Military on tight watch as NPA marks 50th anniversary

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 4): Military on tight watch as NPA marks 50th anniversary



The military will keep a tight watch on the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) as it celebrates its 50th founding anniversary on December 26.

"We will closely monitor them and those who will be extending support and sympathies and we will expose them so the Filipinos will have an informed decision when the moment of choosing comes," Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief Col. Noel Detoyato said Monday.

Detoyato stressed that it will be a hollow celebration as the rebels will be observing 50 years of deceit, atrocities and lies.

As this develops, the AFP official said the number of regular NPA members and their supporters, who have surrendered to government forces from Jan. 1 to Nov. 28 this year, has now reached 10,698.

Detoyato said these figures can be broken down into 1,121 regular NPA members who have surrendered and 9,577 supporters coming from rebels' so-called "Militia ng Bayan".

Meanwhile, he estimated the remaining regular NPA members at only 3,000 but said this number could vary as the recruitment activities of the NPAs are still ongoing.

"Nagre-recruit pa din sila kaya it’s constantly changing. (They are still recruiting so figures are constantly changing)," he added.

Detoyato attributed the steady number of surrenderers to the ongoing implementation of the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) program.

Due to this project, he said there are "more incidents of surrenders than encounters" as of this posting.

E-CLIP is one of the flagship programs of the Duterte administration that seeks to address social healing and national unity towards the higher objective of having just and lasting peace.

It aims to provide social equity to former members of the CPP-NPA-NDF and the Militia ng Bayan to reintegrate them into mainstream society.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1055638

Intel, special units can counter NPA hit squads

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 4): Intel, special units can counter NPA hit squads

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff, Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr. said military intelligence efforts and special units can do much in countering the threats posed by the New People's Army (NPA)'s hit squads.

He made this statement in connection with announcements that rebel hit squads have so far killed people, including police and military personnel, for the past three years.

"There are more than 136 persons that have been killed and assassinated by the (Communist Party of the Philippines) CPP-NPA terrorist group so there is really a need to counter this and to counter, (there is a need) to make our personnel vigilant and we need to counter this with the organization of a counter-SPARU (Special Partisan Unit) with the (assistance of our) intelligence and our special units," Galvez said Monday.

The AFP chief also said these hit squads are very active in Bicol, Eastern Mindanao, Western Mindanao and some parts of Samar and Negros.

He, however, believes that civilians should not be involved as there are more than enough military and police personnel for the task.

"I believe let's not involve the civilians, it’s more on the military and the police," Galvez said.

President Rodrigo Duterte earlier mulled the idea of creating such units to specifically go after NPA hit squads targeting security personnel.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1055640

Gunmen kill Zamboanga del Sur town dad

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 4): Gunmen kill Zamboanga del Sur town dad



Motorcycle-riding gunmen shot and killed a councilor of Ramon Magsaysay town in Zamboanga del Sur, a police official said Tuesday.

Senior Insp. Ryan Wakat, police chief of Ramon Magsaysay, said the incident occurred around 12:10 p.m. Tuesday in Barangay Bobongan in that town.

Wakat identified the fatality as Romeo Mainar Sr., councilor in the municipality of Sominot, a fifth-class town in the province of Zamboanga del Sur.

Police investigation showed that Mainar was driving a motorcycle on the way home when fatally shot by one of the two men riding tandem on a motorcycle that tailed the slain official.

Barangay Bobongan is the last village of Ramon Magsaysay town towards the boundary with the municipality of Sominot.

Wakat said the suspects sped off when they saw the victim, who suffered eight gunshot wounds, sprawled dead on the pavement.

Police are still investigating the incident to determine the motive and identities of the suspects.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1055716

2 Maute remnants surrender in Lanao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 4): 2 Maute remnants surrender in Lanao Sur

Two remnants of the ISIS-inspired Maute group (holding firearms) surrendered on Monday to military authorities in Tubaran, Lanao del Sur. (Photo courtesy: First Infantry Divison Public Affairs Office) 

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur -- Two remnants of the Islamic State for Iraq and Syria (ISIS)-inspired Maute group have surrendered to military authorities in the province of Lanao del Sur, a military official said Tuesday.

Maj. Gen. Roseller Murillo, the Army’s 1st Infantry Division commander, said the two surrendered around 6:50 p.m. Monday to the troops of the 55th Infantry Battalion in Tubaran, Lanao del Sur.

Murillo, who is also the Joint Task Force Zampelan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao) commander, declined to identify the two surrenderers for security reasons.

Murillo said the two yielded to the 55th Infantry Battalion their caliber .50 machinegun and one caliber .30 M1 Garand rifle.

Their surrender brought to a total of 31 Maute members who have surrendered since October, this year, to Joint Task Force Ranao troops in Lanao del Sur.

Murillo commended the efforts of the troops and community stakeholders involved that led to the surrender of the two Maute remnants.

“The continuous surrender of Maute’s entails a weakening of their organizational leadership and capabilities. Likewise, the surrender of loose firearms will minimize the crimes and atrocities in our area of operation,” Murillo said.

“We will continuously work together with stakeholders in order to encourage more Maute group and loose firearms to surrender,” he added.

Meanwhile, 24 loose firearms, one hand grenade and ammunition were voluntarily surrendered in Tubod, Lanao del Norte to the Army's 2nd Mechanized Brigade, also on Monday.

Brig. Gen. Thomas Sedano Jr., 2nd Mechanized Brigade commander, said a total of 746 loose firearms have been surrendered to them since January this year.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1055723

Army invites Cotabato mayoralty contenders in dialogue

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 4): Army invites Cotabato mayoralty contenders in dialogue

DIALOGUE. The Army's 6th Infantry Division commander, Major General Cirilito Sobejana (center), talks to Maguindanao 1st District Representative Bai Sandra Sema (left) and Cotabato City Mayor Frances Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi (right) during a dialogue held Monday (Dec. 3) inside Camp Siongco in Barangay Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao (Photo courtesy of 6th ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao — Two female politicians vying for Cotabato City’s mayoralty position for the 2019 polls have vowed to work for the development of the locality amid their political ambitions.

On Monday, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander invited Mayor Frances Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi and Maguindanao first district and Cotabato City Rep. Bai Sandra Sema to speak before the troops during the flag-raising ceremony inside this camp.

“Both (Sayadi and Sema) are strong political leaders in Cotabato City and we have invited them to unite, communicate and speak to the Kampilan troops of their plans, programs, and services,” Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana said.

Sayadi, who was the first to speak, shared her desire to maintain the city's peace and order and emphasized the need to have a political will to solve the problems confronting the city.

“I know that without a stable peace and order condition, Cotabato City will not develop, and progress will not become a reality,” Sayadi said.

For Sema, the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) remains an important factor for peace and progress and that Cotabato residents play an important role to make the new Bangsamoro entity succeed.

“BOL is not a religious statement, or (cause) the deepening of the cultural divide. Rather, it guarantees religious freedom as enshrined in our Constitution,” said Sema, one of the law's principal authors.

BOL was signed into law and is only awaiting ratification from a plebiscite slated on January 21, 2019 to determine its geographic makeup.

After the ceremony, Sobejana led a dialogue with the two political rivals to ensure their commitment to peaceful elections in the city next year.

“We find it necessary to invite both of you because you are of great help in maintaining peace and order in Cotabato City,” Sobejana told the mayoral contenders.

“You are both leaders and we need you to maintain the partnership to pursue peace in our community. It is also the right time for us to support each other, so let us all help one another,” the military official added.

Both Sayadi and Sema promised to open the lines of communication between each other and to strengthen the city's peace and development initiatives.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1055660

Mindanao’s tribal leaders vow to fight 'bloodless war' vs. NPA

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 4): Mindanao’s tribal leaders vow to fight 'bloodless war' vs. NPA

Tribal leaders from across Mindanao on Monday vowed to keep the New People’s Army (NPA) out of their ancestral lands in response to the call of support by President Rodrigo Duterte to end the communist insurgency.

Bai Pilar Libayao, the Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of Talaingod town, Davao del Norte, said they would fight a "bloodless war" against the NPA that focuses on bringing development on tribal lands.

During a press conference attended by scores of tribal leaders from the Davao Region, Libayao made it clear they did not want violence in keeping with the President's earlier statement that he had no intention to arm the Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities.

Libayao said they simply want to restore peace in their lands, educate their youths, and lead a life according to their customary practices.

Libayao also chided the NPA, which she said has long been sowing division among the tribal communities, often with violent results.

“Magsuporta mi sa Presidente kay gusto namo nga hapsay among lugar (We will support the President because we want our place to be peaceful),” she added.

Datu Guibang Apoga, the tribal leader who helped establish Salugpungan schools in tribal areas, said tribal members who are NPA combatants should return home and live in peace with their families.

Apoga led the tribal resistance group Salugpongan Ta Tanu Igkanugon (Unity for the Defense of Ancestral Lands), for 28 years before surrendering to the government in June this year.
The military described the group as allied with the NPA.

Apoga now wants all Salugpungan out of their ancestral lands.

Lipatuan Joel Unad, chairman of the Mindanao IPs Conference for Peace and Development (MIPCPD), said the tribal leaders are one in supporting the President.

However, he said the government should continue to help IP communities by bringing development in their areas.

“Dapat total development ihatag diha sa ground. Buhaton namo ang matag plano (It should be total development on the ground. We will help implement each plan),” Unad said.

According to Unad, 95 percent of the NPA are members of the different tribes in Mindanao. Even the teachers of Salugpungan Ta Tanu Igkanogon schools in Mindanao are majority Mansaka and Dibabawon tribes, he added.

During the groundbreaking for the Davao Water Bulk Project in Gumalang here last week, President Duterte asked Unad and the IPs to help in the government’s campaign to end the decades-long communist insurgency.

In response, Unad and the tribal leaders asked the President to extend the martial law in Mindanao.

"Martial law should continue because if it's stopped, we will all be decimated” by the NPA, Libayao said in the dialect.

Tribal leaders, he added, also support the President's stance on the localized peace talks with the NPA.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1055617

DWDD: DWDD/CRS Medical/Dental Mission in Malabon

Posted to Katropa DWDD-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook Page (Dec 2): DWDD/CRS Medical/Dental Mission in Malabon

The DWDD Katropa Radio through Anghel ng Masa and Civil Relations Service Armed Forces of the Philippines in partnership with ALFE Foundation Inc conducted Medical, Dental Missions with a free haircut and gift giving activities at BrgyTonsuya, Malabon on December 2, 2018.



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DWDD: VOLUNTARY SURRENDER | 6 NPAs yields in Sultan Kudarat

Posted to Katropa DWDD-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook Page (Dec 2): VOLUNTARY SURRENDER | 6 NPAs yields in Sultan Kudarat

SENATOR NINOY AQUINO, Sultan Kudarat (DWDD) - Six members of the defunct Guerilla Front 73 of the communist terrorist group surfaced here to lay down their arms on Friday (Nov 30)....

Ka Loloy, 50, a resident of Esperanza town, brought another five of his comrades, to support the peace initiatives of the national government.

“We have learned about the social benefits of the E-CLIP (Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program) and the assistance provided by the government to those who had surrendered earlier,” he said.

The surrendererors are expected to receive cash benefits for the five assorted weapons that they handed over to the 33rd Infantry “Makabayan” Battalion. Among the surrendered weapons include a Cal. 30 Springfield Rifle, a Cal. 45 M1911 Pistol, and three Cal. 38 Revolvers.

Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, the Commanding Officer of the 33rd Infantry Battalion, promptly presented the surrenderors to SNA Mayor Randy Ecija Jr and Col Robert Dauz, the Commander of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade.

Housing project

The latest surrender of communist rebels occured an hour after the site inspection of the proposed housing project for the former rebels.

USec. Reynaldo Mapagu, a former Army chief and the incumbent head of the government’s Task Force Balik-Loob, led the inspection team that visited two proposed housing sites in Midtungok village, Senator Ninoy Aquino town at about 9:00am.

Mapagu said that his office will fulfill President Duterte’s commitment to help the rebel returnees.

“The pledges of our President are real. I would like to call on the remnants of the communist rebels to rejoin the mainstream society,” he said.

Meanwhile, Major General Cirilito E Sobejana, the Commander of the 6th Infantry Division, had welcomed the latest surrender of the communist terrorist group members.

“This is a welcome development in our campaign against the communist terrorists. It is a reflection of their renewed trust to our government as a whole,” he said.

Since March 2017, the Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion has implemented an effective counterinsurgency approaches that resulted in the collapse of two Guerilla Fronts, the East Daguma and West Daguma.

The feat was achieved due to the surrender of 95% of the combatants of Platoon Arabo, Platoon Cosmod, Platoon My Phone, and Platoon Cloudphone. 33IB / MCAG



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DWDD: VOLUNTARY SURRENDER | 6 NPAs yields in Sultan Kudarat (Video)

Posted to Katropa DWDD-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook Page (Dec 2): VOLUNTARY SURRENDER | 6 NPAs yields in Sultan Kudarat (Video)

At 9:00 am on November 30, 2018, USec Reynaldo Mapagu visits Senator Ninoy Aquino town in Sultan Kudarat to inspect the proposed site of the housing project for... rebel returnees.

Later in the afternoon, six communist rebels laid down their arms to support the peace in the Upper Valley.

https://www.facebook.com/makabayan33ib/videos/2255430648075480/

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DWDD: REUNION | Rescued NPA member reunited with his mother

Posted to Katropa DWDD-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook Page (Dec 2): REUNION | Rescued NPA member reunited with his mother

TIGER HILL, SitioIbulao, Banguinge, Kiangan, Ifugao (DWDD) – Troops of 54th Infantry “Magilas” Battalion (54IB) successfully facilitated the reunion of former red fighter “Ka-Iyong”to his emotional mother at Battalion Headquarters 54IB, 5ID, PA, Tiger Hill, SitioIbulao, Kiangan, Ifugao, 9:00 o’ clock in the morning of November 30, 2018. ...

After the remarkable rescue of the two (2) young former red fightersKaIyongand Ka Cindy in the recent encounters in BrgyNamal, Asipulo, Ifugao,the soldiers of 54IB and the Staff of Provincial Social Welfare and Development (PSWD) of Ifugaowith the help of the Ifugao Peasant Movement (IPM) based at Lagawe, Ifugaoconducted lateral coordination, dialogues regarding the accommodation, assistance and other necessary requirements for the meet up of KaIyong and his mother.

During the reunion, LTC Narciso B NabulnegJr gracefully received and welcomethe mother of KaIyongwith the Staff of PSWD Ifugao at 54IB Headquarters. Right there and then, KaIyong who was at pretty rest finally reunited with his mother. The mother emotionally embraced her long lost son with tears of joy and happiness that she personally touched her son physically, while, KaIyong comforted his mother and expressed his feelings by asking sorry for what he has done while emotionally crying.

According to Ms. ANALYN, mother of “Ka-Iyong”, “AKO PO AY LUBOS NA NAGPAPASALAMAT AT TAOS PUSONG NAGAGALAK SA MGA KASUNDALUHAN NG MAKITA KO NA BUHAY ANG AKING ANAKSAPAGKAT AKO AY ALALANG-ALALA SA NANGYARING ENKWENTRO, BAGKUS SIYA AY INARUGA NG MGA SUNDALO”, she said.

According to “Ka-Iyong”, a captured nowturned surenderee, “HUWAG KA NANG MAG-ALALA SAPAGKAT NASA MABUTI NA AKONGKALAGAYAN, HINDI NILA AKO SINAKTANBAGKUS AKO AY INALAGAAN NG MAAYOS NG MGA SUNDALO MULA NOONG AKO AY NAHULI SA LUGAR NG ENKWENTRO, NAGAGALAK AKONG NABIGYAN NG PANGALAWANG PAGKAKATAON NA BAGUHIN ANG AKING BUHAY,Iyongtalking to his mother.

LTC Nabulneg Jr, Commander of 54IB stated that “the men and women of 54IB are glad to see that KaIyong and his mother finally reunites after 5 long years of separation, this would be a wonderful gift filled with joy this Christmas season,he said. “I also encourage and invite other NPA members in the Mountains of Cordillera to lay down their arms and go back to the folds of the law and enjoy the Christmas with peace and joy in their hearts and minds and celebrate New Year with a new life and a bright future like KaIyong’s, he added. 54IB / MCAG



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DWDD: YIELD | Another Mass Surrender of CNTs and Supporters in Eastern Samar

Posted to Katropa DWDD-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook Page (Dec 3): YIELD | Another Mass Surrender of CNTs and Supporters in Eastern Samar

BRGY DAO, Oras, Eastern Samar (DWDD) - Two regular members of Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs), 18 Milisyang Bayan (MB) of Underground Mass Organization of Brgy Pandol, Can-avid, Eastern Samar surrendered to the 14th Infantry “Avenger” Battalion, Philippine Army last December 02, 2018.

Honorable Gil Norman P Germino, Municipal Mayor, Can-avid, Eastern Samar together with Florita B Macoro, MLGOO,Mrs Verina P Amoyo, MSWDO and Brgy Officials of Brgy Pandol were present to witness the mass surrender.

Lieutenant Colonel JIMMY V JIMENEZ INF (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer, 14th Infantry Battalion, said that the surrender is a result of the unit’s effective Community Support Program (CSP) operation, aggressive civil military operations and intelligence operations coupled with other Lines of Operations and Efforts to further pressure the CNTs and their supporters in Eastern Samar. This development will surely destroy if not, cut-off the support system of the CNTs and their mass base in the far-flung and isolated villages of the province.

Mayor Germino stated, “For the past years, the CNTs frequently roam around the barangays of Pandol, Boco and Balagon conducting organizing and extortion activities as reported by the barangay officials. The surrender will further improve the peace and order situation in the municipality of Can-avid”.

“Barangay Pandol form part of the Guerilla Base of Front 3, Sub-Regional Committee (SRC), “ARCTIC”, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) unit of the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) operating in the area of Can-avid and its nearby municipalities in Eastern Samar. The barangay is categorized as influenced and a stronghold of the NPAs since early 90’s. The clearing of the influenced barangays in our area of operation has been the priority of the 14IB in its operational campaign to degrade and further defeat our confronted threat” Lt. Col. JIMENEZ added.

After a series of negotiation and dialogue conducted by CSP elements of Bravo Company of 14IB led by 1LT DENNIS S CARIG (INF) PA immersed in the said barangay to educate and deepen the awareness of the community, the CNTs and its organization within the barangay were convinced to end their support to the armed struggle and surrender.

Rogelio O Cebrero, AKA “PATER”, Chairman of the Underground Mass Organization of Brgy Pandol, said, “We were hopeless and frustrated over unfulfilled promises of the CNTs that organized us. Now, we understand how the CNTs deceived and exploited our community. Our resources and even food for our family were handed to them as support to the armed struggle but we gain nothing. We also take this opportunity to clear our names and join the folds of law to live a normal and productive life with our love ones”.

The community in Brgy Pandol conducted peace rally to expressed their stand against the CNTs, condemned the abuses and deceitful activity of the CNTs and call-out to stop using their Barangay as lair of insurgents as they pursue just and lasting peace for the future of their children.

Lastly, Lt. Col JIMENEZ added, “What we collectively achieved today is only the beginning, the 14thInfantry (AVENGER) Battalion will be needing the support of the people as we continue to perform our mission to end insurgency in the province of Eastern Samar. Rest assured that the Battalion will be unyielding and even more motivated to serve the people to ensure peace and development in our area of operation”. 14IB / MCAG



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DWDD: CRSAFP recognizes efforts of MCAG for Heroes Rock – Battle of the Band Concert

Posted to Katropa DWDD-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook Page (Dec 3): CRSAFP recognizes efforts of MCAG for Heroes Rock – Battle of the Band Concert

CAMP GEN EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City (DWDD) - The Civil Relations Service – Armed Forces of the Philippines (CRSAFP) recognized the efforts of the officers, enlisted personnel and civilian employees of the Media and Civil Affairs Group (MCAG) for the successful holding of the “Heroes Rock – Battle of the Band C...oncert last November 23, 2018 at the AFP Theater in Camp Gen Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon Ciry.

In his speech, Major General Bienvenido Datuin Jr., Commander, CRSAFP, commended the unit for their hardwork that resulted in the success of the concert through MCAGs collective and untiring effort, commitment and unwavering that was appreciated by the Chief of Staff, AFP and major service commanders.

MGen Datuin added that the effort served as an encouragement for all personne of the command to continue performing with the same dedication and efficiency to the accomplishment of the units mission. AES / MCAG



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DWDD: MINDANAO: Regaining Dignity and Livelihood Lost in Conflict

Posted to Katropa DWDD-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook Page (Dec 3): MINDANAO: Regaining Dignity and Livelihood Lost in Conflict

Manila (ICRC) – Over 12,000 people in Central Mindanao and Lanao del Sur have been deprived of stable income due to continued displacement caused by protracted armed conflict. These affected families received cash grants from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), with support of the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), in order to regain their livelihood and become less dependent on aid.
In Shariff Saydona Mustapha and Datu Saudi Ampatuan municipalities, Maguindanao Province, 959 families (4,795 people) received 10,000 Philippine pesos each (around 200 US dollars), likewise 1,453 families (7,265 people) from Marawi who fled to eight neighboring municipalities in Lanao del Sur.

These families will be able to purchase tools or equipment, start small businesses, and meet their other basic needs, during displacement or when they return home.

Since 2015, thousands of families in Maguindanao Province have been recurrently displaced by the fighting between the government forces and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF). Following the end of the Marawi crisis in October 2017, clashes intensified between the AFP and BIFF and other non-state armed groups, causing repeated displacement and damage to livelihoods and property.

“Our beneficiaries told us they had fled their homes more than seven times between March and November 2018 due to the fighting,” explains Kaisa Kruuse, head of the ICRC office in Cotabato City. She continued, “This constant movement disrupts their access to basic necessities such as food and water, livelihood and even education. The displaced people wish to restore stability and dignity, but at the moment many still depend on humanitarian assistance.”

At the same time in Lanao del Sur, over 65,000 former residents of the Marawi’s most affected area still reside with relatives or in evacuation centers, over a year since the conflict ended between the government forces and IS-Ranao (Maute Group) and Abu Sayyaf. The ICRC and PRC regularly monitor the situation and respond with most appropriate interventions. In 2018, the ICRC cash grants reached about 2,000 families (8,000 people) displaced to six municipalities in Lanao del Sur. The total cash grants have now reached 39 million pesos (around 745,000 US dollars). The aim is to help the most vulnerable, including displaced people, those with low income, those with multiple dependents especially children, pregnant women, the elderly and the sick.

"This support means a lot for evacuees like us from the main affected area in Marawi. We don't know when we will be able to return home, but nevertheless, life has to move on here in our current place of living, especially for my small children,” said one beneficiary in Bacolod Kalawi, sharing her business idea, ”I will use this grant to put up a 'piso net' (small internet shop) and I’m hoping to change my situation for the better.”

The ICRC is a neutral, impartial and independent humanitarian organization working to prevent and alleviate suffering during armed conflict and other situations of violence. It also visits people detained in relation to the conflict to monitor their treatment and living conditions, and facilitates visits from their families. ICRC



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DWDD: Pamaskong Handog ng Avengers Tungo sa Kapayapaan

From Katropa DWDD-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook Page (Dec 3): Pamaskong Handog ng Avengers Tungo sa Kapayapaan

Sa pagpasok ng buwan ng Desyembre, ang14th Infantry (AVENGER) Battalion ay agad na ipinadama sa mga mamamayan n...g Brgy Pandol, Can-avid, ESamar ang kahulugan ng nalalapit na Kapaskuhan. Namigay ang mga kasundaluhan sa pangunguna ni LTC JIMMY V JIMENEZ, Commanding Officer, ng mga notebook at kitchen utensils sa mga kabataan na gumuhit ng ngiti sa bawat isa. Ang mga regalong iniabot ay mula sa mga stakeholders sa area of operation ng Avenger Battalion na walang sawang sumusuporta sa pagpapaabot ng serbisyo at malasakit sa mga tga-Eastern Samar. Hangad ng Avenger Battalion na mapaglingkuran ang mga mamamayan at makamit ang tunay na kapayapaan ng bayan.



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DWDD: EXCLUSIVE | Pahayag ng IP leaders sa ginawa ng grupo ni Ocampo, Castro, et al (VIDEO)

From Katropa DWDD-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook Page (Dec 3): EXCLUSIVE | Pahayag ng IP leaders sa ginawa ng grupo ni Ocampo, Castro, et al (VIDEO)

 TALAINGOD, Davao Del Norte (DWDD) - Panoorin ang pahayag ni Datu Andigao Digay ng Sitio Nasilaba, Brgy Palma Gil, Talaingod, Daval del Norte ukol sa desisyon ng mga lumad tungkol sa Salugpongan School....

Naaresto si Satur Ocampo, ACT Partylist Representative France Castro at iba pa sa Talaingod ng tinangka nilang ipuslit ang mga bata ng naturang eskwelahan lulan ang limang Van noong gabi ng November 28.

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DWDD: PEACE THROUGH DIALOGUE | 53IB participates in Mindanao Week of Peace

From Katropa DWDD-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook Page (Dec 3): PEACE THROUGH DIALOGUE | 53IB participates in Mindanao Week of Peace

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga Del Sur (DWDD) - Theme: " Peace through Dialogue: Our Destiny"...

On 29 November 2018, the 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion participated in the launching activity for the Celebration of MINDANAO WEEK OF PEACE conducted in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del sur.

The City Government of Pagadian in partnership with the Interfaith Forum for Solidarity and Peace initiated the said activity which aims to strengthen the awareness of civil society, youth, goverment agencies on the advocacies and efforts toward PEACE.

The program started with a 'Walk for Peace' activity participated by the different government agencies and community sectors.

Afterwards, the head and representative of each agencies such as the women sector, PNP and AFP delivered their message in regards to the said event. 53IB / MCAG



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DWDD: ECO WARRIORS | 53IB conducts Mangrove Planting

From Katropa DWDD-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook Page (Dec 3): ECO WARRIORS | 53IB conducts Mangrove Planting

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga Del Sur (DWDD) - "He who plants a tree, plants a hope." - Lucy Lacrom...

The 53rd Infantry “Matapat” troopers welcomed the month close to nature as they participated in the Mangrove Planting led by the City Government of Pagadian in partnership with the Interfaith Forum for Solidarity and Peace held at Brgy White Beach, Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur.

This activity was part of the week-long celebration of MINDANAO WEEK OF PEACE AND UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS.

Other supporting groups for this said activity are the BLGU - White Beach, Oracis Conzarrd, UFS, Pagadian City Press Bureau, PCPS and Zamboanga Del Sur Police Provincial Office (ZSPPO-PNP). 53IB / MCAG



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DWDD: UNITY IS FUNDAMENTAL | 53IB holds Grand Pulong-Pulong in Pagadian City

From Katropa DWDD-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook Page (Dec 3): UNITY IS FUNDAMENTAL | 53IB holds Grand Pulong-Pulong in Pagadian City

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga Del Sur (DWDD) - "Let us all remember that Unity is our fundamental strength as a People and as a Nation."...
Another successful "Grand Pulong-Pulong" was conducted in Barangay Lisson Valley, Pagadian City, Zamboanga Del Sur on November 29, 2018 initiated by the 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion headed by Major Leopoldo V. Solis, Executive Officer, 53IB together with Lt. Oliver Carmen, Alpha Company Commander, in partnership with the Pagadian Local Government Units and Local Government Agencies.

The Open Forum paved way for the Pagadian LGUs & LGAs to addressed the issues raised by the community.

Thus, the ex-NPA mass supporters also took their oath stating their allegiance to the government in front of their community.53IB / MCAG



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DWDD: STATEMENT | AFP on proposed Counter-NPA Squad

From Katropa DWDD-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook Page (Dec 3): STATEMENT | AFP on proposed Counter-NPA Squad

CAMP GEN EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City (DWDD) - “I do not want to second guess what’s in the mind of the President by calling it Duterte Death Squad (DDS). But to us, it could’ve carried his name with it to show that he is personally resolved and determined to stamp out this terrorist NPA’s liquidation squads....

“If we are to be asked, we may call it by another name like Team Counter-NPA Liquidation Squad, and the like.

“But not Duterte Death Squad.

“We advocate a creation of teams comprised of elite soldiers to form that Team and we do not want its success to be referred to as the death squad of the President whose only intent as the Commander-in-Chief is to realize his care and compassion to the men and women and women of the AFP (and the welfare of their families) who may be victimized by the NPA.

“While it still remains an idea of the President as at this time, we will step up our intelligence some more, continue to remind our troops to be extra vigilant during ‘liberty’, ‘Rest and Recreation’, or otherwise non-combat activities to prevent them from falling prey to treacherous NPA attacks.” - BGen Edgard Arevalo - AFP Spokesman.



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DWDD: ROAD TO PEACE | 10IB, Ozamiz LGU conducts Peace Forum

From Katropa DWDD-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook Page (Dec 3): ROAD TO PEACE | 10IB, Ozamiz LGU conducts Peace Forum

CAMP BURGOS Camp Burgos, Oroquieta City (DWDD) - "LOCKING ARMS, REACHING OUT, WALKING THROUGH THE ROAD TO PEACE IN MINDANAO"...
The Local Government Unit of Ozamiz City in strong partnership with the 10th Infantry “Steady On” Battalion and Alfa Company, 1CMOBn conducted a Peace Forum at Bethany Gardens, Ozamiz City.

In attendance were representatives from the business sector, religious sector, academé, and local government units and agencies in Ozamiz City. 10IB / MCAG



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DWDD: IN GOOD HANDS | DSWD takes custody of 14 children rescued in Talaingod, Davao del Norte

From Katropa DWDD-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook Page (Dec 3): IN GOOD HANDS | DSWD takes custody of 14 children rescued in Talaingod, Davao del Norte

BATASAN COMPLEX, Quezon City (DWDD) - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has taken custody of the 14 children who were rescued in the Municipality of Talaingod, Davao ...del Norte on November 29, 2018.

The children, composed of two boys and 12 girls, are currently being taken cared of at the Department’s residential care facilities in the region.

The girls are presently staying at the DSWD Home for Gils in Maa, Davao City, while the two boys were brought to the Home for the Aged in Tagum City.

According to the report from DSWD Field Office (FO) Region XI, the children were turned over to the field office by the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) of Talaingod. They were originally 15, but one of them had already gone home to his father on November 29.

The children hail from Barangay Palma Gil and Nasilaban in Talaingod; Inayaman and Kalagangan, Bukidnon; Arakan, Cotabato Province; Zamboanga Del Sur; and Colombio and Sinapulan in Sultan Kudarat.

They are currently enrolled in a Salugpungan community learning center in Brgy. Palma Gil, Talaingod.

Upon arrival at the DSWD centers, the children underwent intake interview by the Department’s social workers. They were also oriented on the DSWD facility where they are staying at.

The parents of all 14 children have already visited them and have already talked to them. They have also already spoken with the social workers handling the case.

To date, the children have already been provided with psychosocial interventions such as counseling, art therapy, and journal writing, among others.

The children have also been integrated with the other children in the centers to keep them engaged while awaiting the processing of the case.

“The DSWD always look after the best interest of children. During situations like this, the safety of the children is our paramount concern. Rest assured that we will continue to provide them with the necessary services and interventions while their case is being processed,” DSWD Secretary Rolando Joselito D. Bautista said. DSWD SMS / MCAG



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