From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 3, 2019): Police file slay raps vs. Reds
Police Regional Office 7 director, P/Brig. Gen. Debold Sinas, said that of the 11 shooting incidents in Negros Oriental the past weeks, two cases have been filed in court, so far.
Sta. Catalina police chief, Capt. Michael Rubia, reported to Sinas that the case for double murder for the death of Marlon Ocampo and his son Marjun, have been filed against Jimlan dela Cruz, believed to be the leader of the Southeast Front of the New People’s Army on July 29, based on accounts of witnesses who include the wife who survived the shooting incident.
Siaton police chief, Maj. Don Richmon Conag, also reported to Sinas that a case for murder was filed against a certain “Jamar”, “Popoy”, “Cardo”, and a John Doe for the killing of Federico Sabejon alias “Boging” on July 26, and that of Ricky Astorias.
Sabejon was an active member of the communist terrorist group involved in extortion activities, the organizer of land petitioners of Don Vicente Gaspar, a former kagawad of Mantiquil, Siaton, and a former forest ranger in Sta. Catalina, the police said.
Astoria was an alleged informant of Ka Jimlan or Jimlan dela Cruz of the Rachelle Mae Palang Command of the NPA Southeast front, the police added.
Guihulngan City chief of police, Lt. Col. Bonifacio Tecson, also said that persons of interest were identified in the murder of former Buenavista kagawad Romeo Alipan, educators Arthur and Ardale Bayawa, and lawyer Anthony Trinidad.
Alipan was reportedly a victim of an NPA reprisal for being a supporter of government, while land dispute is being eyed as the motive for the shooting to death of the Bayawa siblings on July 25. Initial police investigation showed the siblings were accused of malversation of public funds. Another case where land dispute is suspected in the killing of their lawyer, Trinidad, who was shot while on board his car on July 23.
The involvement of the communist terrorist group is also being looked into in the shooting to death of Canlaon City Councilor Ramon Jalandoni, and local political rivalry in the death of Panubigan barangay captain Ernesto Posadas, both on July 27.
In Ayungon, three angles are being looked into in the death of former mayor Edsel Enardecido, also on July 27, that include politics, business rivalry, and robbery, with no persons of interest identified yet.
The police is yet to confirm reports that the perpetrators were armed to the teeth with sophisticated firearms with lasers, silencers and were on board two vans.
Upon inventory, about P1 million in cash and personal belongings were carted away by the suspects, including Enardecido’s two ifonexs cellphones, worth P140,000, one unit ifone 7, worth P40,000, gold necklace valued at P60,000, P38,000 in cash, US dollars equivalent to P8,000, one Gucci watch worth P20,000, one Honda CRF 150cc worth P190,000, one Honda CRF 125 cc worth P90,000, and one DVR valued at P10,000.
Ayungon chief of police, Maj. Rommel Luga, said the recovered improvised explosive device was deposited for examination and identification, while the evidences were turned over to the police crime lab, and the CCTV video card of Leo Enardecido, cousin of the victim, was turned over to the Anti-Cyber Crime Group 7 for possible identification of the suspects. Luga said they are also waiting for the affidavits of Enardecido’s wife, Micah, and those of their household members.
Meanwhile, Luga admitted difficulties in pursuing the case of Reden Eleuterio because the place is so mountainous. Enardecido was killed in reprisal for alleged betrayal of the NPA.
In Zamboanguita, charges are being readied against Oscar Calihan for the murder of two rebel returnees, identified as Weny Alegre and Felomino Janayan, who were killed, either due to personal grudge, land dispute, and for being informants of the police.*
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/August/03/topstory7.htm
Sunday, August 4, 2019
Rebels open fire at military outpost
From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 3, 2019): Rebels open fire at military outpost
Suspected New People’s Army rebels opened fire at the personnel of a military outpost in Sitio Cabangahan, Brgy. Hilamonan, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental, Thursday night.
However, nobody was hit among the CAFGU personnel occupying the detachment of the 12th Infantry Battalion, the police said.
About 10 suspected NPA rebels, who positioned themselves about 300 meters away from the military detachment, withdrew towards Sitio Danao of the barangay, after three minutes of gunbattle.
Both the military and police stationed in remote outposts are on heightened alert, following the series of atrocities perpetrated by communist rebels in central Negros.*
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/August/03/topstory8.htm
However, nobody was hit among the CAFGU personnel occupying the detachment of the 12th Infantry Battalion, the police said.
About 10 suspected NPA rebels, who positioned themselves about 300 meters away from the military detachment, withdrew towards Sitio Danao of the barangay, after three minutes of gunbattle.
Both the military and police stationed in remote outposts are on heightened alert, following the series of atrocities perpetrated by communist rebels in central Negros.*
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/August/03/topstory8.htm
'Police bungled this': Detained NDF members ordered released
From Rappler (Aug 3, 2019): 'Police bungled this': Detained NDF members ordered released
Quezon City prosecutors order further investigation into the charges, but indicate in their resolutions the lack of evidence to back police claims
ARRESTED ACTIVISTS. NCRPO chief Guillermo Eleazar and QCPD director Joselito Esquivel briefs the media on July 24, 2019, on the arrest of National Democratic Front members Alexander and Winona Birondo. Photo by Jire Carreon/Rappler
Quezon City prosecutors order further investigation into the charges, but indicate in their resolutions the lack of evidence to back police claims
MANILA, Philippines – Quezon City prosecutors have ordered the release of National Democratic Front (NDF) members Alexander and Winona Birondo after they initially found lack of evidence to support police allegations against the couple.
Two QC prosecutors signed the Birondos' release orders for two complaints on July 25 and July 30, but as of Friday, August 2, the couple had yet to be released from Camp Karingal.
Their lawyers from the Public Interest Law Center (PILC) have slammed the police for being "slowpokes when it comes to releases" but "have been quick to the draw with arrests."
Arrest without valid warrant
The Birondos were arrested and detained on July 23 even if there were no valid warrants against them. The couple had been cleared of charges in 2018.
Police arrived at their home supposedly to arrest murder suspect Rolando Caballero alias Jet, but arrested the Birondos instead for alleged obstruction of justice as they accused the couple of trying to block the arrest Caballero, whom they said was in the couple's house.
The PILC had disputed this, saying the cops had targeted the Birondos from the start, and only used Caballero as legal cover in detaining them.
After taking the couple to Camp Karingal, cops raided the Birondos' home and supposedly found guns and explosives which they used as grounds for charges of illegal possession of firearms and explosives – the usual charge against activists.
Prosecutors' resolution
The inquest prosecutors ordered the Birondos' release but set the complaints for further investigation.
Even though the complaints were not dismissed, the prosecutors indicated that based on the initial investigation, there was lack of proof to back police claims.
In the obstruction of justice complaint, QC Assistant City Prosecutor Arceli Ragsac said the policemen did not fully explain how the couple could manage to block the path of 4 cops.
Ragsac said the cops also did not mention in their complaint "the unsavory words" the couple allegedly uttered to verbally assault them, and that it was not established that the policemen even introduced themselves as cops.
"Finally, the arresting police officers failed to explain why they were not able to run after Rolando Caballero when he escaped. This is due to the presumption that the police officers were duly armed at the time of the supposed service of the Warrant of Arrest against Rolando Caballero and they could have easily run after him," said Ragsac.
On the illegal possession complaint, QC Assistant City Prosecutor Eviess Acorda said "there is no evidence in record which shows that respondents were ever found or seen living in or were ever inside the searched premises where the items were found."
Winona is named as a lessee of the property, but the search took place only 12 days after the contract took effect. Alexander was not named in the contract.
"Considering the foregoing, there is a need for further investigation to determine probable cause," said Acorda.
Winona Birondo inside her cell at Camp Karingal in Quezon City on July 24, 2019. Photo by Maria Tan/Rappler
Alexander Birondo inside his cell at Camp Karingal in Quezon City on July 24, 2019. Photo by Maria Tan/Rappler
'Police bungled this'
"Police have bungled up the case since day one," said the PILC, as it called on policemen to stop filing "trumped-up" charges against activists, especially those involved in the terminated peace talks.
The Birondos were among the political prisoners freed by the Duterte administration in 2016, for the peace talks. The government had since canceled bail for the peace talks participants after the collapse of the negotiations.
"The police have been caught up in their own yarn of lies, which were starkly exposed under legal scrutiny," said the PILC.
"As in persecution cases however, police have been quick to the draw with arrests, but slowpokes when it comes to releases. Despite the clear orders, the Birondos remain in detention at Camp Karingal, with the police citing procedural requirements," it added.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/236981-quezon-city-prosecutors-order-release-winona-alexander-birondo
Two QC prosecutors signed the Birondos' release orders for two complaints on July 25 and July 30, but as of Friday, August 2, the couple had yet to be released from Camp Karingal.
Their lawyers from the Public Interest Law Center (PILC) have slammed the police for being "slowpokes when it comes to releases" but "have been quick to the draw with arrests."
Arrest without valid warrant
The Birondos were arrested and detained on July 23 even if there were no valid warrants against them. The couple had been cleared of charges in 2018.
Police arrived at their home supposedly to arrest murder suspect Rolando Caballero alias Jet, but arrested the Birondos instead for alleged obstruction of justice as they accused the couple of trying to block the arrest Caballero, whom they said was in the couple's house.
The PILC had disputed this, saying the cops had targeted the Birondos from the start, and only used Caballero as legal cover in detaining them.
After taking the couple to Camp Karingal, cops raided the Birondos' home and supposedly found guns and explosives which they used as grounds for charges of illegal possession of firearms and explosives – the usual charge against activists.
Prosecutors' resolution
The inquest prosecutors ordered the Birondos' release but set the complaints for further investigation.
Even though the complaints were not dismissed, the prosecutors indicated that based on the initial investigation, there was lack of proof to back police claims.
In the obstruction of justice complaint, QC Assistant City Prosecutor Arceli Ragsac said the policemen did not fully explain how the couple could manage to block the path of 4 cops.
Ragsac said the cops also did not mention in their complaint "the unsavory words" the couple allegedly uttered to verbally assault them, and that it was not established that the policemen even introduced themselves as cops.
"Finally, the arresting police officers failed to explain why they were not able to run after Rolando Caballero when he escaped. This is due to the presumption that the police officers were duly armed at the time of the supposed service of the Warrant of Arrest against Rolando Caballero and they could have easily run after him," said Ragsac.
On the illegal possession complaint, QC Assistant City Prosecutor Eviess Acorda said "there is no evidence in record which shows that respondents were ever found or seen living in or were ever inside the searched premises where the items were found."
Winona is named as a lessee of the property, but the search took place only 12 days after the contract took effect. Alexander was not named in the contract.
"Considering the foregoing, there is a need for further investigation to determine probable cause," said Acorda.
Winona Birondo inside her cell at Camp Karingal in Quezon City on July 24, 2019. Photo by Maria Tan/Rappler
Alexander Birondo inside his cell at Camp Karingal in Quezon City on July 24, 2019. Photo by Maria Tan/Rappler
'Police bungled this'
"Police have bungled up the case since day one," said the PILC, as it called on policemen to stop filing "trumped-up" charges against activists, especially those involved in the terminated peace talks.
The Birondos were among the political prisoners freed by the Duterte administration in 2016, for the peace talks. The government had since canceled bail for the peace talks participants after the collapse of the negotiations.
"The police have been caught up in their own yarn of lies, which were starkly exposed under legal scrutiny," said the PILC.
"As in persecution cases however, police have been quick to the draw with arrests, but slowpokes when it comes to releases. Despite the clear orders, the Birondos remain in detention at Camp Karingal, with the police citing procedural requirements," it added.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/236981-quezon-city-prosecutors-order-release-winona-alexander-birondo
Negros island killings have 'very low' chance of spilling over to Zamboanga del Norte – army
From Rappler (Aug 4, 2019): Negros island killings have 'very low' chance of spilling over to Zamboanga del Norte – army
While army intelligence 'said the chances are very low,' according to Lt. Colonel Rufino de Leon, it is still possible for the NPA to create diversionary attacks'
RUFINO DE LEON. Lt Colonel Rufino de Leon, commander of the 97th Infantry Battalion covering Zamboanga del Norte and incoming commander of 5th Cadre Batallion based in Piñan, Zamboanga del Norte.
DAPITAN CITY, Philippines – The top Army officer here said he received a report that the killings in the two provinces of Negros may spill over to Zamboanga del Norte as government forces throw pressure against the New People’s Army (NPA) in Negros island, but noted the chances of violence spilling over as "very low."
In an interview on Saturday, August 3, Lt. Colonel Rufino de Leon, commander of the 97th Infantry Battalion covering Zamboanga del Norte and incoming commander of the 5th Cadre Battalion based in Piñan town in this province, said it was still possible for the NPA here to create diversionary tactics like “sparrow attacks” against the military, police, Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Units (CAFGU) and public officials to ease military pressure against their “comrades” in Negros island.
“We received that report just last August 2, but our intelligence said the chances are very low,” De Leon explained.
He added their intelligence has yet to identify the presence of NPA Sparrow units – small groups of highly mobile NPA fighters involved in hit and run tactics – in Zamboanga del Norte, “at kung meron man, we are ready for them(and if there are any, we are ready for them)."
De Leon said there are 3 main NPA groups in Zamboanga del Norte: the 2nd Big Beautiful Country, 2nd Feliciano Alpha and 2nd Feliciano Bravo with combined 100 armed fighters.
NPA fighters operate in boundaries for them to go to adjacent provinces if pursued by military. “Paikot-ikot lang yan (they rotate) between Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay and Misamis Occidental,” De Leon said.
Asked regarding the chances of NPA members in Negros island taking boats and escaping to Zamboanga del Norte, De Leon said,“They have to pass through Selinog or Aliguay islands, and if they do that, we have troops based in those islands waiting.”
Last August 1, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte said that he may declare Martial Law in Negros island because of the rampant killings. (READ: Monitoring Negros: What rulings say about NPA and martial law)
He also urged that fire officers be armed to help the police and military maintain law and order in the country.
"Do not limit yourself diyan – kulang tayo ng tao (Don't limit yourself there – we lack manpower). I will explain in the coming days, but I'm about to do something drastic. It will not sit well with everybody, maybe including you, but it is needed," Duterte said.
From July 18 to 27 reports said at least 20 persons were killed in separate attacks by unidentified suspects in Negros Oriental.
Although the mode of killings was attributed to the NPA, authorities said they are still investigating, and could not as of the moment say the suspects were insurgents.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/237027-negros-island-killings-low-chance-spilling-over-zamboanga-del-norte
While army intelligence 'said the chances are very low,' according to Lt. Colonel Rufino de Leon, it is still possible for the NPA to create diversionary attacks'
DAPITAN CITY, Philippines – The top Army officer here said he received a report that the killings in the two provinces of Negros may spill over to Zamboanga del Norte as government forces throw pressure against the New People’s Army (NPA) in Negros island, but noted the chances of violence spilling over as "very low."
In an interview on Saturday, August 3, Lt. Colonel Rufino de Leon, commander of the 97th Infantry Battalion covering Zamboanga del Norte and incoming commander of the 5th Cadre Battalion based in Piñan town in this province, said it was still possible for the NPA here to create diversionary tactics like “sparrow attacks” against the military, police, Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Units (CAFGU) and public officials to ease military pressure against their “comrades” in Negros island.
“We received that report just last August 2, but our intelligence said the chances are very low,” De Leon explained.
He added their intelligence has yet to identify the presence of NPA Sparrow units – small groups of highly mobile NPA fighters involved in hit and run tactics – in Zamboanga del Norte, “at kung meron man, we are ready for them(and if there are any, we are ready for them)."
De Leon said there are 3 main NPA groups in Zamboanga del Norte: the 2nd Big Beautiful Country, 2nd Feliciano Alpha and 2nd Feliciano Bravo with combined 100 armed fighters.
NPA fighters operate in boundaries for them to go to adjacent provinces if pursued by military. “Paikot-ikot lang yan (they rotate) between Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay and Misamis Occidental,” De Leon said.
Asked regarding the chances of NPA members in Negros island taking boats and escaping to Zamboanga del Norte, De Leon said,“They have to pass through Selinog or Aliguay islands, and if they do that, we have troops based in those islands waiting.”
Last August 1, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte said that he may declare Martial Law in Negros island because of the rampant killings. (READ: Monitoring Negros: What rulings say about NPA and martial law)
He also urged that fire officers be armed to help the police and military maintain law and order in the country.
"Do not limit yourself diyan – kulang tayo ng tao (Don't limit yourself there – we lack manpower). I will explain in the coming days, but I'm about to do something drastic. It will not sit well with everybody, maybe including you, but it is needed," Duterte said.
From July 18 to 27 reports said at least 20 persons were killed in separate attacks by unidentified suspects in Negros Oriental.
Although the mode of killings was attributed to the NPA, authorities said they are still investigating, and could not as of the moment say the suspects were insurgents.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/237027-negros-island-killings-low-chance-spilling-over-zamboanga-del-norte
Army seizes NPA lair, unexploded mines in Bukidnon
From Politiko Mindanao (Aug 4, 2019): Army seizes NPA lair, unexploded mines in Bukidnon
The Army troopers have dismantled a hideout of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) and recovered four unexploded anti-personnel mines in Bukidnon.
This was after the government forces received information from the concerned citizens about the presence of about 100 rebels at an uninhabited area in Barangay Bolonay, Impasugong town Thursday, August 1, Lt. Col. Ronald Illana, commanding officer of the 8th Infantry Battalion.
A 20-minute firefight ensued between the 8th IB and the NPA rebels, who scampered in different directions.
Illana said the troops were able to occupy the NPA lair that could accommodate 150 makeshift bunkers and recovered four unexploded anti-personnel mines, 100-meter electrical wires, assorted medicines, and personal belongings.
He noted that the use of anti-personnel mine is a violation of the Ottawa Convention.
The operating troops also reported that bloodstains were seen in the rebels’ withdrawal routes, he said.
https://mindanao.politics.com.ph/army-seizes-npa-lair-unexploded-mines-in-bukidnon/
The Army troopers have dismantled a hideout of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) and recovered four unexploded anti-personnel mines in Bukidnon.
This was after the government forces received information from the concerned citizens about the presence of about 100 rebels at an uninhabited area in Barangay Bolonay, Impasugong town Thursday, August 1, Lt. Col. Ronald Illana, commanding officer of the 8th Infantry Battalion.
A 20-minute firefight ensued between the 8th IB and the NPA rebels, who scampered in different directions.
Illana said the troops were able to occupy the NPA lair that could accommodate 150 makeshift bunkers and recovered four unexploded anti-personnel mines, 100-meter electrical wires, assorted medicines, and personal belongings.
He noted that the use of anti-personnel mine is a violation of the Ottawa Convention.
The operating troops also reported that bloodstains were seen in the rebels’ withdrawal routes, he said.
https://mindanao.politics.com.ph/army-seizes-npa-lair-unexploded-mines-in-bukidnon/
6 NPA rebels yield to military, 89 others treated to Hong Kong holiday
Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 3, 2019): 6 NPA rebels yield to military, 89 others treated to Hong Kong holiday
PAGADIAN CITY – The Philippine Army said 6 communist rebels have surrendered following continues operations against the New People’s Army, officials said Saturday.
Capt. Clint Antipala, a spokesman for the 1st Infantry Division, said the rebels surrendered to the 53rd Infantry Battalion in Zamboanga del Sur province. They also yielded four handguns and were being interrogated.
A military photo released to the Zamboanga Post shows New People’s Army rebels with security and government officials following their recent surrender in Zamboanga del Sur province.
Brig. Gen. Bagnus Gaerlan, Jr., commander of 102nd Infantry Brigade, confirmed the surrender of the rebels. “We are gaining grounds and our relentless military operation in the province pressured them to surrender,” he said.
“With their surrender, we hope that they can encourage some of their comrades to follow their path for them to benefit the programs of the government,” he added.
In Davao City, the military’s Eastern Mindanao Command said it spent an unspecified amount of funds to bring 89 NPA rebels – who surrendered to the government over 2 years ago – to a four-day holiday in Hong Kong.
Military photos released to the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner show former New People’s Army rebels – their faces blurred for a still unknown reason – on a holiday trip to Hong Kong.
Lt. Col. Ezra Balagtey, an army spokesman, said the trip was also facilitated by the Presidential Management Staff after President Rodrigo Duterte promised the surrenderees – five men and 84 women – the holiday trip during his meeting with them in December 2017 in Davao City.
“The Eastern Mindanao Command and the Presidential Management Staff facilitated an all-expense-paid tour of eighty-nine former rebels composed of five male and 84 female in Hong Kong on July 30 to August 2, 2019,” he said.
Lt. Gen. Felimon Santos Jr., chief of the Eastern Mindanao Command, said the trip was necessary for the former rebels to experience life in modern setting and provide them a new perspective as they integrate into society after years of fighting the government.
“The purpose of the tour, which includes a visit to some historical places in Hong Kong and its market place, is to allow the former rebels to experience the life in a modern urban setting and provide them a better and another perspective in life. The tour contributes in the continuing therapy and integration process for these beneficiaries as they slowly adapt to the normal life,” Santos said.
It was unknown if surrenderees from other regions across the country would also be offered the same special treatment from the government. The NPA has been fighting for a separate state in the country. (Zamboanga Post and Mindanao Examiner)
PAGADIAN CITY – The Philippine Army said 6 communist rebels have surrendered following continues operations against the New People’s Army, officials said Saturday.
Capt. Clint Antipala, a spokesman for the 1st Infantry Division, said the rebels surrendered to the 53rd Infantry Battalion in Zamboanga del Sur province. They also yielded four handguns and were being interrogated.
A military photo released to the Zamboanga Post shows New People’s Army rebels with security and government officials following their recent surrender in Zamboanga del Sur province.
Brig. Gen. Bagnus Gaerlan, Jr., commander of 102nd Infantry Brigade, confirmed the surrender of the rebels. “We are gaining grounds and our relentless military operation in the province pressured them to surrender,” he said.
“With their surrender, we hope that they can encourage some of their comrades to follow their path for them to benefit the programs of the government,” he added.
In Davao City, the military’s Eastern Mindanao Command said it spent an unspecified amount of funds to bring 89 NPA rebels – who surrendered to the government over 2 years ago – to a four-day holiday in Hong Kong.
Military photos released to the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner show former New People’s Army rebels – their faces blurred for a still unknown reason – on a holiday trip to Hong Kong.
Lt. Col. Ezra Balagtey, an army spokesman, said the trip was also facilitated by the Presidential Management Staff after President Rodrigo Duterte promised the surrenderees – five men and 84 women – the holiday trip during his meeting with them in December 2017 in Davao City.
“The Eastern Mindanao Command and the Presidential Management Staff facilitated an all-expense-paid tour of eighty-nine former rebels composed of five male and 84 female in Hong Kong on July 30 to August 2, 2019,” he said.
Lt. Gen. Felimon Santos Jr., chief of the Eastern Mindanao Command, said the trip was necessary for the former rebels to experience life in modern setting and provide them a new perspective as they integrate into society after years of fighting the government.
“The purpose of the tour, which includes a visit to some historical places in Hong Kong and its market place, is to allow the former rebels to experience the life in a modern urban setting and provide them a better and another perspective in life. The tour contributes in the continuing therapy and integration process for these beneficiaries as they slowly adapt to the normal life,” Santos said.
It was unknown if surrenderees from other regions across the country would also be offered the same special treatment from the government. The NPA has been fighting for a separate state in the country. (Zamboanga Post and Mindanao Examiner)
Bombs discovered in NPA lair after firefight in Bukidnon
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 3, 2019): Bombs discovered in NPA lair after firefight in Bukidnon
REBEL LAIR. Some of the personal belongings abandoned by communist rebels in their hideout in the Bukidnon town of Impasug-ong following a firefight with government troops on Thursday, August 1. (Photo contributed by the Army's 8th Infantry Battalion)
REBEL LAIR. Some of the personal belongings abandoned by communist rebels in their hideout in the Bukidnon town of Impasug-ong following a firefight with government troops on Thursday, August 1. (Photo contributed by the Army's 8th Infantry Battalion)
Soldiers belonging to the Army's 8th Infantry Battalion discovered a hideout of the New People's Army (NPA) after an encounter on Thursday (August 1) in Impasug-ong town, Bukidnon.
A 20-minute firefight that broke out in Barangay Bolonay forced the rebels to leave their 150-bunker hideout, said Lt. Colonel Ronald Illana, 8IB commanding officer, in a statement released to the media on Saturday.
Illana said the troops recovered four unexploded anti-personnel mines, 100-meter electrical wires, assorted medicines, and personal belongings inside the bunkers.
He said bloodstains were also seen in the rebels’ withdrawal routes.
"The NPAs merged their groups because they are now lacking manpower; they are disintegrating and isolated. The people have spoken and always ready to give us any monitored enemy movement,"' the Army official said.
"To the dependable troopers, again another job well done! Be alert in confronting the terrorist groups especially in handling the anti-personnel mines," he added.
On August 1, the Army's 4th Infantry Division said government troops also engaged about NPA rebels in a firefight in Barangay Bolonay, Impasugong, Bukidnon.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1076881
A 20-minute firefight that broke out in Barangay Bolonay forced the rebels to leave their 150-bunker hideout, said Lt. Colonel Ronald Illana, 8IB commanding officer, in a statement released to the media on Saturday.
Illana said the troops recovered four unexploded anti-personnel mines, 100-meter electrical wires, assorted medicines, and personal belongings inside the bunkers.
He said bloodstains were also seen in the rebels’ withdrawal routes.
"The NPAs merged their groups because they are now lacking manpower; they are disintegrating and isolated. The people have spoken and always ready to give us any monitored enemy movement,"' the Army official said.
"To the dependable troopers, again another job well done! Be alert in confronting the terrorist groups especially in handling the anti-personnel mines," he added.
On August 1, the Army's 4th Infantry Division said government troops also engaged about NPA rebels in a firefight in Barangay Bolonay, Impasugong, Bukidnon.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1076881
Bomb blast inside CDO police HQ 'accidental'
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 3, 2019): Bomb blast inside CDO police HQ 'accidental'
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Authorities ruled out the possibility that Friday's explosion inside the headquarters of the police's Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) here was an act of sabotage.
“There was no human intervention. It was likely that the explosion was caused by a chemical reaction,” said Lt. Colonel Mardy Hortillosa, the Police Regional Office-10 spokesperson, on Saturday.
Hortillosa said about 50 stored bombs and other ordnance exploded inside the RFMB camp in Barangay Indahag, causing alarm among the residents living nearby.
Citing an initial report provided by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal investigation team, Hortillosa said it was not probable that the explosion was triggered by human intervention as there would have been casualties if that were the case.
He said the unexploded ordnance (UXO) were stored in a shed made of wood and galvanized iron sheets located a few meters from the RMFB office. The blast did not damage the main building itself, including its living quarters and armory.
The police official admitted that the explosive storage facility was not the ideal place to stock bombs and other explosives.
He said the storage site should have been situated at least three kilometers away from any building or a populated area.
Hortillosa said the storage should have also been made of solid materials.
Last month, he said Explosive and Ordnance Division experts from the Philippine National Police (PNP) headquarters inspected the facility and recommended that the UXOs be disposed of.
“But before these bombs could be disposed of, the explosion happened,” Hortillosa said, adding the remaining UXOs inside the camp has been disposed of.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1076884
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Authorities ruled out the possibility that Friday's explosion inside the headquarters of the police's Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) here was an act of sabotage.
“There was no human intervention. It was likely that the explosion was caused by a chemical reaction,” said Lt. Colonel Mardy Hortillosa, the Police Regional Office-10 spokesperson, on Saturday.
Hortillosa said about 50 stored bombs and other ordnance exploded inside the RFMB camp in Barangay Indahag, causing alarm among the residents living nearby.
Citing an initial report provided by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal investigation team, Hortillosa said it was not probable that the explosion was triggered by human intervention as there would have been casualties if that were the case.
He said the unexploded ordnance (UXO) were stored in a shed made of wood and galvanized iron sheets located a few meters from the RMFB office. The blast did not damage the main building itself, including its living quarters and armory.
The police official admitted that the explosive storage facility was not the ideal place to stock bombs and other explosives.
He said the storage site should have been situated at least three kilometers away from any building or a populated area.
Hortillosa said the storage should have also been made of solid materials.
Last month, he said Explosive and Ordnance Division experts from the Philippine National Police (PNP) headquarters inspected the facility and recommended that the UXOs be disposed of.
“But before these bombs could be disposed of, the explosion happened,” Hortillosa said, adding the remaining UXOs inside the camp has been disposed of.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1076884
1 dead as gunman shoots couple in Bukidnon
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 3, 2019): 1 dead as gunman shoots couple in Bukidnon
Google map of San Fernando town, Bukidnon.
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Two farmers who are reportedly members of a peasant group in Bukidnon were shot by a masked gunman in Barangay Halapitan, San Fernando town, Friday evening.
Human rights watchdog Karapatan identified the victims as Guillermo Casas, 42, and Jocelyn Casas, 45.
It was not immediately known how the Casas are related, as a separate police report gave Jocelyn's surname as Laurete.
Karapatan said the victims belonged to Kasama-Bukidnon, a local farmers' organization affiliated with the leftist Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas.
Karapatan said Guillermo succumbed to two gunshot wounds, causing his immediate death, while Jocelyn was hit in the leg and is being treated at a hospital.
In an interview on Saturday, Lt. Colonel Mardy Hortillosa, Police Regional Office-10 spokesperson, said the victims were inside a store when a gunman approached and shot them at close range.
The gunman, Hortillosa said, used a caliber .45 pistol and was with "four companions who were wearing bonnets." The suspects then fled on motorcycles, he added.
Karapatan said another member of the Kasama-Bukidnon, Nonoy Palma, was killed in the same barangay on June 16 by motorcycle-riding assassins.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1076868
Google map of San Fernando town, Bukidnon.
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Two farmers who are reportedly members of a peasant group in Bukidnon were shot by a masked gunman in Barangay Halapitan, San Fernando town, Friday evening.
Human rights watchdog Karapatan identified the victims as Guillermo Casas, 42, and Jocelyn Casas, 45.
It was not immediately known how the Casas are related, as a separate police report gave Jocelyn's surname as Laurete.
Karapatan said the victims belonged to Kasama-Bukidnon, a local farmers' organization affiliated with the leftist Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas.
Karapatan said Guillermo succumbed to two gunshot wounds, causing his immediate death, while Jocelyn was hit in the leg and is being treated at a hospital.
In an interview on Saturday, Lt. Colonel Mardy Hortillosa, Police Regional Office-10 spokesperson, said the victims were inside a store when a gunman approached and shot them at close range.
The gunman, Hortillosa said, used a caliber .45 pistol and was with "four companions who were wearing bonnets." The suspects then fled on motorcycles, he added.
Karapatan said another member of the Kasama-Bukidnon, Nonoy Palma, was killed in the same barangay on June 16 by motorcycle-riding assassins.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1076868
130 militiamen deployed in Cotabato City to boost security
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 4, 2019): 130 militiamen deployed in Cotabato City to boost security
SECURITY BOOST. Cotabato City Mayor Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi leads the turnover of 130 paramilitary troops to Task Force Kutawato on Saturday (Aug. 3, 2019). Members of the Special Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit Active Auxiliary will augment the efforts to maintain the city’s peace and order. (Courtesy of Cotabato City government)
COTABATO CITY -- Peacekeeping in this city got a big boost following the turnover on Saturday of 130 newly-trained paramilitary troops tasked to help in maintaining law and order.
City Mayor Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi welcomed 130 members of the Special Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit Active Auxiliary (SCAA) who were turned over by Maj. Gen. Diosdado Carreon, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, to the supervision and control of Joint Task Force Kutawato commander, Col. Joel Abregana.
She said the paramilitary troops will be deployed to various villages in the city, especially along border barangays of Maguindanao, to prevent extremists and other lawless elements from entering the city.
Guiani-Sayadi said additional 63 paramilitary troops will join the 6th Infantry Division training camp and will be added to the forces securing the city once they completed the course.
She urged the force multipliers to perform their duties as expected of them.
“You will be there not to protect anyone or anybody but everybody, your loyalty should be to the people and not to any politician or anyone,” she told the militiamen.
Cotabato City, which is the provisional seat of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), is home to about 300,000 inhabitants secured by the 500-strong Army’s Special Forces Battalion, 300 police officers and paramilitary troops.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1076889
SECURITY BOOST. Cotabato City Mayor Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi leads the turnover of 130 paramilitary troops to Task Force Kutawato on Saturday (Aug. 3, 2019). Members of the Special Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit Active Auxiliary will augment the efforts to maintain the city’s peace and order. (Courtesy of Cotabato City government)
COTABATO CITY -- Peacekeeping in this city got a big boost following the turnover on Saturday of 130 newly-trained paramilitary troops tasked to help in maintaining law and order.
City Mayor Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi welcomed 130 members of the Special Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit Active Auxiliary (SCAA) who were turned over by Maj. Gen. Diosdado Carreon, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, to the supervision and control of Joint Task Force Kutawato commander, Col. Joel Abregana.
She said the paramilitary troops will be deployed to various villages in the city, especially along border barangays of Maguindanao, to prevent extremists and other lawless elements from entering the city.
Guiani-Sayadi said additional 63 paramilitary troops will join the 6th Infantry Division training camp and will be added to the forces securing the city once they completed the course.
She urged the force multipliers to perform their duties as expected of them.
“You will be there not to protect anyone or anybody but everybody, your loyalty should be to the people and not to any politician or anyone,” she told the militiamen.
Cotabato City, which is the provisional seat of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), is home to about 300,000 inhabitants secured by the 500-strong Army’s Special Forces Battalion, 300 police officers and paramilitary troops.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1076889
NHA to build houses for IP’s, ex-rebels
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 4, 2019): NHA to build houses for IP’s, ex-rebels
HOUSING PROJECT. Governor Edwin Jubahib shows to members of the media a photo of him with the Indigenous Peoples whom he said are situated in the farthest part of Davao del Norte, on Saturday (Aug. 3, 2019). Jubahib also discussed his plans for the IP communities which include housing projects, water systems, access roads, and livelihood projects. (PNA Photo by Che Palicte)
TAGUM, Davao del Norte -- The National Housing Authority (NHA) will be downloading PHP60 million to the provincial government here for the construction of a housing project for the Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities and former rebels (FRs) in Talaingod town, in this province.
Governor Edwin Jubahib said that PHP20 million of the said amount was already downloaded to the province while the remaining PHP40 million will be downloaded anytime next week.
The project would cater to the residents of barangays Sto. Niño, Dagohoy, and Palma Gil in said town.
Jubahib confirmed in an interview on Saturday that officials from NHA will visit next week to check the area and finalize details of the project.
“Right after the visit, we will commence the construction of the project right away. The downloaded amount will be used to purchase the materials needed for the project,” he said.
As to the specification of the housing project, the governor has not yet disclosed any details since they are still waiting for the final position from the NHA.
“This project will allow our IP brothers and sisters as well as the FRs to own a permanent shelter and be more productive,” he added.
He also added that the NHA is also eyeing PHP20 million worth of housing project in barangay Gupitan, still in Talaingod town, which would also cater to the same recipients.
In an interview with Talaingod Mayor Jonnie Libayao on Sunday, he said the housing project will greatly help the communities in the said town.
“As to their [IPs] nature, they will not settle in one place. They transfer from time to time. With this housing project, they can now permanently stay in their own house,” Libayao said.
He also added that apart from the housing project, Jubahib vowed to address problems on farm-to-market roads (FMR), water system and livelihood projects in the said town.
Libayao disclosed that they have already submitted their FMR proposal to the governor and just waiting for its approval.
He said that the IPs requested for an access road to market their produce to the neighboring communities.
“We are happy that the provincial government positively responded to our request,” he stressed.
Recently, the provincial government here announced to construct a road project not later than September this year to provide better services in remote tribal villages.
The planned 20-kilometer road project will connect three IP communities in Barangay Gupitan, Kapalong town, to the rest of the province.
The said access road will enable quick response and facilitate fast delivery of basic services to Kapalong's three IP villages, located more than a hundred kilometers northeast of the capital city of Tagum.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1076903
HOUSING PROJECT. Governor Edwin Jubahib shows to members of the media a photo of him with the Indigenous Peoples whom he said are situated in the farthest part of Davao del Norte, on Saturday (Aug. 3, 2019). Jubahib also discussed his plans for the IP communities which include housing projects, water systems, access roads, and livelihood projects. (PNA Photo by Che Palicte)
TAGUM, Davao del Norte -- The National Housing Authority (NHA) will be downloading PHP60 million to the provincial government here for the construction of a housing project for the Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities and former rebels (FRs) in Talaingod town, in this province.
Governor Edwin Jubahib said that PHP20 million of the said amount was already downloaded to the province while the remaining PHP40 million will be downloaded anytime next week.
The project would cater to the residents of barangays Sto. Niño, Dagohoy, and Palma Gil in said town.
Jubahib confirmed in an interview on Saturday that officials from NHA will visit next week to check the area and finalize details of the project.
“Right after the visit, we will commence the construction of the project right away. The downloaded amount will be used to purchase the materials needed for the project,” he said.
As to the specification of the housing project, the governor has not yet disclosed any details since they are still waiting for the final position from the NHA.
“This project will allow our IP brothers and sisters as well as the FRs to own a permanent shelter and be more productive,” he added.
He also added that the NHA is also eyeing PHP20 million worth of housing project in barangay Gupitan, still in Talaingod town, which would also cater to the same recipients.
In an interview with Talaingod Mayor Jonnie Libayao on Sunday, he said the housing project will greatly help the communities in the said town.
“As to their [IPs] nature, they will not settle in one place. They transfer from time to time. With this housing project, they can now permanently stay in their own house,” Libayao said.
He also added that apart from the housing project, Jubahib vowed to address problems on farm-to-market roads (FMR), water system and livelihood projects in the said town.
Libayao disclosed that they have already submitted their FMR proposal to the governor and just waiting for its approval.
He said that the IPs requested for an access road to market their produce to the neighboring communities.
“We are happy that the provincial government positively responded to our request,” he stressed.
Recently, the provincial government here announced to construct a road project not later than September this year to provide better services in remote tribal villages.
The planned 20-kilometer road project will connect three IP communities in Barangay Gupitan, Kapalong town, to the rest of the province.
The said access road will enable quick response and facilitate fast delivery of basic services to Kapalong's three IP villages, located more than a hundred kilometers northeast of the capital city of Tagum.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1076903
2 ‘NPA’ rebels tagged in murder of 4 NegOr cops’ nabbed
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 4, 2019): 2 ‘NPA’ rebels tagged in murder of 4 NegOr cops’ nabbed
Two suspected members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) believed to be part of the group that allegedly tortured and killed four policemen in Ayungon, Negros Oriental last month were arrested on Saturday in joint military and police operations in Barangay Mabato in the said town.
Maj. Romel Luga, Ayungon police chief, on Sunday confirmed in a telephone interview that the two suspects were among the several suspected NPA rebels responsible for the slaying of Cpl. Relebert Beronio, Pat. Raffy Callao, Pat. Ruel Cabellon, and Pat. Marquino de Leon, intelligence personnel of the 704th Mobile Force Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion in Central Visayas (RMFB 7).
Initial reports from the Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office (NOPPO) identified the two suspects as Edmar Acibo Amaro and Jojo Torres Ogatis, who were arrested three hours apart during joint combat operations by personnel of the RMFB 7 Striking Force, the 704th MC RMFB7, and the 94th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.
First to fall was Amaro who was arrested at around 9 a.m. for alleged illegal possession of firearms and explosives in Sitio Yamot in Barangay Mabato, the same area where the four police intelligence operatives were killed.
Recovered from Amaro were one rifle grenade, one .38-caliber revolver with no serial number and loaded with three live ammunition, one backpack, one pair of combat shoes, a set of uniform marked “PKP 50”, and other personal items.
Three hours later, police and military troops swooped down on Ogatis in Sitio Sook in Barangay Mabato.
Ogatis was reportedly arrested on his wedding day. A witness had positively identified him as of the suspects in the “summary execution” of the four policemen.
Luga said charges for illegal possession of a firearm, ammunition, and an explosive will be filed for inquest against Amaro while murder charges are being readied against the two suspects.
President Rodrigo Duterte has raised the reward for the capture of the perpetrators in the brutal killing of the four police officers to PHP5 million.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1076893
Two suspected members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) believed to be part of the group that allegedly tortured and killed four policemen in Ayungon, Negros Oriental last month were arrested on Saturday in joint military and police operations in Barangay Mabato in the said town.
Maj. Romel Luga, Ayungon police chief, on Sunday confirmed in a telephone interview that the two suspects were among the several suspected NPA rebels responsible for the slaying of Cpl. Relebert Beronio, Pat. Raffy Callao, Pat. Ruel Cabellon, and Pat. Marquino de Leon, intelligence personnel of the 704th Mobile Force Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion in Central Visayas (RMFB 7).
Initial reports from the Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office (NOPPO) identified the two suspects as Edmar Acibo Amaro and Jojo Torres Ogatis, who were arrested three hours apart during joint combat operations by personnel of the RMFB 7 Striking Force, the 704th MC RMFB7, and the 94th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.
First to fall was Amaro who was arrested at around 9 a.m. for alleged illegal possession of firearms and explosives in Sitio Yamot in Barangay Mabato, the same area where the four police intelligence operatives were killed.
Recovered from Amaro were one rifle grenade, one .38-caliber revolver with no serial number and loaded with three live ammunition, one backpack, one pair of combat shoes, a set of uniform marked “PKP 50”, and other personal items.
Three hours later, police and military troops swooped down on Ogatis in Sitio Sook in Barangay Mabato.
Ogatis was reportedly arrested on his wedding day. A witness had positively identified him as of the suspects in the “summary execution” of the four policemen.
Luga said charges for illegal possession of a firearm, ammunition, and an explosive will be filed for inquest against Amaro while murder charges are being readied against the two suspects.
President Rodrigo Duterte has raised the reward for the capture of the perpetrators in the brutal killing of the four police officers to PHP5 million.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1076893
‘Wait for severe measures’, PRRD to commies
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 3, 2019): ‘Wait for severe measures’, PRRD to commies
President Rodrigo Duterte delivers his speech after leading the Mindanao-wide turnover and distribution of Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs) to the Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) at the Davao City Recreation Center on Friday (August 2, 2019). (Contributed photo by Richard Madelo/Presidential photo)
Angered by the spate of killings in Negros Oriental, President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday vowed that the communist groups will have to pay for their crimes committed against the Filipinos and the government.
“I’ve been telling you, I will implement a more severe measure. What --- what is it? Maghintay lang kayo. Kasi sabi ko sumosobra na kayo (Just you wait, you have crossed the line),” the President said in his speech during the distribution of Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) to agrarian reform beneficiaries in Davao City.
The President acknowledged that some areas in the country remain unprotected from the atrocities of the NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP-NPA). Most remote communities, he said, still lack the presence of government forces.
Despite this, the President said the NPA still has no reason to kill "unrestrained, unbridled, uncontrolled, as if you are the killing machine of the Filipino.”
When he was mayor here for 23 years, the President said there was never a time when the military allowed torture or hurt NPA surrenderers, even those who were captured.
Duterte was saddened by the ISIS-style execution of Negros cops, Cpl. Relebert Beronio, and Patrolmen Raffy Callao, Roel Cabellon, Marquino de Leon by communist rebels as medical reports showed severe hematomas all over their bodies.
A few days after the bodies were found in Ayungon on July 18 this year, the national government raised a PHP5-million bounty for the capture of the killers.
“I will not take it sitting down, I told my military and police, “Gawin mo sa kanila (Do it to them also)," he said.
“The local government’s down. I will not allow you to do that. I will not. I will give you a tit for tat. That's my order to the military. Give them what they deserve,” he said, adding that communists are not fighting a conventional war and are violators of the Geneva Convention.
He also noted that the presence of communists in the rural areas halts development plans of the government.
“The countryside is infested with parasites like you. You do not work, you exact taxation,” Duterte said.
He added that Karapatan, a human rights group that supports the causes of communism, operates as a legal front of the communist party.
“Itong mga komunista (These communists), they’re blaming government for the killings when actually you [they] started the spate of murders there,” he added, recalling the fatal shootout that killed nine sugar farmers in Sagay City, Negros Occidental in October 2018.
“I only want law-abiding citizens walking the streets at night. I do not want gangsters and muggers walking around,” he said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1076852
President Rodrigo Duterte delivers his speech after leading the Mindanao-wide turnover and distribution of Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs) to the Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) at the Davao City Recreation Center on Friday (August 2, 2019). (Contributed photo by Richard Madelo/Presidential photo)
Angered by the spate of killings in Negros Oriental, President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday vowed that the communist groups will have to pay for their crimes committed against the Filipinos and the government.
“I’ve been telling you, I will implement a more severe measure. What --- what is it? Maghintay lang kayo. Kasi sabi ko sumosobra na kayo (Just you wait, you have crossed the line),” the President said in his speech during the distribution of Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) to agrarian reform beneficiaries in Davao City.
The President acknowledged that some areas in the country remain unprotected from the atrocities of the NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP-NPA). Most remote communities, he said, still lack the presence of government forces.
Despite this, the President said the NPA still has no reason to kill "unrestrained, unbridled, uncontrolled, as if you are the killing machine of the Filipino.”
When he was mayor here for 23 years, the President said there was never a time when the military allowed torture or hurt NPA surrenderers, even those who were captured.
Duterte was saddened by the ISIS-style execution of Negros cops, Cpl. Relebert Beronio, and Patrolmen Raffy Callao, Roel Cabellon, Marquino de Leon by communist rebels as medical reports showed severe hematomas all over their bodies.
A few days after the bodies were found in Ayungon on July 18 this year, the national government raised a PHP5-million bounty for the capture of the killers.
“I will not take it sitting down, I told my military and police, “Gawin mo sa kanila (Do it to them also)," he said.
“The local government’s down. I will not allow you to do that. I will not. I will give you a tit for tat. That's my order to the military. Give them what they deserve,” he said, adding that communists are not fighting a conventional war and are violators of the Geneva Convention.
He also noted that the presence of communists in the rural areas halts development plans of the government.
“The countryside is infested with parasites like you. You do not work, you exact taxation,” Duterte said.
He added that Karapatan, a human rights group that supports the causes of communism, operates as a legal front of the communist party.
“Itong mga komunista (These communists), they’re blaming government for the killings when actually you [they] started the spate of murders there,” he added, recalling the fatal shootout that killed nine sugar farmers in Sagay City, Negros Occidental in October 2018.
“I only want law-abiding citizens walking the streets at night. I do not want gangsters and muggers walking around,” he said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1076852
PCOO to build training center for info officers
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 3, 2019): PCOO to build training center for info officers
GOV’T STRATCOM ACADEMY. Communication Secretary Martin M. Andanar sits down with members of the Association of Government Information Officers 8 (Eastern Visayas) at the Philippine Information Agency’s regional office in Tacloban City on Friday (August 2, 2019). Andanar discussed with them the strategic communication training center that the government plans to establish for national and local government information officers. (Photo courtesy of PCOO)
GOV’T STRATCOM ACADEMY. Communication Secretary Martin M. Andanar sits down with members of the Association of Government Information Officers 8 (Eastern Visayas) at the Philippine Information Agency’s regional office in Tacloban City on Friday (August 2, 2019). Andanar discussed with them the strategic communication training center that the government plans to establish for national and local government information officers. (Photo courtesy of PCOO)
Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar said the government will establish a strategic communication training academy for national and local government information officers as early as next year, following the approval of the finance and budget departments.
Information officers from various government agencies lauded Andanar’s plan, saying it will not only provide a strong, comprehensive and unified communication structure to combat disinformation, but will also breed excellent communication officers nationwide.
“The quality of information that we receive based on our present structure would depend on the capability of the government information office. There are so many bureaucratic organizations to look up to, such as the PNP, AFP, PIA, also DFA. Most of these organizations have highly qualified people. But it does not go across the entire government bureaucracy. Most barangays don’t even have information officers,” Andanar said during the oath-taking ceremony for the Association of Government Information Officers 8 (Eastern Visayas) at the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Tacloban City headquarters on Friday.
“One thing I noticed is the lack of uniformity in government communication paradigm. Each department on the national level has different ways to do media relations and public relations,” he said, according to a news release issued Saturday.
“I conceptualized an academy that perhaps can help us in our pursuit that can help us improve our communications paradigm. I thought that it is imperative that the government set up its own government strategic communications training center,” Andanar said.
He said the training center will have research facilities, television and radio stations, a digital newsroom, lodging, and attached agencies of the PCOO, such as the Philippine News Agency (PNA) and PIA.
“It has all of the necessary information that we need. All information officers across the archipelago can learn the real way,” Andanar said.
He said that he plans to build the strategic communication training center in Bukidnon, which not only has a temperate climate but is also a gateway to major cities in the southern Philippines, such as Davao City and Cagayan de Oro City, as the government seeks to push development in regions outside Metro Manila.
Andanar said the Department of Finance and the Department of Budget and Management have already approved in principle the planned training center to be included in the national budget when the PCOO presented its business proposal.
He said he wants the training academy to start construction as early as next year, in time for the completion of the People's Television Network Mindanao Media Hub, as well as the commencement of the Visayas Media Hub’s construction by then.
Francis Rosaroso, information officer of the Department of Agriculture, said the plan is a dream come true for government communicators.
“This is attuned to our vision of professionalizing and institutionalization of our ranks. Once we have that Gov’t StratCom Academy, anyone who undergoes short- or long-term courses in this training center will be honed according to a standard of excellence that the center will provide to aspiring information officers. A very nice move or idea from Sec. Andanar. With this high-end learning center in mind, I can say that Sec. Andanar really knows what he is doing. A good legacy that he can leave to the next-gen of information practitioners,” he said.
The Professional Regulation Commission’s Chief Professional Regulation Officer Alma Genotiva meanwhile said that the state-of-the-art facility “will help and make us effective and capable in carrying our tasks as we represent our respective agencies.”
“Based on how the Secretary described it, it will really be (a) big help to practice IOs as it will enhance or upgrade their skills, and IOs will be updated with the current trends,” Department of Agrarian Reform information officer Jose Soria said.
Information officers Maita Sugcang of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and Myles Colasito of the Department of the Interior and Local Government also welcomed the plan, saying it would increase the capability of government workers, especially those in regions not easily reached by information.
“You will have a place, an academy to be able to share your expertise, not only amongst yourselves but also the people who need it most,” Andanar told the information officers.
“Continue to be the bearers of good communicators of history. And continue to be the harbinger of truth today, and continue to be the quintessential communicators of tomorrow," he added.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1076860
Information officers from various government agencies lauded Andanar’s plan, saying it will not only provide a strong, comprehensive and unified communication structure to combat disinformation, but will also breed excellent communication officers nationwide.
“The quality of information that we receive based on our present structure would depend on the capability of the government information office. There are so many bureaucratic organizations to look up to, such as the PNP, AFP, PIA, also DFA. Most of these organizations have highly qualified people. But it does not go across the entire government bureaucracy. Most barangays don’t even have information officers,” Andanar said during the oath-taking ceremony for the Association of Government Information Officers 8 (Eastern Visayas) at the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Tacloban City headquarters on Friday.
“One thing I noticed is the lack of uniformity in government communication paradigm. Each department on the national level has different ways to do media relations and public relations,” he said, according to a news release issued Saturday.
“I conceptualized an academy that perhaps can help us in our pursuit that can help us improve our communications paradigm. I thought that it is imperative that the government set up its own government strategic communications training center,” Andanar said.
He said the training center will have research facilities, television and radio stations, a digital newsroom, lodging, and attached agencies of the PCOO, such as the Philippine News Agency (PNA) and PIA.
“It has all of the necessary information that we need. All information officers across the archipelago can learn the real way,” Andanar said.
He said that he plans to build the strategic communication training center in Bukidnon, which not only has a temperate climate but is also a gateway to major cities in the southern Philippines, such as Davao City and Cagayan de Oro City, as the government seeks to push development in regions outside Metro Manila.
Andanar said the Department of Finance and the Department of Budget and Management have already approved in principle the planned training center to be included in the national budget when the PCOO presented its business proposal.
He said he wants the training academy to start construction as early as next year, in time for the completion of the People's Television Network Mindanao Media Hub, as well as the commencement of the Visayas Media Hub’s construction by then.
Francis Rosaroso, information officer of the Department of Agriculture, said the plan is a dream come true for government communicators.
“This is attuned to our vision of professionalizing and institutionalization of our ranks. Once we have that Gov’t StratCom Academy, anyone who undergoes short- or long-term courses in this training center will be honed according to a standard of excellence that the center will provide to aspiring information officers. A very nice move or idea from Sec. Andanar. With this high-end learning center in mind, I can say that Sec. Andanar really knows what he is doing. A good legacy that he can leave to the next-gen of information practitioners,” he said.
The Professional Regulation Commission’s Chief Professional Regulation Officer Alma Genotiva meanwhile said that the state-of-the-art facility “will help and make us effective and capable in carrying our tasks as we represent our respective agencies.”
“Based on how the Secretary described it, it will really be (a) big help to practice IOs as it will enhance or upgrade their skills, and IOs will be updated with the current trends,” Department of Agrarian Reform information officer Jose Soria said.
Information officers Maita Sugcang of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and Myles Colasito of the Department of the Interior and Local Government also welcomed the plan, saying it would increase the capability of government workers, especially those in regions not easily reached by information.
“You will have a place, an academy to be able to share your expertise, not only amongst yourselves but also the people who need it most,” Andanar told the information officers.
“Continue to be the bearers of good communicators of history. And continue to be the harbinger of truth today, and continue to be the quintessential communicators of tomorrow," he added.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1076860
BRP Davao Del Sur now in SoKor to escort BRP Conrado Yap
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 4, 2019): BRP Davao Del Sur now in SoKor to escort BRP Conrado Yap
ANOTHER MISSION. Fresh from its successful participation in the recent Russian Navy Day celebration in Vladivostok, Russia, BRP Davao Del Sur arrives at Jinhae Naval Base, South Korea for another mission on Friday (Aug. 2, 2019). The Philippine Navy’s strategic sealift vessel is tasked to escort home the newly-acquired BRP Conrado Yap (PS-39) donated by South Korea. (Photo courtesy of Naval Public Affairs Office)
ANOTHER MISSION. Fresh from its successful participation in the recent Russian Navy Day celebration in Vladivostok, Russia, BRP Davao Del Sur arrives at Jinhae Naval Base, South Korea for another mission on Friday (Aug. 2, 2019). The Philippine Navy’s strategic sealift vessel is tasked to escort home the newly-acquired BRP Conrado Yap (PS-39) donated by South Korea. (Photo courtesy of Naval Public Affairs Office)
BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602), one of the Philippine Navy (PN)'s two strategic sealift vessels, arrived at the Jinhae Naval Base, South Korea on Friday afternoon after its successful participation in the Russian Navy Day Celebration in Vladivostok, Russia on July 28, 2019.
In a statement late Saturday, Navy spokesperson, Captain Jonathan Zata said the BRP Davao Del Sur, along with its 300-man contingent, headed by Naval Task Group 80.5 head Captain Richard Gonzaga, was warmly received upon its arrival at the naval base.
This time, she is tasked to escort home the newly-acquired BRP Conrado Yap (PS-39) after its handover, commissioning and send-off ceremony set on August 5. The event will be attended by senior officials from the Philippines and Republic of Korea (ROK).
The BRP Conrado Yap, formerly the South Korean Pohang-class corvette "Chungju" (PCC-762), was donated to the Philippines by South Korea.
The ship measures 88.3 meters long, with a beam of 10 meters and draft of 2.9 meters with displacement at 1,216 tons full load and is rated for a crew of 118 personnel and can sustain operational presence for 20 days.
BRP Conrado Yap's combined diesel or gas (CODOG) propulsion configuration of motor transport unit (MTU) diesel engines and LM2500 gas turbine with controllable pitch propellers (CPP) enable the ship to move at a maximum speed of 25 knots to a distance of 4,000 nautical miles. She is armed with two Oto Melara 76mm main guns, 30mm automatic cannon, anti-submarine torpedoes and variety of sensors, including sonars, and radars.
Jinhae Naval Base is South Korea's largest navy base and home to the ROK Naval Academy.
This undertaking highlights the desire of the PN to leverage its capability of becoming stronger and more credible naval force that the Philippines can be proud of.
"It further underscores the deepening and dynamic relationship between the PN and ROKN that diplomatic clearance for BRP Davao Del Sur to visit Jinhae Naval Base was approved even on such a short notice," Zata added.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1076890
In a statement late Saturday, Navy spokesperson, Captain Jonathan Zata said the BRP Davao Del Sur, along with its 300-man contingent, headed by Naval Task Group 80.5 head Captain Richard Gonzaga, was warmly received upon its arrival at the naval base.
This time, she is tasked to escort home the newly-acquired BRP Conrado Yap (PS-39) after its handover, commissioning and send-off ceremony set on August 5. The event will be attended by senior officials from the Philippines and Republic of Korea (ROK).
The BRP Conrado Yap, formerly the South Korean Pohang-class corvette "Chungju" (PCC-762), was donated to the Philippines by South Korea.
The ship measures 88.3 meters long, with a beam of 10 meters and draft of 2.9 meters with displacement at 1,216 tons full load and is rated for a crew of 118 personnel and can sustain operational presence for 20 days.
BRP Conrado Yap's combined diesel or gas (CODOG) propulsion configuration of motor transport unit (MTU) diesel engines and LM2500 gas turbine with controllable pitch propellers (CPP) enable the ship to move at a maximum speed of 25 knots to a distance of 4,000 nautical miles. She is armed with two Oto Melara 76mm main guns, 30mm automatic cannon, anti-submarine torpedoes and variety of sensors, including sonars, and radars.
Jinhae Naval Base is South Korea's largest navy base and home to the ROK Naval Academy.
This undertaking highlights the desire of the PN to leverage its capability of becoming stronger and more credible naval force that the Philippines can be proud of.
"It further underscores the deepening and dynamic relationship between the PN and ROKN that diplomatic clearance for BRP Davao Del Sur to visit Jinhae Naval Base was approved even on such a short notice," Zata added.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1076890
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