AgNor towns join forces vs CPP-NPA-NDF

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 9, 2019): AgNor towns join forces vs CPP-NPA-NDF

BUTUAN CITY -- Several towns in the province of Agusan del Norte have been declaring the terrorist groups Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army – National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) as persona non-grata for their ruthless acts and harassments to the people in the communities.

The municipality of Nasipit was first to make the declaration following the terrorist groups' acts that caused sufferings to the people for being inhumane and for doing senseless activities.

The local government unit of Buenavista headed by mayor Norbert Pagaspas then followed with strong determination to put a stop on insurgency and freely deliver the basic health and social services and livelihood to conflict-affected areas which include the barangays of Sangay, Olave, Simbalan, and Guinabsan.

Mayor Pagaspas expressed his optimism that the government's vision of a peaceful and progressive town would be achieved only if these terrorist groups could no longer penetrate and cause chaos to the locals, and having an enhanced road networks that would bring more opportunities for the upliftment of lives would also contribute to making it possible.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Francisco Molina Jr., commanding officer of 23rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, there has been a significant number of NPAs who have surrendered to the government even until this time. He added that per monitoring, no more recruitment activities are being conducted in the area.

Based on records from January to July of this year, there were 27 former rebels and members of the Militia ng Bayan who are now sheltered at the Masigasig Happy Homes under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government.

The indigenous peoples led by Datu Manlig-unan Rolando Lanapan, the indigenous peoples mandatory representative supports the Philippine Army, hence, authored the resolution declaring the CPP-NPA-NDF as persona non-grata in the municipality of Buenavista.

Meanwhile, LTC Molina urged other former rebels to surrender to the government and live peacefully in the mainstream society. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1025752

4 LTG members, 21 CTG supporters surrender in Lanao del Sur

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 9, 2019): 4 LTG members, 21 CTG supporters surrender in Lanao del Sur (By 1st Infantry Division, Philippine Army)



LUMBA BAYABAO, Lanao del Sur -- Four members of Local Terrorist Group (LTG) and 21 Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) supporters surrendered to the 103rd Infantry (HARIBON) Brigade in Brgy. Sabala Bantayao on August 2, 2019.

They yielded one rocket-propelled grenade, one M1 Carbine rifle, one 1911A1 cal.45 pistol, two caliber 38 revolvers, and ammunition.

On July 28, troops from the 103rd Infantry Brigade encountered the CTG who were in Lumba Bayabao in an attempt to establish a foothold in the area and elude military operations in Bukidnon.
Brig. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, commander of the 103rd Brigade, said the relentless offensive of the troops pressured the enemy forces to flee and this prompted their supporters to surrender.

“The said supporters revealed that they were obliged to support the CTGs in their area due to the fear that they will be hurt or killed if they refuse to support the CTGs," he added.

Brawner said two of the LTG members were involved in the attack of Butig town in 2016 while one of the supporters was a minor who surrendered to Lt. Col. Edgar Allan Villanueva, commander of the 49th Infantry Battalion.

The local government of Lumba Bayabao has declared the CTG as persona non grata.

The declaration made them the first municipality in the province to assert such an act.

For his part, Maj. Gen. Roberto Ancan, 1st Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao Provinces) commander, lauded the local government unit on the successful surrender of CTGs and LTGs and the declaration of the CTG as persona non grata.

"We thank the local government and other stakeholders for their continued trust and support to our troops in contributing peace and development in the whole province of Lanao del Sur,” Ancan said. (1st Infantry Division, PA/PIA10)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1025571

DILG-Northern Samar cascades EO 70, LGUs signify support

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 9, 2019): DILG-Northern Samar cascades EO 70, LGUs signify support



CATARMAN, Northern Samar, Aug. 9 (PIA) -- The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Northern Samar cascaded the Executive Order (EO) No. 70 during the joint Provincial Development Council, Provincial Peace and Order Council and Northern Samar Anti-Drug Abuse Council special meeting held at Ibabao Hall, Provincial Capitol on August 8, 2019.

The EO 70, institutionalizing the whole-of-nation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace, was supported by a number of local chief executives present during the meeting presided by Governor Edwin Marino Ongchuan, the chairman of the three councils.

Speaking before the council members, mayors, heads of national agencies, representatives of civil society organizations and the church, DILG Assistant Regional Director Valente Bajet explained the role of local government units, local chief executives and local peace and order council in the implementation of the national task force to end local communist armed conflict (NTF-ELCAC) in their jurisdiction.

Stating the salient points of EO 70, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) Regional Director Boni Cebrian conveyed President Duterte’s priority goal of permanent and lasting peace since the first SONA quoting: “We will strive to have a permanent and lasting peace before my term ends. That is my goal, that is my dream.”

“EO 70 recognizes the need to reframe and refocus the government policy for achieving inclusive and sustainable peace by recognizing that insurgencies, are not only military and security concerns but are symptomatic of broader social, economic and historical problems, such as poverty, historical injustice, social inequality, and lack of inclusivity,” Cebrian added.

Thus, harmonizing all efforts in a collaborative scheme would be effective in achieving peace along the way, he added.

Governor Ongchuan led the signing of commitment with other local chief executives supporting the NTF-ELCAC embodied in the EO 70.

In his message, he committed to work fastidiously with the councils to achieve their respective objectives and to bring continued progress to the province of Northern Samar. (NBQ/AND/PIA-Northern Samar)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1025745

Amidst the storm, “Persona Non Grata” pours in Southern Tagalog

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 9, 2019): Amidst the storm, “Persona Non Grata” pours in Southern Tagalog  (By 2ID PAO)

CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal, Aug. 9– Ten barangays from the Municipality of Lian, Batangas declared the NPA terrorists as "persona non grata" in their respective localities through resolutions received by the military on Tuesday.

The documents manifested that the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) are no longer welcome in their areas citing their continued acts of violence, terrorism and other forms of lawlessness, oppression and harassment towards the people in the grass roots.

According to Brigadier General Arnulfo Marcelo B. Burgos Jr., Commander of the 2nd Infantry Division which covers Southern Tagalog, the RTF ELCACs of CALABARZON AND MIMAROPA are "now gaining headways in the government’s campaign to end local communist armed conflict and we are expecting more LGUs to declare the NPAs as persona non grata" based on the level of support which President Duterte’s EO 70 is gaining.

He added that “this is a tangible proof of the Filipino nation’s collective desire to once and for all eradicate the menace of communist insurgency and pave the way for national healing and reconciliation with the ultimate goal of peace, prosperity and progress not only for this generation but, more importantly, for future generations of Filipinos.”

Based on 2nd Infantry Division’s record, two provinces, eight municipalities and 46 barangays across Southern Tagalog have made similar declarations which prohibit the presence of communist terrorists.

It can be recalled that the province of Cavite became the first province in the region to ban the communist terrorists on June 27 followed by the province of Laguna on July 23 through resolutions signed by Gov. Jesus Crispin Remulla and Gov. Ramil L. Hernandez, respectively which reiterated the provincial government’s all out support for the “whole of nation approach” in defeating insurgency in the country.

Col. Alex Rillera, Commander of the 202nd Brigade which covers CALABARZON, said that “these proclamations are complemented by our tactical gains in the ground wherein our troops have either decisively engaged the enemies or facilitated their surrender and subsequent enrolment to the government’s E-CLIP.”

He supported this claim by saying that as of the moment, the 202nd Brigade has recorded “117 surrenders who turned over 68 firearms to the security forces thereby weakening their movement and pushing it in the brink of irreversible collapse.”

2ID has been actively participating in the RTFs ELCAC of CALABARZON AND MIMAROPA Regions. It recently hosted CALABARZON’s RTF ELCAC Meeting which was presided by Sec. Eduardo M. Año of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) last July 25.

Sec. Año is the designated Cabinet Officer Responsible for Development and Security (CORDS) in Region 4A. The main agenda during that meeting was the resolution of the issues surrounding the Kaliwa Dam project.

That meeting was attended by the different stakeholders, including the MWSS and the Indigenous People from the hinterlands of northern Quezon and Rizal Province. (2IDPAO)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1025652

Davao City designates ‘maximum security zone’

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8, 2019): Davao City designates ‘maximum security zone’



DAVAO CITY -- Task Force Davao (TFD) will ensure that the declared "maximum-security zone" in San Pedro Square here will have stricter security measures, the TFD chief said Wednesday.

Colonel Consolito Yecla explained that the area's designation by the City Council on Tuesday as a maximum-security zone was appropriate as it is the site of major events in the city.

Councilor Maria Belen Acosta, chairperson of the committee on peace and public safety, authored the resolution that was brought up during a recent meeting of the City Peace and Order Council (CPOC).

In the resolution, the maximum-security zone is defined as an area to which access is controlled through an entry point and limited to authorized, appropriately screened personnel and authorized and properly escorted visitors, and monitored 24 hours a day and seven days a week by peace-keeping forces.

Yecla said they are considering three major items to be inspected in the area: jackets, backpacks, and water containers.

Transparent water containers may be allowed on the site, Yecla said, adding the venue should also be cleared from non-transparent garbage bins.

“If the garbage bins are transparent, we can easily identify if some elements planted an explosive in there. This is to easily secure the entire area,” Yecla said.

The San Pedro square includes major city landmarks like the City Hall, San Pedro Cathedral, Sangguniang Panlungsod, Rizal Park and the Davao City Police Office (DCPO).

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1077326

Task group formed to probe NGO consultant's shooting

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 9, 2019): Task group formed to probe NGO consultant's shooting



BAGUIO CITY-- The Police Regional Office in the Cordillera Administrative Region (PROCOR) has formed a special investigation task group (SITG) to look into the shooting and wounding of a consultant of a non-government organization (NGO) last August 6, an official said on Friday.

Police Maj. Carolina Lacuata, PROCOR public information office chief, said they have created the SITG to probe the shooting of Brandon Lee, the consultant of the Ifugao Peasant Movement.

“Their order is to conduct an in-depth investigation for the immediate identification of the perpetrator or perpetrators and to determine the motive of the shooting,” Lacuata said.

Lee, an American-Chinese national with an Ifugao wife, was shot in front of their residence in Sitio Dugong, Barangay Tungngod, Lagawe, Ifugao around 5:40 p.m. on August 6. He was rushed to the Ifugao General Hospital Clinic in Natuwolan, Lagawe for medical treatment.Lee sustained a gunshot wound on his face and another on his back area.

Lacuata said the victim is still in the Intensive Care Unit (Unit) following the surgery in the early evening of Thursday.

PROCOR Director, Brig. Gen. Israel Ephraim Dickson appealed to the public, especially those who have any knowledge about the incident, to cooperate with authorities for the speedy solution of the case.

“While we are conducting an extensive investigation, we also request the assistance of the public to help us by giving relevant and timely information,” Dickson said immediately following the shooting.

Meanwhile, Maj. Noriel Tayaban, of the 5th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, said they have been working with Lee and the IPM in delivering various programs of the government and the NGO to the people in far-flung communities in Ifugao.

Tayaban also belied the accusation of the Bayan Muna and Akbayan, which allegedly linked to the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), that the military is the one behind Lee's shooting.

"The intention of 5ID and the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) is to express their trust that armed struggle is not really the antidote in the attainment of peace and development,” Tayaban said in a press statement.

In the same statement, 5ID commander, Maj. Gen. Pablo Lorenzo said these organizations identified with the communist movement should not be quick to point fingers at the military as responsible for the attack on Lee.

“As regard to the propaganda issue wherein the AFP is behind the alleged shooting incident, this is devoid of logic and factual basis as this is not in the best interest of the government and AFP. Mr. Renato Reyes and his allied front organizations that were mentioned by no other than Joma Sison (CPP-NPA-NDF founder), should not be very quick to point fingers as we are all earnestly digging into the bottom of this dastardly act based on evidence considering all the angles and not on malice and vested interest," he said.

"His propensity for propaganda to serve the ends of the CPP-NPA-NDF and discredit the government and the AFP betrays his evident bias on the issue at hand. The 5ID and the AFP have its mandates to strictly impose and observed human rights, international humanitarian law, Rule of Law and Rules of Engagement in the performance of their duties in protecting the people within the area of responsibility,” he added.

Lorenzo said the CPP-NPA-NDF's front organizations are responsible for the red-tagging on Lee to discredit the military.

"The 'red-tagging' didn't come from the AFP. It was Joma Sison himself who enumerated the organizations that are part of, allied with and affiliated with the CPP-NPA-NDF,” he said.

“It cannot also be discounted that the CPP-NPA-NDF is at the back of the shooting incident then attribute it to the military to incite the people of Ifugao. They have killed mercilessly thousands of their own cadres, red fighters, and supporters for the past 50 years. This could be just one of those sacrificial purges on the altar of a discredited and irrelevant communist movement,” Lorenzo added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1077428

Dawlah Islamiya capability dwindling: Westmincom

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 9, 2019): Dawlah Islamiya capability dwindling: Westmincom



ZAMBOANGA CITY -- The capability of the Dawlah Islamiya, formerly known as the Islamic State-inspired Maute group, is dwindling because of the neutralization and surrender of its leaders, the chief of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) said Thursday .

Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana issued the statement after a former sub-leader of the Maute group and a follower surrendered to troops in Lanao del Sur on Tuesday.

Hadji Omar Olama, alias Omar and Ivan, a former sub-leader of the Maute Group, and his follower, Ibrahim Abbas Olama, surrendered to the Army’s 49th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Bayabao Poblacion, Butig, Lanao del Sur.

Sobejana said they turned over a caliber .30 US Carbine rifle and a caliber .45 pistol with corresponding ammunition.
“With the neutralization of their potential leaders, the capability of local terrorist groups in Lanao area is now dwindling,” he said.

“While we continuously conduct our focused military operations, we encourage all the remaining bandits to submit themselves to the government forces and take advantage of the livelihood programs and other services offered by the national government and its stakeholders,” Sobejana added.

He said the two Dawlah Islamiya surrenderers were placed under custodial debriefing at the headquarters of the Army’s 49th Infantry Battalion.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1077418

Police to intensify school visits to prevent NPA recruitment

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 9, 2019): Police to intensify school visits to prevent NPA recruitment

INTENSIFIED SCHOOL VISITS. Photo shows the San Jose de Buenavista Police Station in Antique. San Jose de Buenavista Police chief Lt. Col. Mark Darroca on Friday (August 9, 2019) vowed to boost police presence in schools almost every day starting this August 13 to prevent students from being recruited by the New People's Army. (PNA photo by Annabel Consuelo J. Petinglay)

SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, Antique -- The San Jose Municipal Police is set to intensify its school visits to prevent students from being recruited by the New People’s Army (NPA).

In a press conference on Friday, San Jose de Buenavista Municipal Police chief Lt. Col. Mark Anthony Darroca said they plan to make more frequent visits to schools in the municipality starting August 13.

“If we used to visit the schools once a week or once a month before, we intend to have a police presence in the schools almost every day now,” he said.

He, however, noted that one challenge they would be facing is the lack of personnel.

San Jose de Buenavista hosts two public secondary schools – the Antique National School and San Pedro National High School; private colleges St. Anthony’s College and Advance Central College; and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) - accredited training schools.

“As you know, recruitment of the NPA does not happen only among the schools but even up to the barangay level,” he said.

He cited as evidence the operation of the seven officials of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) who were killed in an encounter with joint police and army troops in Barangay Atabay here on August 15, 2018.

“We learned that the seven CPP-NPA-NDF officials were educated, talented and skillful who could easily persuade our young students here,” he said.

Darroca said parents could help the police by closely monitoring and guiding their children as the NPA usually makes false promises.

“Parents would be suspicious if suddenly their children’s behavior changes into being rebellious,” he said.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1077441

Iloilo town rejects Reds presence

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 9, 2019): Iloilo town rejects Reds presence



CPP-NPA UNWELCOME. The town of Maasin in Iloilo province on Thursday (August 8, 2019) declares the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) persona non-grata. Mayor Francis Amboy (second from right) said the town condemns the atrocities of the rebel group and assures the safety of its residents. (Photo courtesy of 3ID Public Affairs Office)

ILOILO CITY -The town of Maasin on Thursday declared the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) persona non grata, the first municipality in the province to do so.

Through Municipal Peace and Order Council Resolution No. 01, Maasin town condemned the terror acts committed by the rebel group and declared them unwelcome.

In a phone interview on Friday, Maasin Mayor Francis Amboy said the town does not tolerate the actions of the CPP-NPA. “The rebel group attacked our policemen twice in the year 2017,” he said as he recalled the times NPA rebels attacked Maasin.

In June 2017, around 60 rebels raided Maasin municipal police station, handcuffed policemen and took away their firearms. About five months after, a police officer was killed in an ambush by the rebels in Bolo village.

In 2016, he said the rebels also clashed with soldiers in Trangka village.

The resolution, signed by the mayor, said the atrocities by the CPP-NPA affected the socio-economic advancement of the municipality because it has propagated “fear to the general public and even potential investors, which made a terrible economic implication not only in the municipality but the whole province.”

Amboy said it is about time to show the residents and the rebels that Maasin town has a “strong mandate” to push for peace and order.

“As the father of the town, we should stand on the side of the government and assure the safety of our residents by condemning the actions of the CPP-NPA,” he said, urging other local chief executives to reject the communist organization's presence in their areas.

“We advise the residents to report to the government any problems that you see in your municipalities and not support the actions against the government,” he said.

Maj. Gen. Dinoh Dolina, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) lauded Maasin town for its effort.

“The role of our LGUs is vital in ending insurgency in the province; hence, I am commending the municipality of Maasin in taking the lead role in preventing the CPP-NPA terrorists from entering and casting more terror in their communities by declaring them unwelcome,” he said in a statement.

He urged other local government units to make the CPP-NPA “permanently irrelevant.”

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1077475

Army official hits CPP-NPA for treachery in use of landmines

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 9, 2019): Army official hits CPP-NPA for treachery in use of landmines



BANNED LANDMINE. A part of the more than 30 meters of electric wire used to detonate Anti-Personnel (AP) mines recovered by troops of the Philippine Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion after an encounter with the New People’s Army rebels at Sitio Boyuron, Barangay Buenavista in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental on Thursday afternoon (August 8, 2019). The use of AP mine is prohibited by the International Humanitarian Law. (Photo courtesy of 62IB, Philippine Army)

A top official of the Philippine Army on Negros Island assailed the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) for its continued use of Anti-Personnel (AP) mines during encounters with government troops.

Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, commander of 303rd Infantry Brigade based in Murcia, Negros Occidental, said on Friday that such an act shows treachery on the part of the communist-terrorist group.

“This is prohibited by the International Humanitarian Law. This is really a violation, but that’s what they are, they just don’t follow the law,” Arevalo said in a radio interview.

He said the Army has also recovered components of AP mines in previous clashes with the NPA.

The Ottawa Treaty, also known as the “Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention”, which took effect on March 1, 1999, prohibits the use, stockpiling, production and transfer of AP landmines.

After the clash at Sitio Boyuron in Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City on Thursday afternoon, which left at least three rebels and a soldier dead, troops of the 62nd Infantry Battalion (IB) recovered more than 30 meters of electrical wire being used to detonate the AP mines.

Also found during the clearing operation, were about 500 bullets/shells of high-powered firearms such as grenade launcher, machine gun, and AK 47 and M14 rifles.

The encounter claimed the life of Private First Class Joel Fariñas, whose remains will soon be transported to his hometown in Dumalag, Capiz.

The two wounded, Sgt. Froilan Tosalem and Corporal Oliver Porten, are confined in a hospital in Kabankalan City, but now in stable condition.

In April this year, seven soldiers of 62IB were slightly injured by AP mines during a clash with communist rebels, which led to the dismantling of a rebel hideout in Sitio Asaran, also in Barangay Buenavista.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1077484

4 NPA rebs yield, lead Army to arms cache in Zambo Sibugay

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 9, 2019): 4 NPA rebs yield, lead Army to arms cache in Zambo Sibugay

NPA SURRENDERERS. Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo, Army's 44th Infantry Battalion commander, receives a rifle from female fighter of the New People's Army (NPA) rebels who surrendered in Titay, Zamboanga Sibugay on Thursday (Aug. 8, 2019). (Photo courtesy of 1st Infantry Division PAO)

Four New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas surrendered to the military and led the military to an arms cache and explosives in the province of Zamboanga Sibugay, officials said Friday.

Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo, Army’s 44th Infantry Battalion commander, said two of the surrenderers were women, one of whom was a team leader and the other, a medic.
Templonuevo said the four surrendered Thursday to 44IB personnel in the municipality of Titay.

Templonuevo said they recovered an M-14, AK-47, and Carbine rifles and a caliber .38 revolver after the four NPA surrenderers led the military to its location.

He said the NPA surrenderers also yielded two improvised bombs fashioned as a landmine, three cellular phones, ammunition and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

“Based on our initial debriefing, they’ve heard that their surrendered comrades felt the sincerity of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) intended for the former rebels,” he said.

“The four connived, find ways to escape from the group (NPA), and surrendered to our troops,” he added.

Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Bagnus Gaerlan Jr., Army’s 102nd Infantry Brigade commander, said they expect a snowball of surrenderers in the coming days “as we’ve already created the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, part of the Executive Order 70 signed by our President”.

The E.O. No. 70, which President Rodrigo Duterte signed on December 4, 2018, institutionalizes the "whole-of-nation approach" against the communist insurgency.

So far, Gaerlan said 31 NPA rebels have surrendered to the Army’s 102nd Infantry Brigade since January, this year.

Maj. Gen. Roberto Ancan, Army’s 1st Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan (the Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao Provinces) commander, lauded the troops for the successful surrender of the four NPA rebels and the recovery of the arms cache.

“We also recognized the efforts of the government agencies who were part of the Regional Task Forces - ELCAC 9 and E-CLIP that sincerely welcomed our long lost brothers and sisters who have been victims of lies and deceit and wanted another chance to live peacefully,” Ancan said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1077450

Andanar says P49-M for stratcomms approved

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 9, 2019): Andanar says P49-M for stratcomms approved



Presidential Communications Operations Office chief, Sec. Martin Andanar. (PNA file photo)

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar bared Thursday the Department of Budget Management's (DBM) approval of the PHP49-million budget for the government communications strategic training facility.

Andanar, who is also the Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (Cords) for Region 10, said the facility will establish a Government Communications Academy, and will be equipped with modern information facilities.

Andanar said the facility would be erected at a two-hectare area in Manolo Fortich town, Bukidnon province. He said the facility will house a government TV and radio center, and has a modern dormitory for personnel.

He said the PHP49-million allocation will only cover the building construction, and that another PHP50 million will be allocated for equipment and fixtures.

Meanwhile, Andanar said PCOO is lobbying for Congress to institutionalize the mandatory installation of Barangay Information Officer (BIO) in all villages in the country.
The BIOs, he said, can be trained by the planned Government Communications Academy.

In a phone interview Friday, the city's Association of Barangay Councils president, City Councilor Yan Lam Lim, expressed support for the creation of BIOs, noting that the barangays currently lack information officers as the position is not mandated by law.

Even barangay officials, Lim said, lack media literacy and many have no basic understanding of public communications.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1077483

Parlade says Elago excuse for no-show at Senate 'sloppy'

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 9, 2019): Parlade says Elago excuse for no-show at Senate 'sloppy'



Armed Forces of the Philippines deputy chief-of-staff for civil-military operations, Major Gen. Antonio Parlade, Jr., (File photo)

A sloppy excuse.

This was how Major Gen. Antonio Parlade, Jr., of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC), on Thursday described Kabataan Party-list Rep. Sarah Elago's reason for not attending Wednesday's Senate hearing to look into cases of missing minors after being allegedly recruited by militant group Anakbayan.

"That's a sloppy excuse not to be able to attend the Senate hearing on a very important issue about youth activism. Rep. Elago should have enlightened us of their interpretation of 'academic freedom' and "protection of children's rights" in that session, but they chose not to face the parents. There is another hearing scheduled next week and let's see if they have other alibis," Parlade said in a statement sent to the Philippine News Agency.

Elago earlier said she was unable to attend the Senate hearing presided by Sen. Ronald Dela Rosa due to "prior commitments" and "short notice".

"We received the invitation from your honorable office on 05 August 2019, with the hearing being set for Wednesday, 07 August. Unfortunately, we will not be able to attend because of prior commitments which we will not be able to move considering the very short notice," she added.

What suppression of freedom?

Parlade, who is Armed Forces of the Philippines Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil-Military Operations, also scored Elago and her organization for opting to protest on the streets about non-existent issues like press freedom suppression and dictatorship when they were given the opportunity to tell their side of the story at the Senate.

"You talk of suppression of press freedom and dictatorship? Then how is it possible that you can rally and march freely on the streets with your b*lls**t slogans? You are given the opportunity to speak at the floor but you ignore it because you choose to shout on the streets," he added.

Parlade, also slammed militant group Anakbayan for claiming that it knew the history of Filipinos well and stands united with masses, including students, who are suffering from the Duterte Administration's failure to address poverty, joblessness, raise wages, and end contractualization, among other social issues.

"Did you really study the history of the Filipino people like you said in your statement? Then you should know who bombed Plaza Miranda in order to create hatred to the government, entice more people to revolt, and eventually force (former President Ferdinand) Marcos to declare Martial Law. Remember that as you celebrate that infamous August 21 (1971) bombing (of Plaza Miranda) by the CPP, recall how (CPP founder) Jose Maria Sison tagged you as communist front organizations. The same communist party, thru its National United Front Commission (NUFC) under Vic Ladlad and National Youth and Student Bureau (NYSB) ordered the creation of more Anakbayan branches and the creation of Kabataan PL (Party-list) to campaign for Kamatayan (Makabayan) bloc and Neri Colmenares," he added.

'We know what you do in schools'

Parlade also took a swipe at the militants for thinking that the government is not aware of their efforts to operate cells in Metro Manila universities.

"Do you think your government has sloppy intel for not to know about your TARGARYEN operating in MM (Metro Manila) schools in the University Belt? Or your BARTHEON which operates in Taft Ave and Intramuros? Think about that and ask yourselves why you are still out there if there is a state-led silencing," he added.

While stressing that the government is not criminalizing dissent, he reminded militant groups to know the bounds of their actions.

"We don't call you 'irresponsible students'. You are way beyond being irresponsible. In fact, you have crossed the line and indeed, you are committing crime already. The government is not criminalizing dissent. We are trying to promote respect for our laws. When you shout 'ibagsak' or oust an elected president, that is seditious already," he added.

Parlade slammed Anakbayan for claiming that the government, through the Philippine National Police, attempted to create mass hysteria last year through the so-called "Red October Plot" whose goals is to oust the Chief Executive by launching a series of protest actions via 18 Metro Manila universities and colleges.

Earlier, the military claimed that the plot fizzled out because of government efforts to make the threat public.

"So don't raise the issue on 'Red October' because you know that you are criminally liable if you are part of it. You are young. There is still time to reform and abandon your warped sense of service to the masses," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1077369

PRRD to appoint airport security head as US lifts NAIA notice

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 9, 2019): PRRD to appoint airport security head as US lifts NAIA notice



Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez (Photo by Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

President Rodrigo R. Duterte is planning to appoint an official that would handle and supervise the country's airport security, Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez bared Thursday.

"The President plans to appoint an overall person in charge of our airport security under the Office of the President," he told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) in a text message.

The envoy said this is to sustain the improvements made by the Philippine government on Ninoy Aquino International Airport's (NAIA) security measures, recently deemed deficient by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

In December 2018, the US agency issued an advisory that NAIA does not carry out effective aviation security measures.

On Thursday night, Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Kevin McAleenan ordered the withdrawal of the public notice "effective immediately".

Romualdez said the US side appreciates Manila's efforts in implementing "much improved" security measures at NAIA and is "extremely pleased with our cooperation".

"The DHS (Department of Homeland Security) and the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) informed us that our airport security is much improved and are hopeful that we will remain vigilant and consistent," Romualdez said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1077404

US Homeland Security lifts travel notice to NAIA

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 9, 2019): US Homeland Security lifts travel notice to NAIA



Inside the Ninoy Aquino International Airport

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on Thursday rescinded its public notice on travel to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) following the "significant improvements" in the Philippine gateway's security operations.

The rescission order "effective immediately" was made by Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Kevin McAleenan on Thursday and was posted on the DHS website.

"After months of direct engagement with the United States, the Government of the Philippines has made significant improvements to the security operations of MNL (NAIA)," the DHS said in a statement.

"Both the Manila International Airport Authority and the Government of the Philippines civil aviation security authorities have demonstrated they are willing to work toward sustaining those improvements," it added.

The DHS issued a public notice regarding the deficiencies in NAIA's aviation security measures on December 27, 2018. That year, the US agency made an assessment that NAIA has failed to adequately implement and maintain international security standards and recommended practices established by the International Civil Aviation Organization.

The US State Department has since provided at least USD5 million to help fund security improvements and personnel training at NAIA.

The TSA has also assigned Aviation Security Advisors to the Philippine government to assist with the development and implementation of corrective measures at the Philippine airport.

"DHS and TSA remain committed to working with the Government of the Philippines to help ensure a strong security posture at MNL and enhance global aviation security," the DHS assured.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin, Jr., for his part, thanked the US Embassy in Manila and some Philippine officials for their contributions in the travel notice's lifting.

"US Homeland Security lifted security concerns about NAIA. Congratulations US Ambassador Kim Sung for all the help; Philippine Ambassador Babe Romualdez in Washington for the unrelenting pressure; and DOTr (Department of Transportation) Secretary (Arthur) Tugade for doing in 6 months what US Homeland expected would take years. What a winning team," he said on his official Twitter account.

"In DFA, thank you Honey Isleta of American Affairs for not letting up with US Homeland in Bilaterals that it's gotta lift the restriction on travel to NAIA," he added.

To sustain the improvements cited by the US, President Rodrigo R. Duterte is planning to appoint an official to supervise the country's airport security, Romualdez told the Philippine News Agency.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1077403