18 NPA 'frontliners' yield to military in Sultan Kudarat

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 5): 18 NPA 'frontliners' yield to military in Sultan Kudarat



NPA SURRENDERERS. Eighteen members of the communist New People’s Army “Yunit Milisya” in Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat, were treated by Army soldiers to a “boodle fight” (food party) following their surrender on Thursday (Oct. 4, 2018) to military authorities. (Photo by 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao -- Eighteen members of the communist New Peoples’ Army (NPA) “Yunit Milisya” voluntarily surrendered Thursday to government forces in Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat.

The communist “Yunit Milisya” is comparable to the Philippine Army’s Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU), serving as frontline forces in upland communities in Central Mindanao where the NPAs mainly operate.

On Thursday, the rebels belonging to an Indigenous Peoples (IPs) community in Sen. Ninoy Aquino surrendered to Army 2Lt. Dennis Gamos, executive officer of the Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion Alpha Company, around 11 a.m. in Barangay Midtungok.

Narding Sunap, 43, the group leader, told soldiers that they wanted to be “cleared” by the soldiers after being recruited as the “first line of defense” of hardcore NPA members in Sen. Ninoy Aquino town.

Sunap said the NPA leader in their community has repeatedly warned them to be always on guard as the military will attack them anytime.

“Ka Makmak (NPA leader) issued us weapons to defend ourselves in case the soldiers will enter our village,” Sunap said, adding that his main job in “Yunit Milisya” is to raise crops in the communal farm so NPA members will have something to eat.

A “Yunit Milisya” member, Pu Mapulo, 29, admitted they have always feared that they may bear the brunt of military offensives after two of their young members surrendered to the Army last month.

“We decided to surrender before it is too late because the two might have previously revealed our identities and location to the Army,” said Mapulo in broken Ilonggo dialect.

The surrenderers handed over 10 short firearms and eight rifles to the Army. Tired and emaciated after their long treks in the forest, the rebels were treated to a “boodle fight” by the soldiers.

Army Lt. Colonel Harold Cabunoc, the 33rd IB commander, said the surrendering group will soon be formally presented to Sen. Ninoy Aquino Mayor Randy Ecija so they can be enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the local government unit.

Since May 2017, more than 200 members of the communist Guerilla Front 73 have surrendered to the 33rd IB.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1050086

IP leaders, NCIP asked to help settle Bukidnon tribal violence

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 5): IP leaders, NCIP asked to help settle Bukidnon tribal violence

 

An October 2, 2018 Facebook post of the Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management of Arakan town says Mayor Rene V. Rubino (left) personnally assessed the situation of several families who fled the violence in the nearby town of Kitaotao in Bukidnon. It said the families returned home after being assured by authorities that the conflict had been settled. (Photo of Arakan MDRRMC Facebook Page)

DAVAO CITY – The Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) has asked tribal leaders and the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) to help resolve the suspected "pangayaw" or tribal war in the Bukidnon town of Kitaotao.

Lt. Col Ezra Balagtey, Eastmincom spokesperson, said the conflict has already displaced families belonging to the indigenous people (IP) in the area. A number of families, he said, had fled to nearby Arakan town in North Cotabato to escape the violence.

“We are calling the tribal group concerned to resolve their issue through their respective IP leaders, of course with the intervention of the NCIP office,” Balagtey said.

Balagtey assured that the military and other law enforcement agencies would not allow the conflict to escalate and spill into neighboring communities.

“Our job is to protect everyone,” the military official said.

Police reports indicated that villagers in the remote Barangay Tawas fled to Arakan Valley in North Cotabato after eight armed men entered the area on Monday, allegedly to avenge the killing of a relative.

Killed during the suspected "pangayaw" was 61-year-old Rodulfo Caingles Handuman, who was stabbed and hacked in different parts of his body.

The Kitaotao Municipal Police Station identified one of the armed men as Tudan Uban, a resident of Barangay Sinuda, Kitaotao. Tudan and the other suspects fled after the killing.

Capt. Norman Tagros, civil-military operations officer (CMO) of the Army's 403rd Infantry Brigade, said the tribal conflict stemmed from a stabbing incident that occurred at a public dance, where a member of a Matigsalug tribe was killed.

“Then the members of the tribe (and the victim's) relatives fought back. They were able to kill one person (Handuman). Unfortunately, it was a mistaken identity,” Tagros said.

An investigation by the local police is still ongoing as of posting time, Tagros said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1050087

PRRD to turn over first housing project for ex-NPA rebels

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 5): PRRD to turn over first housing project for ex-NPA rebels



National Housing Authority (NHA) General Manager Marcelino Escalada (blue shirt) together with officials of the NHA in Davao region inspect the frist completed housing units for the former New People's Army (NPA) rebels in Tagum City on Friday. Photo by Lilian C Mellejor/PNA
President Rodrigo Duterte will lead the turn over of the government's settlement project for former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Tagum City later this month.

This was according to National Housing Authority (NHA) General Manager Marcelino Escalada, who conducted a site inspection at the five-hectare Freedom Residences in Barangay Cuambongan, Tagum City on Friday.

Escalada said 50 of the 375 units will be initially turned over to recipients, who are former rebels from Davao Oriental, Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte, parts of Compostela Valley province, and Davao del Norte.

The Freedom Residences is a secured subdivision-type housing project, with each unit costing PHP450,000. Each unit is tiled with 22 square meter floor area in the first floor and 11 square meters for the loft, a provision ready for light and water connections and other facilities.

“The owner of the unit will just have to apply personally for individual water and electricity connections,” the NHA chief said.

He said the housing units are also resilient from worst calamities like a 7.2 earthquake or typhoon.

“We will restrict improvement in the entrance but they can do improvements at the back,” he said, adding the government will also offer livelihood or income-generating opportunities for the beneficiaries.

A wet and dry market will also be built in the subdivision, where owners can engage in small business with the assistance of the government agencies, such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Agriculture (DA).

“This is the first ever housing project of President Duterte for the former rebels,” Escalada said. "The rest of the 375 housing units will be completed by the first quarter of 2019."

He said the first 50 beneficiaries have been fully evaluated by the government through the Expanded-Comprehensive Local Evaluation Program (e-CLIP) for former rebels.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1050118

Lanao Norte town turns over 54 high-powered firearms

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 5): Lanao Norte town turns over 54 high-powered firearms

KOLAMBOGAN, Lanao del Norte--At least 54 assorted loose firearms were turned over Thursday by the local government here to the Joint Task Force Lanao del Norte and the Army's 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade (MIB).

Mayor Lorenzo Mañigos said the turn over was the result of the effort and collaboration with the local chief executives of the province and the military's campaign against loose firearms. 

Mañigos conceded that most Lanao residents maintain a firearm to protect themselves from armed groups and even Moro secessionist rebels. He cited the harrowing experience in 2004 and 2008 when several Lanao provinces were attacked by rogue elements of the Moro Islamic Front (MILF).

“But now we have surpassed the crisis with the help of our men in uniform,” the mayor said,  adding they are optimistic about President Rodrigo Duterte’s effort to restore peace and the government's assurance to defend Lanao residents against atrocities.

“This is a clear manifestation that this could be a beginning for a lasting peace,” Mañigos added.

The ceremonial turn-over of loose firearms was witnessed by Col. Thomas R. Sedano, commander of the Joint Task Force.

Lt. Colonel Ronel R. Manalo, commanding officer of the Army's 5th Mechanized Battalion, said the surrender of the firearms was the result of the series of dialogues between the military and local government officials.

“The rule of law shall always prevail and they will continue to work against the proliferation of loose firearm and the military operations and Joint law enforcement will continuously be conducting against armed individuals and groups threatening the safety and well-being of the people will be pursued,” Manalo said.

The surrendered weapons included three fragmentation grenades, one rifle grenade, 22 assorted magazines, and 122 pieces of ammunition.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1050159

No NPA, ‘Red October’ sorties in Pangasinan: police force

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 5): No NPA, ‘Red October’ sorties in Pangasinan: police force

The 1st and 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC) in the province assured the public that there are no activities concerning the "Red October" ouster plot and that there are no Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) hotspots in the province.

In a radio interview, Superintendents Cirilo Acosta Jr. and Marceliano Desamito Jr., first commanders of 1st and 2nd PMFC respectively, noted that per their strict monitoring, they learned that no recruitment or amassing of forces was being done by the "Reds" in their respective areas of responsibility.

“We have seen no NPA activities in the province. The province of Pangasinan was declared anew as 'insurgency-free', hence the areas under constant watch are already considered white areas – those with negative activity from the Reds,” Acosta said.

In Pangasinan, two PMFCs have been deployed – the 1st PMFC to the 1st to 3rd Districts of the province, while the remaining three districts are under the 2nd PMFC.

“Despite the assigned territories, patrolling activities between our companies may overlap,” Acosta said, adding that this does not adversely affect their operations. On the contrary, they are able to provide augmentation to other police operations, he said.

One of the PMFC’s main objectives is to combat all forms of insurgency in its area of responsibility, Desamito noted.

“For almost a decade of keeping a watchful eye against the CPP-NPA, the entire province is already within our full control. No traces remain,” he said even as he assured their consistent vigilance against the communist rebels.

“There may be no buildup of forces here, but we guarantee the public that we will be continuous in our surveillance and patrolling in the province – and that we won’t let any harm befall our kaluyagan (provincemate),” Desamito stressed.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1050109

Retiring army chief is next DSWD Secretary

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 5): Retiring army chief is next DSWD Secretary

President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Thursday night named retiring Army chief, Lt. Gen. Roland Bautista, as the next Secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

“Na-announce ko naman (I have announced), the next DSWD Secretary was just about a few days ---Rolly Bautista,” Duterte said in a speech before members of the Philippine Military Academy Alumni Association (PMAAAI).

In a command conference last month, Duterte bared that he wanted Bautista to replace resigned National Food Authority (NFA) administrator Jason Aquino.

Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea told reporters that Bautista did not decline the NFA post but was offered a new post as DSWD chief.

Duterte has yet to announce someone to replace Aquino, who resigned amid issues hounding the country’s rice supply.

Bautista will retire on Oct. 15 when he turns 56 years old.

Prior to being army chief, Bautista was also Presidential Security Group (PSG) commander.

Earlier, Duterte bared that he prefers military men in his Cabinet since they get the job done immediately.

DSWD Acting Secretary Virginia Orogo currently heads the agency.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1050073

DOJ chief to take up Red infiltration report with AFP

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 5): DOJ chief to take up Red infiltration report with AFP

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Friday said he will discuss with Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Carlito Galvez allegations that the Department of Justice (DOJ) has been infiltrated by communists.

“I will take it up directly with AFP Chief Galvez to get more info from him,” Guevarra told reporters. “We take this seriously. Personally, this is the first time I heard such allegation,” Guevarra said.

Brig. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr., AFP Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, claimed that the communists have infiltrated the DOJ and allegedly have been helping dismiss criminal complaints against communist rebels.

Guevarra expressed confidence with the DOJ prosecutors in the handling of criminal complaints.

“Our prosecutors rely principally on the evidence submitted by our law enforcers and security personnel, including the AFP,” he said.

Parlade also earlier said that there are at least 18 schools where the Communist Party of the Philippines-New Peoples’ Army (CPP-NPA) is allegedly recruiting students as part of its plan to overthrow President Rodrigo Duterte.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1050127

MILF: Editorial - Moro, Christian leaders meet

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Oct 1): Editorial - Moro, Christian leaders meet

There is nothing more soothing and encouraging than to see and witness leaders from the Muslim and Christian groups meet in a very frank, fraternal, and tense-free atmosphere to discuss peace and peace process in Mindanao. We are referring to the Moro-Christian Leaders Peace Dialogue held at the Waterfront and Insular Hotel last September 26-27.
Whereas before religion was used to justify wars on each other, especially during the Crusades from 1096 and 1291 to recover the Holy Land from Muslim control, and also by Moros to defend their homeland from invaders from the 16th century and onward, this time, it was pursued to promote unity among the religious groups. Both confessional groups fully realized the need to have genuine peace in the Bangsamoro and in Mindanao and to have the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) ratified during the plebiscite on January 21 next year. They also agreed to hold similar events involving grassroot communities, as well as indigenous peoples.

Those in attendance were not ordinary Church and Islamic leaders. Leading the Christians were His Eminence Cardinal Orlando Quevedo, Most Reverend Romulo Valles, Bishop Noel Pantoja, Rev. Father Benjamin Ariel Torreto, Sr. Ma. Fe D. Gerodias, RVM, Most Reverend Edwin Dela Pena, and from the Muslim side, were MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, MNLF Vice Chairman Hatimil Hassan, Chairman Muslimin Sema of the MNLF People’s Congress, and Vice Chairman (on Political Affairs) Romeo Sema, Chairman Mohagher Iqbal of the MILF Peace Implementing Panel, BIAF Chief of Staff Sammy Al Mansoor, MILF (and Bangsamoro mufti) Abehuraira Udasan, and several others senior leaders including three ulama or learned in Islam).

Also, in attendance, in fact coordinating the event, were Edgardo Ramirez, ARMM Deputy Governor for Christians, and Sheikh Mahmod Ahmad of the Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI). There were several similar dialogues in the past that served as the prelude to this meeting in Davao City.

This meeting was sponsored by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and was represented by Chetan Kumar, UNDP Peace and Development Advisor.

Frankly, this get-together is very encouraging. For us, while we cannot forget the past, because there must be a closure through transitional justice and reconciliation, but the future is more important. We are in an era where problems must be settled in a civilized way rather through the use of brute force and duplicity.

Finally, since all problems are virtually political in nature but religions are often used to justify and fuel them. With the example set forth during the dialogue in Davao City, we are confident that any problem that comes our way can be handled with ease, understanding, and fair play.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1519/moro__christian_leaders_meet

MILF: Iqbal graces Thanksgiving / Kanduli for passage of BOL hosted by Kapatagan LGU

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Oct 2): Iqbal graces Thanksgiving / Kanduli for passage of BOL hosted by Kapatagan LGU



IN PHOTO- MILF PIP Chair Mohagher Iqbal delivering his message during the food banquet hosted by Kapatagan LGU

Cotabato City-The Chairman of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Peace Implementing Panel Mohagher Iqbal graced the Thanksgiving/ Kanduli or food banquet for the passage of Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) sponsored by the Local Government Unit of Kapatagan, Lanao Del Sur in collaboration with Bangsamoro Communication Network (BCN), and the Federation of Bangsamoro Civil Society Organizations (FBCSO) held at the Kapatagan Municipal Ground on September 26, 2018.
The guests and participants were welcomed by Vice Mayor Raida B. Maglangit who represented Mayor Nhazruddin Maglangit who was on official travel.

The highlight of Thanksgiving / Kanduli was an advocacy program on Understanding the Bangsamoro Organic Law, its salient features, prospects and opportunities.

Despite the heavy rains, the activity was attended by more or less 2,800 participants mostly students, professionals, settlers, academe, religious and security sectors, MNLF leaders, Local and Barangay officials, some members of the MILF Central Committee, officers and men of Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF), and Provincial and Municipal Political Committees of both Ranaw and Iranun provinces.

In his message, Iqbal narrated the sequences of the peace process that started from 1976 Tripoli Agreement, 1986 Jeddah Accord, MOA - AD, the FAB, and CAB that resulted the passage of Bangsamoro Organic Law.



IN PHOTO-Vice Mayor Raida B. Maglangit delivering her message of support to the Bangsamoro Organic Law

He reiterated that, " BOL is not a perfect law but it answers some important issues of the Bangsamoro that we can start with and it is not 100% CAB compliant but we can have something to work on for the general welfare of the Bangsamoro people."

" Our quest for our Bangsamoro aspiration does not end here, we have the CAB wherein our next generation could demand or ask the full implementation of the agreement. "

He also stressed that, " CAB is a political document for a political settlement of the Bangsamoro question that must be honored by both parties as witnessed by the international communities. "

" The greatest challenge for us now is the ratification of the BOL so that it can be effective. We need a Yes vote in this coming plebiscite on January 21, 2019 so that Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) will be in placed to address major issues confronting the Bangsamoro people."

" Our scheduled plebiscite does not preclude the filing of candidacy for all elective positions in ARMM from the Regional Governor down to the Regional Legislative Assembly (RLA) this month of October." He lamented.

Also present in the event were former Congressman Atty. Pangalian Balindong, Assemblyman Atty. Abol Alam Padate , Board Member Tanjie, and LTC Clairemont W. Pinpin , Commanding Officer of 6IB,6ID, AFP and other stakeholders.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1523/iqbal-graces-thanksgiving---kanduli-for-passage-of-bol-hosted-by-kapatagan-lgu

MILF: Key Leaders of MILF POLCOM-Northern Sulu Hold BOL Advocacy

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Oct 3): Key Leaders of MILF POLCOM-Northern Sulu Hold BOL Advocacy



IN PHOTO- MILF POLCOM Key Leaders in Siet Higad , Panamao , Sulu pose for a souvenir photo during BOL Advocacy

Camp Darapanan , Sultan Kudarat , Maguindanao. Some fifty (50) Key leaders of Moro Islamic Liberation Front Provincial Political Committee (MILF-POLCOM) of Northern Sulu conducted an advocacy on Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) in coordination with the 1st Battalion of 117th Base Command of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) held at Barangay Siet Higad , Bilal Tangkian , Panamao , Sulu on September 23, 2018.
The advocacy aims to strengthen the MILF - BIAF relationship towards unity and solidarity and have a better understanding on the salient features of BOL.

Municipal Political Committee Chairman Gulam Amil in his opening message appealed to his barangay constituents to help advocate the BOL and campaign for the Yes vote come January 21, 2019 plebiscite.

SWC Provincial Chairperson Sitti Ruaida I. Ismi shared her thoughts on unity and solidarity of Muslim Ummah as embodied in the Quran and Hadith.

SWC Vice Chairperson for Rehabilitation and Relief Sharifa Norma Ali advised all SWC members to cooperate and coordinate with their respective barangay officials regarding their activities for guidance.

Provincial Committee Chairman Abdulmotalib K. Ismi in his message requested all Municipal and Barangay Committees within his AOR to follow guidelines towards peace and solidarity in their common cause and appealed to BIAF members to cooperate with their respective officers to avoid misunderstanding that will lead to fitna.

He also advised the participants to double their efforts of ensuring the ratification of the BOL this coming plebiscite.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1525/key-leaders-of-milf-polcom-northern-sulu-hold-bol-advocacy

MILF: Pagalungan, Parang CSWG Conduct Series of Dialogue on BOL

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Oct 5): Pagalungan, Parang CSWG Conduct Series of Dialogue on BOL



The Community Security Working Group (CSWG) conducted a series of dialogue from September to October this year in selected barangays of Pagalungan and Parang in Maguindanao aimed at educating the communities on the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) and design plan for the workshop of its peacebuilding project.


BOL is the legal translation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), a peace deal signed by the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in 2014 which seeks to establish a new autonomous political entity called Bangsamoro.

Organizers held the activity at Barangays Damalasak, Galakit and Layog in Pagalungan and Barangays Campo Islam, Moropoint and Cabuan in Parang, all in Maguindanao province.

After discussing the BOL, the CSWG officers held a planning for the future workshop on conflict transformation and peacebuilding in municipal level by October 2018.

The undertaking was attended by Barangay officials, community leaders ‘and different sectors’ representatives.

In Pagalungan, the CSWG officers were able to meet Municipal Mayor Datu Salik Mamasabulod to give an updates on the progress of the project both local, regional, national and international level.

Mamasabulod expressed appreciation to the CSWG’s regular updating. He also committed to support the peace initiatives of the group and even encouraged the officers of having partnership in campaigning for the winning of “yes” for BOL.

Yusoph Lumambas, the Project Officer of this program said that the project is being supported by the European Union. It aims at empowering communities in the Bangsamoro to resolve local conflicts and improve local governance in collaboration with government authorities.

The undertaking builds on the results of a previous EU-funded “Promoting Public Participation in the Peace Process” which included the pilot-testing of Community Security Working Groups in two locations in Central Mindanao.

“The project is being implemented by UNYPAD, TLWOI and CR across 12 different barangays within the municipalities of Pagalungan, Parang, North Upi and South Upi all in the Province of Maguindanao,” Lumambas said.

The project implementers have been working alongside communities, local and regional government and civil society organisations.

The project’s primary objectives are the following:

a) To increase the capacities of communities as well as local government bodies to identify, articulate and take responsibility and action to address issues and concern that cut across conflict divides. These issues typically relate to human security and development needs;

b) Create inclusive spaces for dialogue and joint action between communities; between communities and local authorities; and between local, regional and national levels;

c) Involve local, regional and national government bodies in the implementation of the project and;

d) Document the learning of this experience; and reflect on the learning comparing it with other similar national and international initiatives. This will contribute to institutionalising and replicating the experience beyond the 12 target communities.

The UNYPAD since its inception in 2004 has implemented various peace and development projects in Maguindanao, North Cotabato, Lanao del Sur, and Sultan Kudarat province and very recently the implementation of their program targeting youth on educating them on the, negative impact of violent extremism and radicalism.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1528/pagalungan--parang-cswg-conduct-series-of-dialogue-on-bol

MILF: OPAPP, int’l partners continue to address root causes of conflict in Mindanao

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Oct 5): OPAPP, int’l partners continue to address root causes of conflict in Mindanao



Sec. Dureza speaks during the presentation of its 2017 report titled “War and Identity” on Tuesday at Bonifacio Global City

Taguig City, October 3, 2018 — International Alert Philippines, one of the longstanding partners of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), is taking steps to identify and address the underlying roots of conflict in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

 During the presentation of its 2017 report titled “War and Identity” on Tuesday at Bonifacio Global City, the group said shadow economies, particularly activities attributed to trade and use of illicit weapons and drugs, is the top reason for conflict with a total of 1,549 related reports in 2017.

Coming in second are identity issues with 1,224 related reports, while third are common crimes with 719 related reports.

Other causes were political, resources, and governance issues.

International Alert used Conflict Alert as its monitoring mechanism in tracking the incidence, causes, and human costs of violent conflict in the Philippines.

In his remarks at the presentation, Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus G. Dureza underscored the importance of determining the factors that affect conflict and violence.

“I am glad that there is an effort to find out what are the real triggers of conflict. Many are analyzing it, but we cannot come up with solutions if we don’t know the root cause,” he said.

Dureza also lauded International Alert, saying its report could be of help in “improving ways on how to deal with peace efforts.”

OPAPP recently launched its Social Healing and Peacebuilding Program (SHAPE) to address the root causes of conflict in the vulnerable areas of Mindanao, particularly in Marawi City.

SHAPE promotes peacebuilding and reconciliation among the victims of conflict while addressing issues and concerns that might emerge following last year’s Marawi siege.

The program includes mainstreaming of conflict-sensitive and peace-promoting approaches in local development planning, welfare assistance to vulnerable entities, and college educational assistance project.

Also during International Alert’s presentation, World Bank Country Director Mara Warwick said the challenge of addressing the roots of conflict in Mindanao is among the top priorities of WB.

“We believe in its (Philippine Government) principle to ending the extreme poverty and achieving shared prosperity. Achieving these goals means continually shuffling our understanding of fragility and conflict in Mindanao,” Warwick said.

Clare Duffield, Counsellor for Political and Public Trade, extended the Australian Government’s commitment to support the Duterte administration on its work for peace.

“The challenge of bringing peace and development to Mindanao continues to grow but with reports such as this we can head in the right direction,” Duffield said.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1527/opapp--int---l-partners-continue-to-address-root-causes-of-conflict-in-mindanao

CPP/NPA-Negros: “Surrender hypes”, a modus operandi of the mercenary AFP

NPA-Negros Island propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Oct 2): “Surrender hypes”, a modus operandi of the mercenary AFP

Dionesio Magbuelas

NPA-Negros Island (Mt. Cansermon Command)

New People's Army

October 02, 2018

 

The revolutionary movement under Mt. Cansermon Command (MCC), Central Negros Guerilla Front 2, strongly condemns the treachery, deception and threaths by the 62nd IB Phil. Army, as they once again forced the peasant masses of Brgy. Santol, Binalbagan to surrender, when they are just supposed to attend the meeting called by the Army to discuss a land problem formerly owned by the Fuentespina family, last September 21, 2018. Upon arriving at the Brgy. Hall, the invited peasants were forced to read the paper condemning and rejecting the revolutionary movement and they were made to take an oath before the Army officials never to join any organization tagged as legal fronts of the revolutionary movement. This frightened and angered the people at the same time.

This is the second time, following the forced surrender of the peasants of Brgy. Carabalan, Himamaylan City last July 8, 2018. These people were also invited to attend a meeting at the Brgy. Hall. There, they were forced to sign a blank attendance sheet and right after, they were commanded to burn the flag of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), and they were made to take an oath rejecting and condemning the NPA, CPP and the NDFP. People were shocked and angry.

Forcing innocent people to surrender is a modus operandi of the AFP, where their officials drivel over the money they can siphon from the country’s treasury. For according to their propaganda, surrenderees can avail thousands of pesos and material things as rewards for their surrender.

But according to some who were forced to surrender, not even a 30% of the supposed reward or “surrender money”goes to the surrenderees, because officials of the AFP are getting hold of the larger part of the supposed reward. Some are given on an installment basis. And upon receiving such money, here comes the shameless Army personnels who would borrow the surrenderees’ money to spend on gambling (tong-its), womanizing and drinking. Worse, there are those who received nothing but promises.

While the whole country is conditioned for a Martial Law, the mercenary AFP is harboring an endless illusion, particulary the 62nd IB PA, over quashing the New People’s Army this year and in 2019 in what ever means possible – whether it’s a legitimate operation or illigetimate, violating the International Humanitarian Law or the International Laws on War and violates people’s human rights, detrimental to people’s interests.

Under the deceptive Operation Plan Kapayapaan, the fascist US-Duterte regime, further intensifies militarization in the countrysides. Psychological warfare complements the armed attack which aim the civilian populace accused of being sympathizers of the revolutionary movement. “Surrender hypes” has been activated, as in Brgy. Carabalan, Himamaylan City and in Brgy. Santol, Binalbagan, all of Negros Occidental.

Despite the AFP’s expenditures of thousands of pesos, if not millions yet, supported by their air combat support, drone operations and land attack, and the Peace and Development (PDT) operation, the 62nd IB PA failed to initiate an armed confrontation with the NPA. Instead, they were already ambushed by the NPA twice this year in Kabankalan City and Manjuyod.

Thus, the “recycled tactics” of deceptive “surrender hypes”, to save face in their failure of combat and psywar operations. Wreaking confusions and intimidations among leaders and members of legal peasant associations are also among the “recycled tactics”.

Human rights violations by the 62nd IB PA are piling up. Despite people’s clamor, particularly of the people of Binalbagan and Himamaylan, the local government units have done nothing, especially the Mayor of Binalbagan, Emmanuel Aranda, who instead of listening and taking action on people’s complaints over the Army’s staying in people’s houses without the owners permission, threats and intimidation on officers and members of legal association, the Mayor permitted the Army’s encampment among the populace, chapels and barangay halls.

Thus, the people challenge the Commission on Human Rights (CHR), the LGUs and the progressive organizations, to conduct an ample investigation and file cases against the executioners violating human rights, before the reactionary court of the Republic of the Philippines and before the revolutionary people’s court or before the Joint Monitoring Committee of the GRP and the NDFP!

Punish the fascist military!
Resume the peace talks now!
End Oplan Kapayapaan!
Oust the US-Duterte regime!
Celebrate the 50th Year Anniversary of the CPP by intensifying people’s war!

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/surrender-hypes-a-modus-operandi-of-the-mercenary-afp/

CPP/NPA-EV: WORSE THAN “TOKHANG”: NPA-EV slams Duterte for threatening mass arrest and mass murder in “counterinsurgency”

NPA-Eastern Visayas propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Oct 3): WORSE THAN “TOKHANG”: NPA-EV slams Duterte for threatening mass arrest and mass murder in “counterinsurgency”
      

Karlos Manuel

NPA-Eastern Visayas (Efren Martires Command)

New People's Army            

 

October 03, 2018

 

The Efren Martires Command of the New People’s Army in Eastern Visayas today condemned GRP President Rodrigo Duterte for telling the military to carry out arbitrary arrests as well as to carry out extrajudicial killings against NPA members in his talk to the 803rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army this October 2 in Catarman, Northern Samar.

“Duterte’s statements show how he is becoming even more despicable each day that passes in his drive to become the dictator of the Philippines,” said Ka Karlos Manuel. “What else could his backing of warrantless arrests mean except sanctioning the mass arrest of all deemed to be members of the New People’s Army? What else could “neutralization” mean except promoting the mass murder of alleged NPA members?

“This is worse than the bloody anti-drug war “Tokhang” which was against a part of the poor who were desperate and dabbled in drugs. Now Duterte wants to arrest or kill all who opposes his regime, who could even be conveniently shot dead and described in police parlance as ‘NPA na nanlaban’ (NPA who fought back). This will be carrying out mass murder because the police and military are steeped in fanatical anticommunism and do not see any difference, such as between a student activist and an NPA Red fighter.”

The NPA-EV spokesperson noted that Duterte’s words violate even the laws of the reactionary government, and show his regime’s desperation to fast-track a more repressive constitution or else declare martial law. “Duterte and his minions have been scrambling to install a fascist dictatorship through a shift to federalism, charter change or declaring martial law. That’s why they make noise about the bogus “Red October” plot to oust Duterte. They want to accumulate arbitrary powers of arrest and detention and even over life and death. Thus we see the regime’s calls for longer detention of terror suspects without charges, warrantless arrests and “neutralization.””

Ka Karlos Manuel urged the people to resist Duterte’s fascist overtures and defend their basic rights. “The people are in turmoil over the socio-economic crisis engendered by Duterte’s neoliberal and despotic diktat. We call on them to fight for their basic issues and defend their basic rights. We call on civil libertarians, human rights advocates, lawyers, church people, peace advocates and other concerned democrats to oppose Duterte’s rising authoritarianism.

“We also urge the police and military to respect human rights and international humanitarian law and disobey Duterte’s illegal and anti-people orders. They can choose to leave the reactionary service to avoid harming the people, and they can also join the NPA to fight on the side of the people for national freedom and democracy.

“In response to Duterte’s threats, the NPA will strive to intensify tactical offensives to defend the people and to punish the police, military and paramilitary units that are the worst human rights violators and promoters of mining, logging, land grabbing and other plunder. The NPA will surely become bigger and stronger because Rodrigo Duterte himself is fast becoming the best NPA recruiter as his human rights violations and dictatorial powers are convincing more people to take up armed struggle and overthrow the reactionary ruling system.”

 

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/worse-than-tokhang-npa-ev-slams-duterte-for-threatening-mass-arrest-and-mass-murder-in-counterinsurgency/

CPP/Ang Bayan: THROWBACK: 10 schools rally to resurgent protest movement

Ang Bayan propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Oct 5): THROWBACK: 10 schools rally to resurgent protest movement

Ang Bayan

October 05, 2018

 

The list of supposedly 10 universities involved in the “Red October” plot, that the Duterte regime asserts its existence, has been released by the Armed Forces of the Philippines. By doing so, it has rabidly red-tagged legal and democratic organizations in these schools. The list intends to quell the already growing unrest among the youth and students.

This act will not, in any way, cower the youth but rather fan their anger. Similar to the massive protests and boycotts during the Marcos’ martial rule, the youth will swell on the streets to protest the grave economic crisis and political persecution of the Duterte regime.

These mass demonstrations caused the downfall of the US-Marcos dictatorship. Is this why the Duterte regime shakes in fear?

In July 1977, almost 200,000 students from 10 colleges and universities mobilized in Metro Manila in a resurging protest movement to resolutely press the Marcos fascist regime to heed their just demands.

United under the banner of the Alyansa ng Mag-aaral Laban sa Pagtaas ng Tuition Fee (Students’ Alliance Against Tuition Fee Increases), the school youth served notice they would continue boycotting their classes as long as the Marcos government vacilllates on their demands.

Fifty student representatives from the different schools assailed the regime’s Department of Education and Culture and the school administrations for dilly-dallying on their demands. They formulated a set of demands, among them the following:

1. Remove all troops and spies of the reactionary Armed Forces of the Philippines from the school campuses.
2. Restore the student councils which are prohibited under martial law.
3. Freeze all tuition fee increases.
4. Roll back tuition fees to their previous levels and refund excess amounts collected by the schools.
5. Conduct a thorough investigation into the harassment and intimidation of students by school administrations.
6. Withdraw letters of school administrations threatening expulsion of student leaders.
7. Stop the arrest and detention of students.

The Alyansa also demanded that the DEC stop authorizing tuition fee increases without prior consultations with the students concerned and their parents. It pointed out that while the regime had been freely granting every petition of the schools to jack up tuition fees, there had been no improvement in school facilities and the quality of education.

 

Mass walkouts in Metro Manila

 

The presentation of the demands to the Marcos government followed mass walkouts of students at the University of the Philippines, Araneta University Foundation, University of the East, Adamson University, Trinity College, Philippine College of Commerce, University of Santo Tomas, Philippine Women’s University, Feati University and Philipphine College of Criminology.

 

The resurgent student movement sprang up during the school registration period early last month. At the start, there were only a few scores of students at UP struggling against the arbitraty tuition fee hikes which were imposed in the guise of “democratizing” the state university.

 

The ranks of the protesting UP students swelled to thousands as classes were scheduled to get under way. Parents and teachers also were mobilized when the Marcos fascist regime unleashed the PC Metrocom at UP Diliman campus.

 

The movement soon spread to the privately owned colleges and universities where the students protested the 15 percent increase in tuition fees which the Marcos regime had been authorizing yearly since the imposition of martial law in 1972.

 

The students found unity and strength in the Alyansa. They distributed resolutions and manifestos, held mass meetings and cultural presentations, and launched walkouts and boycotts.

 

The mass movement reached a high point in the last three weeks when almost 200,000 students launched simultaneous boycotts in the 10 colleges and universities.

 

The Marcos regime’s response to the students was measured brutality.

 

At UE and UST, security guards under the command of the fascist AFP officers arrested and detained some protesting students and waited to see if this would scare of the others.

 

This inflamed the student ranks further and mobilized many more to join the Alyansa. It also fired the students to demand not just a rollback of tuition fees but the removal of all AFP soldiers and spies from the campuses.

 

At press time, while awaiting the government’s reply to their demands, the almost 200,000 students in the Alyansa were conducting mass work and further expanding and strengthening their ranks.

 

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/2018/10/05/throwback-10-schools-rally-to-resurgent-protest-movement/

CPP/CNL: Payahag ng Christians for National Liberation – Metro Manila hinggil sa “Red October” at ang palyadong taktika ng AFP

Christians for National Liberation (CNL) propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Oct 5): Payahag ng Christians for National Liberation – Metro Manila hinggil sa “Red October” at ang palyadong taktika ng AFP

 

Christians for National Liberation

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

Sr. Carmela Amada

Spokesperson | CNL-Metro Manila

October 05, 2018

 

Desperado na ang reaksyunaryong gobyerno at ang berdugong militar sa pilit na pagpapalutang ng kathang-isip na sapakatang “Red October,” para takutin ang mamamayang Pilipino at bigyang katuwiran ang lumalaganap na tiranya at pandaharas ng estado.

Ang sunod-sunod na red-tagging sa hanay ng mga taong simbahan at pangrelihiyong institusyon, sa hanay ng mga kabataang-estudyante at mga unibersidad, bilang mga tagasuporta at kasapi ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan, ay lumang estratehiyang ginagamit ng militar para hadlangan ang lumalakas na ligal na pakikibaka ng mamamayan upang isulong ang kanilang batayang karapatan.

Hindi mahahandalangan ng mga pananakot na ito ang tuloy-tuloy na pagkilos ng masang Pilipino para sa tunay na reporma sa lupa, trabaho, desenteng paninirahan, edukasyon, at karapatan.

Niloloko ng Armed Forces of the Philippines ang kanilang sarili sa paggigiit nito ng mga gawa-gawang akusasyon laban sa mga letihimong pangmasang organisasyon.

Nalalagay sa peligro ang buhay ng mga taong simbahan, mga aktibista, at organisasyong nagtataguyod ng karapatang pantao dahil sa mga walang batayan na bintang.

Ginagamit ng estado ang “Red October” para pagtakpan ang kapalpakan ng gobyerno ni Rodrigo Duterte na nagsadlak sa mamayan sa labis na kahirapan dahil sa patuloy na pagbagsak ng ekonomiya at paglala ng krisis.

Ginagawang sangkalan ng reaksyunaryong gobyerno ang gawa-gawang “Red October” para ilihis ang mamayang Pilipino sa tunay ng isyu ng pandarambong at laganap ng kurapsyon ng administrasyon ni Duterte.

Hindi na mahahadlangan ng imahinasyong “Red October” ang kusang pagbagsak ng rehimeng US-Duterte. Mas itinutulak nito ang mamamayan upang isulong ang makatarungang pag-aaklas at paggigiit ng kanilang karapatan.

Mariing kinukondena ng Christians for National Liberation (CNL) – Metro Manila ang mga pananakot at bantang ito ng AFP at ang patuloy na pandarahas sa mga alagad ng simbahan, kabataang-estudyante, at mga rebolusyunaryong aktibista.

Ang mga pandarahas na ito ay manipestasyon lamang na walang ibang paraan upang tuldukan ang pasismo at tiranya kundi ang pagsusulong ng armadong pakikibaka sa kanayunan.

Mas paiigtingin ng CNL – Metro Manila ang pagmumulat, pag-oorganisa at pagpapakilos sa hanay ng mga taong simbahan upang hubaran ang mapanlinlang at marahas na taktika ng AFP at ng gobyerno ni Duterte.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/payahag-ng-christians-for-national-liberation-metro-manila-hinggil-sa-red-october-at-ang-palyadong-taktika-ng-afp/

CPP: On the CPP “pushing” Duterte to declare nationwide martial law

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Oct 2): On the CPP “pushing” Duterte to declare nationwide martial law       



Duterte and his minions in the AFP have gone completely cuckoo in claiming that the CPP is “pushing” Duterte to declare martial law nationwide through its wildly concocted “Red October” ouster plot. AFP Chief-of-Staff Gen. Carlito Galvez made the idiotic statement in the senate budget hearings this Tuesday, after red-tagging 10 Metro Manila universities supposedly involved in the plot.

Again, there is no Red October plot orchestrated by the CPP. The more Duterte and the AFP are trying to prove this so-called plot, the more they sound incredulous. To now claim that the CPP will “create chaos,” supposedly “like in Plaza Miranda” to “force” Duterte to fulfill his most ardent wish, is at best, lazy and clumsy. The claim simply defies logic. Why should the CPP “push” for martial law nationwide when it has repeatedly condemned and called for the lifting of martial law in Mindanao? Why should it “push” for something which has relentlessly inflicted atrocious crimes on the people? At worst, the claim demonstrates the AFP’s willingness to perpetuate and even repeat the myth of the Plaza Miranda bombings which Marcos used to justify imposing martial law nationwide in 1972.

Furtheron, to tag people’s protests as part of a so-called plot is a threat against legitimate people’s organizations mounting these democratic mass actions. To misrepresent the broad coalition against tyranny as a mere conspiracy is to make its members open to suppression through state terrorism. Duterte and his ilk are even planning militarize state agencies against these organizations in the guise of creating an inter-agency task force to “end the communist insurgency.” The AFP and Duterte are determined to silence and suppress the widespread social grievances of the people.

It is no secret that the CPP is calling on the people to unite and struggle to overthrow the Duterte regime. Statements issued by the CPP to this effect are publicly available in its website (philippinerevolution.info) and in social media.

But as the CPP has also repeatedly pointed out, it will be the confluence of various democratic forces that will ultimately bring down Duterte. Given the increasingly difficult economic conditions of the people and rising internal political conflicts within the Duterte regime, the Party anticipates protests to continue to mount in the coming months.

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/2018/10/02/on-the-cpp-pushing-duterte-to-declare-nationwide-martial-law/

DWDD: ENCOUNTER | BIFF camp overran by 6ID

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 4): ENCOUNTER  |  BIFF camp overran by 6ID

CAMP GONZALO SIONGCO, Maguindanao (DWDD) – Army troopers encountered members of the terrorist group Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom fighters (BIFF) in their camp located at Barangay Nabundas, Maguindanao.

   

In an interview by DWDD with Captain Arvin Encinas, spokesperson, 6th Infantry “Kampilan” Division, the discovery of the BIFF camp was the result of extensive intelligence operation by authorities.

The leadership of the 6ID immediately dispatched troops from the 40th Infantry “” Batallion and successfully engaged and overran the BIFF camp.

The encounter lasted for half an hour where according to civilians, four (4) enemies were killed while no casualty on the government side.

Recovered from the BIFF camp were: one M16 rifle, one M14 rifle, one M79 Grenade Launcher, a Rocket Propelled Grenade or RPG, various magazines and ammunition and two (2) improvised explosive devices. AES / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/04/encounter-biff-camp-overran-by-6id/

DWDD: BULWAGANG ISLETA | Blessing & Renaming of AFPCMOS Building

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 5): BULWAGANG ISLETA  |  Blessing & Renaming of AFPCMOS Building

CAMP GEN EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City (DWDD) – In a span of 6 months, the Civil Relations Service, AFP (CRSAFP) has extended all efforts to improve its equipage and facilities as part of the maintenance and camp beautification.



At present, continuous upgrading of structures is being observed. Among its advancement is the newly constructed AFPCMOS Building and renovated Bulwagang Reyes.

In view of this, CRSAFP will facilitate the Blessing and Naming of Newly Constructed AFP CMOS Building on Friday, October 15, 2018 at the AFP Civil Military Operations School (AFPCMOS), to be followed shortly by the Blessing of Renovated Bulwagang Reyes at Headquarters, Civil Relations Service, AFP.

The newly constructed AFPCMO School will be named after the late BGEN HONESTO M ISLETA AFP, who was then the Commanding General, CRSAFP from 01 October 1986 to 20 April 1989.

Major General Danilo Chad D Isleta AFP, Chief of Staff, Philippine Army, the son of the late BGEN ISLETA, along with the Isleta family and friends will grace the event.

In the early evening, Lieutenant General Salvador Melchor B Mison Jr, the Vice Chief of Staff, AFP will lead the blessing of newly-renovated Bulwagang Reyes. AES / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/05/bulwagang-isleta-blessing-renaming-of-afpcmos-building/

DWDD: STORIES OF HEROISM | 1st Commemoration of Liberation of Marawi

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 5): STORIES OF HEROISM  |  1st Commemoration of Liberation of Marawi



On the 23rd of May 2017, while a section of the 51st Mechanized Infantry Company re-routed to reinforce the engaged troops of 49IB, their two armored vehicle stalled at Brgy. Gadongan due to damages caused by enemy RPG. They were rescued by combined elements of 1st Scout Ranger Battalion under Lt Col Yunque and 5th Mechanized Infantry Battalion under Lt Col Goyena. Sixteen (16) personnel were rescued alive while four were killed-in-action.

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/05/stories-of-heroism-1st-commemoration-of-liberation-of-marawi/

DWDD:MECHANIZED INFANTRY DIVISION | 1st Commemoration of Liberation of Marawi

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 5): MECHANIZED INFANTRY DIVISION | 1st Commemoration of Liberation of Marawi



FORT ANDRES BONIFACIO, Taguig City (DWDD) – From day 1 to day 154, the Mechanized Infantry units fought alongside and form part of our combined arms force. The mounted warriors performed a plethora of tasks: from delivering fires from armored vehicles, observing and engaging the enemies at night, hauling supplies to frontline troops, evacuating wounded personnel, supporting loudspeaker operations to weaken the enemy’s will to fight, assisting in the rescue of trapped civilians and hostages, and was JTF Marawi’s morale boosting/inspirational billboard bearer for our security forces.

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/05/mechanized-infantry-division-1st-commemoration-of-liberation-of-marawi/

DWDD: ARMY ARTILLERY REGIMENT | 1st Commemoration of Liberation of Marawi

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 5): ARMY ARTILLERY REGIMENT   |  1st Commemoration of Liberation of Marawi



FORT ANDRES BONIFACIO, Taguig City (DWDD) – This regiment provides lethal and non-lethal fires and integrates and synchronizes the effects of fires to achieve the commander’s intent. In the Battle of Marawi, they executed the much needed standoff attacks, were effective in softening targets, and provided protective fires for our distressed troops.

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/05/army-artillery-regiment-1st-commemoration-of-liberation-of-marawi/

DWDD: COMBAT ENGINEERS | 1st Commemoration of Liberation of Marawi

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 5): COMBAT ENGINEERS  |  1st Commemoration of Liberation of Marawi



FORT ANDRES BONIFACIO, Taguig City (DWDD) – The Combat Engineers Battalion applied their capabilities by providing mobility, counter-mobility, and survivability support to manuever components of the combined arms force. In the Battle of Marawi, they constructed fighting positions, detected/cleared mines and improvised explosive devices, cleared roads from rubble, and ensured that troops remain alive, protected/facilitated their movements, and contributed to the fight for victory.http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/05/combat-engineers-1st-commemoration-of-liberation-of-marawi/

DWDD: INFANTRY BATTALIONS | 1st Commemoration of Liberation of Marawi

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 5): INFANTRY BATTALIONS  |  1st Commemoration of Liberation of Marawi



FORT ANDRES BONIFACIO, Taguig City (DWDD) – The mission of an Infantry Battalion is to close in on the enemy by means of fire and manuever in order to destroy or capture him, or to repel the enemy assault with fire, close combat, and counterattack. These battalions are the most experienced in the conduct of a holistic approach for countering insurgency and lawless elements. During the
Battle of Marawi, these Battalions were mobilized from various areas in the Philippines.   ORCPA / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/05/infantry-battalions-1st-commemoration-of-liberation-of-marawi/

DWDD: SPECIAL FORCES REGIMENT | 1st Commemoration of Liberation of Marawi

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 5): SPECIAL FORCES REGIMENT  |   1st Commemoration of Liberation of Marawi



FORT ANDRES BONIFACIO, Taguig City (DWDD) – The Special Forces Regiment (Airborne), having its core competency in mass base operations (MBO), was instrumental in the overall accomplishment of JTF Marawi.

Its operating units were also deployed in the main battle area (MBA), under the disposal of the JSOTF Trident, who fought alongside the other SOF and infantry units in clearing their designated sectors. As experts in the field
of negotiations, diplomacy, community engagement, and organizing of the community.

One of its companies was tasked to lead the successful rescue operations of Rev. Father Suganob and his companion. ORCPA / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/05/special-forces-regiment-1st-commemoration-of-liberation-of-marawi/

DWDD: FIRST SCOUT RANGER REGIMENT | 1st Commemoration of Liberation of Marawi

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 5): FIRST SCOUT RANGER REGIMENT  |  1st Commemoration of Liberation of Marawi

 

FORT ANDRES BONIFACIO, Taguig City (DWDD) – The First Scout Ranger Regiment is a highly trained unit of the Special Operations Command, Philippine Army. As a Special Operations Force (SOF), its units are deployed in conflict-affected areas particularly in the islands of Mindanao.

As the situation worsened in the City of Marawi, higher headquarters called upon this readily deployable force to help address the emerging threat brought about by the ISIS-Maute Terrorist Group. All of its Battalions and companies together with three classes of Scout Ranger Course students which were on their test mission phase, were deployed in the war-torn city and formed the Joint Task
Group (JTG) Musang.

JTG Musang , as one of the operating components of Joint Special Operations
Task Force (JSOTF) Trident, was responsible for delivering the final blow and the clearing of the last sector where the high value targets (HVT) were constricted.

This resulted in the killing of Isnilon Hapilon and Omarkhayam Maute which eventually led to the breakdown of the terrorists’ ranks.

Composed of five Scout Ranger Battalions with 16 Scout Ranger Companies.

Oldest and most experienced among the Philippine Army SOFs.

Dubbed as the national maneuver unit of the Philippine Army.

Provided the most number of SOFs that participated in the Battle of Marawi City and experienced in urban operations. First Scout Ranger Regiment
ORCPA / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/05/first-scout-ranger-regiment-1st-commemoration-of-liberation-of-marawi/

DWDD: DEVELOPING LEADERS | NDCP opens MNSA RC 54

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 5): DEVELOPING LEADERS  |  NDCP opens MNSA RC 54

   

CAMP GEN EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City (DWDD) – The National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP) formally opened the 54th Regular Course of the Master in National Security Administration (MNSA) program on Monday, October 1.

RC 54 brings together 65 scholars. There are 25 senior officers from the Philippine Army (PA), 5 from the Philippine Navy (PN), 9 from the Philippine Air Force (PAF), and 3 from the Technical and Administrative Services (TAS). Thirteen scholars represent civilian government agencies while three represent the private sector.

RC 54 also includes 7 international students from Bangladesh, China, India, Malaysia, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan.

  

“The NDCP is pleased to welcome to the MNSA program the first scholar from China,” said NDCP President RAdm Roberto Q Estioko AFP (Ret) PhD MNSA.

International scholars were admitted to the MNSA program since 2001.

The opening ceremony was held at the NDCP Honor Hall inside Camp Gen Emilio Aguinaldo.

In his remarks, RAdm Estioko encouraged the scholars to be strategic leaders, develop close ties with their classmates and to endeavor to give their best in the MNSA program.

The MNSA is a one-year full-time government-funded graduate program consisting of 39 units earned through various forms of lectures, thesis writing, as well as local and foreign field studies. Guided by a holistic approach to national security and development, with emphasis on resource management, the NDCP follows a curriculum that integrates the political, economic, socio-cultural, techno-scientific, environmental, and military dimensions of national security. The program also includes modules on leadership, national security administration, and global security and cooperation.

The MNSA is open to qualified military officers, civilian government officials, and private sector leaders. Civilian graduates have the privilege of being commissioned Lieutenant Colonels or Commanders in the Reserve Force of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Aside from the NDCP officials and staff, the event was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, AFP senior officials, representatives from various government agencies and the private sector as well as members of the preceding class, MNSA RC 53. NDCP / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/05/developing-leaders-ndcp-opens-mnsa-rc-54/

DWDD: DYNAMIC AND RIGOROUS | NDCP invites participants to 26th Executive Course on National Security

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 5): DYNAMIC AND RIGOROUS  |  NDCP invites participants to 26th Executive Course on National Security



CAMP GEN EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City (DWDD) – The National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP) invites participants to the 26th Executive Course on National Security (ECNS) to be held from 22 to 26 October 2018.

The ECNS is a dynamic and rigorous five-day course which explores the theory and practice of national security. Designed for practitioners, middle managers and scholars, the ECNS aims to provide participants an introduction on the multi-dimensional and evolving concept of national security. Participants will analyze global and national security issues, examine governance processes and systems, and develop effective and efficient approaches to security challenges.

Participants will benefit from an excellent pool of subject matter experts from a wide range of disciplines as well as a mixed group of fifty (50) co-participants representing various sectors. NDCP / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/05/dynamic-and-rigorous-ndcp-invites-participants-to-26th-executive-course-on-national-security/