SWS: Second Quarter 2018 Social Weather Survey Special Report: 61% of Pinoys believe in the U.S. defense commitment

From Social Weather Stations (Dec 12): Second Quarter 2018 Social Weather Survey Special Report: 61% of Pinoys believe in the U.S. defense commitment          

• 47% are aware of the PH-U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty
• Belief in the U.S. defense commitment is stronger among those previously aware of the PH-U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty
• Higher awareness of the PH-U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty among those aware of the PH-China dispute in the West Philippine Sea
• Belief in the U.S. defense commitment is stronger among those aware of the PH-China dispute in the West Philippine Sea

SWS Special Report (printer-friendly version here)

In advance of the 67^th year of the Mutual Defense Treaty between the Republic of the Philippines and the United States of America in August 2018, the Second Quarter 2018 Social Weather Survey found that 61% of adult Filipinos believe (strongly plus somewhat believe) the U.S. will defend the Philippines in case of an invasion by another country.

The survey, conducted from June 27-30, 2018, asked, “How much do you believe or not believe that the United States will defend the Philippines in case we are invaded by another country? [Gaano po kayo naniniwala o hindi naniniwala na ipagtatanggol ng Estados Unidos ang Pilipinas kapag sinalakay tayo ng ibang bansa?]”

To this, 61% said they believe the U.S. will defend the Philippines (31% strongly believe, 30% somewhat believe), 9% said they did not (6% somewhat not believe, 3% strongly not believe), and 30% were undecided [Chart 1].

The June 2018 survey also found that 47% were aware of the PH-US Mutual Defense Treaty even before the survey, while 53% learned about it only during the interview [Chart 2].

Belief in the U.S. defense commitment is stronger among those previously aware of the PH-U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty

Among those aware of the PH-U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty even before the survey, 80% believe (48% strongly believe, 32% somewhat believe) that the U.S. will defend the Philippines in case of an invasion [Chart 3].

This is almost twice the 45% who believe (17% strongly believe, 28% somewhat believe) in the U.S. defense commitment among those who became aware of the PH-U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty on account of the survey.

Awareness of the PH-U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty is highest in Metro Manila, urban areas, among the upper classes, and among the more educated groups

The proportion of those previously aware of the PH-U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty was highest in Metro Manila at 58%, followed by Balance Luzon at 53%, Visayas at 41%, and Mindanao at 31% [Chart 4].

It was 55% in overall urban areas, compared to 38% in overall rural areas.
By class, it was highest in class ABC at 51%, followed by class D at 49%, and class E at 34% [Chart 5].

It was highest among college graduates at 67%, followed by high school graduates at 51%, elementary graduates at 42%, and non-elementary graduates at 27% [Chart 6].

Belief in the U.S. defense commitment strongest in Balance Luzon and urban areas

The proportion of those who believe that the U.S. will defend the Philippines in case of invasion by another country was highest in Balance Luzon at 70%, followed by Metro Manila at 64%, Visayas at 54%, and Mindanao at 48% [Chart 7].

It was higher in overall urban areas at 66%, compared to overall rural areas at 56%.
It hardly varied by class, ranging from 60% to 65% [Chart 8].

It was slightly higher among elementary graduates and above, ranging from 61% to 69%, compared to non-elementary graduates at 53% [Chart 9].

Higher awareness of the PH-U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty among those previously aware of the PH-China dispute in the West Philippine Sea

The proportion of those who know about the PH-U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty even before the survey was higher among those who were previously aware of the PH-China dispute in the West Philippine Sea, at 54%, compared to those who learned about the PH-China dispute only during the interview, at 14% [Chart 10].

The survey also found that previous awareness about the PH-US Mutual Defense Treaty was highest among those with extensive knowledge about the PH-China dispute in the West Philippine Sea (73%), followed by those with adequate knowledge (57%), those with only a little knowledge (49%), and those with very little knowledge (36%) [Chart 11].

Belief in the U.S. defense commitment is stronger among those previously aware of the PH-China dispute in the West Philippine Sea

The proportion of those who believe that the U.S. will defend the Philippines in case of an invasion by another country was higher among those previously aware of the PH-China dispute in the West Philippine Sea, at 67% (35% strongly believe, 32% somewhat believe), compared to those who became aware of the PH-China dispute only during the survey, at 36% (15% strongly believe, 21% somewhat believe) [Chart 12].

Belief in the U.S. defense commitment was higher among those with extensive knowledge about the PH-China dispute in the West Philippine Sea (82%), compared to those with adequate knowledge (40%), only a little knowledge (49%), and very little knowledge (36%) [Chart 13].

Survey background

The June 2018 Social Weather Survey was conducted from June 27-30, 2018 using face-to-face interviews of 1,200 adults (18 years old and above) nationwide: 300 each in Metro Manila, Balance Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao (sampling error margins of ±3% for national percentages, and ±6% each for Metro Manila, Balance Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao).

The area estimates were weighted by Philippine Statistics Authority medium-population projections for 2018 to obtain the national estimates.

The Social Weather Survey items on people’s opinion about the PH-US Mutual Defense Treaty were non-commissioned. They were included on SWS's own initiative and released as a public service.

Questionnaire

The exact survey questions are as follows:

STATEMENT CARD: Ang Mutual Defense Treaty sa pagitan ng Pilipinas at Estados Unidos ay pinirmahan noong Agosto 30, 1951, sa Washington, D.C. ng mga kinatawan ng Pilipinas at Estados Unidos. Sinasabi ng pangkalahatang kasunduan na ipagtatanggol ng Estados Unidos ang Pilipinas kapag ito ay sinalakay ng ibang bansa, at ipagtatanggol din ng Pilipinas ang Estados Unidos kapag ito ay sinalakay. [The Mutual Defense Treaty between the Philippines and the United States of America was signed on August 30, 1951, in Washington, D.C. by representatives of the Philippines and the United States. The overall treaty stated that the United States will defend the Philippines if it is invaded by another country, and the Philippines will also defend the United States if it is invaded.]

Q130. Dati na po ba ninyong alam ang kasunduang ito sa pagitan ng Pilipinas at Estados Unidos, o ngayon lamang ninyo ito narinig? (Dati nang alam; Ngayon lamang narinig) [Were you previously aware about this treaty between the Philippines and the United States of America, or did you know about this only now? (Previously aware; Heard about it only now)]

Q131. Gaano po kayo Naniniwala o Hindi naniniwala na ipagtatanggol ng Estados Unidos ang Pilipinas kapag sinalakay tayo ng ibang bansa?  Masasabi po ba ninyo na kayo ay… (Showcard: Lubos na naniniwala; Medyo naniniwala; Hindi tiyak kung naniniwala o hindi; Medyo hindi naniniwala; Lubos na hindi naniniwala)? [How much do you believe or not believe that the United States will defend the Philippines in case we are invaded by another country?  Would you say that you… (Showcard: Strongly believe; Somewhat believe; Undecided if believe or not; Somewhat not believe; Strongly not believe)?]

SWS employs its own staff for questionnaire design, sampling, fieldwork, data-processing, and analysis, and does not outsource any of its survey operations. This report was prepared by Leo S. Laroza and Judith C. Valencia, with special tabulations by Joanne Evangelista.

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https://www.sws.org.ph/swsmain/artcldisppage/?artcsyscode=ART-20181212104148 

Negros to get SAF troopers

From the Visayan Daily Star (Dec 15): Negros to get SAF troopers

Negros Occidental is getting an additional company of elite Special Action Force troopers, regional police spokesperson Supt. Joel Malong said yesterday.

But Malong said they have no idea yet as to the date of the arrival of the SAF troopers in Negros Occidental.

At present, there are three SAF companies being supervised by 6 th Special Action Battalion of the PNP stationed in northern Negros, who assist the internal security operation of the Army’s 303 rd Infantry Brigade.

A company-sized SAF unit is composed of 80 to 100 personnel.

The deployment of more troops in Negros was contained in Memorandum Circular No. 32 issued by Malacañang to suppress the “growing violence and acts of terror”, of the New People’s Army in Negros Island.

The Philippine Army is also set to add more troops in Negros, although it had established earlier a tactical command post of the Bohol-based 302 nd Infantry Brigade in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental.

In line with the 50 th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines, the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office also placed its maneuver forces on heightened alert for any possible tactical engagement with the New People’s Army that has been ordered to escalate attacks on government and prized civilian targets.

Police stations were also placed in active defense posture to strengthen defenses against communist rebels’ attacks.

PNP chief Oscar Albayalde said in a statement that the order of CPP founding chairman Joma Sison to its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA) exposed anew the culture of lies, deception and violence of the aging underground movement in its 50-year rebellion to wrest power from government.

Albayalde added that the CPP-NPA has found a convenient excuse in the Congressional approval of the martial law extension in Mindanao as reason to stage further hostilities against government and civilian targets, even as it declared earlier the 5-day yuletide ceasefire to trick government into reciprocating the CPP/NPA a farce and a sham gesture of goodwill.

While the PNP maintains a stiff and decisive stance against the CPP-NPA, Albayalde said they are keeping the doors open to all rebels who were deceived by the false promise of a just society under communist rule, and now want to lead normal lives with their families.

The government is offering a life-changing opportunity for individual rebel returnees through a livelihood package with added compensation for surrendered firearms under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP, the strategic flagship program to pursue the government’s peace and development agenda, he added.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2018/December/15/topstory6.htm

Attack NPA, Army orders

From the Visayan Daily Star (Dec 15): Attack NPA, Army orders

Two Army battalions in Negros Occidental have been ordered to attack the New People’s Army before they can launch attacks against them before or after the 50 th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines on Dec. 26.

This was the response of Col. Benedict Arevalo, 303 rd Infantry Brigade commander, who supervises two Army battalions in Negros, to the order of the Communist Party of the Philippines to launch nationwide attacks on government forces, despite its declaration of a four-day ceasefire.

Arevalo said that the order of CPP to attack government forces confirms that the CPP, to include their legal fronts – the National Democratic Front – are in cahoots with the NPA.

Earlier he had asked Negrenses to condemn the NPAs and their affiliated bogus human rights groups, stressing that they are trying to make fools of the Filipino people by making them believe that they are real advocates of human rights.

Arevalo enjoined the people to condemn, not only the NPA, but also the CPP and NDF, who are trying to hide under the cloak of legality. He stressed that the people should be aware of their revolutionary dual tactics, including the use of the law against the government, and getting into the government to destroy it from within.

The CPP is marking its 50 th founding anniversary on Dec. 26. The four-day ceasefire starts Dec. 24 to Dec. 26 and Dec. 31 to Jan. 1 next year.

Arevalo said that communist rebels have been attacking not only the military or police, but also innocent and helpless civilians whom they murder cold-bloodedly and admits doing it.

He added that they should not make an excuse for their atrocities by saying it’s because of the extension of martial law.

“Tell that to their militant leftist organizations who believe them, and not to us,” he added.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2018/December/15/topstory5.htm

Joy as U.S.-seized bells ring again on Philippine soil

From Rappler (Dec 15): Joy as U.S.-seized bells ring again on Philippine soil

(UPDATED) Residents of Balangiga welcome the return of the bells that symbolized the Philippines' dark past and long struggle for independence

 

 

FIESTA ATMOSPHERE. People begin massing near the San Lorenzo de Martir Church in Balangiga, Eastern Samar, on December 15, 2018, in preparation for the official handover of the Balangiga Bells. Photo courtesy of Lady Camelot

EASTERN SAMAR, Philippines (UPDATED) – A sleepy central Philippine town erupted in joy on Saturday, December 15, as bells looted from its church more than a century ago by vengeful US troops were turned over to the community, and rang once again on their home soil.

Children waving bell-shaped signs and tearful residents in Balangiga welcomed home the 3 bells that are a deep local source of pride, and which the US flew to Manila this week after decades of urging by the Philippines.

"Nobody, but nobody, can claim a singular credit for the generous act of the Americans," Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said after ringing one of the bells before a crowd of thousands that included US and church officials.

"The bells are returned. The credit goes to the American people and to the Filipino people – period," he said, striking a rare positive tone regarding the nation's former colonial master.

American troops carted away the bronze objects as trophies, after razing the town and killing potentially thousands of Filipinos, in reprisal for a surprise 1901 attack that left 48 of their comrades dead.

For the people of Balangiga, the bells are a symbol of the Philippines' long struggle for independence, and a dark chapter which is the subject of an annual re-enactment and remembrance event locally. (READ: 'Indescribable feeling,' says descendant of Filipino who rang Balangiga bell in 1901)

"It's not just me but the whole town is walking in the clouds because the bells are finally with us," 81-year-old Nemesio Duran told Agence France-Presse (AFP).

"We are the happiest people on Earth now," he added, noting he is descended from the boy who rang one of the bells, long said to have signalled the attack on the Americans.

The return of the bells prompted a massive street party in Balangiga with singing, children waving bell-shaped placards and even vendors selling wooden souvenir bells and T-shirts.

'We can never forget'

Yet Saturday's handover ceremony took place far from the town plaza that holds a monument with statues of the American soldiers having breakfast as the Filipino revolutionaries raise their machetes at the start of the onslaught.

Manila had pushed for the bells' return since at least the 1990s, with backing from Philippine presidents, its influential Catholic Church and supporters in the United States.

But the repatriation was long held back by some American lawmakers and veterans who viewed the bells, two of which were in the US state of Wyoming and the third at a US base in South Korea, as tributes to fallen soldiers.

A confluence of factors earlier this year, that included a key veterans' group dropping its opposition, culminated in the bells landing in Manila aboard a US military cargo plane on Tuesday for a solemn handover.

Duterte, 73, bluntly called on Washington in a 2017 speech: "Give us back those Balangiga bells. They are not yours."

His arrival in power in mid-2016 was marked by moves to split from Manila's historical ally and former colonial master the United States.

At the same time, Duterte signalled an end to the standoff with Beijing over the disputed South China Sea.

Yet for some in Balangiga the bells' return is also a somber occasion tinged with the pain of the past, which has been passed from generation to generation.

"It's mixed emotions because the bells also remind me of what happened," Constancia Elaba, 62, told AFP, adding how she grew up hearing stories of the episode from her father.

"It was painful and you cannot take it away from us. We can never forget that," she said.

Thousands of people gathered at the Balangiga town plaza early Saturday afternoon for the program on the return of the bells that the parish church lost over a century ago.

Duterte, who had asked for the return of the bells in his State of the Nation Address in 2017, will receive the certificate of the transfer from US Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission John Law, according to the official program.

The bells arrived in Balangiga town Friday afternoon, December 13.

Army Captain Joseph Sabas of the 801st Brigade told Rappler in an interview that military troops were deployed to help secure key sites such as the town’ auditorium and the church for the event.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/218964-balangiga-bells-return-philippine-church

Duterte thanks Americans for returning Balangiga Bells

From Rappler (Dec 15): Duterte thanks Americans for returning Balangiga Bells

'The credit goes to the American people and to the Filipino people. Period,' says President Rodrigo Duterte

HOME. President Rodrigo Duterte attends the 'homecoming' ceremony and turnover of the transfer certificate of the Balangiga Bells in Eastern Samar. RTVM screenshot

After more than a century, the Balangiga bells are finally home in Eastern Samar.

President Rodrigo Duterte on Saturday, December 15, witnessed the turnover of the Transfer Certificate of the Balangiga Bells from United States (US) Deputy Chief of Mission John Law to Philippine Department of National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.

The certificate was then handed over to Balangiga Mayor Randy Graza.

In his speech, Duterte said that the return of the bells was possible due to "several efforts made by both Americans and the Philippines." But he said that no particular statesman can claim credit for the bells' historic homecoming. (READ: Joy as U.S.-seized bells return to Philippine church)

"Let me be very clear on this: There are some who are front loaders and pedantic in the government. The bells are returned and it was really because of the fervent prayers of the entire Filipino nation," Duterte said.

"But nobody can claim a singular credit for the generous act of the Americans. The bells are returned. The credit goes to the American people and to the Filipino people. Period," the President added.

The Balangiga bells arrived in Manila on December 11, after making a stopover in Okinawa, Japan, where the two bells in Wyoming, USA, and the bell in South Korea were reunited.

'Vibrant' US-PH relations

Duterte also said that the return marks a "vibrant chapter" on the bilateral relations between Manila and Washington.

The Balangiga Bells were used to signal a historic siege during the Philippine-American War in 1901, where Filipinos killed 48 out of 74 US troops.

In revenge for the US' worst single defeat in the Philippines, the American forces led the Balangiga Massacre, where about 2,500 Filipinos were killed.

The bells were taken as war spoils.

The bells' return, Duterte said, is a "restoration of Filipinos' dignity."

"I am sure that our ancestors are celebrating with us here on this remarkable victory. And that it does not only bring back the glory of the town, but also contributes to the full restoration of our dignity as a Filipino," he said.

Long process

Duterte was not the first president to ask Washington to return the bells. In 1994, then-president Fidel Ramos requested the same from his US counterpart, Bill Clinton, but to no avail.

In 2014, more than 3,000 online petitioners also urged the US to return the Balangiga Bells. When then-US president Barack Obama visited the Philippines that year, however, the US leader made no mention of the matter.

Duterte first demanded for the return of the bells during his second State of the Nation Address in 2017. The statement was made in the presence of US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim.

"We know fully well that several efforts have been made by both Americans and the Philippines. It is really indeed a long and tedious process to the point that the outcome was disappointing sometimes, but the long wait is over," Duterte said on Saturday.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/218985-duterte-balangiga-bells-return-eastern-samar-december-15-2018

Marines kill 7 Sayyaf fighters in South

From the Mindanao Examiner (Dec 15): Marines kill 7 Sayyaf fighters in South

Seven pro-ISIS militants, including a sub-leader, were killed in ferocious battle between Philippine Marines and Abu Sayyaf in the southern island of Minis, officials announced Saturday.

Ten other people surrendered to soldiers, according to Rear Admiral Rene Medina, commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao, adding, the fighting, which occurred Thursday, also killed a soldier and left 3 others wounded.

The Western Mindanao Command earlier said 3 militants were slain in the battle after troops clashed with about 50 Abu Sayyaf gunmen on the island off Sulu’s Patikul town.

Medina said members of the 62nd Marine Company under Colonel Armel Tolato responded to intelligence reports received from the military’s Joint Task Force Sulu on the presence of militants in the area. He said several vessels and a helicopter provided sea blockade and aerial support to ground troops, including elite members of the Special Operations Platoon 1 and a SEAL team.

“Sea denial is now being enforced by the Fleet-Marine team over the sea waters of Minis Island to avoid escape and enemy reinforcement while NAVSOU (Naval Special Operations Unit) and MARSOU (Marines Special Operations Unit) hunts down the Abu Sayyafs in the mangrove area of the island,” Medina said.

“The neutralization of the Abu Sayyafs was a result of the commitment and continued monitoring activity of the government troops in Western Mindanao. The public is assured that the Armed Forces of the Philippines, particularly the Fleet-Marine troops will continue to exercise vigilance in ZAMBASULTA (Zamboanga Peninsula, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi provinces) area to preempt any activities brought by the Abu Sayyaf group and other lawless terrorist groups that threatens the peace, stability and development in the area,” he added.

Lt. Gen. Arnel dela Vega, the regional military commander, said he ordered security forces to intensify the offensives against the pro-ISIS group, who is holding several foreigners and Filipinos kidnapped in the South and in Sabah. “The Joint Task Force Sulu continues to intensify the conduct of offensives against the Abu Sayyaf to neutralize the bandits. All measures are now being undertaken in accordance with the rules of engagement, and with the support of the local government and the populace,” he said.

Dela said they were saddened by the loss of a brave soldier. “We are deeply saddened by the news that another gallant soldier was killed during the encounter of our troops with the Abu Sayyafs bandits. Rest assured that we will extend all sorts of assistance to the bereaved family,” he said.

There were no reports if any of the hostages had been spotted on the island.

 

https://mindanaoexaminer.com/marines-kill-7-sayyaf-fighters-in-south/

Tagalog News: IPs sa Agusan Norte kinondena ang mga NPA; nanawagan sa gobyerno na palawigin pa ang Martial Law

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 12): Tagalog News: IPs sa Agusan Norte kinondena ang mga NPA; nanawagan sa gobyerno na palawigin pa ang Martial Law

Kasabay ng selebrasyon ng ika-70 anibersaryo ng Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) dito sa lungsod, mariing kinondena ng mga Indigenous Peoples (IPs) sa Agusan del Norte ang pang-aabuso ng New Peoples Army (NPA) sa kanila at sila ay nanawagan sa pamahalaan na palawigin pa ang pagpapatud ng Martial Law sa Mindanao.

Ayon kay Datu Bawang Eddie Ampiyawan, IPMR ng Agusan del Norte, isang peace rally ang kanilang isinagawa dahil gusto nilang isiwalat ang kasamaan, kasinungalingan at pang-aabuso ng NPA sa mga katutubo.

“Sila (NPA) ang totoong umaabuso. Dahil sila ay pumapatay o pumatay sila sa mga katutubo na wala man lang kadahilanan lalu na sa mga lider namin. Gusto naming ipanawagan sa ating Pangulong Duterte na sana tuldukan na niya o tapusin na niya ang CPP-NPA-NDF. Hanggat may NPA pa lalu na dito sa ancestral domain sa tribu walang katahimikan, walang kapayapaan lalu na walang mangyayaring magandang kinabukasan sa mga katutubo,” pahayag ni Datu Ampiyawan.

Nakiusap din si Datu Ampiyawan sa pamahalaan na palakasin ang pagpapatupad ng seguridad dahil na rin sa patuloy na banta ng terorismo sa Mindanao.

Samantala, binigyang-diin ni Julieto “Tatay Boom” Canoy, na dating naging miyembro ng NPA, layon din ng aktibidad na ialerto ang publiko para makaiwas malinlang sa panloloko ng mga ito.

“Para sa amin na nanggaling sa CPP-NPA-NDF, alam namin na ang pag-martsa sa December 10 ng mga teroristang komunista ay paglinlang lamang sa masa, pero itong martsa/rally na ginagawa namin ngayon ay hindi paglinlang sa masa kundi isang recovery sa mga dati ng nalinlang at sumama sa grupo,” sabi ni Tatay Boom.

Maayos na natapos ang nasabing peace rally ng IP community sa lungsod ng Butuan at nagpalipad ng mga puting lobo na simbolo ng hangaring matamasa ang kapayapaan sa mga katutubo.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1016019

Manpower development center para sa mga dating rebelde itatayo sa Butuan

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 14): Manpower development center para sa mga dating rebelde itatayo sa Butuan



Groundbreaking ceremony para sa proyektong pagpapatayo ng Manpower Development Center na pinangunahan ni BGen. Franco Nemesio Gacal, Brigade Commander ng 402nd Brigade, Philippine Army, kasama si Agusan del Norte Gov. Ma. Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba na ginanap sa 402nd Brigade, Philippine Army, Butuan City. (PIA-Caraga)

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN - Pormal nang sisimulan ang pagpapagawa ng manpower development center – halfway house matapos ang isinagawang groundbreaking ceremony sa 402nd Brigade, Philippine Army dito sa lungsod.

Ang nasabing center ay proyekto ng provincial government ng Agusan del Norte at ng Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) sa ilalim ng enhanced comprehensive local integration program o E-CLIP ng pamahalaan na layong matulungang magsimula muli ang mga dating miyembro ng New People’s Army (NPA) na nagbalik loob sa gobyerno.

Ayon kay BGen. Franco Nemesio Gacal, Brigade Commander ng 402nd Brigade, Philippine Army, bibigyan din ng kabuhayan ang mga dating rebelde para may mapagkakitaan sa kanilang pagbabagong buhay.

Dagdag pa ni BGen. Gacal na magpapatayo din ng isa pang halfway house ang planong itayo ng local government unit ng Butuan bilang tugon na rin sa kagustuhan ng gobyerno na maging aktibo ang lokal na pamahalaan sa pagtulong sa re-integration program ng former rebels.

Umaasa ang gobyerno na sa pamamagitan ng programang ito mas dadami pa ang mahihikayat na miyembro ng NPA na magbalik loob at matugunan ang kanilang mga pangangailangan.

Naniniwala naman si Agusan del Norte Grovincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba na sa pagsisikap at pagtutulungan ng gobyerno ay matatapos din ang matagal ng problema ng pamahalan sa mga rebeldeng grupo.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1016102

Philippine Army in Ilocos trains youth as nation builders, leaders

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 14): Philippine Army in Ilocos trains youth as nation builders, leaders



Members of the Philippine Army under the 81st Infantry Batallion (IB) are preparing the youth with skills as nation builders and future leaders in the series of leadership seminars they are conducting in collaboration with the local government units (LGUs) in Ilocos provinces.

Lt. Col. Charles DZ Castillo, commander of army’s 81st IB, said their unit is initiating the conduct of the series of Youth Leadership Summit (YLS) in the provinces of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, and La Union to enhance the potential of the youth to become responsible citizens and catalysts in advocating peace and development.

“We are conducting this program to develop the youths’ awareness on their integral role in nation-building by instilling to them the spirit of patriotism, nationalism and social responsibility as well as the modus of Communist CPP-NPA Terrorist (CNT) infiltration. In this manner, our youths will be insulated from the radicalization efforts of the CNTs,” said Castillo.

He said the latest YLS conducted by his unit was held in Pagangpang National High School in Barangay Pagangpang, Galimuyod, Ilocos Sur from Nov. 30 to Dec. 2.

The 3-day seminar dubbed as “1st Inter-Barangay Youth Leadership Summit 2018” anchored with a theme, “Youth of Today, Leaders of Tomorrow,” was conducted by the 81st IB in partnership with the LGUs of Candon City and Galimuyod, both in Ilocos Sur.

A total of 72 youths from Barangay Bugnay of Candon City and Barangays Legaspi, Sacaang, McKinley, and Pagangpang, all residents in Galimuyod town have finished the seminars.

Aside from presentations on leadership skills, the participants were also given topics on “responsible use of social media” with staff from the Philippine Information Agency Region 1 as speaker and basic human rights with members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) as lecturers.

Earlier, series of YLS were also held in San Emilio, Ilocos Sur; in Ilocos Norte and in Santol, La Union. After each summit, the youth participants elected their leaders, political officers, and committee members.

“We had connected these youths to the different government agencies so they will appreciate what their government is doing for them and to emphasize that there is no need for them to overthrow the government as what the CNTs taught to them,” said Castillo.

“We also call upon these misguided individuals to stop recruiting these youths, instead lay down their arms, return to the folds of the law and live a productive life. Your army will continue to advocate peaceful resolutions of the internal security problem.” he added.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1016111

601st Brigade stages peace forum in Maguindanao

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 15): 601st Brigade stages peace forum in Maguindanao



The 601st Infantry Brigade organized recently a peace forum held at the Brigade Headquarters at Old Provincial Capitol, Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao.

The forum discussed the current peace and order situation in Maguindanao, the 6th ID program on preventing and countering violent extremism, the campaign against illegal drugs and election-related activities, among others.

“We need to share these lines of efforts with our civilian partners so we can do more with communality,” 6th ID Commander Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, said.

The forum was attended by local leaders of Datu Odin Sinsuat, Datu Anggal Midtimbang, Talitay, Talayan, Guindulungan, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Datu Salibo, Datu Piang, Mamasapano, Rajah Buayan, Sultan Sa Barongis, Datu Unsay, Datu Hoffer, and Ampatuan.

Major Rico Lapura and Lt. Col. Ciriaco Lomas-e of the offices of G2 and G3 of 6th ID, respectively, discussed the situation and military operation updates under their areas of responsibility particularly in the province of Maguindanao.

Lt. Col. Markton Abo of the office of G7, on the other hand, discussed the programs on preventing and countering violent extremism, which is prevalent in the province.

Meanwhile, Maguindanao Police Provincial Office Deputy Director for Administration, Superintendent Ganaban Ali presented the peace and order updates in the province while Cielito Llano of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao apprised the participants on the agency’s campaign against illegal drugs.

The participants were also provided inputs on the latest information about the upcoming 2019 election through Maguindanao Provincial Election Supervisor Atty. Udtog Tago.

MGen. Sobejana urged local leaders and other civilian stakeholders attending the forum to have an active role in the peace and order efforts of the military.

“We, in the Armed Forces of the Philippines, are not above you nor below you, but always beside you to help one another in resolving the problems in the community,” he said.

Sobejana said the forum was the first of the series in Maguindanao especially in getting together local officials and leaders to promote peace.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1016110

NPA couple reunited after pledging allegiance to gov't

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15): NPA couple reunited after pledging allegiance to gov't

A New People's Army (NPA) couple originally from Mindanao got reunited after they surrendered separately to authorities in Nueva Ecija.

In a report published by Kalinaw News, former rebels Allan and Rose, not their real names, surrendered to the Philippine Army's 7th Infantry Division units in Nueva Ecija a few months ago.

The two were unaware of the whereabouts of each other until they were reunited for the Christening of their daughter by the Army units they once fought against.

Philippine Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Macairog Alberto acted as ‘Ninong’ in the Christening of their daughter, Rowena, along with other officials of the 7th Infantry Division on Saturday.

In a speech, 7th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Filemon Santos made an appeal to other rebels to lay down their arms and be with their loved ones this Christmas.

“I am so touched with their reunion and delighted that their little girl will live a normal life and grow up in a normal society. Finally, her parents are together and they will celebrate the Yuletide Season as a family,” Santos said.

The couple last saw each other eight months ago after being separated by their NPA commanders.

“Rose” was initially captured in Rizal, Nueva Ecija together with three other female NPA members. She has since expressed her desire to surrender and be with her daughter.

“Allan” on the other hand escaped from his group after an encounter and then recently surrendered to authorities.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1056794

Church officials: Balangiga bells’ return denotes peace

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15): Church officials: Balangiga bells’ return denotes peace



BALANGIGA, Eastern Samar -- Top officials of the Roman Catholic Church said the return of the Balangiga Bells, which were taken as war booties 117 years ago, signified friendship, respect and peace.

Aside from strengthening the faith of the people of Balangiga, returning the artifacts to its rightful place is an event that promotes good relationship between the Philippines and the US, said Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines President and Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles.

“The bells’ repatriation underlines deeper appreciation of respect and friendship. This joyful event will strengthen the faith of people since this is part of their heritage and treasure,” Valles said in an interview before the handover ceremony Saturday afternoon.

Borongan Diocese Bishop Crispin Varquez said the three bells mattered a lot to the faith of the people since these are used to call people to come to church to attend masses.

“This is a symbol of peace and reconciliation and remind us that we have to move on from the Balangiga Encounter. We will care them as a precious legacy to the heroism and courage of our forefathers,” Varquez said.

After 117 years of being under the custody of the US government, there will be symbolic ringing of the bells during the mass on Saturday night, Varquez said.

The Balangiga Encounter happened on Sept. 28, 1901, when residents, led by Valeriano Abanador, initiated an attack against US soldiers. The villagers killed 54 American soldiers using bolos.

It was the biggest defeat of the foreign troop during the Philippine-American war. About 2,500 Filipinos were killed in the US retaliatory attack.

The Americans took the Balangiga bells after they turned the town into a “howling wilderness”.

Two of the three bells used to be enshrined at the Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne, Wyoming while the third bell was at Camp Red Cloud in South Korea.
 
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1056792

Sayyaf death toll in latest Sulu clash rises to 7

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15): Sayyaf death toll in latest Sulu clash rises to 7

The death toll of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in the latest firefight with government troops in Sulu has increased to seven, a Navy official said Saturday.

Three ASG bandits were reported killed in the firefight that happened on Thursday on Minis Island, Patikul, according to Rear Adm. Rene Medina, Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) command chief.
Medina said the deaths of the other four ASG bandits were confirmed when the troops scoured the clash site after the fighting ended hours later.

Medina said that a soldier was killed while three others were wounded during the firefight. They belong to the 62nd Marine Company of the Philippine Marine Ready Force-Sulu.

The wounded and the only casualty on the government side were taken to a military hospital in Jolo, Sulu and later transferred to a similar facility in this city.

Medina said the firefight broke out when the Marine troops swooped down the position of some 50 ASG bandits at a mangrove area on Minis Island.

Three ships that included a patrol craft, a landing craft, and a multi-purpose attack craft, with elite troop aboard were involved in the 2:25 a.m. operation.

Medina said 10 people, who happened to be at the clash site at that time, surrendered to the troops. Several firearms and other war materials were also recovered from the clash site.

“The neutralization of these ASGs was a result of the commitment and continued monitoring activity of the government troops in the Western Mindanao Area of Responsibility,” the navy official said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1056780

Bells get kiss from President

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15): Bells get kiss from President



Mixed emotions were seen on the faces of people here after President Rodrigo Duterte handed over the three Balangiga bells to the local government and the local parish on Saturday afternoon.

Duterte kissed one of the bells and rang it four times, eliciting cheers from the crowd.

For Nestor Campanero, 48, seeing the bells unveiled by the President is comparable to his feeling when he graduated with an Accountancy degree in 1995.

“It’s overwhelming to see that finally the bells are back to our place. I never expected that I would be able to see the bells in my lifetime,” said Campanero, an instructor of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority in this town.

Campanero is a descendant of Custudio Salazar, the gobernadorcillo of Eastern Samar during the Balangiga Encounter in 1901.

For Chine Elairon, 68, her joy is immeasurable now that the bells are back.

“Many past officials promised us of the bells’ return, but they all failed us,” she said.

“I am excited to attend the Simbang Gabi starting tomorrow since we have the original bells now,” Elairon added.

Jennifer Camenforte, 45, who has been working in a BPO company in Manila for five years, went home to witness the handover of the long-awaited bells.

“I am very happy since this is not expected to happen within my lifetime. This would be a different Christmas celebration in our town,” Camenforte told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

Members of the Cabinet include Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles, Spokesman Salvador Panelo, Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez, Presidential Communications Operations Officed Secretary Martin Andanar, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año, and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Benjamin Madrigal were also present to witness the historic event.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1056797

Army dismantles 2 NPA 'hideouts' in Bukidnon

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15): Army dismantles 2 NPA 'hideouts' in Bukidnon



Army Scout Rangers dismantled early this week two hideouts that the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) had supposedly intended as venues for its 50th anniversary celebration.

Col. Edgardo de Leon, commander of the Army's 403rd Infantry Brigade, said the Scout Rangers seized the hideouts during two encounters on December 12 and 13 in an uninhabited, upland area bordering Bukidnon and Agusan del Sur.

De Leon said the "massive hideouts" can accommodate around 100 to 120 persons and had been seemingly built for a gathering or ceremonial purpose.

"Its makeshift facilities strongly indicate that it is being prepared as a venue for a huge gathering of persons. In particular, it has one multi-purpose hall, two kitchens and one water reservoir," the official said.

Scout Rangers recovered a cellular phone, a generator set, electrical wires, and several personal belongings on one of the hideouts.

The other hideout, meanwhile, yielded a rifle grenade, several types of ammunitions belonging to high-power firearms, bomb-making materials, medical kits, and documents.

De Leon said the hideouts were discovered with the help of former NPA members who have already surrendered to authorities.

"These former rebels further revealed that food and other non-food items were brought to these areas, probably in preparation for the CPP anniversary," the Army official said, referring to the December 26 founding anniversary of the CPP.

Founded in 1968 by Jose Maria Sison, CPP has two main units: the NPA as its armed wing, and the National Democratic Front as its political arm.

The United States and the European Union list CPP-NPA as a terrorist organization.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1056801