From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 16): Gov’t inaction on China’s militarization untrue: Palace
Malacañang on Monday thumbed down the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey, which showed 4 in 5 Filipinos disagree with the government’s supposed inaction against China’s military activities in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
“Actually, 100 percent of the Filipinos should disagree because we will not really allow that other state will take our territory. There is no such thing as government inaction,” Roque said in an interview over radio dzRH.
Roque said President Rodrigo Duterte has repeatedly said that he will never give up any of the country’s territories.
“Every time China does something that is against our sovereignty, we air our protest but we do it quietly. It is not true President Duterte is not doing anything,” Roque said.
Roque was referring to the Bicameral Consultative Mechanism where China and the Philippines tackle contentious issues including China’s militarization in the South China Sea.
“For him (Duterte), the contentious issues which cannot be resolved immediately should be temporarily set aside and instead focus on non-contentious issues such as economic and trade that we should push through,” Roque explained.
Two years ago, the Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) ruled in favor of the Philippines’ arbitration case, nullifying China’s nine-dash line map that covers almost the entire South China Sea.
China rejected the decision, prompting Duterte to temporarily shelve the PCA’s verdict to give way for friendly and peaceful dialogues and negotiations.
Duterte's approach has paid off as it revived the Philippines-China relations strained by the Philippines' arbitration case filed in 2013 under the administration of former President Benigno Aquino III.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041528
Tuesday, July 17, 2018
PNP intel units on alert vs. possible threats to SONA
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 16): PNP intel units on alert vs. possible threats to SONA
Police intelligence experts are looking at a number of possible threats to President Rodrigo Duterte's third State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 23.
Speaking to newsmen at the Philippine National Headquarters in Camp Crame, Police Director Gregorio R. Pimentel of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Directorate for Intelligence said they are doing routine evaluations of possible threats for the occasion.
Aside from street protesters, Pimentel explained that they are also keeping an eye on possible threats from lawless elements.
"We are looking at threats of mass support movements as well as terrorist groups," he said.
On Friday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the PNP conducted simulation exercises at the House of Representatives to ensure safety and security.
Units from the National Capital Regional Police Office have also readied civil disturbance management protocols in time for the event.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041531
Police intelligence experts are looking at a number of possible threats to President Rodrigo Duterte's third State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 23.
Speaking to newsmen at the Philippine National Headquarters in Camp Crame, Police Director Gregorio R. Pimentel of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Directorate for Intelligence said they are doing routine evaluations of possible threats for the occasion.
Aside from street protesters, Pimentel explained that they are also keeping an eye on possible threats from lawless elements.
"We are looking at threats of mass support movements as well as terrorist groups," he said.
On Friday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the PNP conducted simulation exercises at the House of Representatives to ensure safety and security.
Units from the National Capital Regional Police Office have also readied civil disturbance management protocols in time for the event.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041531
MILF fighters need to undergo process to join PNP
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 16): MILF fighters need to undergo process to join PNP
The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday said an automatic integration of fighters of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and its splinter cells to the police ranks is unlikely even if the Bangsamoro transition pushes through.
PNP chief Director General Oscar Albayalde explained that while there is no immediate integration, interested parties may go through regular channels in joining the PNP.
"They can apply and undergo the recruitment process," Albayalde told reporters in Camp Crame.
Albayalde said under the proposed transition legislation, a new police regional office will be established, which shall remain under the PNP.
Albayalde said he welcomes any courtesy call by leaders of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), led by MILF vice chairman Ghazali Jaafar and Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) chief of staff Sammy Al Mansour, similar to the visit made by the latter to the Armed Forces of the Philippines headquarters at Camp Aguinaldo last week.
As part of the deal being forged with the government, the MILF committed to decommission the weapons of its combatants once the Bangsamoro Basic Law is passed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041541
The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday said an automatic integration of fighters of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and its splinter cells to the police ranks is unlikely even if the Bangsamoro transition pushes through.
PNP chief Director General Oscar Albayalde explained that while there is no immediate integration, interested parties may go through regular channels in joining the PNP.
"They can apply and undergo the recruitment process," Albayalde told reporters in Camp Crame.
Albayalde said under the proposed transition legislation, a new police regional office will be established, which shall remain under the PNP.
Albayalde said he welcomes any courtesy call by leaders of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), led by MILF vice chairman Ghazali Jaafar and Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) chief of staff Sammy Al Mansour, similar to the visit made by the latter to the Armed Forces of the Philippines headquarters at Camp Aguinaldo last week.
As part of the deal being forged with the government, the MILF committed to decommission the weapons of its combatants once the Bangsamoro Basic Law is passed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041541
PH, Malaysia pledge to work together for regional peace
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 16): PH, Malaysia pledge to work together for regional peace
The Philippines and Malaysia have both pledged to work closely together, bilaterally and at the ASEAN-level, to achieve shared aspirations of peace, progress, and security, Malacañang said on Monday.
Malacañang made this statement after Philippine President Rodrigo R. Duterte and newly-elected Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad held a formal meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The meeting of the two leaders took place a day after they watched together Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao’s boxing match versus Argentina’s Lucas Matthysse in July 15.
“Both leaders stressed the importance of working closely together bilaterally and at ASEAN to achieve shared aspirations of greater peace, progress and prosperity for the Philippines and Malaysia, and greater stability and security in the region,” Malacañang said in a press statement.
The Palace said both leaders also renewed and reaffirmed the long-standing brotherhood and friendship between the Philippines and Malaysia.
Meanwhile, Duterte renewed his commitment to further strengthen defense and security cooperation at the bilateral and regional level.
He also emphasized the need to address terrorism and violent extremism in the region, and transnational crime such as piracy and armed robbery at sea and the illegal drug trade.
Duterte also thanked Mahathir for the sustained support of the Malaysian government to the quest for just and lasting peace and development in Mindanao, and for taking care of Filipino workers in Malaysia.
Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, who joined Duterte in his trip, said Duterte has assured the Malaysian leader that the Philippines will remain a staunch ally of Malaysia in the area of security, particularly in tackling Islamic extremism and piracy in the high seas.
Roque said Duterte had also invited its neighbor to revive the joint consultative meeting to discuss pending agreements and other possible collaboration.
Duterte is set to return to the Philippines on Monday night (July 16).
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041612
The Philippines and Malaysia have both pledged to work closely together, bilaterally and at the ASEAN-level, to achieve shared aspirations of peace, progress, and security, Malacañang said on Monday.
Malacañang made this statement after Philippine President Rodrigo R. Duterte and newly-elected Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad held a formal meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The meeting of the two leaders took place a day after they watched together Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao’s boxing match versus Argentina’s Lucas Matthysse in July 15.
“Both leaders stressed the importance of working closely together bilaterally and at ASEAN to achieve shared aspirations of greater peace, progress and prosperity for the Philippines and Malaysia, and greater stability and security in the region,” Malacañang said in a press statement.
The Palace said both leaders also renewed and reaffirmed the long-standing brotherhood and friendship between the Philippines and Malaysia.
Meanwhile, Duterte renewed his commitment to further strengthen defense and security cooperation at the bilateral and regional level.
He also emphasized the need to address terrorism and violent extremism in the region, and transnational crime such as piracy and armed robbery at sea and the illegal drug trade.
Duterte also thanked Mahathir for the sustained support of the Malaysian government to the quest for just and lasting peace and development in Mindanao, and for taking care of Filipino workers in Malaysia.
Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, who joined Duterte in his trip, said Duterte has assured the Malaysian leader that the Philippines will remain a staunch ally of Malaysia in the area of security, particularly in tackling Islamic extremism and piracy in the high seas.
Roque said Duterte had also invited its neighbor to revive the joint consultative meeting to discuss pending agreements and other possible collaboration.
Duterte is set to return to the Philippines on Monday night (July 16).
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041612
BRP Bonifacio gets warm welcome from US in RIMPAC
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 17): BRP Bonifacio gets warm welcome from US in RIMPAC
The frigate BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF-17), one of the two Filipino warships participating in this year's "Rim of the Pacific" (RIMPAC) exercise in Hawaii, got a warm reception from their US Navy counterparts during the start of the Force Integration Phase (FIP), Philippine Navy (PN) spokesperson Cmdr. Jonathan Zata said Tuesday.
RIMPAC's FIP started on July 11 and will end on July 19.
Around 50 warships and aircraft are now taking part in the exercise.
The ships and their crew joined in serialized trainings which include visit, board, search and seizure, gunnery exercise, replenishment-at-sea, combined anti-submarine and anti-air warfare drills.
The Philippine naval contingent for RIMPAC's FIP consist of the frigate BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF-17) and strategic sealift vessel BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602) and an AW-109 naval helicopter with around 700 sailors and marines.
During the replishment-at-sea exercise, Zata said the BRP Andres Bonifacio was paired with the USNS Brashear (T-AKE-7) which suprised the Filipino ship and crew with the message, "We love Philippines, Good to See You Kababayan" which was attached to the American vessel's port side.
Also, the captain of the USNS Brashear took time to greet the officers and crew of BRP Andres Bonifacio while the latter were conducting a maneuver. "Magandang hapon, Kapitan (Good afternoon, Captain) Jerry Garrido at mga (and to the) crew ng (of) BRP Andres Bonifacio," Zata quoted Garrido as saying.
Also, the crew of the American ship took time to wave and greet their Filipino counterparts.
RIMPAC is the world's largest joint and combined naval exercise and slated from June 27 to August 2.
"Participating nations will demonstrate the inherent capabilities of their respective naval forces through a wide range of realistic exercises that include human assistance and disaster response, maritime security operations, sea maneuvers and complex warfighting. The exercise not only aims to harness each nation’s naval capabilities but also to bolster cooperation among participating nations to secure the maritime commons against threats," the PN spokesperson earlier said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041653
The frigate BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF-17), one of the two Filipino warships participating in this year's "Rim of the Pacific" (RIMPAC) exercise in Hawaii, got a warm reception from their US Navy counterparts during the start of the Force Integration Phase (FIP), Philippine Navy (PN) spokesperson Cmdr. Jonathan Zata said Tuesday.
RIMPAC's FIP started on July 11 and will end on July 19.
Around 50 warships and aircraft are now taking part in the exercise.
The ships and their crew joined in serialized trainings which include visit, board, search and seizure, gunnery exercise, replenishment-at-sea, combined anti-submarine and anti-air warfare drills.
The Philippine naval contingent for RIMPAC's FIP consist of the frigate BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF-17) and strategic sealift vessel BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602) and an AW-109 naval helicopter with around 700 sailors and marines.
During the replishment-at-sea exercise, Zata said the BRP Andres Bonifacio was paired with the USNS Brashear (T-AKE-7) which suprised the Filipino ship and crew with the message, "We love Philippines, Good to See You Kababayan" which was attached to the American vessel's port side.
Also, the captain of the USNS Brashear took time to greet the officers and crew of BRP Andres Bonifacio while the latter were conducting a maneuver. "Magandang hapon, Kapitan (Good afternoon, Captain) Jerry Garrido at mga (and to the) crew ng (of) BRP Andres Bonifacio," Zata quoted Garrido as saying.
Also, the crew of the American ship took time to wave and greet their Filipino counterparts.
RIMPAC is the world's largest joint and combined naval exercise and slated from June 27 to August 2.
"Participating nations will demonstrate the inherent capabilities of their respective naval forces through a wide range of realistic exercises that include human assistance and disaster response, maritime security operations, sea maneuvers and complex warfighting. The exercise not only aims to harness each nation’s naval capabilities but also to bolster cooperation among participating nations to secure the maritime commons against threats," the PN spokesperson earlier said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041653
Malacañang defends docking of Chinese ship in Davao City
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 17): Malacañang defends docking of Chinese ship in Davao City
Malacañang on Tuesday defended the docking of a Chinese vessel in Davao City on Monday, stressing that all nations which the Philippines maintains “friendly ties” with may dock at the country’s ports.
Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque made this remark after the Philippine Navy reported that Chinese vessel, Yuan Wang 3, docked in Davao City Monday for replenishment.
Roque also pointed out that whoever finds the Chinese vessel docking in the Philippines as alarming may have Sinophobia or the fear or dislike of China, its people, language or culture.
“Only those afflicted with Sinophobia will find the routine incident objectionable,” Roque said in a press statement.
Earlier, Philippine Navy spokesperson Cmdr. Jonathan Zata said the ship, which will only stay in the country until July 19, was granted diplomatic clearance by higher authorities.
He also noted that there was “nothing unusual” about the docking of the Chinese ship, noting that it was similar to any other foreign ship calling on Philippine ports.
"It's completely routine, nothing unusual about the visit. We had Chinese warships calling on our ports in the past the same as with any other warships from other countries," Zata said.
Last month, a Chinese plane also landed and refueled in Davao City after it was given specific conditions for compliance. It was on its way to New Zealand for a bilateral military exercise.
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana defended this, noting that it was part of "procedure" done by even Philippe Air Force planes when going abroad.
Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua also stressed that all standard protocols in the Philippines were followed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041747
Malacañang on Tuesday defended the docking of a Chinese vessel in Davao City on Monday, stressing that all nations which the Philippines maintains “friendly ties” with may dock at the country’s ports.
Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque made this remark after the Philippine Navy reported that Chinese vessel, Yuan Wang 3, docked in Davao City Monday for replenishment.
Roque also pointed out that whoever finds the Chinese vessel docking in the Philippines as alarming may have Sinophobia or the fear or dislike of China, its people, language or culture.
“Only those afflicted with Sinophobia will find the routine incident objectionable,” Roque said in a press statement.
Earlier, Philippine Navy spokesperson Cmdr. Jonathan Zata said the ship, which will only stay in the country until July 19, was granted diplomatic clearance by higher authorities.
He also noted that there was “nothing unusual” about the docking of the Chinese ship, noting that it was similar to any other foreign ship calling on Philippine ports.
"It's completely routine, nothing unusual about the visit. We had Chinese warships calling on our ports in the past the same as with any other warships from other countries," Zata said.
Last month, a Chinese plane also landed and refueled in Davao City after it was given specific conditions for compliance. It was on its way to New Zealand for a bilateral military exercise.
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana defended this, noting that it was part of "procedure" done by even Philippe Air Force planes when going abroad.
Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua also stressed that all standard protocols in the Philippines were followed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041747
BBL should be passed before PRRD’s 3rd SONA
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 17): BBL should be passed before PRRD’s 3rd SONA
Quezon City 2nd District Rep. Winston Castelo on Tuesday said the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) should be passed into law before the third State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday (July 23).
The House of Representatives and the Senate will have their second joint regular session for the 17th Congress on Monday where President Duterte will deliver his third SONA.
In an ambush interview, Castelo said “dapat palakasin (ang autonomy ng region) ng Bicameral Conference Committee para tapusin ang Bangsamoro Basic Law o BBL bago ang State of the Nation Address o SONA sa Hulyo 23 (The Bicameral Conference Committee should strengthen the autonomy of the region to finish the BBL before the SONA on July 23)."
"Ito’y matapos ang pag-apruba sa 88 porsyento at 87 porsyento ng trust rating ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte sa survey kamakailan ng Pulse Asia (this was after the approval in the 88 percent and 87 percent of the trust rating of President Rodrigo Duterte in the recent Pulse Asia survey)," he added.
He noted that the huge support for the President should be taken into consideration to push for the approval of the proposed law for autonomy, which the past administration failed to do despite the determination to pass such a law.
Castelo, chairman of the House Committee on Metropolitan Manila Development, stressed that the conduct of the mid-term election next year will pave the way for the enactment into law of some proposed measures, including the BBL.
The mid-term elections are slated to be held on the second Monday of May in 2019.
Aside from the BBL, Castelo said the House of Representatives and the Senate are also facing a challenge to clarify the shift to a federal form of government, which is also expected to be taken up in the next Congress.
He added the enactment into law of the BBL would help President Duterte to resolve the problem in Mindanao, which is a priority of his administration.
“Ang kapayapaan sa Mindanao ay hindi lamang para sa seguridad ng bansa bagkus, para isulong ang ating ekonomiya, lalo na Mindanao (The peace in Mindanao is not only for the security of the country, but rather, to propel the economy, especially in Mindanao),” Castelo said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041706
Quezon City 2nd District Rep. Winston Castelo on Tuesday said the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) should be passed into law before the third State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday (July 23).
The House of Representatives and the Senate will have their second joint regular session for the 17th Congress on Monday where President Duterte will deliver his third SONA.
In an ambush interview, Castelo said “dapat palakasin (ang autonomy ng region) ng Bicameral Conference Committee para tapusin ang Bangsamoro Basic Law o BBL bago ang State of the Nation Address o SONA sa Hulyo 23 (The Bicameral Conference Committee should strengthen the autonomy of the region to finish the BBL before the SONA on July 23)."
"Ito’y matapos ang pag-apruba sa 88 porsyento at 87 porsyento ng trust rating ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte sa survey kamakailan ng Pulse Asia (this was after the approval in the 88 percent and 87 percent of the trust rating of President Rodrigo Duterte in the recent Pulse Asia survey)," he added.
He noted that the huge support for the President should be taken into consideration to push for the approval of the proposed law for autonomy, which the past administration failed to do despite the determination to pass such a law.
Castelo, chairman of the House Committee on Metropolitan Manila Development, stressed that the conduct of the mid-term election next year will pave the way for the enactment into law of some proposed measures, including the BBL.
The mid-term elections are slated to be held on the second Monday of May in 2019.
Aside from the BBL, Castelo said the House of Representatives and the Senate are also facing a challenge to clarify the shift to a federal form of government, which is also expected to be taken up in the next Congress.
He added the enactment into law of the BBL would help President Duterte to resolve the problem in Mindanao, which is a priority of his administration.
“Ang kapayapaan sa Mindanao ay hindi lamang para sa seguridad ng bansa bagkus, para isulong ang ating ekonomiya, lalo na Mindanao (The peace in Mindanao is not only for the security of the country, but rather, to propel the economy, especially in Mindanao),” Castelo said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041706
Sunday, July 15, 2018
Body of suspected rebel found in Surigao forest
From the Sun Star-Davao (Jul 15): Body of suspected rebel found in Surigao forest
TROOPS belonging to the Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) recovered on Saturday, July 14, the body of a man believed to be a member of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Barangay Lahi in Gigaguit, Surigao del Norte.
A report from Philippine Army’s 30th Infantry Battalion said residents in the area reported to its Community Support Program (CSP) team about a foul smell that came from the mountainous part of the community.
"From the information received, our team together with the barangay officials went to the area to check what caused the foul scent. About one kilometer from the community, the group found a decomposing body of an NPA rebel," Lt. Colonel Allen Tomas, commander of the 30th Infantry Battalion, said.
Tomas said they also found near the body a pair of rain boots, a bandolier, a spikes tactical SL15 striker 5.56mm rifle, four magazines and 81 rounds of ammunition. The body and items were brought to the barangay.
It can be recalled that on July 10, 2018, there was a 15-minute firefight between the army and members of the NPA’s Sangay ng Partido Platun 16C, Guerilla Front 16 of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Command in the area.
Tomas said there was no casualty reported in his troops, but there were bloodstains seen in the area after the clash. He added that they believed there were casualties on the communist group’s side.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1753019/Davao/Local-News/Body-of-suspected-rebel-found-in-Surigao-forest
TROOPS belonging to the Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) recovered on Saturday, July 14, the body of a man believed to be a member of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Barangay Lahi in Gigaguit, Surigao del Norte.
A report from Philippine Army’s 30th Infantry Battalion said residents in the area reported to its Community Support Program (CSP) team about a foul smell that came from the mountainous part of the community.
"From the information received, our team together with the barangay officials went to the area to check what caused the foul scent. About one kilometer from the community, the group found a decomposing body of an NPA rebel," Lt. Colonel Allen Tomas, commander of the 30th Infantry Battalion, said.
Tomas said they also found near the body a pair of rain boots, a bandolier, a spikes tactical SL15 striker 5.56mm rifle, four magazines and 81 rounds of ammunition. The body and items were brought to the barangay.
It can be recalled that on July 10, 2018, there was a 15-minute firefight between the army and members of the NPA’s Sangay ng Partido Platun 16C, Guerilla Front 16 of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Command in the area.
Tomas said there was no casualty reported in his troops, but there were bloodstains seen in the area after the clash. He added that they believed there were casualties on the communist group’s side.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1753019/Davao/Local-News/Body-of-suspected-rebel-found-in-Surigao-forest
Police capture NPA rebel surrenderee after escape try
From the Sun Star-Cagayan de Oro (Jul 15): Police capture NPA rebel surrenderee after escape try
POLICE have captured a former communist rebel who surrendered to the village officials of Salay town in Misamis Oriental on Wednesday, July 11, but later attempted to escape.
The rebel returnee, whose identity was withheld, was turned over to the Salay town police upon his surrender.
Police said the former combatant of the New People’s Army (NPA) yielded his long firearm and ammunition.
However, Senior Inspector Arlyne Ranario, spokesperson of the Misamis Oriental Provincial Police Office, said the former NPA fighter attempted to escape from the custody of the provincial headquarters, Friday night, July 13.
The police ran after him and got him back.
“Niambak siya ug nisulay pagsibat kay kuno maghatag siyag kwarta sa iyang asawa. Ambot ba sad lagi ngano wala na lang siya mananghid. Nakagawas na gyud siya diha sa highway pero naapas siya sa kapolisan (He jumped off and tried to escape because he said he will give money to his wife. I do not know why he did not just asked permission. He already reached the highway when our policemen captured him),” Ranario said.
Ranario said the police opted not to divulge other personal information for the security of the former rebel.
Authorities said the government is processing the availment of the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) where the rebel returnee can benefit halfway house, education, skills training, and livelihood for his successful integration into the community.
Provincial police director Senior Superintendent Rolando Destura said the provincial police will continue to support the CLIP to encourage the Maoist guerillas to surrender, lay down their arms and return allegiance to the government.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1752935/Cagayan-De-Oro/Local-News/Police-capture-NPA-rebel-surrenderee-after-escape-try
POLICE have captured a former communist rebel who surrendered to the village officials of Salay town in Misamis Oriental on Wednesday, July 11, but later attempted to escape.
The rebel returnee, whose identity was withheld, was turned over to the Salay town police upon his surrender.
Police said the former combatant of the New People’s Army (NPA) yielded his long firearm and ammunition.
However, Senior Inspector Arlyne Ranario, spokesperson of the Misamis Oriental Provincial Police Office, said the former NPA fighter attempted to escape from the custody of the provincial headquarters, Friday night, July 13.
The police ran after him and got him back.
“Niambak siya ug nisulay pagsibat kay kuno maghatag siyag kwarta sa iyang asawa. Ambot ba sad lagi ngano wala na lang siya mananghid. Nakagawas na gyud siya diha sa highway pero naapas siya sa kapolisan (He jumped off and tried to escape because he said he will give money to his wife. I do not know why he did not just asked permission. He already reached the highway when our policemen captured him),” Ranario said.
Ranario said the police opted not to divulge other personal information for the security of the former rebel.
Authorities said the government is processing the availment of the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) where the rebel returnee can benefit halfway house, education, skills training, and livelihood for his successful integration into the community.
Provincial police director Senior Superintendent Rolando Destura said the provincial police will continue to support the CLIP to encourage the Maoist guerillas to surrender, lay down their arms and return allegiance to the government.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1752935/Cagayan-De-Oro/Local-News/Police-capture-NPA-rebel-surrenderee-after-escape-try
AFP warns students of Maute recruitment in schools
From the Sun Star-Cagayan de Oro (Jul 13): AFP warns students of Maute recruitment in schools
Photo from the Armed Forces of the Philippines Facebook page
THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) told students to be vigilant, as remnants of the terror group Maute-Isis has started recruiting new members in schools, particularly in universities.
The warning came after the AFP reportedly received information from the 48 Maute-Isis surrenderers.
"Among the revelations that they gave us is that, aside from recruiting in the municipalities around Lanao del Sur, they are also recruiting in schools dahil gusto nga nilang makuha yung mga kabataan (because they want to gather youths)," Colonel Romeo Brawner Jr., AFP Joint Task Force Ranao deputy commander, said on Wednesday, July 11.
"Ang alam po natin is that meron silang recruitment sa lahat ng schools. Maaaring hindi lantaran na recruitment (We know that there are recruitments in all the schools. It may not be done openly) but there are recruitments. We have to warn really our students," he added.
The deputy commander said that at present, they have been keeping a closer eye on universities as recruitment is not only done by the Maute group but also by the New People's Army (NPA).
"Hindi lang naman ang Maute ang nagre-recruit, pati yung NPA nagre-recruit (The Maute group isn't the only one recruiting students, the NPA too). [In] Davao, Cagayan de Oro. So when we talk about recruitment, we are not just referring to the recruitment done by the Maute-Isis, pati yung NPA nagre-recruit (even the NPA is recruiting)," Brawner said.
"The first solution, the first step to solving a problem is to recognize the problem. We have to recognize that there is a recruitment happening. At alam naman natin, tayo naging estudyante tayo, alam natin nangyayari ya, (We know that, we were once students, we know that) and until now may recruitment pa rin (recruitment is still present)," he added.
Brawner said the AFP has started addressing the problem by incorporating peace education in the school's curriculum.
"Ang ginagawa po natin is that pinapasukan na natin yung curriculum natin nang peace education (What we're doing is that we're incorporating peace education in the curriculum) so that the students are aware of what it is to be a peaceful nation and what their roles are to achieve that," the deputy commander said.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1752625/Cagayan-De-Oro/Local-News/AFP-warns-students-of-Maute-recruitment-in-schools
Photo from the Armed Forces of the Philippines Facebook page
THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) told students to be vigilant, as remnants of the terror group Maute-Isis has started recruiting new members in schools, particularly in universities.
The warning came after the AFP reportedly received information from the 48 Maute-Isis surrenderers.
"Among the revelations that they gave us is that, aside from recruiting in the municipalities around Lanao del Sur, they are also recruiting in schools dahil gusto nga nilang makuha yung mga kabataan (because they want to gather youths)," Colonel Romeo Brawner Jr., AFP Joint Task Force Ranao deputy commander, said on Wednesday, July 11.
"Ang alam po natin is that meron silang recruitment sa lahat ng schools. Maaaring hindi lantaran na recruitment (We know that there are recruitments in all the schools. It may not be done openly) but there are recruitments. We have to warn really our students," he added.
The deputy commander said that at present, they have been keeping a closer eye on universities as recruitment is not only done by the Maute group but also by the New People's Army (NPA).
"Hindi lang naman ang Maute ang nagre-recruit, pati yung NPA nagre-recruit (The Maute group isn't the only one recruiting students, the NPA too). [In] Davao, Cagayan de Oro. So when we talk about recruitment, we are not just referring to the recruitment done by the Maute-Isis, pati yung NPA nagre-recruit (even the NPA is recruiting)," Brawner said.
"The first solution, the first step to solving a problem is to recognize the problem. We have to recognize that there is a recruitment happening. At alam naman natin, tayo naging estudyante tayo, alam natin nangyayari ya, (We know that, we were once students, we know that) and until now may recruitment pa rin (recruitment is still present)," he added.
Brawner said the AFP has started addressing the problem by incorporating peace education in the school's curriculum.
"Ang ginagawa po natin is that pinapasukan na natin yung curriculum natin nang peace education (What we're doing is that we're incorporating peace education in the curriculum) so that the students are aware of what it is to be a peaceful nation and what their roles are to achieve that," the deputy commander said.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1752625/Cagayan-De-Oro/Local-News/AFP-warns-students-of-Maute-recruitment-in-schools
PH Navy, RAN kick off 4th MSA today in Palawan
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 16): PH Navy, RAN kick off 4th MSA today in Palawan
AIR ASSET. A group naval officers pose in front of a Navy helicopter in an undated photo. The Philippine Navy through the Naval Force West of the Western Command and the Royal Australian Navy will hold a Maritime Security Activity starting today until July 25 in Palawan. (Photo from Facebook Account of Navforwest PN).
The 4th Maritime Security Activity between the Philippine Navy – Naval Forces West (Navforwest) and the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) will open today.
Navforwest is the water asset of the Armed Forces of the Philippines- Western Command (Wescom).
Running until July 25 in Palawan, the MSA aims to strengthen the interoperability and coordination of Navforwest and RAN to fight terrorism and kidnapping.
Navforwest is the water asset of the Armed Forces of the Philippines- Western Command (Wescom).
Running until July 25 in Palawan, the MSA aims to strengthen the interoperability and coordination of Navforwest and RAN to fight terrorism and kidnapping.
The interoperability training will include Naval Communication System, Planning, Individual shipboarding training, maritime surveillance and search and rescue.
Participating RAN ships---the HMAS Larrakin and HMAS Wollongong--- will dock in Puerto Princesa City Pier at 9 am.
A ship tour will follow after a simple welcoming rite at the pier during the arrival of the RAN ships.
For Navforwest, the following ships will participate: BRP Simeon Castro (PC 374), BRP Carlos Albert (PC 375)and BRP Fort San Felipe (AGS 700).
The kick-off ceremony will take place at the Naval Station Apolinario Jalandoni Covered Court where Navforwest Deputy Commander Carlos V. Sabarre will be the guest of honor and speaker.
Participating RAN ships---the HMAS Larrakin and HMAS Wollongong--- will dock in Puerto Princesa City Pier at 9 am.
A ship tour will follow after a simple welcoming rite at the pier during the arrival of the RAN ships.
For Navforwest, the following ships will participate: BRP Simeon Castro (PC 374), BRP Carlos Albert (PC 375)and BRP Fort San Felipe (AGS 700).
The kick-off ceremony will take place at the Naval Station Apolinario Jalandoni Covered Court where Navforwest Deputy Commander Carlos V. Sabarre will be the guest of honor and speaker.
NPA executes ‘military informer’ in Quezon
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jul 15): NPA executes ‘military informer’ in Quezon
The New People’s Army (NPA) rebels claimed responsibility for the killing of an alleged military informer in Plaridel town in Quezon province.
Cleo del Mundo, spokesperson of the NPA’s Apolonio Mendoza Command, said a rebel hit squad killed Roberto Orugo, whom she accused of given information to the military and helping operations against the rebels.
Del Mundo alleged that in 2008, the victim guided the government forces in an attack against the NPA rebels in Agdangan town.
“After that, he pointed to the location of the NPA’s hidden firearms in exchange for P150,000. He also tipped off the location of three comrades in Atimonan town that resulted in their arrests,” Del Mundo said in a statement on Sunday.
Police report said Orugo, 49, was slain by an unidentified gunman while running his “skit” or trolley along the railroad tracks in Barangay (village) Ilosong on Thursday afternoon.
The killer, one of the trolley passengers, shot the victim on his head and different parts of the body which killed him instantly.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1010371/news-npa-plaridel-quezon-execution-apolonio-mendoza-command
The New People’s Army (NPA) rebels claimed responsibility for the killing of an alleged military informer in Plaridel town in Quezon province.
Cleo del Mundo, spokesperson of the NPA’s Apolonio Mendoza Command, said a rebel hit squad killed Roberto Orugo, whom she accused of given information to the military and helping operations against the rebels.
Del Mundo alleged that in 2008, the victim guided the government forces in an attack against the NPA rebels in Agdangan town.
“After that, he pointed to the location of the NPA’s hidden firearms in exchange for P150,000. He also tipped off the location of three comrades in Atimonan town that resulted in their arrests,” Del Mundo said in a statement on Sunday.
Police report said Orugo, 49, was slain by an unidentified gunman while running his “skit” or trolley along the railroad tracks in Barangay (village) Ilosong on Thursday afternoon.
The killer, one of the trolley passengers, shot the victim on his head and different parts of the body which killed him instantly.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1010371/news-npa-plaridel-quezon-execution-apolonio-mendoza-command
Soldiers wounded in clash with NPA
From the Business Mirror (Jul 15): Soldiers wounded in clash with NPA
TWO soldiers were wounded on Saturday in two separate firefights with suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Abra and Mountain Province, the military said in belated reports.
The clashes happened as the military intensified its campaign against the NPA, especially in Northern Luzon, according to Armed Forces of the Philippines Northern Luzon Command Spokesman Lt. Col. Isagani Nato.
Nato said that the first clash with rebels occurred at around 8:40 a.m. on Saturday at Sitio Dandanac, Barangay Tamboan, Besao, Mountain Province.
During the firefight with about 14 members of the NPA’s Kilusang Larangang Gerilya Ampis led by Commander Digbay, a soldier was wounded in the right arm and at the back, near his pelvic area.
Nato did not identify the soldier, who is a member of the 81st Infantry Battalion. He said the engaged soldiers believed the rebels also incurred casualties.
In another encounter, elements of the 24th Infantry Battalion clashed with at least 10 rebels at around 3:10 p.m., also on Saturday at Barangay Ud-udiao, Sallapadan, Abra.
The rebels are members of the Kilusang Larangang Gerilya North Abra, Nato said.
During the firefight, which lasted for 20 minutes, a soldier was also wounded in the right leg.
The encounter happened following the discovery by the 24th IB of an abandoned temporary rebel encampment in the mountainous area of Barangay Danac, West Boliney, Abra, at around 8 a.m.
The discovery of the camp prompted the soldiers to track down the rebels until they caught up with them in Sallapan.
Nato said the encampment can accommodate more or less 18 rebels.
The soldiers found remains of food stuff, a roll of wire, bamboo beds and bamboo chairs.
“Through focus military operations [FMO] and the support of the community, Nolcom troops will be relentless in pursuing the communist NPA terrorists to prevent the latter from threatening the people and conducting hostile activities, which will eventually contribute in bringing peace, stability and development in the area,” said Nato.
https://businessmirror.com.ph/soldiers-wounded-in-clash-with-npa/
TWO soldiers were wounded on Saturday in two separate firefights with suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Abra and Mountain Province, the military said in belated reports.
The clashes happened as the military intensified its campaign against the NPA, especially in Northern Luzon, according to Armed Forces of the Philippines Northern Luzon Command Spokesman Lt. Col. Isagani Nato.
Nato said that the first clash with rebels occurred at around 8:40 a.m. on Saturday at Sitio Dandanac, Barangay Tamboan, Besao, Mountain Province.
During the firefight with about 14 members of the NPA’s Kilusang Larangang Gerilya Ampis led by Commander Digbay, a soldier was wounded in the right arm and at the back, near his pelvic area.
Nato did not identify the soldier, who is a member of the 81st Infantry Battalion. He said the engaged soldiers believed the rebels also incurred casualties.
In another encounter, elements of the 24th Infantry Battalion clashed with at least 10 rebels at around 3:10 p.m., also on Saturday at Barangay Ud-udiao, Sallapadan, Abra.
The rebels are members of the Kilusang Larangang Gerilya North Abra, Nato said.
During the firefight, which lasted for 20 minutes, a soldier was also wounded in the right leg.
The encounter happened following the discovery by the 24th IB of an abandoned temporary rebel encampment in the mountainous area of Barangay Danac, West Boliney, Abra, at around 8 a.m.
The discovery of the camp prompted the soldiers to track down the rebels until they caught up with them in Sallapan.
Nato said the encampment can accommodate more or less 18 rebels.
The soldiers found remains of food stuff, a roll of wire, bamboo beds and bamboo chairs.
“Through focus military operations [FMO] and the support of the community, Nolcom troops will be relentless in pursuing the communist NPA terrorists to prevent the latter from threatening the people and conducting hostile activities, which will eventually contribute in bringing peace, stability and development in the area,” said Nato.
https://businessmirror.com.ph/soldiers-wounded-in-clash-with-npa/
AFP gets into 2 firefights with NPA in Cordillera region
From GMA News (Jul 15): AFP gets into 2 firefights with NPA in Cordillera region
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) figured in two separate clashes against the Communist Terrorist NPA Groups (CNTGs) in the Cordillera Administrative Region over the weekend.
According to the AFP, members of the 81st Infantry Battalion encountered a group of about 14 NPA (New People's Army) members from the Kilusang Laranggang Gerilya (KLG) in Sitio Dandanac in Barangay Tamboan in Besao, Mountain Province at 8:40 a.m. on Saturday.
"One Army personnel was reported Wounded in Action (WIA) who was hit at his right arm and back near the pelvic area during the incident, while undetermined number of casualties on the NPA side," the AFP said.
Members of the 24th Infantry Battalion also discovered an abandoned temporary NPA encampment area in Barangay Danac in West Boliney, Abra at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday.
The facility was estimated to be about 100 square meters, which could accommodate some 18 persons. The area was said to have had remains of food, a roll of wire, and bamboo beds and chairs.
The soldiers searched the area further and got into a firefight with 10 NPA members around Barangay Ud-udiao in Sallapadan, Abra at 3:10 in the afternoon on the same day.
"Firefight lasted until 3:30 p.m. (20-minute firefight) resulting to the wounding of another Army trooper who was hit in his right leg. Efforts to evacuate the WIA was also carried out immediately," said the AFP.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/660523/afp-gets-into-2-firefights-with-npa-in-cordillera-region/story/
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) figured in two separate clashes against the Communist Terrorist NPA Groups (CNTGs) in the Cordillera Administrative Region over the weekend.
According to the AFP, members of the 81st Infantry Battalion encountered a group of about 14 NPA (New People's Army) members from the Kilusang Laranggang Gerilya (KLG) in Sitio Dandanac in Barangay Tamboan in Besao, Mountain Province at 8:40 a.m. on Saturday.
"One Army personnel was reported Wounded in Action (WIA) who was hit at his right arm and back near the pelvic area during the incident, while undetermined number of casualties on the NPA side," the AFP said.
Members of the 24th Infantry Battalion also discovered an abandoned temporary NPA encampment area in Barangay Danac in West Boliney, Abra at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday.
The facility was estimated to be about 100 square meters, which could accommodate some 18 persons. The area was said to have had remains of food, a roll of wire, and bamboo beds and chairs.
The soldiers searched the area further and got into a firefight with 10 NPA members around Barangay Ud-udiao in Sallapadan, Abra at 3:10 in the afternoon on the same day.
"Firefight lasted until 3:30 p.m. (20-minute firefight) resulting to the wounding of another Army trooper who was hit in his right leg. Efforts to evacuate the WIA was also carried out immediately," said the AFP.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/660523/afp-gets-into-2-firefights-with-npa-in-cordillera-region/story/
Body of alleged NPA fighter found in Surigao del Sur town
From ABS-CBN (Jul 15): Body of alleged NPA fighter found in Surigao del Sur town
State troops in Surigao del Norte found the decomposing body of a suspected member of the New People's Army (NPA) after residents in Gigaquit town complained of a foul smell in the neighborhood, the military said Sunday.
Lt. Colonel Allen Tomas of the 30th Infantry Battalion said the military's community support program team, along with local village officials, found the rotting body, which was the source of the odor, a kilometer away from the houses in Barangay Lahi.
Tomas said the body had been identified by his father as Romel Tac-an, alias "Jasper," allegedly the vice commander of the NPA's Sangay ng Partido sa Platun 16C.
The soldier said troops recovered a pair of rain boots, a bandoleer, a rifle, 4 magazines, and 81 rounds of ammunition from Tac-an's body.
Tomas said Tac-an may have been left by NPA fighters belonging to Sangay ng Partido, Guerilla Front Committee 16, and North Eastern Mindanao Regional Command, who fled after a 15-minute clash with the military last July 10.
"This is not the first incident where NPA terrorists leave their dead comrade in the encounter site," he said.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/07/15/18/body-of-alleged-npa-fighter-found-in-surigao-del-sur-town
State troops in Surigao del Norte found the decomposing body of a suspected member of the New People's Army (NPA) after residents in Gigaquit town complained of a foul smell in the neighborhood, the military said Sunday.
Lt. Colonel Allen Tomas of the 30th Infantry Battalion said the military's community support program team, along with local village officials, found the rotting body, which was the source of the odor, a kilometer away from the houses in Barangay Lahi.
Tomas said the body had been identified by his father as Romel Tac-an, alias "Jasper," allegedly the vice commander of the NPA's Sangay ng Partido sa Platun 16C.
The soldier said troops recovered a pair of rain boots, a bandoleer, a rifle, 4 magazines, and 81 rounds of ammunition from Tac-an's body.
Tomas said Tac-an may have been left by NPA fighters belonging to Sangay ng Partido, Guerilla Front Committee 16, and North Eastern Mindanao Regional Command, who fled after a 15-minute clash with the military last July 10.
"This is not the first incident where NPA terrorists leave their dead comrade in the encounter site," he said.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/07/15/18/body-of-alleged-npa-fighter-found-in-surigao-del-sur-town
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)