Monday, April 1, 2019
Video: Peace missions changing the way we see Basilan
From CNN Philippines (Apr 2, 2019): Video: Peace missions changing the way we see Basilan
Police: Brothers Linked to Islamic State Captured in Northern Philippines
From BenarNews (Apr 1, 2019): Police: Brothers Linked to Islamic State Captured in Northern Philippines
Speaking to reporters in Quezon city, Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Oscar Albayalde inspects weapons, explosives and Islamic State style flags confiscated during a raid northern province of Cagayan, April 1, 2019. Philippine National Police via AP
Philippine police arrested a leader of a local jihadist group and his younger brother linked to the Islamic State (IS) in the northern province of Cagayan, officials said Monday.
The suspects, Altero Cariaga, leader of the Northern Jihadist Group, and his younger brother, Greg Cariaga, did not resist arrest on Thursday when lawmen raided their hideout in the town of Baggao on the northern tip of Luzon Island, national police chief Gen. Oscar Albayalde told reporters on Monday.
Police seized firearms, ammunition and improvised explosive devices when they raided the hideout, according to officials.
“It was an operation by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, police and military. They recovered two ISIS flags, subversive documents and other firearms. Apparently, the suspects are pledging support to ISIS,” Albayalde told reporters, using a different acronym for IS.
The Northern Jihadist Group, which has not been linked to violent attacks, wants to be recognized, Albayalde said.
Police did not have details about the membership of the previously unknown group. Officers in Manila and the northern Philippines said they were working with intelligence officials to learn more about the group.
The brothers likely are the first militants linked to IS arrested in the Northern Philippines while many linked to the group have been arrested and killed in the south.
IS-linked militants were blamed for the five-month battle in 2017 that left the southern city of Marawi in ruins. Officials said militants who escaped from that battle spread across Mindanao in the south and have set out to recruit Muslim fighters across the mainly Catholic country.
Since the Marawi defeat in October 2017, IS-linked militants have been blamed for deadly attacks including a January bomb attack at a church on remote Jolo island in the south that left 23 people dead and more than 100 wounded.
Philippine police arrested a leader of a local jihadist group and his younger brother linked to the Islamic State (IS) in the northern province of Cagayan, officials said Monday.
The suspects, Altero Cariaga, leader of the Northern Jihadist Group, and his younger brother, Greg Cariaga, did not resist arrest on Thursday when lawmen raided their hideout in the town of Baggao on the northern tip of Luzon Island, national police chief Gen. Oscar Albayalde told reporters on Monday.
Police seized firearms, ammunition and improvised explosive devices when they raided the hideout, according to officials.
“It was an operation by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, police and military. They recovered two ISIS flags, subversive documents and other firearms. Apparently, the suspects are pledging support to ISIS,” Albayalde told reporters, using a different acronym for IS.
The Northern Jihadist Group, which has not been linked to violent attacks, wants to be recognized, Albayalde said.
Police did not have details about the membership of the previously unknown group. Officers in Manila and the northern Philippines said they were working with intelligence officials to learn more about the group.
The brothers likely are the first militants linked to IS arrested in the Northern Philippines while many linked to the group have been arrested and killed in the south.
IS-linked militants were blamed for the five-month battle in 2017 that left the southern city of Marawi in ruins. Officials said militants who escaped from that battle spread across Mindanao in the south and have set out to recruit Muslim fighters across the mainly Catholic country.
Since the Marawi defeat in October 2017, IS-linked militants have been blamed for deadly attacks including a January bomb attack at a church on remote Jolo island in the south that left 23 people dead and more than 100 wounded.
The attack was blamed on the Abu Sayyaf, a small, but brutal Islamist group known mostly for kidnapping. The military had said the bombing, which apparently was carried out by an Indonesian couple, was planned by Abu Sayyaf commander Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan, the likely new regional leader of IS after the death of Isnilon Hapilon in Marawi.
Indonesian investigators sent to the Philippines to investigate could not confirm claims that the couple was responsible for the bombing.
https://www.benarnews.org/english/news/philippine/north-arrests-04012019123640.html
Indonesian investigators sent to the Philippines to investigate could not confirm claims that the couple was responsible for the bombing.
https://www.benarnews.org/english/news/philippine/north-arrests-04012019123640.html
Soldier wounded in NPA clash in Negros
From the Manila Bulletin (Apr 1, 2019): Soldier wounded in NPA clash in Negros
Iloilo City—A soldier of the Philippine Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion (62 IB) has been wounded in a Monday clash with the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Moises Padilla town, Negros Occidental province.
Lt.Col Egberto Dacoscos, 62 IB commander, identified the wounded as Corporal Ryan Quevedo.
Dacoscos said in a statement that the incident occurred Monday morning as part of its hot pursuit operation against the NPA rebels who shot and killed Town Councilor Jolomar Hilario early Sunday morning. The 51-year-old councilor, who was running for re-election, was still sleeping when 50 armed NPA rebels barged into his house to kill him.
The 62 IB troops were in Quintin Remo village when NPA rebels opened fire. This resulted into a firefight until the rebels withdrew.
Government troops then recovered three improvised explosive devices (IEDs), ammunition, communist paraphernalia, and personal belongings of the NPA rebels.
Dacoscos also said they have reason to believe that several NPA rebels were wounded based on the blood trail.
Iloilo City—A soldier of the Philippine Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion (62 IB) has been wounded in a Monday clash with the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Moises Padilla town, Negros Occidental province.
Lt.Col Egberto Dacoscos, 62 IB commander, identified the wounded as Corporal Ryan Quevedo.
Dacoscos said in a statement that the incident occurred Monday morning as part of its hot pursuit operation against the NPA rebels who shot and killed Town Councilor Jolomar Hilario early Sunday morning. The 51-year-old councilor, who was running for re-election, was still sleeping when 50 armed NPA rebels barged into his house to kill him.
The 62 IB troops were in Quintin Remo village when NPA rebels opened fire. This resulted into a firefight until the rebels withdrew.
Government troops then recovered three improvised explosive devices (IEDs), ammunition, communist paraphernalia, and personal belongings of the NPA rebels.
Dacoscos also said they have reason to believe that several NPA rebels were wounded based on the blood trail.
PRO-6: Rebels tried to attack San Remigio police station
From Panay News (Apr 2, 2019): PRO-6: Rebels tried to attack San Remigio police station
An estimated 15 members of the New People’s Army (NPA) tried to attack the police station of San Remigio, Antique on March 31, according to the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6).
From a distance of between 200 meters to 300 meters, they started firing shots around 9:30 p.m. but failed to even get near the police station, said Brigadier General John Bulalacao, regional police director.
The rebels eventually withdrew into the mountains, said Bulalacao.
An estimated 15 members of the New People’s Army (NPA) tried to attack the police station of San Remigio, Antique on March 31, according to the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6).
From a distance of between 200 meters to 300 meters, they started firing shots around 9:30 p.m. but failed to even get near the police station, said Brigadier General John Bulalacao, regional police director.
The rebels eventually withdrew into the mountains, said Bulalacao.
“I directed all police chiefs, especially those in areas threatened by or infiltrated by the NPA, to be alert always. Policemen should always carry long firearms not leave their stations unmanned,” said Bulalacao.
Police stations were further told to gather information about the rebels’ whereabouts and plans.
“We are ready to engage them. We have high-powered firearms,” said Bulalacao.
The NPA marked its 50th anniversary just this March 29. It usually celebrates the day with offensives against government troops and vital government installations.
“The San Remigio incident might be part of their anniversary celebration,” said Bulalacao.
In the days leading to March 29, rebels and Philippine Army troops figured in four clashes – in Barangay Alimodias, Miag-ao, Iloilo on March 24; Sitio Igburay, Barangay Indaluyon, Igbaras, Iloilo on March 20; Barangay Osorio 1, San Remigio, Antique on March 19; and Barangay Mulangan, Igbaras, Iloilo on March 17.
Police stations were further told to gather information about the rebels’ whereabouts and plans.
“We are ready to engage them. We have high-powered firearms,” said Bulalacao.
The NPA marked its 50th anniversary just this March 29. It usually celebrates the day with offensives against government troops and vital government installations.
“The San Remigio incident might be part of their anniversary celebration,” said Bulalacao.
In the days leading to March 29, rebels and Philippine Army troops figured in four clashes – in Barangay Alimodias, Miag-ao, Iloilo on March 24; Sitio Igburay, Barangay Indaluyon, Igbaras, Iloilo on March 20; Barangay Osorio 1, San Remigio, Antique on March 19; and Barangay Mulangan, Igbaras, Iloilo on March 17.
On June 18, 2017 rebels raided the police station of Maasin, Iloilo. The daring, broad daylight caper was swift. Within 15 minutes beginning around 10:30 a.m., the rebels shanghaied M16 rifles, Glock .9mm pistols, handheld radios and their base, laptops, mobile phones, and jewelry.
The rebels also used the police station’s patrol car to flee.
https://www.panaynews.net/pro-6-rebels-tried-to-attack-san-remigio-police-station/
The rebels also used the police station’s patrol car to flee.
https://www.panaynews.net/pro-6-rebels-tried-to-attack-san-remigio-police-station/
Ilocos declares NPA persona non grata
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 2, 2019): Ilocos declares NPA persona non grata
Army official says move a step in cutting communist insurgency at its roots
REBEL CALL A group of activists joins a lightning rally in Manila urging students to go to the provinces and join the communist rebel movement. —EDWIN BACASMAS
DAGUPAN CITY — Saying communist rebels have “raped and pillaged the country,” the Ilocos region councils on peace and order and development have declared the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), as persona non grata (unwelcome person).
In their meeting on March 29 in Bauang town, La Union province, the councils passed a joint resolution after tackling the peace and order situation in the region.
The meeting was presided over by Maj. Gen. Lenard Agustin, commander of the Army’s 7th Infantry Division (ID) based at Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija province.
Sustainable peace
In a press statement, the 7th ID said the persona non grata declaration against the NPA was the first step in realizing President Duterte’s “whole of nation approach to end the communist insurgency and attain inclusive and sustainable peace.”
The approach would cut insurgency at its roots with the support of all sectors in the community and government agencies, Agustin said.
Although the Armed Forces of the Philippines has had its own share of mistakes in the past, it has started cleaning its ranks and has taken “the road toward good governance,” he said.
Aside from updates on the insurgency situation and the May 13 midterm elections, the criminality situation and antidrug operations were also discussed in the meeting.
In Central Luzon, two local governments have declared the CPP and NPA leaders and members persona non grata.
Doña Remedios Trinidad town in Bulacan province made the declaration through a resolution on March 19, and Carranglan town in Nueva Ecija on March 25.
In separate statements, the military’s 48th and 84th Infantry Battalion (IB) said they had prodded the local governments and the municipal peace and order councils to make the declarations.
Lt. Col. Felix Emeterio Valdez, acting commander of the 48th IB, said the resolution complied with a memorandum circular of the Department of the Interior and Local Government that prohibited support to communists and Left-wing groups.
Surrender
In Southern Tagalog, at least 45 suspected NPA rebels, among them farmers and members of an indigenous peoples group, turned themselves in to authorities.
Brig. Gen. Edward Carranza, director of the Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) police, said the suspected communist fighters would be referred to the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, a rehabilitation and aid program for rebel returnees.
Carranza, in a statement, said the surrender last week was facilitated by the regional intelligence police unit and the Philippine Army.
Thirty-three rebels, under Komiteng Larangan Girilya-Cesar that operates in Laguna, Rizal, and Quezon, surrendered on March 29. Ten more, some from General Nakar in Quezon, turned themselves in on Saturday, while another two on Sunday.
Carranza said the rebels played roles as “escort, guide and runner” and provided safe houses to guerrilla forces.
“Most of them were part-time guerrilla fighters and part-time farmers,” he added.
REBEL CALL A group of activists joins a lightning rally in Manila urging students to go to the provinces and join the communist rebel movement. —EDWIN BACASMAS
DAGUPAN CITY — Saying communist rebels have “raped and pillaged the country,” the Ilocos region councils on peace and order and development have declared the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), as persona non grata (unwelcome person).
In their meeting on March 29 in Bauang town, La Union province, the councils passed a joint resolution after tackling the peace and order situation in the region.
The meeting was presided over by Maj. Gen. Lenard Agustin, commander of the Army’s 7th Infantry Division (ID) based at Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija province.
Sustainable peace
In a press statement, the 7th ID said the persona non grata declaration against the NPA was the first step in realizing President Duterte’s “whole of nation approach to end the communist insurgency and attain inclusive and sustainable peace.”
The approach would cut insurgency at its roots with the support of all sectors in the community and government agencies, Agustin said.
Although the Armed Forces of the Philippines has had its own share of mistakes in the past, it has started cleaning its ranks and has taken “the road toward good governance,” he said.
Aside from updates on the insurgency situation and the May 13 midterm elections, the criminality situation and antidrug operations were also discussed in the meeting.
In Central Luzon, two local governments have declared the CPP and NPA leaders and members persona non grata.
Doña Remedios Trinidad town in Bulacan province made the declaration through a resolution on March 19, and Carranglan town in Nueva Ecija on March 25.
In separate statements, the military’s 48th and 84th Infantry Battalion (IB) said they had prodded the local governments and the municipal peace and order councils to make the declarations.
Lt. Col. Felix Emeterio Valdez, acting commander of the 48th IB, said the resolution complied with a memorandum circular of the Department of the Interior and Local Government that prohibited support to communists and Left-wing groups.
Surrender
In Southern Tagalog, at least 45 suspected NPA rebels, among them farmers and members of an indigenous peoples group, turned themselves in to authorities.
Brig. Gen. Edward Carranza, director of the Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) police, said the suspected communist fighters would be referred to the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, a rehabilitation and aid program for rebel returnees.
Carranza, in a statement, said the surrender last week was facilitated by the regional intelligence police unit and the Philippine Army.
Thirty-three rebels, under Komiteng Larangan Girilya-Cesar that operates in Laguna, Rizal, and Quezon, surrendered on March 29. Ten more, some from General Nakar in Quezon, turned themselves in on Saturday, while another two on Sunday.
Carranza said the rebels played roles as “escort, guide and runner” and provided safe houses to guerrilla forces.
“Most of them were part-time guerrilla fighters and part-time farmers,” he added.
Gun battle between Army, NPA in Moises Padilla
From the Daily Guardian (Apr 2, 2019): Gun battle between Army, NPA in Moises Padilla
BACOLOD City – A soldier was slightly wounded after members of the Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion (62IB) traded shots with the New People’s Army (NPA) at Sitio Santos-santos, Barangay Quintin Remo, in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental on April 2019.
Brigadier Gen. Benedict Arevalo, 303rd Infantry Brigade (303IB) commander, said 62IB troopers were conducting hot pursuit operations against the rebels suspected for the murder of Moises Padilla town Councilor Jolomar Hilario when the clash occurred.
Arevalo said the encounter took place at around 9:20 a.m. Monday as the 62IB troopers spotted more or less 20 NPA members.
The fight lasted for about an hour before the rebels retreated.
The 303IB commander believes the rebels suffered casualties due to “blood trails” in their escape route.
Arevalo also confirmed that around 200 residents in the area were evacuated, and a nearby school was forced to cancel its graduation ceremony due to the battle.
He further added Hilario’s murder could have been a retaliatory strike by the rebels after the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police arrested National Democratic Front spokesperson Ka Frank Fernandez last week.
The NDF is considered the political arm of the rebels.
45 NPA rebels surrender in CALABARZON region
From the Manila Times (Apr 2, 2019): 45 NPA rebels surrender in CALABARZON region
CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna: A total of 45 Communist Party of Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) members, 19 of them female, and members of the Milisyang Bayan, Kontak, Baseng Masa and Organisadong Masa under the Komiting Larangan Girilya Cesar (KLGC), Sub-Region Military Area (SRMA-4A ) surrendered to the Police Regional Office Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon).
On Friday, 33 of them under KLGC, SRMA-4A all operating in the provinces of Laguna, Rizal and Quezon surrendered to PRO-4A Regional Intelligence Division and the military.
Another 12 rebels from General Nakar, Quezon surrendered on March 30. At about 9 p.m. on the same day, Brig. Gen. Edward Carranza, Police Regional Office Calabarzon regional director, said the surrenderers were tribal chieftains and members of Samahang Dumagat, an ethnic group based in the mountainous range of Laguna, Rizal and Quezon that the NPA infiltrated and utilized as advance post in the mountains.
Their peaceful surrender was made possible through several meetings and dialogue in cooperation with the chieftain or punong tribo of their respective areas in support of the government program.
All the surrenderers, their documents, firearms, ammunition and explosives are now under the custody of the Regional Special Operations Unit 4A for documentation and safekeeping.
Carranza said the initial debriefing revealed that most of the surrenderers were utilized to monitor the presence and activities of the government forces in their locality. They also served as escort, guide, runner and their homes were used as safe houses of the CPP-NPA terrorists in case of emergencies. Most of them were part-time guerrilla fighters and part-time farmers. They played the dual role of military pro tector and political enforcer in their respective barangay (villages).
“Ka Cyrus,” one of the surrenderers revealed that in 2009 they assaulted Panukulan Police Station in Quezon. They were also involved in an ambush of Special Action Force troops in Antipolo City that left four dead and five captured including two wounded personnel.
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Ka Cyrus was a former NPA platoon leader. He said that in 2006, he had an intimate relationship with a certain Ka Sophia from UP Diliman who gave birth in 2008, but did not return.
PRO 4A was coordinating with the Department of Interior and Local Government and Department of Social Welfare and Development for the surrendered rebels to undergo processing to avail assistance under the Enhance Comprehensive Local Integration Program.
https://www.manilatimes.net/45-npa-rebels-surrender-in-calabarzon-region/534043/
CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna: A total of 45 Communist Party of Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) members, 19 of them female, and members of the Milisyang Bayan, Kontak, Baseng Masa and Organisadong Masa under the Komiting Larangan Girilya Cesar (KLGC), Sub-Region Military Area (SRMA-4A ) surrendered to the Police Regional Office Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon).
On Friday, 33 of them under KLGC, SRMA-4A all operating in the provinces of Laguna, Rizal and Quezon surrendered to PRO-4A Regional Intelligence Division and the military.
Another 12 rebels from General Nakar, Quezon surrendered on March 30. At about 9 p.m. on the same day, Brig. Gen. Edward Carranza, Police Regional Office Calabarzon regional director, said the surrenderers were tribal chieftains and members of Samahang Dumagat, an ethnic group based in the mountainous range of Laguna, Rizal and Quezon that the NPA infiltrated and utilized as advance post in the mountains.
Their peaceful surrender was made possible through several meetings and dialogue in cooperation with the chieftain or punong tribo of their respective areas in support of the government program.
All the surrenderers, their documents, firearms, ammunition and explosives are now under the custody of the Regional Special Operations Unit 4A for documentation and safekeeping.
Carranza said the initial debriefing revealed that most of the surrenderers were utilized to monitor the presence and activities of the government forces in their locality. They also served as escort, guide, runner and their homes were used as safe houses of the CPP-NPA terrorists in case of emergencies. Most of them were part-time guerrilla fighters and part-time farmers. They played the dual role of military pro tector and political enforcer in their respective barangay (villages).
“Ka Cyrus,” one of the surrenderers revealed that in 2009 they assaulted Panukulan Police Station in Quezon. They were also involved in an ambush of Special Action Force troops in Antipolo City that left four dead and five captured including two wounded personnel.
Advertisements
Ka Cyrus was a former NPA platoon leader. He said that in 2006, he had an intimate relationship with a certain Ka Sophia from UP Diliman who gave birth in 2008, but did not return.
PRO 4A was coordinating with the Department of Interior and Local Government and Department of Social Welfare and Development for the surrendered rebels to undergo processing to avail assistance under the Enhance Comprehensive Local Integration Program.
https://www.manilatimes.net/45-npa-rebels-surrender-in-calabarzon-region/534043/
1.7K residents evacuated amid clash in central Negros village
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 2, 2019): 1.7K residents evacuated amid clash in central Negros village
SEIZED. Items recovered by troopers of the 62nd Infantry Battalion following their encounter with an estimated 20 New People’s Army fighters at Sitio Santos-Santos, Barangay Quintin Remo in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental on Monday morning. (Photo courtesy of 62nd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)
About 1,700 residents of Barangay Quintin Remo and neighboring villages in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental were evacuated amid the encounter between government troops and communist rebels on Monday.
Soldiers of the Philippine Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion (IB) encountered about 30 communist rebels, whose group is believed to be behind the murder of Moises Padilla Councilor Jolomar Hilario on Sunday.
SEIZED. Items recovered by troopers of the 62nd Infantry Battalion following their encounter with an estimated 20 New People’s Army fighters at Sitio Santos-Santos, Barangay Quintin Remo in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental on Monday morning. (Photo courtesy of 62nd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)
About 1,700 residents of Barangay Quintin Remo and neighboring villages in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental were evacuated amid the encounter between government troops and communist rebels on Monday.
Soldiers of the Philippine Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion (IB) encountered about 30 communist rebels, whose group is believed to be behind the murder of Moises Padilla Councilor Jolomar Hilario on Sunday.
Quintin Remo village chief Felisa Villaflor said in a radio interview on Tuesday that some 900 residents from four sitios stayed overnight at the Guinpanaan National High School-Mamballo Extension.
They were mostly residents of Sitio Santos-Santos, where the encounter took place.
They were mostly residents of Sitio Santos-Santos, where the encounter took place.
Those who evacuated in Barangay Montilla numbered about 500 individuals and in Barangay Guinpana-an, 240 persons.
Villaflor earlier said the municipal government has provided food and water supply to the evacuees.
Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, said he has directed the troops to complete the clearing operation so that the residents can return home by Tuesday.
“We don’t want them to be inconvenienced. Within the day, they are expected to return home,” he added.
The encounter took place Monday morning for about an hour in Sitio Santos-Santos when government troops were conducting pursuit operation.
During the exchange of gunfire that lasted until 10:30 a.m., one of the soldiers, Corporal Ryan Quevedo, was slightly wounded.
Soldiers recovered several rounds of ammunition, anti-personnel mines, and personal belongings, among others.
On Sunday, Hilario, 51, was gunned down by men, who identified themselves as members of the New People’s Army (NPA), inside his home in Barangay Inolingan at about 6 a.m.
The victim was asleep when about 50 armed men on board a truck arrived in front of the Hilario residence. Those who entered the house shot the town official.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066235
Villaflor earlier said the municipal government has provided food and water supply to the evacuees.
Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, said he has directed the troops to complete the clearing operation so that the residents can return home by Tuesday.
“We don’t want them to be inconvenienced. Within the day, they are expected to return home,” he added.
The encounter took place Monday morning for about an hour in Sitio Santos-Santos when government troops were conducting pursuit operation.
During the exchange of gunfire that lasted until 10:30 a.m., one of the soldiers, Corporal Ryan Quevedo, was slightly wounded.
Soldiers recovered several rounds of ammunition, anti-personnel mines, and personal belongings, among others.
On Sunday, Hilario, 51, was gunned down by men, who identified themselves as members of the New People’s Army (NPA), inside his home in Barangay Inolingan at about 6 a.m.
The victim was asleep when about 50 armed men on board a truck arrived in front of the Hilario residence. Those who entered the house shot the town official.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066235
MILF: BTA authorizes ICM AL Haj Murad to work for release of funds
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Apr 1, 2019): BTA authorizes ICM AL Haj Murad to work for release of funds
Parang Maguindanao– The Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) has authorized Interim Chief Minister Al Haj Murad Ebrahim to work for the release of national funds for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), which President Rodrigo Duterte inaugurated last Friday, said a report by Ali Macabalang of Manila Bulletin on March 31.
In the same article, it says that, in its first parliamentary session that day, the BTA passed four resolutions, two of which empowered Ebrahim to “request the release of the transition fund” and “to request for the transfer of the current year’s appropriations for the ARMM to the BARMM.”
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte shares a light moment with Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Interim Chief Minister Al Haj Murad Ebrahim on the sidelines of the inauguration of BARMM at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex in Cotabato City on March 29, 2019. Also in the photo is Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Carlito Galvez Jr. (KARL NORMAN ALONZO / PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO / MANILA BULLETIN)
The parliamentary resolutions were passed earlier purportedly for the presentation of the excerpts on the two budget-related measures to President Duterte.
But it is sad to note that in his nine-minute speech, President Duterte did not mention budget concerns for the new entity, reiterating only his general description of BARMM as a potential avenue to help “correct historical injustices of the past” among Moro communities.
The DBM is yet to release the funds for BARMM and is expected this month. For the meantime, the officials and staff appointed by Ebrahim in 10 initially constituted ministries will be considered as volunteers.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1769/bta_authorizes_icm_al_haj_murad_to_work_for_release_of_funds_
Parang Maguindanao– The Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) has authorized Interim Chief Minister Al Haj Murad Ebrahim to work for the release of national funds for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), which President Rodrigo Duterte inaugurated last Friday, said a report by Ali Macabalang of Manila Bulletin on March 31.
In the same article, it says that, in its first parliamentary session that day, the BTA passed four resolutions, two of which empowered Ebrahim to “request the release of the transition fund” and “to request for the transfer of the current year’s appropriations for the ARMM to the BARMM.”
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte shares a light moment with Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Interim Chief Minister Al Haj Murad Ebrahim on the sidelines of the inauguration of BARMM at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex in Cotabato City on March 29, 2019. Also in the photo is Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Carlito Galvez Jr. (KARL NORMAN ALONZO / PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO / MANILA BULLETIN)
The parliamentary resolutions were passed earlier purportedly for the presentation of the excerpts on the two budget-related measures to President Duterte.
But it is sad to note that in his nine-minute speech, President Duterte did not mention budget concerns for the new entity, reiterating only his general description of BARMM as a potential avenue to help “correct historical injustices of the past” among Moro communities.
The DBM is yet to release the funds for BARMM and is expected this month. For the meantime, the officials and staff appointed by Ebrahim in 10 initially constituted ministries will be considered as volunteers.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1769/bta_authorizes_icm_al_haj_murad_to_work_for_release_of_funds_
Military: We’ve got proof of funds going to leftist group
From Malaya Business Insight (Apr 1, 2019): Military: We’ve got proof of funds going to leftist group
THE Armed Forces yesterday said it is pleased with the decision of the European Union and Belgium to look into funds they have been providing to the “Rural Missionaries of the Philippines (RMP)” which is said to be a front organization of the communist movement.
Brig. Gen. Antonio Parlade, AFP deputy chief of staff for civil military operations, said the military has proof that the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), are hiding behind the RMP to get funds from abroad.“We appreciate the positive response of EU and Belgium to our formal plea to stop funding to Rural Missionaries (of the Philippines) which is directly assisting the NPAs in Mindanao,” said Parlade.
AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said EU and Belgium did not just commit to look into the funding but also to enlist a third party firm to audit the funds they have donated to the supposed communist front organization.
“It shows that they desire to ensure that their support does not end up with organizations that actually or indirectly support terrorist activities,” said Arevalo.
“Soon the flow of funds to organizations like Ibon Foundation, Rural Missionaries of the Philippines, Anakbayan, and other front organizations will stop. It will also halt the many years spent and millions of pesos funneled to support the terrorist movement,” he added.
The Duterte administration, through the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, last week formally asked the EU to stop giving funds to the communists who are said to be using the funds to recruit and exploit children.
Parlade said the RMP has partnered with the Ibon Foundation in the publication of “subversive books” which are used by children in schools put up in indigenous peoples (IP) communities.
He said these schools “are teaching IP children to become child warriors,” said Parlade.
“These missionaries cannot continue to hide under the cloak of the church, of whatever faith, and then provide funds to terrorists NPAs, and other CPP front organizations like Karapatan, Gabriela, ACT (Association of Concerned Teachers), KMU (Kilusang Mayo Uno), Anakbayan, LFS (League of Filipino Students), Bayan or what they call the Makabayan bloc,” said Parlade.
Parlade alleged that RMP has been providing support to the families of CPP and NPA cadres and fighters “and they cannot deny this.”
“Those who will say this is a lie should be ready to refute this in a public debate. We are armed with the truth and nothing else,” said Parlade, who called the RMP a front organization of the CPP-NPA.
Parlade said the military is convinced that CPP front organizations are exploiting IPs, projecting a sorry human rights situation in the country, and vilifying the government to cast doubt on its efficiency.
He implied the CPP has been killing IPs and blaming the government for the deaths, and will then ask support from human rights groups.
https://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/military-we%E2%80%99ve-got-proof-funds-going-leftist-group
THE Armed Forces yesterday said it is pleased with the decision of the European Union and Belgium to look into funds they have been providing to the “Rural Missionaries of the Philippines (RMP)” which is said to be a front organization of the communist movement.
Brig. Gen. Antonio Parlade, AFP deputy chief of staff for civil military operations, said the military has proof that the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), are hiding behind the RMP to get funds from abroad.“We appreciate the positive response of EU and Belgium to our formal plea to stop funding to Rural Missionaries (of the Philippines) which is directly assisting the NPAs in Mindanao,” said Parlade.
AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said EU and Belgium did not just commit to look into the funding but also to enlist a third party firm to audit the funds they have donated to the supposed communist front organization.
“It shows that they desire to ensure that their support does not end up with organizations that actually or indirectly support terrorist activities,” said Arevalo.
“Soon the flow of funds to organizations like Ibon Foundation, Rural Missionaries of the Philippines, Anakbayan, and other front organizations will stop. It will also halt the many years spent and millions of pesos funneled to support the terrorist movement,” he added.
The Duterte administration, through the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, last week formally asked the EU to stop giving funds to the communists who are said to be using the funds to recruit and exploit children.
Parlade said the RMP has partnered with the Ibon Foundation in the publication of “subversive books” which are used by children in schools put up in indigenous peoples (IP) communities.
He said these schools “are teaching IP children to become child warriors,” said Parlade.
“These missionaries cannot continue to hide under the cloak of the church, of whatever faith, and then provide funds to terrorists NPAs, and other CPP front organizations like Karapatan, Gabriela, ACT (Association of Concerned Teachers), KMU (Kilusang Mayo Uno), Anakbayan, LFS (League of Filipino Students), Bayan or what they call the Makabayan bloc,” said Parlade.
Parlade alleged that RMP has been providing support to the families of CPP and NPA cadres and fighters “and they cannot deny this.”
“Those who will say this is a lie should be ready to refute this in a public debate. We are armed with the truth and nothing else,” said Parlade, who called the RMP a front organization of the CPP-NPA.
Parlade said the military is convinced that CPP front organizations are exploiting IPs, projecting a sorry human rights situation in the country, and vilifying the government to cast doubt on its efficiency.
He implied the CPP has been killing IPs and blaming the government for the deaths, and will then ask support from human rights groups.
https://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/military-we%E2%80%99ve-got-proof-funds-going-leftist-group
2 members of jihadist group nabbed in Cagaya
From Malaya Business Insight (Apr 2, 2019): 2 members of jihadist group nabbed in Cagayan
TWO members of a Daesh-inspired group were arrested by operatives of the PNP’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in Baggao town in Cagayan last Thursday, PNP chief General Oscar Albayalde reported yesterday.
The two were identified as Altero Cariaga and Greg Cariaga, leader and member, respectively, of the so-called Syuful Khilafa Fi Luzon or the Northern Jihadist Group that was established a few years ago.
A report from the CIDG described the group as a “terrorist and radical Islamic propagation group established in Baggao, Cagayan in 2016 that is influenced in the concept of ISIS-inspired group in the country.”
The two were identified as Altero Cariaga and Greg Cariaga, leader and member, respectively, of the so-called Syuful Khilafa Fi Luzon or the Northern Jihadist Group that was established a few years ago.
A report from the CIDG described the group as a “terrorist and radical Islamic propagation group established in Baggao, Cagayan in 2016 that is influenced in the concept of ISIS-inspired group in the country.”
The two were nabbed during a raid conducted by the CIDG, augmented by military intelligence personnel, in Barangay Dabbac Grande at around 5:15 a.m. on Thursday last week.
Seized from them were four pistols, two improvised bombs, assorted ammunition, two flags of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, a back pack, a cell phone, a cable cord, a USB, and a compact disc.
The two were arrested by virtue of arrest warrants issued by a Cagayan court for illegal possession of firearms and explosives.
Albayalde said the group was established to gain support from ISIS. He said they discovered the existence of the group as part of police efforts to put a check on groups associated with ISIS.
“They just wanted to be known. Probably, they just want to introduce themselves, they want to gain support, probably by pledging support to the ISIS...Apparently, they are pledging support the ISIS,” said Albayalde.
Albayalde said the PNP is not concerned over the presence of the ISIS-inspired group in Cagayan, noting they have not recorded any single atrocity by the group in the entire region.
“We’ not (concerned). As we’ve said, this group merely wants to introduce itself. So far, they have not committed any hostility or atrocity in that area. This (operation) is one of the preventive measures that we do together with the PNP,” said Albayalde.
The two were among 168 persons who were arrested in CIDG-led operations last week in the PNP’s continuing campaign against organized crime and proliferation of firearms and explosives.
Albayalde said among those arrested were 23 local government officials, including Mayor Romeo Vargas of Tubajon, Dinagat Islands and Vice Mayor Antonio Adlao of Tagbina, Surigao del Sur.
Overall, the operations resulted in the recovery of 137 firearms and 34 explosives.
https://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/2-members-jihadist-group-nabbed-cagayan
Seized from them were four pistols, two improvised bombs, assorted ammunition, two flags of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, a back pack, a cell phone, a cable cord, a USB, and a compact disc.
The two were arrested by virtue of arrest warrants issued by a Cagayan court for illegal possession of firearms and explosives.
Albayalde said the group was established to gain support from ISIS. He said they discovered the existence of the group as part of police efforts to put a check on groups associated with ISIS.
“They just wanted to be known. Probably, they just want to introduce themselves, they want to gain support, probably by pledging support to the ISIS...Apparently, they are pledging support the ISIS,” said Albayalde.
Albayalde said the PNP is not concerned over the presence of the ISIS-inspired group in Cagayan, noting they have not recorded any single atrocity by the group in the entire region.
“We’ not (concerned). As we’ve said, this group merely wants to introduce itself. So far, they have not committed any hostility or atrocity in that area. This (operation) is one of the preventive measures that we do together with the PNP,” said Albayalde.
The two were among 168 persons who were arrested in CIDG-led operations last week in the PNP’s continuing campaign against organized crime and proliferation of firearms and explosives.
Albayalde said among those arrested were 23 local government officials, including Mayor Romeo Vargas of Tubajon, Dinagat Islands and Vice Mayor Antonio Adlao of Tagbina, Surigao del Sur.
Overall, the operations resulted in the recovery of 137 firearms and 34 explosives.
https://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/2-members-jihadist-group-nabbed-cagayan
DWDD: READ | CSAFP GEN BENJAMIN R. MADRIGAL: Today we open the thirty fifth federations of the Philippines; United Sates Balikatan Exercise.
From Katropa DWDD AFP-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook page (Apr 1, 2019): READ | CSAFP GEN BENJAMIN R. MADRIGAL: Today we open the thirty fifth federations of the Philippines; United Sates Balikatan Exercise.
This year’s exercise is a product of our hear long planning and preparation, in order to identify the secrecy attain, the desire and training objectives.
There are four major events categories highlight of this year’s Balikatan namely; we will have a staff exercise, Joint Interoperability exercises, combined Interoperability events and the Humanitarian civil assistance.
Enhance the existing capabilities and preparedness to conduct territorial defense, humanitarian assistance, disaster response, counter terrorist operations, as well as improve Interoperability in the area of planning, joint and combined military operations.
While the joint Interoperability exercise focuses on the enhancement of interoperability between our armed forces and our US counter parts.
In the Conrad of Joint and combined Interoperability it integrates professional and special forces in military operations in urban training and maritime security environment. If we will pursue this in the areas of command, intelligence, fires, movement and Grover, of course protection and sustain. On the other hand, the millenarian civil action activities gain to complete highly projects to benefit local communities by gaining popular support for balikatan.
It imposes cooperative engagements, civil affairs activities, communications and information support affairs. Some of the activities and projects have already started in selecting communities and school beneficiaries.
These events will provide opportunity to properly test, evaluate and validate the Philippine forces in depth operative on collateral and bilateral procedures and probables, as well as the different agencies, establishing right mechanism, for better collaboration.
It is my state honor and privilege to welcome everyone to the opening of Philippines; United Sates Balikatan Exercise.
This year’s exercise is a product of our hear long planning and preparation, in order to identify the secrecy attain, the desire and training objectives.
There are four major events categories highlight of this year’s Balikatan namely; we will have a staff exercise, Joint Interoperability exercises, combined Interoperability events and the Humanitarian civil assistance.
Enhance the existing capabilities and preparedness to conduct territorial defense, humanitarian assistance, disaster response, counter terrorist operations, as well as improve Interoperability in the area of planning, joint and combined military operations.
While the joint Interoperability exercise focuses on the enhancement of interoperability between our armed forces and our US counter parts.
In the Conrad of Joint and combined Interoperability it integrates professional and special forces in military operations in urban training and maritime security environment. If we will pursue this in the areas of command, intelligence, fires, movement and Grover, of course protection and sustain. On the other hand, the millenarian civil action activities gain to complete highly projects to benefit local communities by gaining popular support for balikatan.
It imposes cooperative engagements, civil affairs activities, communications and information support affairs. Some of the activities and projects have already started in selecting communities and school beneficiaries.
These events will provide opportunity to properly test, evaluate and validate the Philippine forces in depth operative on collateral and bilateral procedures and probables, as well as the different agencies, establishing right mechanism, for better collaboration.
It is my state honor and privilege to welcome everyone to the opening of Philippines; United Sates Balikatan Exercise.
DWDD: READ | The importance of balikatan extends far interoperability for Filipino alliance it links us together on a personal level
From Katropa DWDD AFP-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook page (Apr 1, 2019): READ | The importance of balikatan extends far interoperability for Filipino alliance it links us together on a personal level
Our success environment was an important reminder of training relationship and shared experiences to defeat terrorist and save lives
It is also clear reminder of the strength and death of our friendships
I am prompt to be a part of the 35th iteration of Balikatan- H.E US ambassador SUNG Y. KIM
https://www.facebook.com/dwdd1134/photos/pcb.2407995449444937/2407995282778287/?type=3&theater
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Our success environment was an important reminder of training relationship and shared experiences to defeat terrorist and save lives
It is also clear reminder of the strength and death of our friendships
I am prompt to be a part of the 35th iteration of Balikatan- H.E US ambassador SUNG Y. KIM
https://www.facebook.com/dwdd1134/photos/pcb.2407995449444937/2407995282778287/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/dwdd1134/photos/pcb.2407995449444937/2407995322778283/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/dwdd1134/photos/pcb.2407995449444937/2407995346111614/?type=3&theater
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DWDD: "ANG INYONG ARMED FORCES" 01 April 2019
From Katropa DWDD AFP-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook page (Apr 1, 2019): "ANG INYONG ARMED FORCES" 01 April 2019
https://www.facebook.com/pg/dwdd1134/posts/?ref=page_internal
Hosted by: Katropang Lui Claudio
https://www.facebook.com/pg/dwdd1134/posts/?ref=page_internal
DWDD: READ | 45 NPA members surrender to PRO4A
From Katropa DWDD AFP-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook page (Apr 1, 2019): READ | 45 NPA members surrender to PRO4A
Camp BGen Vicente P Lim– A total of forty-five (45) CPP-NPA Terrorist members (19 female and 26 male) of the Milisyang Bayan (MB), Kontak, Baseng Masa and Organisadong Masa under Komiting Larangan Girilya (KLG) Cesar, Sub- Region Military Area (SRMA - 4A ) surrender to the Police Regional Office CALABARZON.
On March 29, Friday, thirty-three (33) CNTs under KLG Cesar, SRMA-4A all operating in the provinces of Laguna, Rizal and Quezon surrendered to the elements of PRO-4A Regional Intelligence Division (RID), together with 202nd Brigade; 80 Infantry Battalion; Regional Mobile Force Battalion 4A; joint personnel of Provincial Intelligence Branch from Rizal, Laguna and Quezon; thru the implementation of 80 Infantry Battalion COPLAN “Way Kurat” 2019, 1IB COPLAN “Terminator 2” 2019 and COPLAN “Katutubo” 2018 of RID, PRO4A.
Another three (3) personalities from General Nakar, Quezon were accompanied by the element of RID 4A under the supervision of PLTCOL SERAFIN F PETALIO II on March 30, 2019, Saturday. Further, on the same day at 9:00 PM, additional seven (7) personalities surrendered to the authorities.
Moreover, on March 31, yesterday, an additional of two (2) personalities also surrendered.
The CNTs were Tribal Chieftain and members of SAMAHANG DUMAGAT an ethnic group based in Mountainous Range of Laguna/Rizal/Quezon. However, this group was infiltrated by the CNTs and has been utilized as an advance post in the mountains (pasa-bilis).
Their peaceful surrender were made possible thru several contact meetings and dialogue in cooperation of their Chieftain “PUNONG TRIBO” of their respective areas in support of the Government Program on winning condition towards a long and lasting peace in their area
All the surrendered personalities together with their surrendered documents, assorted firearms, ammunition and explosives are now under the custody of Regional Special Operations Unit 4A for documentation, safekeeping and custodial debriefing.
Result of initial custodial debriefing revealed that most of the surrenderees were utilized to monitor the presence and activities of the government forces in their respective locality. Moreover, they were also utilized as escort, guide, runner and their residences were utilized as safe houses of the CNTs in case of emergencies. Most of them are part-time guerilla fighters and part-time farmers. They play the dual role of military protector and political enforcer in their respective barangays.
“Ka Cyrus”, one of the surrendered rebels revealed that in 2009 they assaulted Panukulan MPS in Quezon province. They were also involved in an ambushed of SAF troopers in Antipolo City leaving four (4) casualties and five (5) captured including two (2) wounded personnel. Ka Cyrus is a former NPA Platoon Leader. He also stated that in 2006, he had an intimate relationship with a certain Ka Sophia from U.P Diliman. Ka Sophia gave birth in 2008 but never came back after giving birth.
Regional Director, PBGEN EDWARD E CARRANZA lauded the efforts of the troops for their significant roles in the surrender of the rebels.
“This huge number of surrendered personalities is another proof of our intensified effort in internal security operation for the realization of peaceful and secure Southern Tagalog. I urge other rebels to surrender peacefully. We want to help them to rebuild their lives of peace and prosperity with their families and take this opportunity to avail of the government’s amnesty program”, RD Carranza said.
The PRO4A will coordinate with the Department of Interior and Local Government and Department of Social Welfare and Development for the surrendered rebels to undergo process in order to be able to avail of the assistance under the Enhance Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
Camp BGen Vicente P Lim– A total of forty-five (45) CPP-NPA Terrorist members (19 female and 26 male) of the Milisyang Bayan (MB), Kontak, Baseng Masa and Organisadong Masa under Komiting Larangan Girilya (KLG) Cesar, Sub- Region Military Area (SRMA - 4A ) surrender to the Police Regional Office CALABARZON.
On March 29, Friday, thirty-three (33) CNTs under KLG Cesar, SRMA-4A all operating in the provinces of Laguna, Rizal and Quezon surrendered to the elements of PRO-4A Regional Intelligence Division (RID), together with 202nd Brigade; 80 Infantry Battalion; Regional Mobile Force Battalion 4A; joint personnel of Provincial Intelligence Branch from Rizal, Laguna and Quezon; thru the implementation of 80 Infantry Battalion COPLAN “Way Kurat” 2019, 1IB COPLAN “Terminator 2” 2019 and COPLAN “Katutubo” 2018 of RID, PRO4A.
Another three (3) personalities from General Nakar, Quezon were accompanied by the element of RID 4A under the supervision of PLTCOL SERAFIN F PETALIO II on March 30, 2019, Saturday. Further, on the same day at 9:00 PM, additional seven (7) personalities surrendered to the authorities.
Moreover, on March 31, yesterday, an additional of two (2) personalities also surrendered.
The CNTs were Tribal Chieftain and members of SAMAHANG DUMAGAT an ethnic group based in Mountainous Range of Laguna/Rizal/Quezon. However, this group was infiltrated by the CNTs and has been utilized as an advance post in the mountains (pasa-bilis).
Their peaceful surrender were made possible thru several contact meetings and dialogue in cooperation of their Chieftain “PUNONG TRIBO” of their respective areas in support of the Government Program on winning condition towards a long and lasting peace in their area
All the surrendered personalities together with their surrendered documents, assorted firearms, ammunition and explosives are now under the custody of Regional Special Operations Unit 4A for documentation, safekeeping and custodial debriefing.
Result of initial custodial debriefing revealed that most of the surrenderees were utilized to monitor the presence and activities of the government forces in their respective locality. Moreover, they were also utilized as escort, guide, runner and their residences were utilized as safe houses of the CNTs in case of emergencies. Most of them are part-time guerilla fighters and part-time farmers. They play the dual role of military protector and political enforcer in their respective barangays.
“Ka Cyrus”, one of the surrendered rebels revealed that in 2009 they assaulted Panukulan MPS in Quezon province. They were also involved in an ambushed of SAF troopers in Antipolo City leaving four (4) casualties and five (5) captured including two (2) wounded personnel. Ka Cyrus is a former NPA Platoon Leader. He also stated that in 2006, he had an intimate relationship with a certain Ka Sophia from U.P Diliman. Ka Sophia gave birth in 2008 but never came back after giving birth.
Regional Director, PBGEN EDWARD E CARRANZA lauded the efforts of the troops for their significant roles in the surrender of the rebels.
“This huge number of surrendered personalities is another proof of our intensified effort in internal security operation for the realization of peaceful and secure Southern Tagalog. I urge other rebels to surrender peacefully. We want to help them to rebuild their lives of peace and prosperity with their families and take this opportunity to avail of the government’s amnesty program”, RD Carranza said.
The PRO4A will coordinate with the Department of Interior and Local Government and Department of Social Welfare and Development for the surrendered rebels to undergo process in order to be able to avail of the assistance under the Enhance Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
DWDD: RP-US Balikatan 2019 Opening Ceremonies
From Katropa DWDD AFP-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook page (Apr 1, 2019): RP-US Balikatan 2019 Opening Ceremonies
H.E. US AMBASSADOR SUNG Y. KIM
H.E. US AMBASSADOR SUNG Y. KIM
The importance of balikatan extends far interoperability for filipino alliance it links us together on a personal level
Our success environment was an important reminder of training relationship and shared experiences to defeat terrorist and save lives
It is also clear reminder of the strength and death of our friendships
I am prompt to be a part of the 35th iteration of Balikatan
DND USEC CARDOZO M. LUNA
Our success environment was an important reminder of training relationship and shared experiences to defeat terrorist and save lives
It is also clear reminder of the strength and death of our friendships
I am prompt to be a part of the 35th iteration of Balikatan
DND USEC CARDOZO M. LUNA
This 2019 balikatan in military exercise between our two nations, military forces is now an eternity since the starting obsession and subsequent actual Institutions.
Balikatan exercises, has been a strong foundation on the Philippine and American Institution alliances and partnership. And will I said further the principles and provisions of our 1951 mutual defense committee.
The due politics and security dynamics within the Cebu pacific region were both our two countries are geographically invaded are revolving so fast.
This is the best time for us to Filipino and American peoples to stay together and work hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder to renew our commitment for peace and prosperity in the region.
This is the very essence to the Philippine Department of National Defense desire to strengthen further our clearly alliance through our post review to our entity.
The Filipino Nation rejoice in America’s faithfulness and sincerity in returning those deals of paid.
The Filipino and States Balikatan military exercise aims not only to enhance our unity probability and preparedness to describe the crisis situation of our nation.
CHIEF OF STAFF AFP GEN. BENJAMIN MADRIGAL.
Balikatan exercises, has been a strong foundation on the Philippine and American Institution alliances and partnership. And will I said further the principles and provisions of our 1951 mutual defense committee.
The due politics and security dynamics within the Cebu pacific region were both our two countries are geographically invaded are revolving so fast.
This is the best time for us to Filipino and American peoples to stay together and work hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder to renew our commitment for peace and prosperity in the region.
This is the very essence to the Philippine Department of National Defense desire to strengthen further our clearly alliance through our post review to our entity.
The Filipino Nation rejoice in America’s faithfulness and sincerity in returning those deals of paid.
The Filipino and States Balikatan military exercise aims not only to enhance our unity probability and preparedness to describe the crisis situation of our nation.
CHIEF OF STAFF AFP GEN. BENJAMIN MADRIGAL.
This year’s exercise is a product of our hear long planning and preparation, in order to identify the secrecy attain, the desire and training objectives. There are four major events categories highlight of this year’s Balikatan namely; we will have a staff exercise, Joint Interoperability exercises, combined Interoperability events and the Humanitarian civil assistance.
Enhance the existing capabilities and preparedness to conduct territorial defense, humanitarian assistance, disaster response, counter terrorist operations, as well as improve Interoperability in the area of planning, joint and combined military operations. While the joint Interoperability exercise focuses on the enhancement of interoperability between our armed forces and our US counter parts.
In the Conrad of Joint and combined Interoperability it integrates professional and special forces in military operations in urban training and maritime security environment. If we will pursue this in the areas of command, intelligence, fires, movement and Grover, of course protection and sustain. On the other hand, the millenarian civil action activities gain to complete highly projects to benefit local communities by gaining popular support for Balikatan.
It is my state honor and privilege to welcome everyone to the opening of Philippines; United Sates Balikatan Exercise.
https://www.facebook.com/dwdd1134/posts/2408070609437421?__tn__=K-R
Enhance the existing capabilities and preparedness to conduct territorial defense, humanitarian assistance, disaster response, counter terrorist operations, as well as improve Interoperability in the area of planning, joint and combined military operations. While the joint Interoperability exercise focuses on the enhancement of interoperability between our armed forces and our US counter parts.
In the Conrad of Joint and combined Interoperability it integrates professional and special forces in military operations in urban training and maritime security environment. If we will pursue this in the areas of command, intelligence, fires, movement and Grover, of course protection and sustain. On the other hand, the millenarian civil action activities gain to complete highly projects to benefit local communities by gaining popular support for Balikatan.
It is my state honor and privilege to welcome everyone to the opening of Philippines; United Sates Balikatan Exercise.
https://www.facebook.com/dwdd1134/posts/2408070609437421?__tn__=K-R
DWDD: LOOK | 2 Marawi heroes receive state-of-the-art prostheses
From Katropa DWDD AFP-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook page (Apr 1, 2019): LOOK | 2 Marawi heroes receive state-of-the-art prostheses
Two soldiers who each lost both legs during the five-month long fight to liberate Marawi City were among the 17 soldier amputees who received their state-of-the-art prostheses last Friday, Mar. 29, 2019.
The prostheses were procured from Ottobock Philippines through funds provided by the Office of the President. The prostheses come with a 6-year warranty to ensure that the recipients will be given adequate assistance in cases when their artificial limbs need repair.
Technical Sergeant Michael M. Dela Vega, 41, and Sergeant Renato Q. Eucogco, 32, of the 51st Infantry Battalion (51IB) of the 1st Infantry Division (1ID) had their legs amputated when a nearby improvised explosive device went off while they were on a mission in Marawi in August 2017.
Dela Vega, who has been serving in the Army for 23 years now, was assigned at the 51IB since 2007. He had been in various operations against lawless elments and against members of the Maute Group in 2016. On the other hand, Eucogco entered the military service in 2010. Serving for the 51IB was his first assignement and he has been working with Dela Vega eversince.
The two were among the first responders when the crisis in Marawi broke out. They have been in and out of the battlefield fighting hard to liberate the city until the time of the incident.
With their new set of artificial limbs, the two soldiers shared that they can now walk again. Prior to the awarding of the prostheses, they have undergone a series of physical therapy and rehabilitation program to ensure they will be able to use their prostheses well.
After receiving their prosthesis, Dela Vega expressed his gratitude to the government and to the Philippine Army. “Nagpapasalamat kami sa full support nila dahil nakakuha kami ng ganito kaganda na prostheses. Nakakatayo na ako ng walang hawakan,” he said.
The 15 other recipients sustained their injuries in operations against the Communist NPA Terrorists, the Abu Sayyaf Group, and other lawless elements. Among the areas where they fought are in Basilan, Bukidnon, Isabela, Jolo Sulu, Kalinga, Maguindanao, and Surigao del Norte.
Some of the recipients are set to retire while others will remain in active duty to take on new tasks fit for their current capabilities.
Two soldiers who each lost both legs during the five-month long fight to liberate Marawi City were among the 17 soldier amputees who received their state-of-the-art prostheses last Friday, Mar. 29, 2019.
The prostheses were procured from Ottobock Philippines through funds provided by the Office of the President. The prostheses come with a 6-year warranty to ensure that the recipients will be given adequate assistance in cases when their artificial limbs need repair.
Technical Sergeant Michael M. Dela Vega, 41, and Sergeant Renato Q. Eucogco, 32, of the 51st Infantry Battalion (51IB) of the 1st Infantry Division (1ID) had their legs amputated when a nearby improvised explosive device went off while they were on a mission in Marawi in August 2017.
Dela Vega, who has been serving in the Army for 23 years now, was assigned at the 51IB since 2007. He had been in various operations against lawless elments and against members of the Maute Group in 2016. On the other hand, Eucogco entered the military service in 2010. Serving for the 51IB was his first assignement and he has been working with Dela Vega eversince.
The two were among the first responders when the crisis in Marawi broke out. They have been in and out of the battlefield fighting hard to liberate the city until the time of the incident.
With their new set of artificial limbs, the two soldiers shared that they can now walk again. Prior to the awarding of the prostheses, they have undergone a series of physical therapy and rehabilitation program to ensure they will be able to use their prostheses well.
After receiving their prosthesis, Dela Vega expressed his gratitude to the government and to the Philippine Army. “Nagpapasalamat kami sa full support nila dahil nakakuha kami ng ganito kaganda na prostheses. Nakakatayo na ako ng walang hawakan,” he said.
The 15 other recipients sustained their injuries in operations against the Communist NPA Terrorists, the Abu Sayyaf Group, and other lawless elements. Among the areas where they fought are in Basilan, Bukidnon, Isabela, Jolo Sulu, Kalinga, Maguindanao, and Surigao del Norte.
Some of the recipients are set to retire while others will remain in active duty to take on new tasks fit for their current capabilities.
DWDD: READ | April Fool’s Day: The Joke is on the NPA
From Katropa DWDD AFP-CRS Virtual RTV Facebook page (Apr 1, 2019): READ | April Fool’s Day: The Joke is on the NPA
A total of 45 NPA fighters andsupporters decided to surrender and formally turned their backs from communistideology after successful localized negotiations by combined AFP and PNP elementsin Region 4A from the day the terrorist group commemorated its 50th foundinganniversary up to this year’s “April Fool’s Day”.
The former rebels turned-over 25 firearms to military and police commanders andare undergoing a process to determine if they are qualified to receive governmentgrants under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
Brigadier General Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr, Commander of the 202nd Infantry(UNIFIER) Brigade whose unit was one of those involved in the negotiations, saidthat the former rebels belong to the NPA’s Guerilla Front Cesar which operates inQuezon, Rizal and Laguna.
He added that the mass surrender “validated our assessment that communistideology in this part of the country is now losing traction and mass base support dueto our massive intelligence-driven combat operations complemented by ourunrelenting push for localized peace talks through E-CLIP thereby putting them onthe verge of collapse.”
The military considers this as “a decisive blow to the underground movement due tothe inclusion of a notorious NPA bomb-maker whose surrender meant lesserlandmines and bombings which inflicted harm even to innocent civilians in the past”,said BGen Burgos. Since the 202nd Brigade’s maiden implementation of E-CLIP in Luzon and Visayaslast August 14, 2018 wherein 13 former NPAs were formally welcomed tomainstream society by Sec Eduardo Año and Sec Delfin Lorenzana during aceremony in Tanauan City, Batangas, a total of 100 surrenders with 59 firearmswere already recorded by the military, 50 of whom have been enrolled in E-CLIP.Major Israel Galorio, the brigade’s E-CLIP focal person, said that “we are helpingthese victims of NPA deception to satisfy the documentary requirements which areArmy Core Purpose: Serving the people.
Army Vision: By 2028, a world-class Army that is a source of national pridepart of the mechanism to ensure that this government program will not be abusedand will continue to flourish for the benefit of former NPA terrorists and their familieswho realized that they are better off contributing to national development instead ofwaging a war that is impossible to win.”Per the unit’s record, those enrolled have already received Php65,000.00representing Php15,000.00 immediate cash assistance and Php50,000.00 livelihoodassistance while some were either given employment in their areas or have beenregistered as beneficiaries of 4Ps.These are on top of the more than Php670,000.00 worth of housing, education, andhealth care benefits, among others, which the government is offering in its effort tounify the country and attain genuine, lasting peace.
Major General Rhoderick M Parayno, commander of the Philippine Army’s 2ndInfantry Division, lauded the former rebels’ “gesture of commitment to peace” andcongratulated them “for choosing their families over their comrades, for choosingpeace over conflict and for choosing to be productive members of the society overbeing extortionists who terrorize their fellow Filipinos.”
He added that the mass surrender was a result of the government’s “whole of nationapproach in attaining just and lasting peace after CALABARZON became the firstregion in the country to activate and operationalize the Regional Task Force to EndLocal Communist Armed Conflict or RTF-ELCAC 4A”.RTF-ELCAC 4A was activated on Feb 26, 2019 during a joint RDC and RPOCmeeting at Calamba City, Laguna.
https://www.facebook.com/dwdd1134/posts/2408201962757619?__tn__=K-R
The former rebels turned-over 25 firearms to military and police commanders andare undergoing a process to determine if they are qualified to receive governmentgrants under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
Brigadier General Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr, Commander of the 202nd Infantry(UNIFIER) Brigade whose unit was one of those involved in the negotiations, saidthat the former rebels belong to the NPA’s Guerilla Front Cesar which operates inQuezon, Rizal and Laguna.
He added that the mass surrender “validated our assessment that communistideology in this part of the country is now losing traction and mass base support dueto our massive intelligence-driven combat operations complemented by ourunrelenting push for localized peace talks through E-CLIP thereby putting them onthe verge of collapse.”
The military considers this as “a decisive blow to the underground movement due tothe inclusion of a notorious NPA bomb-maker whose surrender meant lesserlandmines and bombings which inflicted harm even to innocent civilians in the past”,said BGen Burgos. Since the 202nd Brigade’s maiden implementation of E-CLIP in Luzon and Visayaslast August 14, 2018 wherein 13 former NPAs were formally welcomed tomainstream society by Sec Eduardo Año and Sec Delfin Lorenzana during aceremony in Tanauan City, Batangas, a total of 100 surrenders with 59 firearmswere already recorded by the military, 50 of whom have been enrolled in E-CLIP.Major Israel Galorio, the brigade’s E-CLIP focal person, said that “we are helpingthese victims of NPA deception to satisfy the documentary requirements which areArmy Core Purpose: Serving the people.
Army Vision: By 2028, a world-class Army that is a source of national pridepart of the mechanism to ensure that this government program will not be abusedand will continue to flourish for the benefit of former NPA terrorists and their familieswho realized that they are better off contributing to national development instead ofwaging a war that is impossible to win.”Per the unit’s record, those enrolled have already received Php65,000.00representing Php15,000.00 immediate cash assistance and Php50,000.00 livelihoodassistance while some were either given employment in their areas or have beenregistered as beneficiaries of 4Ps.These are on top of the more than Php670,000.00 worth of housing, education, andhealth care benefits, among others, which the government is offering in its effort tounify the country and attain genuine, lasting peace.
Major General Rhoderick M Parayno, commander of the Philippine Army’s 2ndInfantry Division, lauded the former rebels’ “gesture of commitment to peace” andcongratulated them “for choosing their families over their comrades, for choosingpeace over conflict and for choosing to be productive members of the society overbeing extortionists who terrorize their fellow Filipinos.”
He added that the mass surrender was a result of the government’s “whole of nationapproach in attaining just and lasting peace after CALABARZON became the firstregion in the country to activate and operationalize the Regional Task Force to EndLocal Communist Armed Conflict or RTF-ELCAC 4A”.RTF-ELCAC 4A was activated on Feb 26, 2019 during a joint RDC and RPOCmeeting at Calamba City, Laguna.
https://www.facebook.com/dwdd1134/posts/2408201962757619?__tn__=K-R
Group denounces red-tagging anew
From the Sun Star-Cagayan de Oro (Apr 1, 2019): Group denounces red-tagging anew
PROGRESSIVE organization Movement Against Tyranny (Mat) in Northern Mindanao has condemned again over the weekend another attacks and red-tagging of peoples' organizations and human rights advocates by state agents in Cagayan de Oro City.
The group said the cowardly, malicious and false claims are desperate moves to crack down organizations that are critical to the present administration.
“Such cowardly activities aim to sow fear and misinformation among the public. The state forces are trying to condition the mind of the people to justify further attacks against these organizations,” Mat-Northern Mindanao said in a statement.
“And by doing so, the Duterte government shows its true face as number one violator of the constitutional rights of the people, hampering the people's freedom in articulating their opinions and ideas without fear of retaliation, censorship or sanction,” it added.
The Mat-Northern Mindanao said a group calling itself “Movement Against Terrorism-Northern Mindanao,” which for them a malicious rip off of the name and acronym Movement Against Tyranny in Northern Mindanao, has released a press statement and two sets of fliers in the city to “obviously spread false and dangerous statements against different human rights advocates and people’s organizations in the region.
On March 26, Mat-Northern Mindanao said a Facebook account “Al Pac” sent to the Facebook page of Rural Missionaries of the Philippines-Northern Mindanao- Northern Mindanao a press statement of the Movement Against Terrorism-Northern Mindanao Region which falsely enlisted a wide range of organizations as supporters of the New People’s Army (NPA).
It included organizations of the youth and students such as the Anakbayan, League of the Filipino Students, National Union of Students of the Philippines, College Editors Guild of the Philippines, and Karatula; Progressive party-lists such as Anakpawis, Gabriela and Kabataan.
It also include the indigenous peoples organizations and learning institutions like Kalumbay, Kalumaran, Tagtabulon, Suara Bangsamoro, Katribu, Alcadev, and TRIFPSS; and religious groups such as the Iglesia Filipina Independiente, United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP), RMP, and SAMIN.
Workers and urban organizations such as the Kilusang Mayo Uno, Kalipunan ng Damayang Mahihirap, Peasants group such as Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas, Misamis Oriental Farmers Association, Overseas Filipino Workers Migrante, group of human rights lawyers and teachers and the multisectoral alliance Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) were also included on the list.
Last March 28, the group said a security camera footage showed a grey car throwing out pieces of papers as it passed by the Bayan-Northern Mindanao office which were found to be fliers showing dead bodies and a message of condemnation of the NPA on its 50th year.
“At the bottom of the fliers was a message to MAT-Northern Mindanao, IFI and RMP to scamming the people into joining and supporting the armed rebels in the countryside,” the group said.
Another set of fliers were also distributed at the Provincial Capitol grounds of Misamis Oriental were evacuees from Sitio Camansi, Lagonglong town have camped out due to militarization in their community.
The fliers were containing statement declaring the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA-National Democratic Front and the alleged supporting organizations as Persona non Grata. On top of the organizations enumerated in the press release, Bayan Muna and the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro Social Action Center were also included, the group added.
The same fliers were also scattered around the vicinity of Camaman-an Elementary School around 8 a.m., Friday, March 29, the president of the Alliance of Concerned Teachers in Northern Mindanao reported.
“This shows a clear disregard of a school being a zone of peace. It also deliberately aims to spread misinformation among students and teachers about activists, human rights defenders, and advocacy groups whose only crimes are promoting the rights and interests of the Filipino people," the MAT-Northern Mindanao said.
“Amidst the fear and misinformation brought by martial law, the people of Northern Mindanao will continue to fight for the truth, justice and genuine peace,” it added.
The group said the cowardly, malicious and false claims are desperate moves to crack down organizations that are critical to the present administration.
“Such cowardly activities aim to sow fear and misinformation among the public. The state forces are trying to condition the mind of the people to justify further attacks against these organizations,” Mat-Northern Mindanao said in a statement.
“And by doing so, the Duterte government shows its true face as number one violator of the constitutional rights of the people, hampering the people's freedom in articulating their opinions and ideas without fear of retaliation, censorship or sanction,” it added.
The Mat-Northern Mindanao said a group calling itself “Movement Against Terrorism-Northern Mindanao,” which for them a malicious rip off of the name and acronym Movement Against Tyranny in Northern Mindanao, has released a press statement and two sets of fliers in the city to “obviously spread false and dangerous statements against different human rights advocates and people’s organizations in the region.
On March 26, Mat-Northern Mindanao said a Facebook account “Al Pac” sent to the Facebook page of Rural Missionaries of the Philippines-Northern Mindanao- Northern Mindanao a press statement of the Movement Against Terrorism-Northern Mindanao Region which falsely enlisted a wide range of organizations as supporters of the New People’s Army (NPA).
It included organizations of the youth and students such as the Anakbayan, League of the Filipino Students, National Union of Students of the Philippines, College Editors Guild of the Philippines, and Karatula; Progressive party-lists such as Anakpawis, Gabriela and Kabataan.
It also include the indigenous peoples organizations and learning institutions like Kalumbay, Kalumaran, Tagtabulon, Suara Bangsamoro, Katribu, Alcadev, and TRIFPSS; and religious groups such as the Iglesia Filipina Independiente, United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP), RMP, and SAMIN.
Workers and urban organizations such as the Kilusang Mayo Uno, Kalipunan ng Damayang Mahihirap, Peasants group such as Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas, Misamis Oriental Farmers Association, Overseas Filipino Workers Migrante, group of human rights lawyers and teachers and the multisectoral alliance Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) were also included on the list.
Last March 28, the group said a security camera footage showed a grey car throwing out pieces of papers as it passed by the Bayan-Northern Mindanao office which were found to be fliers showing dead bodies and a message of condemnation of the NPA on its 50th year.
“At the bottom of the fliers was a message to MAT-Northern Mindanao, IFI and RMP to scamming the people into joining and supporting the armed rebels in the countryside,” the group said.
Another set of fliers were also distributed at the Provincial Capitol grounds of Misamis Oriental were evacuees from Sitio Camansi, Lagonglong town have camped out due to militarization in their community.
The fliers were containing statement declaring the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA-National Democratic Front and the alleged supporting organizations as Persona non Grata. On top of the organizations enumerated in the press release, Bayan Muna and the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro Social Action Center were also included, the group added.
The same fliers were also scattered around the vicinity of Camaman-an Elementary School around 8 a.m., Friday, March 29, the president of the Alliance of Concerned Teachers in Northern Mindanao reported.
“This shows a clear disregard of a school being a zone of peace. It also deliberately aims to spread misinformation among students and teachers about activists, human rights defenders, and advocacy groups whose only crimes are promoting the rights and interests of the Filipino people," the MAT-Northern Mindanao said.
“Amidst the fear and misinformation brought by martial law, the people of Northern Mindanao will continue to fight for the truth, justice and genuine peace,” it added.
Police official denies ordering the execution of ‘NPA supporters'
From the Sun Star-Cebu (Apr 1, 2019): Police official denies ordering the execution of ‘NPA supporters'
THE Police Regional Office (PRO) 7 chief has denied he authorized the massacre of 14 men who were reportedly keeping unlicensed firearms in Negros Oriental last week.
Brig. Gen. Debold Sinas said the suspects resisted arrest and engaged the operatives in a shootout.
The incident happened during the implementation of search warrants that Sinas dubbed as “Oplan Sauron,” the name of the main antagonist of the fantasy novel, “Lord of the Rings.”
Sinas said one of his personnel, Corp. Ian Puerto, was hit in the thigh. He was brought to the Silliman University Medical Center in Dumaguete City.
The police official said the killings can be described as massacre if these are done in one place.
Sinas welcomed the plan of the Commission on Human Rights 7 to launch an investigation on the operation, but he also directed the Regional Internal Affairs Service and the Regional Investigation and Detective Management Division 7 to check if the procedure in implementing search warrants was followed by his ground troops.
The New People’s Army (NPA) denounced the operation, claiming that the police killed innocent farmers.
Sinas said the slain suspects were NPA supporters, but this allegation was denied by the NPA leadership in Negros Island.
Eight of the police’s targets were killed in Canlaon City; four in Manjuyod; and two in Santa Catalina.
Aside from allegedly supporting the NPA, Sinas claimed the suspects were tasked to monitor police officers that were included in the rebels’ kill list.
Meanwhile, the PRO 7 seized P5.1 million worth of illegal drugs during the Synchronized Enhanced Managing Police Operations in the past three days.
The operatives caught 218, while two others died after resisting arrest. Five of the 36 arrested drug personalities were high-value targets.
In Barangay Hipodromo, Cebu City, the Drug Enforcement Group 7 caught Ritchell Betache, who yielded 100 grams of “shabu” worth P680,000.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1799673/Cebu/Local-News/Police-official-denies-ordering-the-execution-of-NPA-supporters
THE Police Regional Office (PRO) 7 chief has denied he authorized the massacre of 14 men who were reportedly keeping unlicensed firearms in Negros Oriental last week.
Brig. Gen. Debold Sinas said the suspects resisted arrest and engaged the operatives in a shootout.
The incident happened during the implementation of search warrants that Sinas dubbed as “Oplan Sauron,” the name of the main antagonist of the fantasy novel, “Lord of the Rings.”
Sinas said one of his personnel, Corp. Ian Puerto, was hit in the thigh. He was brought to the Silliman University Medical Center in Dumaguete City.
The police official said the killings can be described as massacre if these are done in one place.
Sinas welcomed the plan of the Commission on Human Rights 7 to launch an investigation on the operation, but he also directed the Regional Internal Affairs Service and the Regional Investigation and Detective Management Division 7 to check if the procedure in implementing search warrants was followed by his ground troops.
The New People’s Army (NPA) denounced the operation, claiming that the police killed innocent farmers.
Sinas said the slain suspects were NPA supporters, but this allegation was denied by the NPA leadership in Negros Island.
Eight of the police’s targets were killed in Canlaon City; four in Manjuyod; and two in Santa Catalina.
Aside from allegedly supporting the NPA, Sinas claimed the suspects were tasked to monitor police officers that were included in the rebels’ kill list.
Meanwhile, the PRO 7 seized P5.1 million worth of illegal drugs during the Synchronized Enhanced Managing Police Operations in the past three days.
The operatives caught 218, while two others died after resisting arrest. Five of the 36 arrested drug personalities were high-value targets.
In Barangay Hipodromo, Cebu City, the Drug Enforcement Group 7 caught Ritchell Betache, who yielded 100 grams of “shabu” worth P680,000.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1799673/Cebu/Local-News/Police-official-denies-ordering-the-execution-of-NPA-supporters
275 Chinese vessels sail near Pagasa; PH files diplomatic protest
From the Sun Star-Manila (Apr 1, 2019): 275 Chinese vessels sail near Pagasa; PH files diplomatic protest
Pagasa Island (Image from Google Maps)
THE Philippines has lodged a diplomatic protest questioning the presence of at least 275 Chinese vessels near Philippine-occupied Pagasa Island in the disputed South China Sea.
The diplomatic protest was filed by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), after the military has monitored some 275 Chinese vessels sailing near Pagasa Island from January to March this year, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo told Palace reporters Monday, April 1.
Citing report from the Western Command, Panelo said the Chinese ships were found to be "stationary," staying near the Philippine-claimed island between a day and a week.
"They're just stationary there. Kung minsan nga, one day. Kung minsan one week (Sometimes, they are there for one day, sometimes, for one week). But they are not circling," the Palace official said.
"I understand we have already issued a diplomatic protest, [as] per the Western Command. The DFA has already made a diplomatic protest over it, that incident on the so-called vessels being stationed there," he added.
The military earlier raised worry over the presence of Chinese vessels near the Pagasa Island.
The report came, as China continues to ignore the July 2016 arbitral ruling, favoring the Philippines and invalidating Beijing's sweeping claims to the resource-rich South China Sea.
Panelo, who is expected to meet Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua at Malacañan Palace on Monday afternoon, April 1, said he would raise the issue and "politely ask" the Chinese government to act on it.
"The mere fact that they are there and they're just staying there for a week, bakit (why)? Anong ginagawa niyo doon (What are they doing there)?" he said.
"We will ask them first why. First, if they acknowledge such fact as determined by us. Number to, ask them why are they doing it. Number three, we will politely ask them not to do what they are doing," he added.
Asked if the Palace sees something wrong with the presence of Chinese ships in the disputed waters, Panelo said, "Definitely."
The Palace official also stressed that the reported surge of Chinese vessels near Pagasa Island concerns the Duterte administration.
"Anything that concerns the security of the Philippines will always be a concern," Panelo said.
"We've already done our part. Let's see how they will respond to the diplomatic protest," he added.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1799532/Manila/Local-News/275-Chinese-vessels-sail-near-Pagasa-Island-Philippines-files-diplomatic-protest
The diplomatic protest was filed by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), after the military has monitored some 275 Chinese vessels sailing near Pagasa Island from January to March this year, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo told Palace reporters Monday, April 1.
Citing report from the Western Command, Panelo said the Chinese ships were found to be "stationary," staying near the Philippine-claimed island between a day and a week.
"They're just stationary there. Kung minsan nga, one day. Kung minsan one week (Sometimes, they are there for one day, sometimes, for one week). But they are not circling," the Palace official said.
"I understand we have already issued a diplomatic protest, [as] per the Western Command. The DFA has already made a diplomatic protest over it, that incident on the so-called vessels being stationed there," he added.
The military earlier raised worry over the presence of Chinese vessels near the Pagasa Island.
The report came, as China continues to ignore the July 2016 arbitral ruling, favoring the Philippines and invalidating Beijing's sweeping claims to the resource-rich South China Sea.
Panelo, who is expected to meet Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua at Malacañan Palace on Monday afternoon, April 1, said he would raise the issue and "politely ask" the Chinese government to act on it.
"The mere fact that they are there and they're just staying there for a week, bakit (why)? Anong ginagawa niyo doon (What are they doing there)?" he said.
"We will ask them first why. First, if they acknowledge such fact as determined by us. Number to, ask them why are they doing it. Number three, we will politely ask them not to do what they are doing," he added.
Asked if the Palace sees something wrong with the presence of Chinese ships in the disputed waters, Panelo said, "Definitely."
The Palace official also stressed that the reported surge of Chinese vessels near Pagasa Island concerns the Duterte administration.
"Anything that concerns the security of the Philippines will always be a concern," Panelo said.
"We've already done our part. Let's see how they will respond to the diplomatic protest," he added.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1799532/Manila/Local-News/275-Chinese-vessels-sail-near-Pagasa-Island-Philippines-files-diplomatic-protest
Parents warned vs NPA recruitment activities
From the Sun Star-Manila (Apr 1, 2019): Parents warned vs NPA recruitment activities
THE Philippine National Police (PNP) reminded parents to always monitor the extra-curricular activities of their students, particularly those not sanctioned or approved by school authorities, to avoid their children from being recruited by communist rebels.
“As we usher the summer season with the culmination of the previous school year, I am taking the urgency of raising awareness among parents and school administrators to be mindful of students' extra-curricular activities that are not sanctioned or approved by school authorities such as off-campus social immersion programs, teach-ins, symposia, social field work and community organization in areas of operation of armed units of the local communist movement,” PNP Chief Oscar Albayalde said.
“The communist terrorist movement, through its front organizations, exploits such activities to recruit fighters from among the ranks of unsuspecting students,” he added.
Albayalde made the statement following the arrest of Aljon Tamuyang Cardenas, 18, a student of the state-run University of Eastern Philippines in Catarman, Northern Samar, who took part in the attack staged by at least 50 New People’s Army (NPA) rebels Thursday morning, March 28, at the Victoria Municipal Police Station in Victoria, Northern Samar.
Three communist rebels were killed, while two policemen were wounded in the attack.
Albayalde said there had been persistent reports of sighting and even active participation of some university students in some insurgent activities, including armed engagements with government security forces.
He said the PNP recognizes academic freedom to promote critical thinking but the moment the militant students take up arms to topple the government, they become enemies of the state and subject to appropriate law enforcement response.
“God forbid but we do not want these unwary students to be along the line of fire when our maneuver forces launch a summer offensive in the CPP-NPA heartland in the coming weeks,” Albayalde said.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1799533/Manila/Local-News/Police-warn-parents-vs-New-Peoples-Army-recruitment-activities
THE Philippine National Police (PNP) reminded parents to always monitor the extra-curricular activities of their students, particularly those not sanctioned or approved by school authorities, to avoid their children from being recruited by communist rebels.
“As we usher the summer season with the culmination of the previous school year, I am taking the urgency of raising awareness among parents and school administrators to be mindful of students' extra-curricular activities that are not sanctioned or approved by school authorities such as off-campus social immersion programs, teach-ins, symposia, social field work and community organization in areas of operation of armed units of the local communist movement,” PNP Chief Oscar Albayalde said.
“The communist terrorist movement, through its front organizations, exploits such activities to recruit fighters from among the ranks of unsuspecting students,” he added.
Albayalde made the statement following the arrest of Aljon Tamuyang Cardenas, 18, a student of the state-run University of Eastern Philippines in Catarman, Northern Samar, who took part in the attack staged by at least 50 New People’s Army (NPA) rebels Thursday morning, March 28, at the Victoria Municipal Police Station in Victoria, Northern Samar.
Three communist rebels were killed, while two policemen were wounded in the attack.
Albayalde said there had been persistent reports of sighting and even active participation of some university students in some insurgent activities, including armed engagements with government security forces.
He said the PNP recognizes academic freedom to promote critical thinking but the moment the militant students take up arms to topple the government, they become enemies of the state and subject to appropriate law enforcement response.
“God forbid but we do not want these unwary students to be along the line of fire when our maneuver forces launch a summer offensive in the CPP-NPA heartland in the coming weeks,” Albayalde said.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1799533/Manila/Local-News/Police-warn-parents-vs-New-Peoples-Army-recruitment-activities
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