaining NPA group ‘hitches’ Davao’s insurgency-free status

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 6, 2022): 1 remaining NPA group ‘hitches’ Davao’s insurgency-free status (By Christine Cudis)

Captain Mark Anthony Tito, the Army’s 10th Infantry Division spokesperson. (PNA file photo)

Only one New People’s Army (NPA) rebel unit remains before Davao Region can be declared “insurgency-free”, the Philippine Army's 10th Infantry Division (ID) said Wednesday.

“Even when President Rodrigo Duterte ended his term, the 10ID continues its efforts to push for the declaration of our areas of responsibility as free from insurgency. In Davao Region, there is just one left, the weakened NPA Guerrilla Front (GF) 18 that operates in Davao Oriental province,” Capt. Mark Anthony Tito, the 10ID spokesperson, said.

Tito said the military has cleared the barangays that were formerly influenced by the NPA GF-18, enabling it to be declared a “weakened unit.”

He also noted that Davao Oriental was the first to establish best practices that served as a benchmark for the military in its NPA clearing operations.

Other provinces and cities in the Davao Region have been declared only this year as insurgency-free.

Davao City was first to be declared insurgency free on March 24; Davao del Norte and Davao Occidental on June 13; Davao de Oro, June 22; and Davao del Sur, July 1.

Meanwhile, Art Milan, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry area vice president for Mindanao, said businesses have started to flourish in the communities that were declared by the military as insurgency-free.

“To cite an example, in the highlands of Davao del Norte in Talaingod town, the resorts and restaurants have been sprouting just after it was announced that the area is cleared of NPAs. When the people feel safe, commerce will follow,” Milan said in a separate interview.

Encouraged by the positive impact on businesses, he said they will propose the continuation of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict under the new administration.

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 National Democratic Front has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973. (

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178360

Manhunt on for killers of MILF commander in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2022): Manhunt on for killers of MILF commander in Maguindanao (By Edwin Fernandez)

AMBUSH SITE. Police and civilian volunteers visit the site in Datu Hofer, Maguindanao, where a former Moro Islamic Liberation Front commander was ambushed and killed Wednesday (July 6, 2022). Police investigation indicated the victim was locked in a feud with another family in the area. (Photo courtesy of Maguindanao PPO)

Police and military forces are jointly hunting down two men who ambushed and killed a former field commander of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Datu Hofer, Maguindanao, Wednesday afternoon.

Lieutenant Billy Fontanilla, Datu Hofer town police chief, identified the victim as commander Iskak Amil, 59, the former head of the MILF 105th Base Command in the area.

Amil was on board a motorbike driven by a subordinate when gunmen positioned on both sides of the road in Barangay Tuayan Mother, opened fire at past 4 p.m.

He died on the spot. The gunmen spared his driver.

Responding police found empty shells of M14 and M16 rifles at the ambush site.

Amil was locked in a “rido” or clan war with another Moro family in Datu Hofer town, police said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178418

BARMM aids 176 ex-MILF rebels shift to income-generating projects

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2022): BARMM aids 176 ex-MILF rebels shift to income-generating projects (By Edwin Fernandez)

SKILLED WORKER. A former Moro Islamic Liberation Front combatant from Maguindanao (2nd right with glasses) receives tool kits to start his own small business from the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education – Technical Education and Skills Development Wednesday (July 6, 2022). Some 176 former fighters received the same livelihood package on the same day. (Photo courtesy of Bangsamoro Information Office - BARMM)

As part of the government’s commitment to the Mindanao peace process, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) distributed tool kits as livelihood support to 176 decommissioned Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants.

Before this, the ex-MILF fighters underwent a month-long of livelihood skills training with daily allowances.

“One of the goals of this program is to help decommissioned MILF combatants start other sources of income,” Mohamad-Ali Diang, the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education – Technical Education and Skills Development (MBHTE-TESD) focal person, said in an interview Thursday.

MBHTE-TESD dispersed the kits Wednesday as the former rebels shift to income-generating projects.

Supported by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) under the Normalization Program, the activity targets to help the beneficiaries in their transition to peaceful and productive members of society.

“We are hoping for a prosperous livelihood that will be the key to secure a better future for our ex-MILF combatants to normalize their lives,” Diang said.

Kitchen knives, food tongs, digital weighing scale, measuring cups, measuring spoons, saucepans, mixing bowls, and chopping boards, were distributed to 68 MILF technical-vocational graduates from Illana Bay Integrated Computer College Inc. in Parang, Maguindanao.

On the other hand, 81 graduates from Ittihadun Nisah Foundation-Bangsamoro Women Skills Training Center Pastry Making in Sultan Kudarat town also received measuring cups, mixing bowls, and ovens.

Twenty-seven beneficiaries from Sultan Kudarat Islamic Academy Foundation College were also given carpentry equipment such as pull-push rule, claw hammer, spirit level bar, steel square, crowbar, chalk line reel, wood chisel, portable hand drill, and portable circular saw.

Kaharodin Piaco, 48, from Barira, Maguindanao, said his family will be able to start a cafeteria and earn extra income.

“Aside from farming, this cafeteria will give us additional sources of income,” Piaco said, vowing to improve and share the skills he acquired for the benefit of others.

The MBHTE-TESD said more MILF ex-combatants undertaking the skills training are to receive their tool kits soon.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178420

Troops capture NPA leader, seize weapons in northern Negros

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2022): Troops capture NPA leader, seize weapons in northern Negros (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

RECOVERED. The weapons, mobile phones, assorted supplies, and personal items recovered by troops of the Philippine Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion following a clash with CPP-NPA rebels in the hinterlands of Calatrava town, Negros Occidental on Wednesday afternoon (July 6, 2022). Captured was Isabelle Necesario, 41, deputy secretary of the NPA’s Northern Negros Front, who is now in police custody. (Photo courtesy of 79th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

A gunbattle between government troops and rebels has led to the capture of a ranking Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) leader in the hinterlands of Calatrava town, Negros Occidental on Wednesday afternoon.

Arrested was Isabelle Necesario, 41, who goes by aliases “Maoline”, “Nad”, “Diane” and “Idel”, the deputy secretary of the NPA’s Northern Negros Front (NNF).

Lt. Col. J-jay Javines, commanding officer of the 79th Infantry Battalion (IB), said on Thursday the clash indicates the efforts of the remnants of the NNF to regain support and recruit more members.

“Thus, we will continue to advance our efforts in making the CPP-NPA vanish in northern Negros,” Javines said.

Necesario, a resident of Sitio Canipaan, Barangay Banquerohan in Cadiz City, is now in the custody of the Calatrava Municipal Police Station.

The NNF has already been declared dismantled by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police in April last year, and those who had figured in clashes with government troops are considered remnants of the dismantled front.

After the clash on Wednesday, troops recovered two rifle grenades, two .38-caliber pistols with seven rounds of live ammunition, and one .45- caliber pistol with five rounds of live ammunition.

They also found five USB flash drives, seven basic and one touchscreen mobile phones, three pocket wi-fi units, three civilian bags containing personal belongings, a hammock, assorted medicines, food items, subversive documents, and PHP3,740 cash, among others.

Javines said villagers provided information to the troops regarding the presence of the NPA rebels, prompting his men to immediately respond and engage them.

The encounter in Sitio Banwa Minatay, Barangay Marcelo on Wednesday was the second incident in Calatrava in two weeks after the 79IB troops also clashed with and raided the rebels’ hideout in Sitio Tinibyangan, Barangay Minapasuk on June 22.

On April 17, 2019, troops neutralized three NPA guerrillas and seized eight high-powered firearms and several grenades also in Barangay Marcelo.

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 National Democratic Front (NDF) has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178442

Aurora college, AFP ink free education deal for former rebels

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2022): Aurora college, AFP ink free education deal for former rebels (By Jason De Asis)

FREE EDUCATION. Officials of the Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion and the Lyceum of the East-Aurora (LEA) signed a memorandum of partnership for scholarship grants to recognized former rebels and their dependents who wish to earn an education in Barangay Florida, Maria Aurora, Aurora on Wednesday (July 6, 2022). The move is part of the commitment of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to assist former rebels as they return to mainstream society. (PNA photo by Jason de Asis)

Former rebels and their dependents now have an opportunity to attain education for free.

This as the Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion (91IB) and the Lyceum of the East-Aurora (LEA) signed a memorandum of partnership to provide educational scholarships to recognized former rebels and their dependents who wish to earn an education.

“This is part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP’s) commitment in assisting our former rebels as they returned to mainstream society as we want them to live normally and productive in the community where they choose to settle,” Lt. Col. Julito B. Recto, battalion commander of 91IB, said in an interview on Thursday.

Likewise, Recto said soldiers’ dependents as well as members and the dependents of the Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) will also be assisted to finish their studies as agreed upon.

“Similarly, the partnership will also assist our CAFGUs, even our soldiers and their dependents who wish to go to school but could not make it due to financial constraints,” he said.

Under the agreement, recognized former rebels and their dependents and siblings can have a full discount on miscellaneous and other school fees; free tuition fees, and a 75 percent discount on miscellaneous fees for CAFGU personnel and their dependents and siblings; free tuition fees and 50 percent discount on miscellaneous fees for active personnel of 91IB and their dependents and siblings; free tuition fees for other student-grantees not included in the above but coming from the area of operations of the 91IB.

“I am very thankful for the partnership to which we can help our scholars to have access in LEA as this is part of our mission to provide relevant, innovative, and accessible quality education for them. Lyceum is here to provide quality education, an opportunity for our scholars to earn an education,” Recto said.

Engr. Jaime S. Gose, president of LEA, said Lyceum is continuously doing its part to give scholarship grants since the school is now gradually etching a name of its own in the field of education in Aurora.

“We will continue to maintain a high degree of educational standards and will ensure that our scholars enrolled under the program are provided the best instructional and school facilities. We will give our scholars the opportunity to reach and complete their higher education in order to have a brighter future,” Gose said.

There are also technical-vocational training programs accredited by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority and junior and senior high school programs through the Department of Education.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1178468