From the Manila Bulletin (Feb 19, 2019): Maguindanao-based AFP units talked peace with local BIAF commanders
A peace dialogue was initiated by the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion and 6th Civil Military Operation Battalion with Datu Item Ampatuan, 106th Base Commander of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF), Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Maguindanao on Sunday.
The peace dialogue which took place at old Madrasah, Brgy. Dimampao, Datu Abdullah Sangki, Maguindanao, was held after rumors came out that the military will attack the MILF community in the area that resulted on massive evacuations.
After learning about it, Army 6th Infantry Division (6th ID) Commander Major General Cirilito E. Sobejana immediately instructed Lt. Col. Alvin Iyog, the Commanding Officer of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion and 6th CMO Battalion through Major Aslim Ulangkaya to talk with the MILF ground commanders, local community and the religious leaders.
Major Jimmy Amoloy, Executive Officer of 2nd Mechanized Battalion and Major Ulangkaya engaged Datu Item Ampatuan to dispel the fear of the community. The effort was met with positive response.
“We have similar objectives, which is the peace and progress for our people,” said the emissaries of Major General Sobejana.
The community also agreed to the establishment of military patrol base in the area as part of the community deterrence against any threat groups.
“We have a good package, one that we believe will create wide optimism, a prelude to Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao,” said Commander Ampatuan.
Sobejana also expressed his gratitude to the community of Datu Abdullah Sangki town for their cooperation to end the dialogue with a positive result.
“In war, we cannot get enough, but in talking, we can get more than we expect”, and “we are here in full support and cooperation with all your noble intentions and undertakings”, Sobejana.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/02/19/maguindanao-based-afp-units-talked-peace-with-local-biaf-commanders/
Thursday, February 21, 2019
Philippines: MILF thanks Duterte for autonomy poll
From Anadolu Agency (Feb 20. 2019): Philippines: MILF thanks Duterte for autonomy poll
Moro Islamic Liberation Front hails establishment of transitional committee to govern newly formed autonomous region
Moro Islamic Liberation Front hails establishment of transitional committee to govern newly formed autonomous region
Fresh off a successful referendum for an autonomous Muslim region in the southern Philippines, a group which fought hard for autonomy thanked the nation’s leadership for advancing their goal.
“We would like to express our gratitude to [Philippines President Rodrigo] Duterte for believing in the legitimate demand of Bangsamoro in the establishment of our identity and right to govern in a real autonomous structure,” the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) said in a written statement.
A two-round referendum was held on Jan. 21 and Feb. 6 in southern Mindanao to grant the Moro Muslims autonomy.
The Philippines' landmark Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) was officially ratified on Jan. 25 following the first round, which granted comprehensive autonomy to Moro Muslims, ending decades of conflict between the government and the Moro Muslims.
The second round allowed the new autonomous region to be expanded to surrounding areas based on voter input.
The statement from the MILF came before the appointment of Bangsamoro Transitional Authority (BTA) members by Duterte, and it highlighted that steps in the post-referendum process should be maintained.
“The new political formation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) will rise,” the statement said, adding that it would be the fruit of a decades-long process.
Duterte is expected to soon appoint members of the interim government to govern the new autonomous region for three years.
Autonomous government
In the new region, courts of Islamic law will be established, and the Philippines’ central government will transfer its administrative authority in Mindanao to the Bangsamoro government.
The waters in the Bangsamoro region will be simultaneously managed by the national government as well as the Bangsamoro government.
The autonomous government will be responsible for the management of energy resources.
Muslims will be free in their internal affairs, but bound to the Philippines in foreign policy, with some flexibility.
In addition, former Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and MILF fighters will be eligible to join official armed forces.
“We would like to express our gratitude to [Philippines President Rodrigo] Duterte for believing in the legitimate demand of Bangsamoro in the establishment of our identity and right to govern in a real autonomous structure,” the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) said in a written statement.
A two-round referendum was held on Jan. 21 and Feb. 6 in southern Mindanao to grant the Moro Muslims autonomy.
The Philippines' landmark Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) was officially ratified on Jan. 25 following the first round, which granted comprehensive autonomy to Moro Muslims, ending decades of conflict between the government and the Moro Muslims.
The second round allowed the new autonomous region to be expanded to surrounding areas based on voter input.
The statement from the MILF came before the appointment of Bangsamoro Transitional Authority (BTA) members by Duterte, and it highlighted that steps in the post-referendum process should be maintained.
“The new political formation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) will rise,” the statement said, adding that it would be the fruit of a decades-long process.
Duterte is expected to soon appoint members of the interim government to govern the new autonomous region for three years.
Autonomous government
In the new region, courts of Islamic law will be established, and the Philippines’ central government will transfer its administrative authority in Mindanao to the Bangsamoro government.
The waters in the Bangsamoro region will be simultaneously managed by the national government as well as the Bangsamoro government.
The autonomous government will be responsible for the management of energy resources.
Muslims will be free in their internal affairs, but bound to the Philippines in foreign policy, with some flexibility.
In addition, former Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and MILF fighters will be eligible to join official armed forces.
Abu Sayyaf threatens to behead three hostages
From The Star Online (Feb 21, 2019): Abu Sayyaf threatens to behead three hostages
[Video]
KOTA KINABALU: Abu Sayyaf terrorists have threatened to behead a Malaysian and two Indonesian fishermen if no ransom is paid for their release.
A video which has been circulating shows one of the Indonesian men with a machete to his neck appealing to Indonesia’s president, as well as an Indonesian negotiator, to help secure their release.
The video was uploaded on Facebook by user Kim Hundin at about 5am on Feb 14 and appears to have been edited from a longer video.
The two hostages seen in the video with their eyes covered are believed to be Indonesians Heri Ardiansyah, 19, and Hariadin, 45.
The two were kidnapped together with Malaysian hostage Jari Abdulla, 24, from their Sandakan-based fishing trawler in eastern Sabah waters close to the Philippines’ Tawi Tawi Island chain on Dec 5.
The video surfaced several days after Abu Sayyaf gunmen called Jari’s wife, Nadin Junianti Abdullah, saying that no Malaysian authorities or negotiators have contacted them to secure her husband’s release.
The gunmen, who spoke in broken Bahasa Malaysia, said that her husband would face “difficulties” if there was no contact from Malaysia.
They also asked her for telephone contacts of Malaysian journalists during the call at around 7pm on Feb 11.
In an interview in Sandakan on Feb 14, Nadin urged Malaysian authorities to help secure her husband’s release.
She said it was second time the kidnap group had contacted her.
There was no indication of a ransom demand.
Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Omar Mammah have said that they were working with their Philippines counterparts to secure the hostages’ release.
[Video]
KOTA KINABALU: Abu Sayyaf terrorists have threatened to behead a Malaysian and two Indonesian fishermen if no ransom is paid for their release.
A video which has been circulating shows one of the Indonesian men with a machete to his neck appealing to Indonesia’s president, as well as an Indonesian negotiator, to help secure their release.
The video was uploaded on Facebook by user Kim Hundin at about 5am on Feb 14 and appears to have been edited from a longer video.
The two hostages seen in the video with their eyes covered are believed to be Indonesians Heri Ardiansyah, 19, and Hariadin, 45.
The two were kidnapped together with Malaysian hostage Jari Abdulla, 24, from their Sandakan-based fishing trawler in eastern Sabah waters close to the Philippines’ Tawi Tawi Island chain on Dec 5.
The video surfaced several days after Abu Sayyaf gunmen called Jari’s wife, Nadin Junianti Abdullah, saying that no Malaysian authorities or negotiators have contacted them to secure her husband’s release.
The gunmen, who spoke in broken Bahasa Malaysia, said that her husband would face “difficulties” if there was no contact from Malaysia.
They also asked her for telephone contacts of Malaysian journalists during the call at around 7pm on Feb 11.
In an interview in Sandakan on Feb 14, Nadin urged Malaysian authorities to help secure her husband’s release.
She said it was second time the kidnap group had contacted her.
There was no indication of a ransom demand.
Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Omar Mammah have said that they were working with their Philippines counterparts to secure the hostages’ release.
Abu Sayyaf terrorists threaten to behead Malaysian and Indonesian fishermen in ransom video
From the Straits Times (Feb 20. 2019): Abu Sayyaf terrorists threaten to behead Malaysian and Indonesian fishermen in ransom video
KOTA KINABALU (THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK) - Abu Sayyaf terrorists holding a Malaysian and two Indonesian fishermen hostage are threatening to behead the trio unless a ransom is paid for their release.
A video has surfaced, purportedly showing one of the Indonesian men with a knife held to his neck appealing to the Indonesian president as well as an Indonesian negotiator to help secure their release.
The video was uploaded on Facebook by user Kim Hundin at about 5am on Feb 14 and appears to have been edited from a longer video.
The two hostages seen in the video with their faces covered are believed to be Indonesians Heri Ardiansyah, 19, and Hariadin, 45.
The two were kidnapped together with Malaysian hostage Jari Abdulla, 24, from their Sandakan-based fishing trawler in eastern Sabah waters close to the Philippines' Tawi Tawi Island chain on Dec 5.
The video surfaced several days after Abu Sayyaf gunmen called Jari's wife, Ms Nadin Junianti Abdullah, saying that no Malaysian authorities or negotiators have contacted them to secure her husband's release.
The gunmen, who spoke in broken Malay, said that her husband would face "difficulties" if there was no contact from Malaysia.
They also asked her for telephone contacts of Malaysian journalists during the call at around 7pm on Feb 11.
In an interview in Sandakan on Feb 14, Ms Nadin urged the Malaysian authorities to help secure her husband's release.
She said it was the second time the kidnap group had contacted her.
There was no indication of the ransom amount.
Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Omar Mammah has said Malaysian police were working with their Philippines counterparts to secure the hostages' release.
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/abu-sayyaf-terrorists-threaten-to-behead-msian-and-indonesian-fishermen-in-ransom-video
KOTA KINABALU (THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK) - Abu Sayyaf terrorists holding a Malaysian and two Indonesian fishermen hostage are threatening to behead the trio unless a ransom is paid for their release.
A video has surfaced, purportedly showing one of the Indonesian men with a knife held to his neck appealing to the Indonesian president as well as an Indonesian negotiator to help secure their release.
The video was uploaded on Facebook by user Kim Hundin at about 5am on Feb 14 and appears to have been edited from a longer video.
The two hostages seen in the video with their faces covered are believed to be Indonesians Heri Ardiansyah, 19, and Hariadin, 45.
The two were kidnapped together with Malaysian hostage Jari Abdulla, 24, from their Sandakan-based fishing trawler in eastern Sabah waters close to the Philippines' Tawi Tawi Island chain on Dec 5.
The video surfaced several days after Abu Sayyaf gunmen called Jari's wife, Ms Nadin Junianti Abdullah, saying that no Malaysian authorities or negotiators have contacted them to secure her husband's release.
The gunmen, who spoke in broken Malay, said that her husband would face "difficulties" if there was no contact from Malaysia.
They also asked her for telephone contacts of Malaysian journalists during the call at around 7pm on Feb 11.
In an interview in Sandakan on Feb 14, Ms Nadin urged the Malaysian authorities to help secure her husband's release.
She said it was the second time the kidnap group had contacted her.
There was no indication of the ransom amount.
Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Omar Mammah has said Malaysian police were working with their Philippines counterparts to secure the hostages' release.
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/abu-sayyaf-terrorists-threaten-to-behead-msian-and-indonesian-fishermen-in-ransom-video
Duterte sets terms of peace talks revival; NDF man arrives in Manila
From the Manila Standard (Feb 21, 2019): Duterte sets terms of peace talks revival; NDF man arrives in Manila
Stalled peace talks with communist rebels will resume only if the New People’s Army stops its extortion and attacks on police and government troops, the Palace said Wednesday, after President Rodrigo Duterte said Tuesday night that National Democratic Front chief negotiator Fidel Agcaoili is welcome to come home.
“I think attorney Agcaoili has sounded off. He was coming again to talk. And I told the military and the police just allow him [to come home],” Duterte said in a speech Tuesday. “After all, we are on a waiting period about the appropriate time to talk about peace. I am not that cruel.”
Duterte also had words for Communist Party of the Philippines founding chairman Jose Ma. Sison.
“I am not saying that I am now in agreement with Sison. I don’t like his style but I do not hate him. We are friends and we can be friends. Some other time they say I would kill for money. But since Sison is my professor, I will kill him for nothing. Except that before he goes to the blue yonder, kindly find time to talk sensible peace,” the President said.
The President said the communist rebellion has been going on for 53 years without succeeding.
“It’s a lost cause. I suggest that we do not make any demands. We go to the table and talk about it. And if he proposes something which is not acceptable and I would say, ‘No, I cannot accept that’,” Duterte said.
“And if I propose something and he does not relish it, then maybe he can go back to Netherlands. If there’s no peace, there is no way that he can come back.”
Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo on Wednesday reiterated the President’s conditions for a return to the negotiating table.
“We will return to the peace talks, one, if they stop extortion. Two, if they stop attacking our police forces,” Panelo said in a Palace press briefing.
In November last year, Agcaoili, NDF consultant Luis Jalandoni and panel member Coni Ledesma were supposed to return to Manila to conduct informal talks with the President.
They canceled their trip after Agcaoili claimed that the government’s peace panel advised them not to push through with the resumption of peace talks.
But Panelo said the NDF consultants’ apprehension about returning to the Philippines was “misplaced.”
“The President has been telling them that they are welcome to come if they want to talk. They will not be arrested. However, they expressed apprehension that they will be arrested. I already told them that their apprehension was misplaced, they’re welcome,” he said.
The Palace official said the communist group may even set conditions for the government to consider. Such conditions, however, must be “reasonable.”
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, meanwhile, said Agcaoili was already in the country but his whereabouts were unknown.
“He was already here since last week,” Lorenzana said Tuesday night.
Agcaoili and Ledesma have no pending criminal case in the country while Jalandoni has a pending murder case.
Duterte terminated the peace talks with the communists in 2017 amid a series of rebel attacks on military and civilian targets. He later declared the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New People’s Army, as terrorist organizations.
Lorenzana said the government remains open to the resumption of peace talks with the communists, provided that the rebels would cease their attacks, extortion, and burning of equipment.
He also said that Duterte’s decision to allow Agcaoili to return to the country means “that the government has not closed the door on peace talks.”
Sison implied that Agcaoili will be meeting with his counterpart in the government, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III.
“Agcaoili and Bello are competent representatives,” Sison said in a statement on Wednesday.
“They are conscious of seeking a common ground by responding to the needs and demands of the people and striving to agree on social, economic and political reforms as basis for a just and lasting peace.”
Communist rebels on Monday released eight more government soldiers who were taken in Agusan del Sur on Dec. 19, 2018.
The eight captives—two army troopers and six auxiliary men, were the second batch of NPA hostages freed. Six civilian volunteers were freed last week.
Maj. Gen. Felimon Santos Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command, identified the eight kidnap victims as Cpl. Eric Manangan and PFC Darlino Carino; auxiliary men, Jimuel Acebedo,
Abel Iligan, Jan-jan Iligan, Roland Quiao, Gabriel Iligan, and James Iligan.
Santos said the release of all the hostages was facilitated by representatives of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente who then requested Christopher Go and President Rodrigo Duterte’s youngest son Sebastian to turn them over to the Army’s 402nd Infantry Brigade.
READ: Troops foil NPA from burning heavy equipment
The military viewed the release as a propaganda move, noting that the psychological and emotional trauma the families had endured during their captivity will remain.
READ: Palace dares Joma: Let’s talk peace
http://manilastandard.net/news/top-stories/288307/duterte-sets-terms-of-peace-talks-revival-ndf-man-arrives-in-manila.html
Stalled peace talks with communist rebels will resume only if the New People’s Army stops its extortion and attacks on police and government troops, the Palace said Wednesday, after President Rodrigo Duterte said Tuesday night that National Democratic Front chief negotiator Fidel Agcaoili is welcome to come home.
“I think attorney Agcaoili has sounded off. He was coming again to talk. And I told the military and the police just allow him [to come home],” Duterte said in a speech Tuesday. “After all, we are on a waiting period about the appropriate time to talk about peace. I am not that cruel.”
Duterte also had words for Communist Party of the Philippines founding chairman Jose Ma. Sison.
“I am not saying that I am now in agreement with Sison. I don’t like his style but I do not hate him. We are friends and we can be friends. Some other time they say I would kill for money. But since Sison is my professor, I will kill him for nothing. Except that before he goes to the blue yonder, kindly find time to talk sensible peace,” the President said.
The President said the communist rebellion has been going on for 53 years without succeeding.
“It’s a lost cause. I suggest that we do not make any demands. We go to the table and talk about it. And if he proposes something which is not acceptable and I would say, ‘No, I cannot accept that’,” Duterte said.
“And if I propose something and he does not relish it, then maybe he can go back to Netherlands. If there’s no peace, there is no way that he can come back.”
Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo on Wednesday reiterated the President’s conditions for a return to the negotiating table.
“We will return to the peace talks, one, if they stop extortion. Two, if they stop attacking our police forces,” Panelo said in a Palace press briefing.
In November last year, Agcaoili, NDF consultant Luis Jalandoni and panel member Coni Ledesma were supposed to return to Manila to conduct informal talks with the President.
They canceled their trip after Agcaoili claimed that the government’s peace panel advised them not to push through with the resumption of peace talks.
But Panelo said the NDF consultants’ apprehension about returning to the Philippines was “misplaced.”
“The President has been telling them that they are welcome to come if they want to talk. They will not be arrested. However, they expressed apprehension that they will be arrested. I already told them that their apprehension was misplaced, they’re welcome,” he said.
The Palace official said the communist group may even set conditions for the government to consider. Such conditions, however, must be “reasonable.”
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, meanwhile, said Agcaoili was already in the country but his whereabouts were unknown.
“He was already here since last week,” Lorenzana said Tuesday night.
Agcaoili and Ledesma have no pending criminal case in the country while Jalandoni has a pending murder case.
Duterte terminated the peace talks with the communists in 2017 amid a series of rebel attacks on military and civilian targets. He later declared the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New People’s Army, as terrorist organizations.
He also said that Duterte’s decision to allow Agcaoili to return to the country means “that the government has not closed the door on peace talks.”
Sison implied that Agcaoili will be meeting with his counterpart in the government, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III.
“Agcaoili and Bello are competent representatives,” Sison said in a statement on Wednesday.
“They are conscious of seeking a common ground by responding to the needs and demands of the people and striving to agree on social, economic and political reforms as basis for a just and lasting peace.”
Communist rebels on Monday released eight more government soldiers who were taken in Agusan del Sur on Dec. 19, 2018.
The eight captives—two army troopers and six auxiliary men, were the second batch of NPA hostages freed. Six civilian volunteers were freed last week.
Maj. Gen. Felimon Santos Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command, identified the eight kidnap victims as Cpl. Eric Manangan and PFC Darlino Carino; auxiliary men, Jimuel Acebedo,
Abel Iligan, Jan-jan Iligan, Roland Quiao, Gabriel Iligan, and James Iligan.
Santos said the release of all the hostages was facilitated by representatives of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente who then requested Christopher Go and President Rodrigo Duterte’s youngest son Sebastian to turn them over to the Army’s 402nd Infantry Brigade.
READ: Troops foil NPA from burning heavy equipment
The military viewed the release as a propaganda move, noting that the psychological and emotional trauma the families had endured during their captivity will remain.
READ: Palace dares Joma: Let’s talk peace
http://manilastandard.net/news/top-stories/288307/duterte-sets-terms-of-peace-talks-revival-ndf-man-arrives-in-manila.html
Another NPA leader yields in Bukidnon
From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 21, 2019): Another NPA leader yields in Bukidnon
IMPASUGONG, Bukidnon — A young leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered Sunday to the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry “Dependable” Battalion (8IB) Charlie Company Commander, 1Lt. Noel Manalang Jr., at Brgy. St. Peter, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.
Lt. Col. Ronald M. Illana, 8IB Commanding Officer, said the 23-year old, alias "Jibber", was identified as Jurnaven Saligoy Napungahan.
Also known as “Jibber” is an active team leader of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) Sub-Regional Command 2 of North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (SRC2-NCMRC), who came from Brgy. Binicalan, San Luis, Agusan Del Sur.
In the custodial conversation, Jibber narrated his worries and guilt with his sick parents needing him badly as nobody could take care of them.
“I regret disregarding the ‘surrender advice’ of aka Jamaica—CPP-NPA’s Barrio Medical Group of Platoon PBY, SRC2 NCMRC—who surrendered early this January 2019. But I am still lucky because I heard over radio station here in Bukidnon that the government offers E-CLIP benefits to those who want to surrender. That E-CLIP attracted me to surrender because I really need some amount for my sick parents,” Jibber said.
He said his greatest disappointments happen during times of hunger and exhaustion in the mountains.
“We kept running for our lives during encounters with the military. I sinned when I decided to be with the CPP-NPA because they failed to fulfill the promise to have abundant life in this movement. Now I realized that the high-ranked leaders are only good in words. The truth is, they [CPP-NPA leaders] can’t provide even the basic needs of its members,” Jibber added.
Lt. Col. Illana, meanwhile, said, “Ka Jibber” was only a victim of the terrorists’ ideology.
“We welcome and accept him so he could live normal lives. The Philippine Army, in coordination with the local government and other line agencies, will process all the benefits due them, including help to his family,” Illana said.
With this, the Philippine Army is again urging remaining members of the rebels, especially SRC1 and SRC2 of NCMRC, to yield and embrace the law.
“Your dependable battalion is willing to accept and help you back to normal lives for your family and our society,” Illana added. (1Lt KTCabbigat, CMO, 8IB, PA/RLRB, PIA Bukidnon)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1018794
IMPASUGONG, Bukidnon — A young leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered Sunday to the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry “Dependable” Battalion (8IB) Charlie Company Commander, 1Lt. Noel Manalang Jr., at Brgy. St. Peter, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.
Lt. Col. Ronald M. Illana, 8IB Commanding Officer, said the 23-year old, alias "Jibber", was identified as Jurnaven Saligoy Napungahan.
Also known as “Jibber” is an active team leader of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) Sub-Regional Command 2 of North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (SRC2-NCMRC), who came from Brgy. Binicalan, San Luis, Agusan Del Sur.
In the custodial conversation, Jibber narrated his worries and guilt with his sick parents needing him badly as nobody could take care of them.
“I regret disregarding the ‘surrender advice’ of aka Jamaica—CPP-NPA’s Barrio Medical Group of Platoon PBY, SRC2 NCMRC—who surrendered early this January 2019. But I am still lucky because I heard over radio station here in Bukidnon that the government offers E-CLIP benefits to those who want to surrender. That E-CLIP attracted me to surrender because I really need some amount for my sick parents,” Jibber said.
He said his greatest disappointments happen during times of hunger and exhaustion in the mountains.
“We kept running for our lives during encounters with the military. I sinned when I decided to be with the CPP-NPA because they failed to fulfill the promise to have abundant life in this movement. Now I realized that the high-ranked leaders are only good in words. The truth is, they [CPP-NPA leaders] can’t provide even the basic needs of its members,” Jibber added.
Lt. Col. Illana, meanwhile, said, “Ka Jibber” was only a victim of the terrorists’ ideology.
“We welcome and accept him so he could live normal lives. The Philippine Army, in coordination with the local government and other line agencies, will process all the benefits due them, including help to his family,” Illana said.
With this, the Philippine Army is again urging remaining members of the rebels, especially SRC1 and SRC2 of NCMRC, to yield and embrace the law.
“Your dependable battalion is willing to accept and help you back to normal lives for your family and our society,” Illana added. (1Lt KTCabbigat, CMO, 8IB, PA/RLRB, PIA Bukidnon)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1018794
Feature: Returning to the folds of society
From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 21, 2019): Feature: Returning to the folds of society
MISAMIS ORIENTAL – The government is our refuge.
Over this, a former NPA propagandist from Misamis Oriental has returned to the refuge of the government after realizing life in the movement is not easy.
“Nakahunahuna ko balik sa gobyerno…gikapoy na mi didto. Ilang gisaad wala man natuman. Mahadlok na pud mi sa gubat didto…Gobyerno man sad ang dangpanan sa tanan,” she said. (I decided to return to the folds of the society…we are already tired in the mountains. We are also afraid of the encounters. They have not fulfilled what they have promised. The government is still our refuge)
Her task in the movement, aside from being a propagandist and recruiter, was to beg for food from farm tillers to survive. “Dili jud mi kakaon kung dili mi mangayo (we have to ask food from land tillers to survive), she narrated.
Deceit, lies
She, a mother of four, was promised to be provided with assistance to raise her children as, according to her, P700 will be given for every child if she joined the movement.
According to her, they were lured to join the movement and fallen prey to NPA deceit against the government.
“Ilang gadaoton ug balihon ang gobyerno. Sama na lamang sa katungod sa mag uuma. Sa ilang pag recruit, ila ipa saysay unsay problema gakasinati, ingon man usab, unsay may among panginabuhian ug mga produkto…Ako usa man sa gatanum sa ‘lawi,’ ang NPA recruiter maghisgot gamay ra kuno ang prisyo sa lawi ug sa dihang ibaligya na mahal na dayon. Matud pa, gitikasan ang prisyo sa tigpalit,” she narrated while she was still tilling ‘lawi’ and making ‘lawi’ broom as her source of living before joining the movement.
(They are slandering the government. While recruiting, they would ask us what problems are we encountering as well as our source of living. I’m a tiller of ‘lawi.’ The NPA recruiters would talk about the price of lawi. According to them, the farm gate price of ‘lawi’ broom is cheap compared to the market price)
Constantly brainwashed
It took six year for her to finally go down from the mountains and surrender as they were constantly brainwashed about perceived social ills.
But, she said life in the mountains of Bukidnon and in Claveria town and Gingoog City in Misamis Oriiental, is very hard and “walay kalipay nga matagamtaman labi na karon wala nay gasuporta nga mga tawo sa amoa labina karon Martial Law. Naay adlaw wala na mi gakaunon, inom na lang sa tubig para maka lahutay.”
Brigadier General Franco Nemesio M Gacal AFP congratulates former rebel who surrendered to the government and now a beneficiary of e-CLIP. (PIA10)
(No happiness would be felt especially now the people no longer support us and the Martial Law is declared in Mindanao. There are days we don’t have anything to eat; we just drink water instead to survive)
On the other hand, NPA leaders told us that those who will go down from the mountains would be killed but she said, “Wala may nahitabo (no such incident happened) when they decided to surrender.
Positive changes
Her family used to hurdle unpaved and muddy trails 21 kilometers from their village to the town proper in Misamis Oriental which now, she said the road is wide enough and can be accessed with big trucks.
Also, basic services are now accessible such as health and education.
“Okay na ang tabang kay naa nay Philhealth. Dili na usab lisud pa eskwela sa tabang the gobyerno (The support now are okay with the Philhealth. Sending children to school is no longer a problem given the support of the government),” she said.
With the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government, she said they are also bracing a comfortable life.
In February 2019, the E-CLIP Committee in Region 10 awarded cash benefits to the 31 former rebels (FRs) in a ceremony held in Cagayan de Oro City.
Checks amounting to P65,000 as livelihood and immediate cash assistance were handed over to each of the FRs in a ceremony that was participated by E-CLIP committee chair of Misamis Oriental Governor Yevgeny Vincente B. Emano represented by lawyer Neil Pacana, provincial legal officer; Brigadier General Franco Nemesio M Gacal AFP representing Undersecretary Reynaldo B. Mapagu, chairperson of the Task Force Balik-Loob together with Colonel Edgardo Y De Leon, 403rd Brigade commander and partner agencies from Task Force- Balik-Loob—Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Philippine National Police (PNP).
The Provincial Government of Misamis Oriental also shelled out P5,000 financial assistance to FRs.
In just about two months, from January 2019 to date, a total of 223 FRs have surrendered to the units under the 4th Infantry Division. These FRs are currently undergoing the E-CLIP process for their benefits.
Colonel De Leon said the E-CLIP is not forever, it is a program of the government with a termination. He called on the FRs and the media present to further disseminate the program to reach the active NPA members in the region for them to avail the program.
Pacana, meanwhile, emphasized on prioritizing tourism. Everything will follow to include development. “But how can we prioritize tourism if peace and order cannot be achieved,” he said.
“The cycle of CPP-NPA recruitment must be stopped, hopefully the assistance of the government to the FRs will pave way to change their lives for the better and become good examples for their former comrades to go back to mainstream society,” BGen Gacal said.
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1018795
MISAMIS ORIENTAL – The government is our refuge.
Over this, a former NPA propagandist from Misamis Oriental has returned to the refuge of the government after realizing life in the movement is not easy.
“Nakahunahuna ko balik sa gobyerno…gikapoy na mi didto. Ilang gisaad wala man natuman. Mahadlok na pud mi sa gubat didto…Gobyerno man sad ang dangpanan sa tanan,” she said. (I decided to return to the folds of the society…we are already tired in the mountains. We are also afraid of the encounters. They have not fulfilled what they have promised. The government is still our refuge)
Her task in the movement, aside from being a propagandist and recruiter, was to beg for food from farm tillers to survive. “Dili jud mi kakaon kung dili mi mangayo (we have to ask food from land tillers to survive), she narrated.
Deceit, lies
She, a mother of four, was promised to be provided with assistance to raise her children as, according to her, P700 will be given for every child if she joined the movement.
According to her, they were lured to join the movement and fallen prey to NPA deceit against the government.
“Ilang gadaoton ug balihon ang gobyerno. Sama na lamang sa katungod sa mag uuma. Sa ilang pag recruit, ila ipa saysay unsay problema gakasinati, ingon man usab, unsay may among panginabuhian ug mga produkto…Ako usa man sa gatanum sa ‘lawi,’ ang NPA recruiter maghisgot gamay ra kuno ang prisyo sa lawi ug sa dihang ibaligya na mahal na dayon. Matud pa, gitikasan ang prisyo sa tigpalit,” she narrated while she was still tilling ‘lawi’ and making ‘lawi’ broom as her source of living before joining the movement.
(They are slandering the government. While recruiting, they would ask us what problems are we encountering as well as our source of living. I’m a tiller of ‘lawi.’ The NPA recruiters would talk about the price of lawi. According to them, the farm gate price of ‘lawi’ broom is cheap compared to the market price)
Constantly brainwashed
It took six year for her to finally go down from the mountains and surrender as they were constantly brainwashed about perceived social ills.
But, she said life in the mountains of Bukidnon and in Claveria town and Gingoog City in Misamis Oriiental, is very hard and “walay kalipay nga matagamtaman labi na karon wala nay gasuporta nga mga tawo sa amoa labina karon Martial Law. Naay adlaw wala na mi gakaunon, inom na lang sa tubig para maka lahutay.”
Brigadier General Franco Nemesio M Gacal AFP congratulates former rebel who surrendered to the government and now a beneficiary of e-CLIP. (PIA10)
(No happiness would be felt especially now the people no longer support us and the Martial Law is declared in Mindanao. There are days we don’t have anything to eat; we just drink water instead to survive)
On the other hand, NPA leaders told us that those who will go down from the mountains would be killed but she said, “Wala may nahitabo (no such incident happened) when they decided to surrender.
Positive changes
Her family used to hurdle unpaved and muddy trails 21 kilometers from their village to the town proper in Misamis Oriental which now, she said the road is wide enough and can be accessed with big trucks.
Also, basic services are now accessible such as health and education.
“Okay na ang tabang kay naa nay Philhealth. Dili na usab lisud pa eskwela sa tabang the gobyerno (The support now are okay with the Philhealth. Sending children to school is no longer a problem given the support of the government),” she said.
With the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government, she said they are also bracing a comfortable life.
In February 2019, the E-CLIP Committee in Region 10 awarded cash benefits to the 31 former rebels (FRs) in a ceremony held in Cagayan de Oro City.
Checks amounting to P65,000 as livelihood and immediate cash assistance were handed over to each of the FRs in a ceremony that was participated by E-CLIP committee chair of Misamis Oriental Governor Yevgeny Vincente B. Emano represented by lawyer Neil Pacana, provincial legal officer; Brigadier General Franco Nemesio M Gacal AFP representing Undersecretary Reynaldo B. Mapagu, chairperson of the Task Force Balik-Loob together with Colonel Edgardo Y De Leon, 403rd Brigade commander and partner agencies from Task Force- Balik-Loob—Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Philippine National Police (PNP).
The Provincial Government of Misamis Oriental also shelled out P5,000 financial assistance to FRs.
In just about two months, from January 2019 to date, a total of 223 FRs have surrendered to the units under the 4th Infantry Division. These FRs are currently undergoing the E-CLIP process for their benefits.
Colonel De Leon said the E-CLIP is not forever, it is a program of the government with a termination. He called on the FRs and the media present to further disseminate the program to reach the active NPA members in the region for them to avail the program.
Pacana, meanwhile, emphasized on prioritizing tourism. Everything will follow to include development. “But how can we prioritize tourism if peace and order cannot be achieved,” he said.
“The cycle of CPP-NPA recruitment must be stopped, hopefully the assistance of the government to the FRs will pave way to change their lives for the better and become good examples for their former comrades to go back to mainstream society,” BGen Gacal said.
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1018795
Fleeing NPA terrorist killed in gun battle, army steps up pursuit
From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 21, 2019): Fleeing NPA terrorist killed in gun battle, army steps up pursuit
Drizzle and overcast skies can’t stop Green Valley residents from gathering at the village square to carry placards and posters showing support to President Rodrigo Duterte’s call to end terrorism. The villagers display on placards the Communist-NPA terrorists’ brutality. They condemn NPA’s extortion activities and the attack at a poultry farm zone in Green Valley, Dalwangan, Malaybalay City last February 14. (Ruby Leonora R. Balistoy, PIA Bukidnon)
MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon -- A New People’s Army (NPA) terrorist was killed Monday as the Philippine Army steps up operations to hunt down the fleeing rebels.
The pursuing troops of 1st Special Forces Battalion (1st SFBn) encountered the terrorists at 1 p.m on Feb. 18 in Lantapan, Bukidnon, killing one of the NPA combatants.
During firefight, the terrorists scampered leaving their dead comrade in the combat zone situated near the NPA hideout where troops found three sacks of rice.
The soldiers also recovered one M653 high-powered rifle.
Col. Edgardo De Leon, 403rd Brigade Commander said the Special Forces tracked the NPA’s location after civilians warned military on the communist insurgent’s presence in their village.
“This is a clear manifestation that they [terrorists] are unwanted or ‘persona non grata’ to IP communities and farmers in the area,” he said.
This was about two days after the army’s Northeastern and Northern Mindanao Fourth Infantry Division (4ID) ordered a hot pursuit operation against the Communist-NPA terrorists who attacked the 1st SFBn defense force tasked to build a Patrol Base at a poultry farm zone in Green Valley sub-village, Dalwangan, Malaybalay City. The attack occurred last February 14 around 9:40 in the evening, killing four rebels and two soldiers.
It can be recalled that on February 16, barely two days after the NPA attacked Sitio Green Valley, the residents gathered at the village square carrying placards and posters announcing the NPA’s brutality. The villagers vowed to reject NPAs who will again set foot in their village and volunteered in helping soldiers to fast-track the Patrol Base construction.
Fourth Infantry (Diamond) Division commanding general Brig. Gen. Franco Nemesio M. Gacal ordered the 403rd Infantry (Peacemaker) Brigade based in Bukidnon province, to secure the villagers who have been continuously given security assistance by 1st SFBn Community Support Program in Malaybalay City and neighboring fields.
"We will defend our people and communities from these terrorists at all cost. That is our mandate," BGen Gacal said. (Capt. Ryan D. Layug, CMO Officer, 403rd Inf Bde, 4ID, PA/RLRB, PIA Bukidnon)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1018796
Drizzle and overcast skies can’t stop Green Valley residents from gathering at the village square to carry placards and posters showing support to President Rodrigo Duterte’s call to end terrorism. The villagers display on placards the Communist-NPA terrorists’ brutality. They condemn NPA’s extortion activities and the attack at a poultry farm zone in Green Valley, Dalwangan, Malaybalay City last February 14. (Ruby Leonora R. Balistoy, PIA Bukidnon)
MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon -- A New People’s Army (NPA) terrorist was killed Monday as the Philippine Army steps up operations to hunt down the fleeing rebels.
The pursuing troops of 1st Special Forces Battalion (1st SFBn) encountered the terrorists at 1 p.m on Feb. 18 in Lantapan, Bukidnon, killing one of the NPA combatants.
During firefight, the terrorists scampered leaving their dead comrade in the combat zone situated near the NPA hideout where troops found three sacks of rice.
The soldiers also recovered one M653 high-powered rifle.
Col. Edgardo De Leon, 403rd Brigade Commander said the Special Forces tracked the NPA’s location after civilians warned military on the communist insurgent’s presence in their village.
“This is a clear manifestation that they [terrorists] are unwanted or ‘persona non grata’ to IP communities and farmers in the area,” he said.
This was about two days after the army’s Northeastern and Northern Mindanao Fourth Infantry Division (4ID) ordered a hot pursuit operation against the Communist-NPA terrorists who attacked the 1st SFBn defense force tasked to build a Patrol Base at a poultry farm zone in Green Valley sub-village, Dalwangan, Malaybalay City. The attack occurred last February 14 around 9:40 in the evening, killing four rebels and two soldiers.
It can be recalled that on February 16, barely two days after the NPA attacked Sitio Green Valley, the residents gathered at the village square carrying placards and posters announcing the NPA’s brutality. The villagers vowed to reject NPAs who will again set foot in their village and volunteered in helping soldiers to fast-track the Patrol Base construction.
Fourth Infantry (Diamond) Division commanding general Brig. Gen. Franco Nemesio M. Gacal ordered the 403rd Infantry (Peacemaker) Brigade based in Bukidnon province, to secure the villagers who have been continuously given security assistance by 1st SFBn Community Support Program in Malaybalay City and neighboring fields.
"We will defend our people and communities from these terrorists at all cost. That is our mandate," BGen Gacal said. (Capt. Ryan D. Layug, CMO Officer, 403rd Inf Bde, 4ID, PA/RLRB, PIA Bukidnon)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1018796
NPA loses 21 supporters in latest mass surrender in Compostela Valley
From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 21, 2019): NPA loses 21 supporters in latest mass surrender in Compostela Valley
At least 21 supporters of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered on Sunday, Feb. 17, to the 71st Infantry Battalion at the Balik Loob Assistance Center in Pantukan town, Compostela Valley province.
According to the battalion’s civil military officer 1st Lt. Jhocell Asis, majority of the surrenderers are small-scale miners and habal-habal (motorbike) drivers, who admitted of giving P200 every month to the NPA.
Asis said that the former NPA supporters revealed that the rebels sometimes took over their mining activities.
To entice them to join the communist-organized rallies, demonstrators were exempted from the enforced burden, said Asis, qouting from the confessions of the former NPA supporters.
Aside from their displeasure over the NPA extortion, a known collector of NPA protection money named “Alex” who yielded to the army last Jan. 24 was also instrumental in their surrender.
Lt. Col. Esteveyn Ducusin, battalion commander, said the surrender is “a wake-up call for those who continue supporting the pointless ideologies of the rebels.”
“It has been 50 years of crimes and extortion towards the innocent people of the country. We should not let it continue and it should stop now,” Ducusin said.
He encouraged the remaining NPA members and supporters to surrender.
Asis said the surrenderers will be prioritized in any livelihood project that will be provided by Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), other line agencies, local government units and the private entities that support the rebels’ return to normal life.
“Our unit will also facilitate the formation of the former rebels into a people’s organization that will be registered with DOLE, Department of Trade and Industry, and Department of Social Welfare and Development , among others, for (them to benefit from the benefactors’) programs,” she said.
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1018715
At least 21 supporters of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered on Sunday, Feb. 17, to the 71st Infantry Battalion at the Balik Loob Assistance Center in Pantukan town, Compostela Valley province.
According to the battalion’s civil military officer 1st Lt. Jhocell Asis, majority of the surrenderers are small-scale miners and habal-habal (motorbike) drivers, who admitted of giving P200 every month to the NPA.
Asis said that the former NPA supporters revealed that the rebels sometimes took over their mining activities.
To entice them to join the communist-organized rallies, demonstrators were exempted from the enforced burden, said Asis, qouting from the confessions of the former NPA supporters.
Aside from their displeasure over the NPA extortion, a known collector of NPA protection money named “Alex” who yielded to the army last Jan. 24 was also instrumental in their surrender.
Lt. Col. Esteveyn Ducusin, battalion commander, said the surrender is “a wake-up call for those who continue supporting the pointless ideologies of the rebels.”
“It has been 50 years of crimes and extortion towards the innocent people of the country. We should not let it continue and it should stop now,” Ducusin said.
He encouraged the remaining NPA members and supporters to surrender.
Asis said the surrenderers will be prioritized in any livelihood project that will be provided by Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), other line agencies, local government units and the private entities that support the rebels’ return to normal life.
“Our unit will also facilitate the formation of the former rebels into a people’s organization that will be registered with DOLE, Department of Trade and Industry, and Department of Social Welfare and Development , among others, for (them to benefit from the benefactors’) programs,” she said.
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1018715
60 CPP-NPA ex-supporters swear allegiance to gov't
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 21, 2019): 60 CPP-NPA ex-supporters swear allegiance to gov't
SURRENDERERS. Sixty former Militia ng Bayan and mass base supporters of the New People's Army swear their allegiance to the government in a ceremony held in Cuartero, Capiz, February 15-16, 2019 (Photo courtesy of 3ID Public Affairs Office)
ILOILO CITY -- Sixty members of the “Militia ng Bayan” and mass base supporters of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) in Cuartero, Capiz withdrew their support to the terrorist group and swore allegiance to the government.
Their oath-taking was facilitated by the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion community support program (CSP) teams in a ceremony held in Cuartero on February 15 and 16.
“The Militia ng Bayan are those who have connections to the terrorists while the supporters are those whom the terrorists ask for rice, crops and foods,” said Lt. Hazel Durotan, Civil Military Operations (CMO) officer of the 61st Infantry Battalion, in a press conference held at the Camp Martin Delgado on Wednesday.
The surrrenderers came from Barangays Carataya, San Antonio, and Mahunod-Hunod, known as influence areas of the communist terrorist groups.
Of those who yielded, 37 are members of the Militia ng Bayan and 23 are mass base supporters.
Durotan said the 37 surrenderers will be enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and receive PHP15,000 as immediate assistance.
“Once their papers have been validated the immediate assistance will be given. The Philippine Army will facilitate all the papers needed for them to avail E-CLIP benefits,” she added.
The 23 former supporters will be referred to government agencies that could help them lead normal lives.
“Actually we are doing it in the province of Capiz. They have two projects for the CSP (Community Support Program) areas. They have the Department of Labor and Employment projects there,” Durotan said.
“They want to clear their name that's why they turned their selves in to the Philippine Army,” she added.
The United States and the European Union have declared the CPP-NPA as a terrorist group.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062492
SURRENDERERS. Sixty former Militia ng Bayan and mass base supporters of the New People's Army swear their allegiance to the government in a ceremony held in Cuartero, Capiz, February 15-16, 2019 (Photo courtesy of 3ID Public Affairs Office)
ILOILO CITY -- Sixty members of the “Militia ng Bayan” and mass base supporters of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) in Cuartero, Capiz withdrew their support to the terrorist group and swore allegiance to the government.
Their oath-taking was facilitated by the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion community support program (CSP) teams in a ceremony held in Cuartero on February 15 and 16.
“The Militia ng Bayan are those who have connections to the terrorists while the supporters are those whom the terrorists ask for rice, crops and foods,” said Lt. Hazel Durotan, Civil Military Operations (CMO) officer of the 61st Infantry Battalion, in a press conference held at the Camp Martin Delgado on Wednesday.
The surrrenderers came from Barangays Carataya, San Antonio, and Mahunod-Hunod, known as influence areas of the communist terrorist groups.
Of those who yielded, 37 are members of the Militia ng Bayan and 23 are mass base supporters.
Durotan said the 37 surrenderers will be enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and receive PHP15,000 as immediate assistance.
“Once their papers have been validated the immediate assistance will be given. The Philippine Army will facilitate all the papers needed for them to avail E-CLIP benefits,” she added.
The 23 former supporters will be referred to government agencies that could help them lead normal lives.
“Actually we are doing it in the province of Capiz. They have two projects for the CSP (Community Support Program) areas. They have the Department of Labor and Employment projects there,” Durotan said.
“They want to clear their name that's why they turned their selves in to the Philippine Army,” she added.
The United States and the European Union have declared the CPP-NPA as a terrorist group.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062492
Gov’t reintegration prompts more rebels to surrender: Army
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 21, 2019): Gov’t reintegration prompts more rebels to surrender: Army
The Philippine Army’s 303rd Infantry Division is expecting more members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in Panay and Negros to surrender.
Maj. Gen. Dinoh Dolina, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, said this could happen as the government shows sincerity to help the former rebels by providing an initial reintegration assistance under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
“These E-CLIP beneficiaries are living proofs of the government’s sincerity in helping those who courageously abandoned the senseless and bloody armed struggle,” Dolina said in a statement on Wednesday.
He added the growing number of former rebels receiving assistance will encourage other NPA members to return to the fold of the law.
On Monday, 11 former rebels in Negros Occidental under the custody of the 62nd Infantry Battalion and the 3rd Civil-Military Operations Battalion received reintegration assistance worth PHP21,000 each from the Department of the Interior and Local Government.
In Cuartero, Capiz, a former rebel who voluntarily surrendered to the authorities on January 29 received a financial assistance of PHP10,000 from the municipal government.
The reintegration assistance is a component benefit of the E-CLIP for former rebels.
The receiving unit -- military, police, or local government unit -- from where a rebel surrendered receives PHP21,000 in reintegration assistance as a support to defray the subsistence or meals costs of the former rebel while in custody as well as for incidental expenses such as securing birth certificate, identification card, and mobility expenses.
Once enrolled in the E-CLIP, a former rebel will also receive immediate assistance of PHP15,000; livelihood assistance, PHP50,000; firearms remuneration, PHP12,000 to PHP500,000; half-way house assistance; PhilHealth enrollment and medical assistance; education assistance; housing assistance; legal assistance; and healing and reconciliation initiatives.
The United States and the European Union have already declared the CPP-NPA as a terrorist group.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062569
The Philippine Army’s 303rd Infantry Division is expecting more members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in Panay and Negros to surrender.
Maj. Gen. Dinoh Dolina, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, said this could happen as the government shows sincerity to help the former rebels by providing an initial reintegration assistance under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
“These E-CLIP beneficiaries are living proofs of the government’s sincerity in helping those who courageously abandoned the senseless and bloody armed struggle,” Dolina said in a statement on Wednesday.
He added the growing number of former rebels receiving assistance will encourage other NPA members to return to the fold of the law.
On Monday, 11 former rebels in Negros Occidental under the custody of the 62nd Infantry Battalion and the 3rd Civil-Military Operations Battalion received reintegration assistance worth PHP21,000 each from the Department of the Interior and Local Government.
In Cuartero, Capiz, a former rebel who voluntarily surrendered to the authorities on January 29 received a financial assistance of PHP10,000 from the municipal government.
The reintegration assistance is a component benefit of the E-CLIP for former rebels.
The receiving unit -- military, police, or local government unit -- from where a rebel surrendered receives PHP21,000 in reintegration assistance as a support to defray the subsistence or meals costs of the former rebel while in custody as well as for incidental expenses such as securing birth certificate, identification card, and mobility expenses.
Once enrolled in the E-CLIP, a former rebel will also receive immediate assistance of PHP15,000; livelihood assistance, PHP50,000; firearms remuneration, PHP12,000 to PHP500,000; half-way house assistance; PhilHealth enrollment and medical assistance; education assistance; housing assistance; legal assistance; and healing and reconciliation initiatives.
The United States and the European Union have already declared the CPP-NPA as a terrorist group.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062569
Reds struggle to regain former strongholds in Leyte: Army
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 21, 2019): Reds struggle to regain former strongholds in Leyte: Army
MILITARY'S OUTREACH PROGRAM. Soldiers of the Philippine Army’s 93rd Infantry Battalion join a tree-planting activity in a upland village in Ormoc City. Participating in outreach programs is seen as one of the strategies to combat insurgency. (Photo courtesy of Army 93rd IB)
TACLOBAN CITY -- The New People’s Army (NPA) is struggling to recover its former strongholds in Leyte province, despite its intensified efforts, due to lack of support in far-flung communities, an official of the Philippine Army said.
Of the 1,393 villages in Leyte, only 178 are still affected by operations of the NPA- Leyte front committee. Seventeen had been categorized as influenced, 50 of these are less influenced, and 111 others are considered threatened.
"They are trying to beef up manpower by looking for potential recruits, but they’re not that successful as people report to us of their sightings,” said Lt. Col. Roberto Beatisula, commander of the Philippine Army’s 93rd Infantry Battalion (IB), during the provincial peace and order council meeting here on Wednesday.
Since last year, the military only recorded 16 activities of communist rebels such as movements, meetings, and extortion even if they have been exerting efforts to “recover dwindling mass bases”.
"They have been striving to conceal their movements in far-flung areas and mountainous areas of the province to avoid confrontation with government forces to preserve their ranks,” Beatisula added.
The NPA in Leyte has 75 active members with 40 classified as political and 35 as armed with light weapons.
Recently, rebels have been sighted in upland areas of Baybay City, Inopocan, Hindang, Hilongos, Mahaplag, Abuera, Burauen, La Paz, Macarthur, Ormoc City, Carigara, Jaro, Leyte, Tabango, and Calubian towns.
The latest clash in Leyte was reported on Dec. 13, 2018, when soldiers aborted a bi-annual meeting in Anislagan village, Calubian town, which was attended by 20 communist rebels.
Acting on intelligence report, two platoons raided the village and engaged the rebels in a gun battle. No one was hurt on the military side while the number of casualties on the enemy side remained undetermined.
Also recovered were mobile phones, tablets, food items, and several personal belongings of rebels.
Based in Kananga, Leyte, the military activated the 93rd IB last year to reinforce military units in the more aggressive fight against communist rebels in the region. The battalion, considered as one of the Army’s elite force, is composed of well-trained army officers and enlisted military personnel.
The military unit is just one of the 10 new battalions created nationwide as announced by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana to augment the existing government forces in the fight against insurgency and terrorism.
The Communist Party of the Philippines - NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States and European Union. The communist rebels have been battling government forces for 50 years. The communist rebellion in the Philippines is one of Asia's longest-running insurgencies.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062585
MILITARY'S OUTREACH PROGRAM. Soldiers of the Philippine Army’s 93rd Infantry Battalion join a tree-planting activity in a upland village in Ormoc City. Participating in outreach programs is seen as one of the strategies to combat insurgency. (Photo courtesy of Army 93rd IB)
TACLOBAN CITY -- The New People’s Army (NPA) is struggling to recover its former strongholds in Leyte province, despite its intensified efforts, due to lack of support in far-flung communities, an official of the Philippine Army said.
Of the 1,393 villages in Leyte, only 178 are still affected by operations of the NPA- Leyte front committee. Seventeen had been categorized as influenced, 50 of these are less influenced, and 111 others are considered threatened.
"They are trying to beef up manpower by looking for potential recruits, but they’re not that successful as people report to us of their sightings,” said Lt. Col. Roberto Beatisula, commander of the Philippine Army’s 93rd Infantry Battalion (IB), during the provincial peace and order council meeting here on Wednesday.
Since last year, the military only recorded 16 activities of communist rebels such as movements, meetings, and extortion even if they have been exerting efforts to “recover dwindling mass bases”.
"They have been striving to conceal their movements in far-flung areas and mountainous areas of the province to avoid confrontation with government forces to preserve their ranks,” Beatisula added.
The NPA in Leyte has 75 active members with 40 classified as political and 35 as armed with light weapons.
Recently, rebels have been sighted in upland areas of Baybay City, Inopocan, Hindang, Hilongos, Mahaplag, Abuera, Burauen, La Paz, Macarthur, Ormoc City, Carigara, Jaro, Leyte, Tabango, and Calubian towns.
The latest clash in Leyte was reported on Dec. 13, 2018, when soldiers aborted a bi-annual meeting in Anislagan village, Calubian town, which was attended by 20 communist rebels.
Acting on intelligence report, two platoons raided the village and engaged the rebels in a gun battle. No one was hurt on the military side while the number of casualties on the enemy side remained undetermined.
Also recovered were mobile phones, tablets, food items, and several personal belongings of rebels.
Based in Kananga, Leyte, the military activated the 93rd IB last year to reinforce military units in the more aggressive fight against communist rebels in the region. The battalion, considered as one of the Army’s elite force, is composed of well-trained army officers and enlisted military personnel.
The military unit is just one of the 10 new battalions created nationwide as announced by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana to augment the existing government forces in the fight against insurgency and terrorism.
The Communist Party of the Philippines - NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States and European Union. The communist rebels have been battling government forces for 50 years. The communist rebellion in the Philippines is one of Asia's longest-running insurgencies.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062585
2 Reds killed in clash with gov't troops in Oriental Mindoro
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 21, 2019): 2 Reds killed in clash with gov't troops in Oriental Mindoro
CAMP GEN. CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal -- Two members of the New Peoples’ Army (NPA) were killed early Thursday morning during a gun battle with soldiers from the 4th Infantry Battalion (4IB) in Barangay Teresita, Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro.
Reports reaching the headquarters of the Philippine Army's 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division (2ID) here said that military troops were scouring the area when they traced the enemy’s temporary hideout and engaged around 10 NPAs in a five-minute firefight.
The soldiers found the bodies of the two rebels following the clash. There were no casualties on the government side.
Col. Marceliano Teofilo, commander of the 203rd Brigade based in Mindoro who directly supervises the ongoing Focused Military Operation (FMO), said "the encounter was the result of the information received by our troops from a concerned civilian who reported the presence of an armed group’s extortion activities in their community".
Teofilo said the 10 communist terrorist rebels belong to the NPA’s Platoon Mike of Kilusang Larangan Guerilla Silangan, led by Peter Rivera alias "Rotche".
He said the soldiers also recovered one M16 rifle, two rifle grenades, three backpacks, bandoliers, medical paraphernalia, war materials, and other personal belongings.
Teofilo added that the enemy scampered to different directions, leaving behind their two slain comrades while dragging along the other wounded or dead members. Heavy blood stains were found along their escape routes.
Lt. Col Dennis Gutierrez, Battalion Commander of the 4IB, said the local police is now conducting pursuit operations.
"We also believe the encounter pre-empted the NPAs planned burning of the construction equipment nearby," he said.
Maj. Gen. Rhoderick M. Parayno, 2ID commander, lauded the latest accomplishments of the troops against the NPA terrorists in Mindoro.
"The NPAs in Mindoro are slowly being dissipated. Ang resulta ng patuloy nilang paglaban ay naging mitsa ng kanilang buhay. Ang ilan naman na sumusuko, ay dahan-dahan ng nakakabalik sa mapayapa, matahimik at makabuluhan na pamumuhay (Their continuing fight has resulted in their loss of lives. Those who have surrendered have eventually led peaceful, orderly and meaningful lives),” Parayno said.
He said government troops are continuing the pursuit operations and have beefed up checkpoints against the NPA terrorists.
“The choice really is up to the NPAs. But the communities are asking them to stop the violence against the people. They want peace and development, not violence and strife. Sana magising na ang mga NPA sa katotohanan (I hope the NPAs would soon wake up and realize their lost cause)," Parayno said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062575
CAMP GEN. CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal -- Two members of the New Peoples’ Army (NPA) were killed early Thursday morning during a gun battle with soldiers from the 4th Infantry Battalion (4IB) in Barangay Teresita, Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro.
Reports reaching the headquarters of the Philippine Army's 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division (2ID) here said that military troops were scouring the area when they traced the enemy’s temporary hideout and engaged around 10 NPAs in a five-minute firefight.
The soldiers found the bodies of the two rebels following the clash. There were no casualties on the government side.
Col. Marceliano Teofilo, commander of the 203rd Brigade based in Mindoro who directly supervises the ongoing Focused Military Operation (FMO), said "the encounter was the result of the information received by our troops from a concerned civilian who reported the presence of an armed group’s extortion activities in their community".
Teofilo said the 10 communist terrorist rebels belong to the NPA’s Platoon Mike of Kilusang Larangan Guerilla Silangan, led by Peter Rivera alias "Rotche".
He said the soldiers also recovered one M16 rifle, two rifle grenades, three backpacks, bandoliers, medical paraphernalia, war materials, and other personal belongings.
Teofilo added that the enemy scampered to different directions, leaving behind their two slain comrades while dragging along the other wounded or dead members. Heavy blood stains were found along their escape routes.
Lt. Col Dennis Gutierrez, Battalion Commander of the 4IB, said the local police is now conducting pursuit operations.
"We also believe the encounter pre-empted the NPAs planned burning of the construction equipment nearby," he said.
Maj. Gen. Rhoderick M. Parayno, 2ID commander, lauded the latest accomplishments of the troops against the NPA terrorists in Mindoro.
"The NPAs in Mindoro are slowly being dissipated. Ang resulta ng patuloy nilang paglaban ay naging mitsa ng kanilang buhay. Ang ilan naman na sumusuko, ay dahan-dahan ng nakakabalik sa mapayapa, matahimik at makabuluhan na pamumuhay (Their continuing fight has resulted in their loss of lives. Those who have surrendered have eventually led peaceful, orderly and meaningful lives),” Parayno said.
He said government troops are continuing the pursuit operations and have beefed up checkpoints against the NPA terrorists.
“The choice really is up to the NPAs. But the communities are asking them to stop the violence against the people. They want peace and development, not violence and strife. Sana magising na ang mga NPA sa katotohanan (I hope the NPAs would soon wake up and realize their lost cause)," Parayno said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062575
5 NPAs yield to Marines in Sultan Kudarat
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 21, 2019): 5 NPAs yield to Marines in Sultan Kudarat
SURRENDER. Mayor Ronan Garcia (in red polo shirt) of Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat, welcomes one of five communist New People’s Army surrenderers after yielding on Thursday morning (Feb. 21) as a military officer looks on. (Photo courtesy of MBLT 2)
CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao -- Five communist rebels surrendered to the Marine Battalion Landing Team 2 in Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat, Thursday morning.
Brig. Gen. Eugenio Hernandez, the commander of the 1st Marine Brigade based in Kalamansig, said the intensified and relentless operation in the mountain borders of Kalamansig, Lebak, and Sen. Ninoy Aquino, all in Sultan Kudarat, prompted the surrender of the five rebels.
“Due to our intensified military operations and information campaign on the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), the rebels decided to yield to our troops in Kalamansig,” Hernandez said in a statement.
The former rebels, all from the Dulangan-Manobo indigenous cultural community, belonged to NPA Guerilla Front 73 operating in the peripheries of neighboring Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, and Sarangani provinces.
On the same day, the surrenderers were presented to Kalamansig Mayor Ronan Eugene Garcia who announced that the local government will work on their enrolment into the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
Garcia said the former rebels will receive E-CLIP benefits, such as free housing, reintegration program worth PHP21,000, livelihood assistance worth PHP50,000, free college education, and other government benefits.
Ka Ramil, one of the surrenderers, admitted they were deceived by NPA leaders who promised them land ownership and education by fighting the government.
“The promises are all empty emanating from a futile cause,” he said in the vernacular.
Ka Ramil said many of their comrades are just waiting for a chance to come down and surrender.
Garcia said the former rebels will be given jobs and may be recruited as members of the Civilian Active Auxiliary force to become productive citizens.
“We will continue to do our mandate to keep the peace and prosperity in the municipalities,” Hernandez said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062602
CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao -- Five communist rebels surrendered to the Marine Battalion Landing Team 2 in Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat, Thursday morning.
Brig. Gen. Eugenio Hernandez, the commander of the 1st Marine Brigade based in Kalamansig, said the intensified and relentless operation in the mountain borders of Kalamansig, Lebak, and Sen. Ninoy Aquino, all in Sultan Kudarat, prompted the surrender of the five rebels.
“Due to our intensified military operations and information campaign on the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), the rebels decided to yield to our troops in Kalamansig,” Hernandez said in a statement.
The former rebels, all from the Dulangan-Manobo indigenous cultural community, belonged to NPA Guerilla Front 73 operating in the peripheries of neighboring Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, and Sarangani provinces.
On the same day, the surrenderers were presented to Kalamansig Mayor Ronan Eugene Garcia who announced that the local government will work on their enrolment into the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
Garcia said the former rebels will receive E-CLIP benefits, such as free housing, reintegration program worth PHP21,000, livelihood assistance worth PHP50,000, free college education, and other government benefits.
Ka Ramil, one of the surrenderers, admitted they were deceived by NPA leaders who promised them land ownership and education by fighting the government.
“The promises are all empty emanating from a futile cause,” he said in the vernacular.
Ka Ramil said many of their comrades are just waiting for a chance to come down and surrender.
Garcia said the former rebels will be given jobs and may be recruited as members of the Civilian Active Auxiliary force to become productive citizens.
“We will continue to do our mandate to keep the peace and prosperity in the municipalities,” Hernandez said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062602
2 ASG bandits killed, 2 hurt in Sulu clash
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 21, 2019): 2 ASG bandits killed, 2 hurt in Sulu clash
Two Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits were killed while two others wounded in a firefight that broke out Thursday as the military continues its focused operations against the terrorist group in Sulu.
Brig. Gen. Divino Rey Pabayo, Joint Task Force Sulu commander, said the latest firefight occurred around 11 a.m. Thursday in Sitio Tubig Amu, Barangay Tanum, Patikul, Sulu.
Pabayo said the troops from the Army’s 41st Infantry Battalion were conducting operations when they chanced upon a group of ASG bandits in Sitio Tubig Amu, Barangay Tanum.
He said the ASG bandits suffered two deaths and two wounded based in information they received from the populace as the bandits fled to Luba hill in Barangay Tanum.
“The troops are presently scouring the encounter site and will pursue the fleeing enemy,” Pabayo said.
The troops pounded Luba Hill with 105-milimeter (mm) howitzers and 81-mm mortar as the ground troops are tracking down the fleeing bandits.
“Military troops are closing in on evading Abu Sayyaf militants and are gaining a foothold with the sustained conduct of tactical offensives and intelligence operations being launched in the hinterlands of Sulu,” Lt. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, said.
The Joint Task Forces Sulu launched the focused military operations following orders from President Rodrigo Duterte to pursue the ASG bandits behind the January 27 double bombing of the Our Lady of Mount Carmel cathedral in Jolo, Sulu.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062594
Two Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits were killed while two others wounded in a firefight that broke out Thursday as the military continues its focused operations against the terrorist group in Sulu.
Brig. Gen. Divino Rey Pabayo, Joint Task Force Sulu commander, said the latest firefight occurred around 11 a.m. Thursday in Sitio Tubig Amu, Barangay Tanum, Patikul, Sulu.
Pabayo said the troops from the Army’s 41st Infantry Battalion were conducting operations when they chanced upon a group of ASG bandits in Sitio Tubig Amu, Barangay Tanum.
He said the ASG bandits suffered two deaths and two wounded based in information they received from the populace as the bandits fled to Luba hill in Barangay Tanum.
“The troops are presently scouring the encounter site and will pursue the fleeing enemy,” Pabayo said.
The troops pounded Luba Hill with 105-milimeter (mm) howitzers and 81-mm mortar as the ground troops are tracking down the fleeing bandits.
“Military troops are closing in on evading Abu Sayyaf militants and are gaining a foothold with the sustained conduct of tactical offensives and intelligence operations being launched in the hinterlands of Sulu,” Lt. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, said.
The Joint Task Forces Sulu launched the focused military operations following orders from President Rodrigo Duterte to pursue the ASG bandits behind the January 27 double bombing of the Our Lady of Mount Carmel cathedral in Jolo, Sulu.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062594
PNP searching for child of alleged Jolo suicide bombers
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 21, 2019): PNP searching for child of alleged Jolo suicide bombers
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is now looking for the child of the alleged suicide bombers behind the Roman Catholic cathedral twin bomb blasts in Jolo, Sulu last month.
PNP Chief, Director General Oscar Albayalde, said the child can help identify the culprits through DNA test.
“We are looking into that, yung information na yan na merong silang iniwan na anak dito sa Pilipinas (the information that they left a child here in the Philippines),” Albayalde told reporters on Wednesday.
“Hindi natin alam kung 10 years old, kung babae o lalaki, but we have information na posibleng meron silang iniwan na anak dito (We don’t know if the child is 10 years old, a girl or a boy, but we have information that they possibly left a child here),” he added.
Investigators found two pairs of severed feet belonging to a man and a woman at the crime scene, boosting initial findings that the bombers could have been a foreign couple.
The feet did not match any of the 23 casualties of the twin blasts, according to investigators.
Albayalde said a pair of severed feet matches the DNA of part of a neck recovered from the blast site.
He said investigators are coordinating with their counterparts in Indonesia, following reports that the suicide bombers were Indonesian nationals.
“Actually the Indonesian police was here about two weeks ago to help us find out,” Albayalde said.
Interior Secretary Eduardo Año earlier said the Indonesian government is willing to assist in the investigation.
It was Año who first said that the suicide bombers were Indonesians, based on post-blast and forensic investigation and testimonies of the survivors.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062460
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is now looking for the child of the alleged suicide bombers behind the Roman Catholic cathedral twin bomb blasts in Jolo, Sulu last month.
PNP Chief, Director General Oscar Albayalde, said the child can help identify the culprits through DNA test.
“We are looking into that, yung information na yan na merong silang iniwan na anak dito sa Pilipinas (the information that they left a child here in the Philippines),” Albayalde told reporters on Wednesday.
“Hindi natin alam kung 10 years old, kung babae o lalaki, but we have information na posibleng meron silang iniwan na anak dito (We don’t know if the child is 10 years old, a girl or a boy, but we have information that they possibly left a child here),” he added.
Investigators found two pairs of severed feet belonging to a man and a woman at the crime scene, boosting initial findings that the bombers could have been a foreign couple.
The feet did not match any of the 23 casualties of the twin blasts, according to investigators.
Albayalde said a pair of severed feet matches the DNA of part of a neck recovered from the blast site.
He said investigators are coordinating with their counterparts in Indonesia, following reports that the suicide bombers were Indonesian nationals.
“Actually the Indonesian police was here about two weeks ago to help us find out,” Albayalde said.
Interior Secretary Eduardo Año earlier said the Indonesian government is willing to assist in the investigation.
It was Año who first said that the suicide bombers were Indonesians, based on post-blast and forensic investigation and testimonies of the survivors.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062460
Students linked to NPA, not dissenters, may lose scholarship: PRRD
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 21, 2019): Students linked to NPA, not dissenters, may lose scholarship: PRRD
President Rodrigo R. Duterte said Wednesday that only students proven to be linked to communist rebel groups, and not rallyists or dissenters, may risk losing their state scholarships.
Duterte made this remark after National Youth Commission (NYC) chairman Ronald Cardema called on the President to remove state scholarships for student-rallyists, particularly those suspected to be members of the leftist movement.
“Wala naman kung dissent lang (It’s nothing if it’s just dissent). If you disagree with my move, you disagree or you do not find consonance in our decision,” he said in a chance interview in Malacañan Palace.
“But if you go and say, ‘Let us go out, join the NPAs, support the NPAs, give food to the NPAs, money to the NPAs,’ then you espouse the destruction of the duly constituted government,” he said, referring to the New People's Army.
Duterte said it takes more than “just expressions” to overthrow the government and he needs to see “overt acts” to prove that student rallyists are indeed members of the leftist movement.
He noted that “espousing to overthrow the government” means one could be a “potential leader” of communist rebels.
“They are these potential leaders. You are showing their faces, convincing the nation, and at this time they are all leaders,” Duterte said.
“If you espouse to overthrow government, then you are committing a crime of rebellion. Now you become a part or member of the other larger groups, whether it has a name or a loose federation or a grouping --- then you become a member of that organized group. And that would be rebellion,” he said.
Duterte, meanwhile, said that students linked to the NPA may also be arrested.
“When the time comes, I will arrest all of them and they will lose everything that government has offered them,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062533
President Rodrigo R. Duterte said Wednesday that only students proven to be linked to communist rebel groups, and not rallyists or dissenters, may risk losing their state scholarships.
Duterte made this remark after National Youth Commission (NYC) chairman Ronald Cardema called on the President to remove state scholarships for student-rallyists, particularly those suspected to be members of the leftist movement.
“Wala naman kung dissent lang (It’s nothing if it’s just dissent). If you disagree with my move, you disagree or you do not find consonance in our decision,” he said in a chance interview in Malacañan Palace.
“But if you go and say, ‘Let us go out, join the NPAs, support the NPAs, give food to the NPAs, money to the NPAs,’ then you espouse the destruction of the duly constituted government,” he said, referring to the New People's Army.
Duterte said it takes more than “just expressions” to overthrow the government and he needs to see “overt acts” to prove that student rallyists are indeed members of the leftist movement.
He noted that “espousing to overthrow the government” means one could be a “potential leader” of communist rebels.
“They are these potential leaders. You are showing their faces, convincing the nation, and at this time they are all leaders,” Duterte said.
“If you espouse to overthrow government, then you are committing a crime of rebellion. Now you become a part or member of the other larger groups, whether it has a name or a loose federation or a grouping --- then you become a member of that organized group. And that would be rebellion,” he said.
Duterte, meanwhile, said that students linked to the NPA may also be arrested.
“When the time comes, I will arrest all of them and they will lose everything that government has offered them,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062533
Livelihood, protection up for Red surrenderees: AFP
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 21, 2019): Livelihood, protection up for Red surrenderees: AFP
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) offered anew the government's protection and livelihood package to New People's Army (NPA) communist rebels, who are thinking of surrendering due to military pressure and threats from their own comrades.
"On our part, our doors are still open for those who want to return to the folds of the law. We will protect you from your former cadres and provide you with the benefits under the E-CLIP (Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program) so that you can go back to your families and live normal lives away from violence," AFP public affairs office chief Col. Noel Detoyato said in a text message Wednesday.
Detoyato made this offer as the NPA, which is steadily losing ground and influence since 2016, is now killing its own members suspected of collaborating with the government.
"The communist terrorists have been radically reduced since 2016, as seen in our regular release of the statistics. This loss on their side infuriates them and they resort to killing their own members who they think have connection to the military, or the government. It is their design to be radical," he added.
The NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States and European Union.
From January to December 2018 alone, the AFP said a total of 11,605 NPA members and supporters have surrendered.
This can be broken down into 1,222 regular NPAs while 1,398 are "Militia ng Bayan" operatives; 408 "Sangay ng Partido sa Lokalidad"; 1,133 "Underground Mass Organization" members and 7,444 others considered as supporters of the communist terrorists. This does not include the 120 killed and 196 arrested during military operations.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062538
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) offered anew the government's protection and livelihood package to New People's Army (NPA) communist rebels, who are thinking of surrendering due to military pressure and threats from their own comrades.
"On our part, our doors are still open for those who want to return to the folds of the law. We will protect you from your former cadres and provide you with the benefits under the E-CLIP (Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program) so that you can go back to your families and live normal lives away from violence," AFP public affairs office chief Col. Noel Detoyato said in a text message Wednesday.
Detoyato made this offer as the NPA, which is steadily losing ground and influence since 2016, is now killing its own members suspected of collaborating with the government.
"The communist terrorists have been radically reduced since 2016, as seen in our regular release of the statistics. This loss on their side infuriates them and they resort to killing their own members who they think have connection to the military, or the government. It is their design to be radical," he added.
The NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States and European Union.
From January to December 2018 alone, the AFP said a total of 11,605 NPA members and supporters have surrendered.
This can be broken down into 1,222 regular NPAs while 1,398 are "Militia ng Bayan" operatives; 408 "Sangay ng Partido sa Lokalidad"; 1,133 "Underground Mass Organization" members and 7,444 others considered as supporters of the communist terrorists. This does not include the 120 killed and 196 arrested during military operations.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062538
Mandatory ROTC to cut Reds infiltration in schools
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 21, 2019): Mandatory ROTC to cut Reds infiltration in schools
The New People's Army (NPA) infiltration and recruitment of students will be greatly reduced once mandatory Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) is implemented, an official of the Armed Forces of the Philippines said Thursday.
"If all students will be made to undergo the ROTC program, it will definitely reduce the recruitment grounds of the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front) and other radical and extremist groups. The students will be enlightened about the bigger picture and the main purpose of these terrorist groups that arouse, organize, and mobilize innocent individuals who fall into their deceitful tactics," AFP Public Affairs Office chief, Col. Noel Detoyato said in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
Detoyato added that the main purpose of House Bill 8961, which seeks to reinstate mandatory ROTC for all Grade 11 and 12 students, is to re-introduce patriotism, nation-building, respect for human rights, adherence to the Constitution, and character development to students.
He said the mandatory ROTC does not automatically mean that cadets will be deployed in the battlefield in case of any hostilities.
"To allay the fear of parents, ROTC cadets are not necessarily sent in the battlefield. They only undergo trainings inside campus and are taught about basic survival, relief operations, and nationalism. We have a regular force that conducts operations," Detoyato said.
He said the mandatory ROTC will always adhere to the rule of law.
"We will make sure that selected training officers are well-rounded and not abusive of power," Detoyato said.
House Bill 8961 seeks to amend for the purpose Republic Act 7077 or the Citizen Armed Forces of the Philippines Reservist Act.
Under the proposed measure, ROTC training would apply to “all students in Grades 11 and 12 in all senior high schools in public and private educational institutions.”
The bill also states that ROTC training shall be a requirement for graduation.
As provided, the following students may be exempted: those who are physically or psychologically unfit; those who have undergone or are undergoing similar military training; those who are chosen by their school to serve as the school’s varsity players in sports competition; and those who may be exempted from training for valid reasons as approved by the Department of National Defense, upon recommendation by an educational institution where the concerned student is enrolled.
The proposed measure also prohibits the use of ROTC training for “political” objective and for teaching and instilling a particular political ideology on students. It also bans hazing and other forms of physical or mental abuse.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062562
The New People's Army (NPA) infiltration and recruitment of students will be greatly reduced once mandatory Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) is implemented, an official of the Armed Forces of the Philippines said Thursday.
"If all students will be made to undergo the ROTC program, it will definitely reduce the recruitment grounds of the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front) and other radical and extremist groups. The students will be enlightened about the bigger picture and the main purpose of these terrorist groups that arouse, organize, and mobilize innocent individuals who fall into their deceitful tactics," AFP Public Affairs Office chief, Col. Noel Detoyato said in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
Detoyato added that the main purpose of House Bill 8961, which seeks to reinstate mandatory ROTC for all Grade 11 and 12 students, is to re-introduce patriotism, nation-building, respect for human rights, adherence to the Constitution, and character development to students.
He said the mandatory ROTC does not automatically mean that cadets will be deployed in the battlefield in case of any hostilities.
"To allay the fear of parents, ROTC cadets are not necessarily sent in the battlefield. They only undergo trainings inside campus and are taught about basic survival, relief operations, and nationalism. We have a regular force that conducts operations," Detoyato said.
He said the mandatory ROTC will always adhere to the rule of law.
"We will make sure that selected training officers are well-rounded and not abusive of power," Detoyato said.
House Bill 8961 seeks to amend for the purpose Republic Act 7077 or the Citizen Armed Forces of the Philippines Reservist Act.
Under the proposed measure, ROTC training would apply to “all students in Grades 11 and 12 in all senior high schools in public and private educational institutions.”
The bill also states that ROTC training shall be a requirement for graduation.
As provided, the following students may be exempted: those who are physically or psychologically unfit; those who have undergone or are undergoing similar military training; those who are chosen by their school to serve as the school’s varsity players in sports competition; and those who may be exempted from training for valid reasons as approved by the Department of National Defense, upon recommendation by an educational institution where the concerned student is enrolled.
The proposed measure also prohibits the use of ROTC training for “political” objective and for teaching and instilling a particular political ideology on students. It also bans hazing and other forms of physical or mental abuse.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062562
349 gov't execs pay CPP-NPA extortion money, campaign 'fees'
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 21, 2019): 349 gov't execs pay CPP-NPA extortion money, campaign 'fees'
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Eduardo Año on Thursday bared a watchlist containing 349 local and national government officials, who allegedly support the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) by form of extortion money and permit to campaign fees.
Año said based on intelligence reports received by the DILG, 349 local and national government officials have been identified as sources of financial aid of the communist rebels.
"We now have a watchlist, we know you. So if you are supporting communist rebels, in any way, you ascertain yourself as a supporter of terrorism and an enemy of the state, you establish yourself as an accomplice to their cause," he said.
“We cannot win the war against terrorism if these local officials continue funding the very source of terrorism in the first place," he added.
He said of the officials, there are 11 provincial governors; five vice governors; 10 provincial board members; 55 mayors; 21 vice mayors and 41 councilors.
Also on the list are 126 barangay captains, 50 barangay councilors, and eight other barangay officials.
"This number is not alarming as compared to the total number of barangays in the country, but it sends a message that extortion starts at the community level, down in the grass roots," Año said.
Other source of extortion money are 11 former local government unit (LGU) officials, 10 incumbent congressman, and one former congressman.
"Can you just imagine that? Our own government officials giving funds to the enemy," Año said.
DILG spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Jonathan Malaya said that according to the same report, these cases involving the said local chief executives (LCEs) are distributed in all regions of the country, with Region 5 (Bicol) tallying the most cases with 154.
"Extortion money comes from everywhere, all across the nation. Whether these officials gave their support voluntarily or involuntarily is immaterial. Politicians and local leaders should shun any connection with these communist rebels. Do not harbor, support terrorists," Malaya said.
He said Regions 10 (Northern Mindanao), 4 (Calabarzon, Mimaropa), 11 (Davao), 2 (Cagayan Valley) and 8 (Eastern Visayas) tallied 34, 26, 22, 21 and 20 officials financing CPP-NPA, respectively.
Region 6 (Western Visayas) has 15 CPP-NPA supporters, and Region 1 (Ilocos) and 12 (Socsksargen) with 12 a piece; 10 for Region 3 (Central Luzon); nine for National Capital Region; Region 7 (Central Visayas) with five; and Caraga, Cordillera Administrative Region and Region 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula) registering the least with four, three and two officials.
Malaya encouraged local officials to report and work with local authorities especially the Philippine National Police (PNP) or Armed Forces of the Philippines units in their area if they are being harassed or forced by the Reds to pay revolutionary tax or other form of payments.
Don’t vote for CTG supporters
Año urged the public not to vote for candidates who support or who have links with communist terrorist groups (CTGs).
“Huwag po nating iluklok ang mga kandidatong may kaugnayan sa mga komunistang grupo (Let us not put in power candidates who have links to communist groups),” he said.
Año said based on the consolidated figures gathered by the intelligence groups, a total of PHP195.5-million was accumulated by the CPP-NPA from their various extortion activities nationwide during the 2016 and 2018 polls.
He enumerated that PHP300,000-PHP650,000 are collected by the communist rebels from governors and vice governors; PHP200,000-PHP500,000 from mayors; and PHP50,000-PHP100,000 from barangay officials.
Stop paying "permit to campaign fees"
Año also reminded all governors, mayors and all candidates in the May mid-term elections to steer clear of directly or indirectly giving financial, material and political support to the CPP-NPA for "permit to campaign fees" as it is a violation of the law.
"You do not need them to win nor to campaign. What you need is a robust platform and a desire to serve the people within your jurisdiction," he said.
The DILG recently released Memorandum Circular 2018-211 reminding all local chief executives and LGU officials that giving any form of support to communist rebels is a violation, not only of Executive Order 733, but also of RA 10168.
In the said order, Año directed all Regional, Provincial, City and Municipal Peace and Order Councils to apply moral persuasion or to recommend sanctions against LCEs supporting communist rebels.
Meanwhile, PNP spokesman, Senior Supt. Bernard Banac, called on the candidates in the elections to report to authorities if they are victimized by the NPA in its extortion scheme.
“We would like to encourage those who have been affected or those who have been victimized by this extortion activities to come forward and file and lodge a complaint against these extortionists,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062609
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Eduardo Año on Thursday bared a watchlist containing 349 local and national government officials, who allegedly support the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) by form of extortion money and permit to campaign fees.
Año said based on intelligence reports received by the DILG, 349 local and national government officials have been identified as sources of financial aid of the communist rebels.
"We now have a watchlist, we know you. So if you are supporting communist rebels, in any way, you ascertain yourself as a supporter of terrorism and an enemy of the state, you establish yourself as an accomplice to their cause," he said.
“We cannot win the war against terrorism if these local officials continue funding the very source of terrorism in the first place," he added.
He said of the officials, there are 11 provincial governors; five vice governors; 10 provincial board members; 55 mayors; 21 vice mayors and 41 councilors.
Also on the list are 126 barangay captains, 50 barangay councilors, and eight other barangay officials.
"This number is not alarming as compared to the total number of barangays in the country, but it sends a message that extortion starts at the community level, down in the grass roots," Año said.
Other source of extortion money are 11 former local government unit (LGU) officials, 10 incumbent congressman, and one former congressman.
"Can you just imagine that? Our own government officials giving funds to the enemy," Año said.
DILG spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Jonathan Malaya said that according to the same report, these cases involving the said local chief executives (LCEs) are distributed in all regions of the country, with Region 5 (Bicol) tallying the most cases with 154.
"Extortion money comes from everywhere, all across the nation. Whether these officials gave their support voluntarily or involuntarily is immaterial. Politicians and local leaders should shun any connection with these communist rebels. Do not harbor, support terrorists," Malaya said.
He said Regions 10 (Northern Mindanao), 4 (Calabarzon, Mimaropa), 11 (Davao), 2 (Cagayan Valley) and 8 (Eastern Visayas) tallied 34, 26, 22, 21 and 20 officials financing CPP-NPA, respectively.
Region 6 (Western Visayas) has 15 CPP-NPA supporters, and Region 1 (Ilocos) and 12 (Socsksargen) with 12 a piece; 10 for Region 3 (Central Luzon); nine for National Capital Region; Region 7 (Central Visayas) with five; and Caraga, Cordillera Administrative Region and Region 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula) registering the least with four, three and two officials.
Malaya encouraged local officials to report and work with local authorities especially the Philippine National Police (PNP) or Armed Forces of the Philippines units in their area if they are being harassed or forced by the Reds to pay revolutionary tax or other form of payments.
Don’t vote for CTG supporters
Año urged the public not to vote for candidates who support or who have links with communist terrorist groups (CTGs).
“Huwag po nating iluklok ang mga kandidatong may kaugnayan sa mga komunistang grupo (Let us not put in power candidates who have links to communist groups),” he said.
Año said based on the consolidated figures gathered by the intelligence groups, a total of PHP195.5-million was accumulated by the CPP-NPA from their various extortion activities nationwide during the 2016 and 2018 polls.
He enumerated that PHP300,000-PHP650,000 are collected by the communist rebels from governors and vice governors; PHP200,000-PHP500,000 from mayors; and PHP50,000-PHP100,000 from barangay officials.
Stop paying "permit to campaign fees"
Año also reminded all governors, mayors and all candidates in the May mid-term elections to steer clear of directly or indirectly giving financial, material and political support to the CPP-NPA for "permit to campaign fees" as it is a violation of the law.
"You do not need them to win nor to campaign. What you need is a robust platform and a desire to serve the people within your jurisdiction," he said.
The DILG recently released Memorandum Circular 2018-211 reminding all local chief executives and LGU officials that giving any form of support to communist rebels is a violation, not only of Executive Order 733, but also of RA 10168.
In the said order, Año directed all Regional, Provincial, City and Municipal Peace and Order Councils to apply moral persuasion or to recommend sanctions against LCEs supporting communist rebels.
Meanwhile, PNP spokesman, Senior Supt. Bernard Banac, called on the candidates in the elections to report to authorities if they are victimized by the NPA in its extortion scheme.
“We would like to encourage those who have been affected or those who have been victimized by this extortion activities to come forward and file and lodge a complaint against these extortionists,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1062609
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)