Kalinaw News: NPA’s SPARU leader, political guide yield with firearms to Army’s 61IB

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jul 24, 2019): NPA’s SPARU leader, political guide yield with firearms to Army’s 61IB

CAMP PERALTA, Jamindan, Capiz – Unbearable starvation and hardships within the armed movement forced two (2) NPA members in Iloilo to surrender to Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion on July 19, 2019.

LTC Joel Benedict Batara, Commanding Officer, 61IB identified the surrenderees as alias Aguila, 51, Team Leader of CPP-NPA’s Special Partisan Unit (SPARU), Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay, and alias Baby, 33, Political Guide and Medical Officer of Squad 2, Suyak Platoon, Southern Front, Komiteng Rehiyon -Panay.

Alias Aguila from Calinog, Iloilo yielded with Colt Rifle with serial number 9014574; one (1) cap magazine of 5.56 mm; five (5) rounds live ammunitions of 5.56mm, and one (1) vintage rifle with ten (10) rounds of 7.62 ammunitions while alias Baby of Tubungan, Iloilo surrendered along with US Springfield 30 caliber rifle; eighteen (18) rounds live ammunitions of 30 caliber; one (1) 38 caliber pistol; six (6) rounds live ammunitions; three (3) rounds empty shell of 40mm, and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

In an interview, Aguila and Baby can’t contain their emotions while recalling their horrible experiences inside the armed movement. “Grabe nga gutom kag kakapoy ang amon naagyan sa sulod. Daw wala katapusan nga pag-antus” (We experienced extreme hunger and fatigue inside the movement. It seems like it was a never ending suffering).

The surrender of the two has brought to a total of 137 number of NPA members in Panay Island that have returned to the mainstream society since the implementation of Enhanced – Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) in 2016. Of the said figure, 21 surrendered in 2016; 3 in 2017; 66 in 2018; and 47 in 2019.

LTC Batara stressed “The two did the right decision for armed struggle will bring nothing but suffering and death not only to them but also to their families. Imagine, kung may mga anak ka na matagal ka nang hinihintay at hindi nakikita pero nung bumalik ka isa ka nang malamig na bangkay. Tama lang na nagbalik-loob sila dahil ito na ang pangalawa nilang pagkakataon upang matutukan ang kanilang pamilya at mamuhay ng mapayapa.”

Under E-CLIP, both Aguila and Baby will receive P15, 000 Immediate Assistance; P50, 000.00 Livelihood Assistance and Firearm Remunerations for their surrendered firearms.

The immediate and Livelihood Assistance are component benefits of the E-CLIP which provides a complete package of assistance to former rebels. Immediate Assistance is for the mobilization expenses of the FRs while his/her enrolment in the program is being processed while the Livelihood Assistance is a support for sustenance.

The other benefits of the E-CLIP that the surrenderees can also avail includes; Reintegration assistance, Half-way house assistance, Philhealth enrolment and medical assistance, Education assistance, Housing assistance, Modified Conditional Cash Transfer, Legal assistance, and Healing and reconciliation initiatives.

MGen Dinoh Dolina, Commander of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division called on the remaining members of the CPP-NPA Terrorist who are experiencing the same hardship to surrender. “Joining the CPP-NPA Terrorist is like digging your own grave; it will only bring misery and poverty to your family. Your government is giving you a chance to free yourselves from the bondage of deception and violence. Come down just like what Aguila and Baby did and avail the Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program for you to start a new and normal life.

Division Public Affairs Office 3rd Infantry Division Philippine Army
CPT CENON C PANCITO III (SC) PA
Chief, 3rd Division Public Affairs Office
Camp General Martin T Delgado, Fort San Pedro, Iloilo City
Contact: dpao.3idpa@gmail.com / 0917-124-1983

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/npas-sparu-leader-political-guide-yield-with-firearms-to-armys-61ib/

Kalinaw News: Western Visayas Cops complete community support program training in Camp Peralta

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jul 24, 2019): 359 Western Visayas Cops complete community support program training in Camp Peralta

CAMP PERALTA, Jamindan, Capiz – A closing ceremony of Community Support Program (CSP) Training was held here on 23 July 2019.

The graduation ceremony of 359 police personnel from Police Regional Office 6 who underwent a 3-month CSP training was graced by Police Brigadier General Rene Pamuspusan, Regional Director, PRO-6.

CSP is a people-centered program which aims to bring peace and development in conflict-affected barangays. It is an initiative of our state forces to bring the government closer to the people through an immediate delivery of basic services especially to grassroots communities.

PRO6 chose Camp Peralta as the location of the said training for it has a training school equipped with facilities that can accommodate bigger number of trainees. Aside from this, it has capable and well-trained CSP instructors that can develop their skills in terms of community-support related activities.

In his speech, P/BGen Pamuspusan said, “I ask you to be bold, be creative and determined because the march on peace leading to our country’s sustainable development lies in your hands. Your role is to sustain the momentum by applying the various approaches you learned in this training.”

The 3 rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division through Brigadier General Eric Vinoya, Assistant Division Commander expressed its delight that the two partner agencies are not only sharing each other’s knowledge but are working together to address peace and security concerns in the region. Similar activities have proven to be effective in the inter-agency efforts of the PNP and Philippine Army in resolving insurgency problem in Western Visayas.

Division Public Affairs Office 3rd Infantry Division Philippine Army
CPT CENON C PANCITO III (SC) PA
Chief, 3rd Division Public Affairs Office
Camp General Martin T Delgado, Fort San Pedro, Iloilo City
Contact: dpao.3idpa@gmail.com / 0917-124-1983

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/359-western-visayas-cops-complete-community-support-program-training-in-camp-peralta/

Kalinaw News: Bulk of combined members of CNT and their supporters surrendered

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jul 24, 2019): Bulk of combined members of CNT and their supporters surrendered

MAGPET, North Cotabato – Various Underground Mass Organizations in 901st Infantry Brigade area (Second District of North Cotabato excluding Municipality of Makilala) cut their support to the CPP NPA Terorists (CNTs) after most of their members dissociated and pledge their allegiance back to the government.

Just this year the brigade already recorded a total of 20 regular members of NPA and 553 members of Underground Mass Organization (UGMO) through the combined efforts of the Brigade’s Operational control battalions, 19th Infantry Battalion and 72nd Infantry Battalion. Among the 553 UGMO members, 131 of which are from Kidapawan City, 89 from Magpet and 333 from President Roxas all of North Cotabato.

According to NPA regulars, they surrender after knowing that they were only deceived by the CNT’s promises of a better life. Also, they said that their lives inside the organization were difficult and dangerous with no enough rest and food while seeing their commanders living in a comfortable lifestyle.

“The purpose of the communist’s organizers and front organization is to agitate the people using false and fabricated issues against the government and then organize them to participate in the protest/rally, create chaos and destroy the system of governance. CNTs in our country are always against the efforts of government in bringing peace and progress in the communities. Organizing the UGMO in the communities is part of the CNT’s scheme in carrying out their terroristic objectives and agenda,” Colonel Gabriel C Viray III, Commander, 901st Brigade explained.

“These UGMOs serves as their core group for mass rallies and protests, logistical support, and source of recruits for the armed group hence it’s a good effort that they are starting to surrender and are now ready to cooperate with the government,” he added.

Colonel Viray III, gives his message and advice the troops to continue reaching out to these groups to effectively address the armed struggle and someday achieve peace in North Cotabato.

901st Infantry Brigade 9th Infantry Division Philippine Army
2LT JENNYMOR C AMOD (AGS) PA
Civil-Military Operations Officer, 901stBde, 9ID, PA
ARAKAN, Cotabato
s7cmo_901bde@yahoo.com

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/bulk-of-combined-members-of-cnt-and-their-supporters-surrendered/

Kalinaw News: Anti-SONA rally participants abandoned and deprived of promised food and bus fare

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jul 24, 2019): Anti-SONA rally participants abandoned and deprived of promised food and bus fare

MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon, July 23, 2019 – Around 70 participants to Anti-SONA rally in this City yesterday (July 22) were left by their organizers hungry and angry with no food, water and fare to go back to their communities.

KARAPATAN, KASAMA, KMU and Gabriela brought-in groups of people from the villages to stage anti-government rally as early as 9am to the Provincial Capitol grounds. Early birds were welcomed by singing soldiers who were ahead in the capitol grounds. A team of soldier-medics were also at the capitol grounds offering free blood pressure check. The soldiers shared bread and softdrinks-in-can to the rally participants while waiting for their leaders. Little did they know that the snack shared by the soldiers will be their last meal for the day. Worse, they were later given instruction by the rally leaders to vilify the soldiers.

A teenage boy murmur after the protest “ang ishagit ihunong ang militarisasyon ug martial law nga mga sundalo man gani ang nanghatag ug pagkaon ug mainom ganiha, pasalamat nalang ta kay nakatimo (We were told to yell stop militarization and martial law, and yet the soldiers were the ones who gave us food and drinks earlier. We are thankful that with the snacks, at least we were able to eat something)”

The rally participants said originally they know that the program will be held at the capitol grounds. Suddenly the leaders decided to change the venue to the City Public Market and jeepney terminal. Them then while they were waiting for food at around 3PM, they were abandoned as their leaders left when rain started to pour.

According to one of the participants they were recruited by two (2) organizers who promised them food and bus fare. “Libre man gud daw ang plete ug kaon” said Ana, a teenager and a Manobo from Quezon, Bukidnon.

“Ang ingun is adto daw mi sa pabahay sa mga kabus, libre pamasahe back and forth, libre pamahaw paniudto, unya wla mi kabalo nga mag rally diay mi. Ayha ra daw ihatag ang pamasahe kung mahuman ang program (They said we will visit the housing project for the poor, fare back and forth will be free, free breakfast, lunch. We were not aware that we will be joining a rally. They said, we will be given bus fare back home only after the program)” said Ana who was left with her cousin in Malaybalay City Public Terminal. The two later boarded a bus with few coins saved from school allowance.

“CDO man gani daw mi, na impas ug nadayon, unsaon ug uli maypa sila nakasakay sa ila van, kami gibiyaan (CDO is our supposed destination, the heck if we got there how can we go home. Good for the organizers, they have their van, we were abandoned)” she added.

Abandoned rally participants were dismayed that organizers quickly boarded a white multicab with plate number JBB 8496 and left them. Around 30-40 participants were teenagers.

Social workers from DSWD and local SWD in Malaybalay and Valencia cities were on standby alert along with police and military ready to provide public assistance during the day. The SONA monitoring ended without any untoward incident in Bukidnon.

403rd Infantry "Peacemaker" Brigade 4 Infantry Division Philippine Army
Cpt Marcelito Quijano
CMO Officer, 403Bde, 41D, PA
Malaybalay City, Bukidnon
09564177497

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/anti-sona-rally-participants-abandoned-and-deprived-of-promised-food-and-bus-fare/

Indonesian Aerospace To Take Philippine NC212i Order

From Aerospace Daily & Defense Report (Jul 23, 2019): Indonesian Aerospace To Take Philippine NC212i Order


C-212: Alan Wilson

KUALA LUMPUR—Indonesian Aerospace will accept a Philippine order for six NC212i transporters next month, the company says. The statement from the company resolves confusion over the status of the procurement program. 

Philippines Air Force Chief Air Lt. Gen. Rozzano Briguez said on July 2 that the aircraft should be received in 2020. But the manufacturer said then that it could not sign while it looked at how to synchronize production with the delivery schedule. In its latest written ...

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https://aviationweek.com/awindefense/indonesian-aerospace-take-philippine-nc212i-order

Esperon: PH to add five lighthouses and aerial vehicles in West Philippine Sea this year

From UNTV News & Rescue (Jul 23, 2019): Esperon: PH to add five lighthouses and aerial vehicles in West Philippine Sea this year

National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon has reiterated their plan to construct five lighthouses and add aerial vehicles in West Philippine Sea this year.

“Our fisheries boats, coast guard ships and of course the navy and air force have strengthened [and] improved their capability to have more control over our domain which is the West Philippine Sea,” he said.

He also said that resolving the issue on the West Philippine Sea dispute through a diplomatic way is their priority.

“We have not abandoned any island, no island was taken from us since 2016, and we are strengthening our positions and possessions.”

Esperon also clarified the president’s statement when he said China is ‘in possession’ of some areas in the West Philippines.

“I think the President said—did not say that they are in possession, but they are in position,” he said. “So they have the positional advantage right now. And they have the equipment to enforce their position.”

However he agrees that China has strengthened their position in several disputed territories.

https://www.untvweb.com/news/esperon-ph-to-add-five-lighthouses-and-aerial-vehicles-in-west-philippine-sea-this-year/

Prepping for chemical, biological, nuclear threats

From ABS-CBN (Jul 24, 2019): Prepping for chemical, biological, nuclear threats



Members of the US Defense Threat Reduction Agency, Bureau of Fire Protection, PNP and Philippine Army hold a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) full scale exercise at the back of Manila Film Center in Pasay City on Wednesday. The exercise aims to assess and strengthen the Philippines’ capability in responding to CBRN incidents.

https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/multimedia/photo/07/24/19/prepping-for-chemical-biological-nuclear-threats

Village chief tagged in cops' ambush in Negros Oriental dies

From Rappler (Jul 24, 2019): Village chief tagged in cops' ambush in Negros Oriental dies

(UPDATED) Police say Barangay Mabato Chief Sunny Caldera died a day after he supposedly drank pesticide

DEAD. Barangay Mabato Chief Sunny Caldera in an interview with local media on July 19, 2019, a day after the ambush of 4 policemen in Ayungon town, Negros Oriental. Contributed Photo

NEGROS ORIENTAL, Philippines (UPDATED) – A village chief who was tagged in the ambush of 4 policemen in Ayungon town in this province has died, police said on Tuesday, July 23.

Negros Oriental police chief Colonel Raul Tacaca confirmed that Barangay Mabato Chief Sunny Caldera, 51, died on Tuesday, a day after he reportedly drank pesticide.

Tacaca said that Caldera was found on the roadside on Monday, July 22, vomiting after he supposedly drank pesticide. He was brought to then Bindoy District Hospital then referred to Silliman University Medical Center, where he died on Tuesday.

According to the police, a container of pesticide was recovered from the scene, leading them to suspect that he died by suicide.

“We don’t know what triggered him to commit it (suicide) or if it has something to do with the investigation," Tacaca said, adding that police have yet to talk to the victim’s family.

The provincial police chief added the case was still under investigation.

Police earlier investigated Caldera after he was suspected of involvement in the ambush of the policemen, who were intelligence personnel of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion in Central Visayas. 

(READ: 4 Negros Oriental cops were set up for ambush, says regional police chief)

Police Brigadier General Debold Sinas, director of Police Regional Office in Central Visayas (PRO-7) based in Cebu City, earlier said Caldera was suspected of involvement in the ambush after the latter allegedly didn’t mention to the 4 cops that the area was a mass base of communist rebels, though he cooperated with investigators.

The Mt Cansermon Command of the New People’s Army claimed responsibility for the ambush on the cops on Monday, July 22.

"Based on our intelligence report, the 4 police operatives were gathering information and surveilling the area for another round of Oplan Sauron or Synchronized Enhanced Management of Police Operations where innocent civilians are killed by uniformed personnel in the guise of counter-insurgency efforts,” the rebels said in a statement.

They accused the rebels of "harassing the residents of the area for allegedly supporting the revolutionary movement" and "the residents were forced to evacuate because of continued intimidation.”

Multiple murder and theft charges were filed against the 20 suspected NPA members on July 19, a day after the ambush. Also charged was Victoriano Anadon, the slain cops' contact they were supposed to meet in the village, but was later found to be allegedly linked to the NPA.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/236118-village-chief-suspect-ambush-cops-negros-oriental-dead-july-2019

Negros village chair commits 'suicide' following slay of 4 cops

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 23, 2019): Negros village chair commits 'suicide' following slay of 4 cops

The barangay chairman of Mabato in Ayungon, Negros Oriental, where four policemen were allegedly tortured and killed by suspected Communist New People’s Army rebels last week, died on Tuesday after reportedly committing suicide.

Sketchy details said Sunny Arcala Caldera, 51, married, the village chief and resident of said barangay, passed away at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Silliman University Medical Center here, a day after he was rushed after allegedly taking a poisonous chemical.

Ayungon Mayor Erwin Agustino confirmed the death of Caldera but no other details were made available at press time.

Capt. Romel Luga, police chief of Ayungon, on Monday night said a container of Karate Pesticide was recovered at the place where Caldera was temporarily staying at the town proper.

According to him, the barangay chairman was present during a meeting called for by Agustino with municipal and barangay officials, as well as the police, just hours after the deaths of the four policemen.

The meeting was aimed at coming up with resolutions and other measures to address the apparent insurgency threat in the town.

During the meeting, Caldera appeared to be “pressured” even though he was very cooperative with the authorities on the investigation regarding the killing of Corporal Relebert Beronio, Patrolman Raffy Callao, Patrolman Ruel Cabellon, and Patrolman Marquino de Leon of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 7 (RMFB7) in Sitio Ilaya Yamot, by suspected communist rebels.

But before the meeting was over, Caldera was observed to have left ahead, Luga said.

Some people went looking for him and found him around 3 p.m., lying on the floor of the house where he was staying at and already vomiting.

Mayor Agustino, in an interview recently, believes the alleged New People's Army (NPA) rebels that are in his town were just “passing through” as these groups are usually mobile and operate across the boundaries of Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental.

He said Ayungon was “peaceful” and did not have problems related to the NPA but their peace was disturbed by the murder of the four cops.

Agustino hoped that reports of an alleged expansion of an NPA guerilla base in the so-called BATMANAY (Bindoy, Ayungon, Tayasan, Manjuyod, and Mabinay) area is not true as there will definitely be consequences of intensified anti-insurgency operations.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1075798

PNP nabs a suspect in murder of Negros Oriental cops

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jul 23, 2019): PNP nabs a suspect in murder of Negros Oriental cops



INQUIRER image

Police have arrested a suspect behind the July 18 murder of four intelligence officers in Ayungon town, Negros Oriental.

Col. Raul Tacaca, director of the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office, identified the arrested suspect as Victoriano Bangala.

Maj. Romel Luga, chief of the Ayungon Municipal Police Station, said the suspect was arrested in Barangay Mabato on Friday after witnesses positively identified him as one of those involved in the killings.

Five other suspects have been identified but remain at large as of posting time — Jonathan Baldivino, Rengie Anadon Baluhabo, Gelie Anadon Ebedo, Joseph Torres Ogates, and Jelly Anadon Ebedo.

The suspects were believed to be members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA). According to some reports, at least 30 assailants involved.

Tacaca told INQUIRER.net that four counts of murder have been filed against the suspects and several John and Jane Does on Friday.

In a separate interview, Luga said police have filed a case of robbery against the suspects, but the Negros Provincial Prosecutor’s Office lowered the case to theft since the victims had already died when the suspects took their service firearms and other belongings.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1145364/pnp-nabs-1-of-6-suspects-in-murder-of-negros-oriental-cops

PAO lauds Taguig court for acquitting suspected NPA lass

From the Manila Standard (Jul 23, 2019): PAO lauds Taguig court for acquitting suspected NPA lass

Public Attorney’s Office chief Persida Acosta on Tuesday lauded a lower court in Taguig City for the acquittal of a suspected New People’s Army member for frustrated murder and murder for lack of evidence.

“The wheels of justice had rolled toward truth and rule of law,” she told the Manila Standard.

Acosta led the PAO’s Special Public Attorney’s Team handling the criminal raps filed against Maria Miradel Torres of Gabriela “in her defense when the case was still being tried in the regional trial court, Infanta, Quezon.”

“The woman, who was then a nursing mother when arrested, was acquitted,” Acosta said.

The cases were then transferred to Branch 153 Judge Mariam Bien of the Taguig City Regional Trial Court.

Torres, along with her supposed live-in partner Romeo Pasoot Jr., armed with a gun, allegedly attacked and shot patrolmen first class Ronald Bamba and Fernando Lopez in Purok Little Baguio, Barangay Magsaysay, Infanta, Quezon on March 17, 2012.

Bamba survived the attack, while Lopez died instantaneously.

Torres denied being an NPA member or “any armed rebel group with an aim to fight against the Philippine government,” saying “she had no experience of holding and using a gun as she is a simple housewife.”

She claimed she was home in Biñan, Laguna when the attack happened, and that she was just a member of the Gabriela women’s group.

“Wherefore, premises considered this court hereby ACQUITS accused Maria Miradel Torres y Ramos @ Madel Torres @ Alex/Sydney and accused Romeo Pasoot Jr. @ Gab/Alice/Glenda of the crimes charged for failure of the prosecution to prove their guilt beyond reasonable doubt. Their IMMEDIATE RELEASE from detention is hereby ordered unless there are other lawful causes warranting their continued confinement,” the judge’s July 22 order read.

Bien ordered the warden of the Metro Manila District Jail to implement the release of the two accused.

http://manilastandard.net/news/national/300569/pao-lauds-taguig-court-for-acquitting-suspected-npa-lass.html

Indonesian Police: Couple Carried Out Deadly Philippine Church Bombing

From BenarNews (Jul 24, 2019): Indonesian Police: Couple Carried Out Deadly Philippine Church Bombing

Dedi Prasetyo, Indonesia’s national police spokesman, (center) answers questions during a news 

conference in Jakarta, July 23, 2019.  AFP

Indonesian police on Tuesday identified a married couple who they believe perpetrated a suicide bombing that killed 23 people at a church in the southern Philippines in January.

Authorities established the identities of the two after interrogating a pair of suspected members of Jamaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD), a local militant group affiliated with the Islamic State (IS) extremist group, following their recent arrests, national police spokesman Dedi Prasetyo said.

“The two Indonesians, Rullie Rian Zeke and Ulfah Handayani Saleh, are believed to have carried out the suicide bombings in the Philippines,” Dedi said during a news conference, adding that the Indonesian couple had entered the Philippines illegally.

The announcement marked the first time that the names of the suspected bombers was made public in the neighboring Southeast Asian countries.

The married couple were deported from Turkey in 2017 after they allegedly tried to cross its border to enter IS-controlled territory in Syria, Dedi said. He revealed their names while briefing journalists on latest information gathered by police from their investigation into the IS network in Indonesia.

The Jan. 27 twin bombings at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral in Jolo, the capital of Sulu province in the Philippines, was one of the worst terrorist acts to strike that country in years. The explosions, which also injured more than 100 people, took almost a year of planning, Philippine authorities said.

Suspects who were earlier arrested by Philippine authorities after the bombings had revealed that the bombers were Indonesian, but the couple’s identity could not be established then, Dedi told reporters in Jakarta.

Sidney Jones, director of the Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict, a Jakarta think-tank, said Rullie and Ulfah left to join IS via Turkey in March 2016, taking with them their three children, but Turkish authorities caught them in January 2017 and deported them back to Indonesia.

“They underwent a short rehabilitation program and were allowed to go home,” Jones said.

Dedi said that a JAD suspect, identified as Novendri, who was arrested in West Sumatra province last week, was assembling bombs to be used in planned attacks on Indonesia’s Independence Day on Aug. 17.

Novendri’s targets would have included police stations in the provincial capital Padang and other areas in West Sumatra, he said.

“He is connected to JAD in other Indonesian regions and overseas,” Dedi said, adding that police were hunting other suspected plotters.

The other JAD suspect, identified as Yoga, was arrested in June in Malaysia and had been tasked with establishing a liaison between JAD and pro-IS militants in the Philippines, Dedi said.

Dedi said Novendri and Yoga acted at the behest of a wanted militant named Saefullah (alias Chaniago), who police believe is currently in Khorasan, Afghanistan.

Saefullah has received money transfers totaling 413 million rupiah ($29,500) via Western Union from countries such as Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela, Maldives and Germany, the spokesman said.

Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country, has been hit by a spate of terrorist attacks, more recently carried out by JAD militants.

Last year, two families carried out suicide bombings at three churches and a police station in Surabaya, Indonesia’s second-largest city and the capital of East Java province.

Two adults and their son were also killed when the bomb they were planning to use for a terror attack exploded inside their apartment in nearby Sidoarjo regency, police said.

Authorities said 29 people were killed, including 13 of the suspects who used their children as young as 9 in carrying out the bomb attacks.

Abu Sayyaf leader suspected

In the Philippines, authorities blamed Abu Sayyaf senior leader Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan for masterminding the Jolo church attack.

Little is known about Sawadjaan, except that he is a senior member of the group, which in the early 2000s was known to have joined in the planning and carrying out of kidnap-for-ransom raids.

The church attack happened five months after a German of Moroccan descent drove a car packed with explosives through a checkpoint on Basilan island, killing 11 people.

On June 28, two IS-linked suicide bombers also detonated explosives while trying to enter a military camp on Jolo island, killing themselves and six people. Philippine authorities identified one of the two attackers as a 23-year-old Filipino named Norman Lasuca, the first local suicide bomber.

Sawadjaan replaced Isnilon Hapilon as the IS head in the region, after the latter was killed two years ago near the end of the five-month siege of the southern Philippine city of Marawi.

Mindanao has been under martial law since the Marawi siege that killed more than 1,200 people, most of them militants. Security officials have not lifted the order to allow troops to pursue militant stragglers who are believed trying to regroup.

Several foreign militants are believed seeking shelter in deep jungle areas and hinterlands in Mindanao, where they are trying to regroup and recruit young Filipinos to joint their movement, the military said.

On Tuesday, Philippine National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said he would recommend a martial law extension for another year due to a sustained rebellion in the region.

“We don’t have a problem in terms of abiding but there are some terrorists. So, we also must improve our deployment of technical equipment,” he said.

Also on Tuesday, Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, the commander of the Western Mindanao Forces based in Zamboanga, said Sawadjaan’s group could be coddling several other foreign bombers.

He said operations to get the foreigners were ongoing, but declined to elaborate because it may compromise military tactics.

He said they had been continuously working along with their U.S. counterparts to identify the second suicide bomber in the latest attack on Jolo.

“All remedies are being done by our concerned agencies to establish as to who really was the second bomber,” Sobejana said.

“We are working closely and continuously conducting the matching of the DNA among the other members of the terror group involved in the previous bombing incidents,” Sobejana said.

https://www.benarnews.org/english/news/indonesian/indonesia-philippines-07232019162716.html

2 PH Army divisions bag Institutionalized Status

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 24, 2019): 2 PH Army divisions bag Institutionalized Status

Two Philippine Army (PA) units, the Capiz-based 3rd Infantry Division and the Camarines Sur-headquartered 9th Infantry Division, were awarded the Institutionalized Status of the Army Governance Pathway (AGP) during ceremonies in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Tuesday.

Awarding took place during the Army’s 2nd Semester Command Conference, PA spokesperson Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said in a statement.

PA chief, Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto, conferred the status to the two infantry divisions for advancing in the Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR) by showcasing their division’s excellence in terms of governance and strategy management.

Prior to receiving the recognition, the 9th Division was already awarded its initiation, compliance, and proficiency hallmarks in 2013, 2015 and 2016 respectively.

On the other hand, the 3rd Infantry Division also gained the corresponding awards in 2014, 2015, and 2016.

Accomplishing the first three stages serves as a requirement for obtaining the Institutionalized Status.

Through the AGP, the said award is rendered by the Philippine Army to its units which have attained breakthrough results and exemplary performance in personnel readiness, mission accomplishment through increased partnerships for project implementation and community development, and recognition from stakeholders.

AGP is one of PA’s tools in sustaining ATR’s implementation. It ensures the continuous transformation initiatives throughout all the levels of the command. Both divisions also received the Trailblazer Award for institutionalizing systems and processes for transformation.

"Our infantry divisions are the Army's operational cutting edge, deploying capabilities and resources in their respective areas of responsibilities in pursuit of mission accomplishment as well as in support of nation-building. The two divisions' achievement reflects the entire Philippine Army's quest for a truly world-class army by the year 2028. We will continue to strive for excellence so that we can better fulfill our mandate and serve the people," Zagala said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1075866

Kalinaw News: Former rebels thank government for chance to be reunited with families

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jul 23, 2019): Former rebels thank government for chance to be reunited with families

DAVAO ORIENTAL – After being involved in the armed struggle for a period of time, 34 former rebels now enjoy freedom and peace with their families by their side.

During the awarding of housing units to the former rebels in Freedom Residences, Tagum City on July 16, 2019 attended by no less than President Rodrigo Duterte, the former rebels poured their hearts out in expressing their regrets in joining the armed struggle, which to them, was a concrete example of deception.

It took seven years for former rebel “Gina” to come up with the most sensible decision she has made in her life, returning to the folds of the law.

“My expertise in the movement before was organizing. And I was able to convince quite a number to join the movement in the hinterlands. And it was really a difficult time,” she said.

She said that she regretted joining the communist movement and the years she wasted fighting for something that inflicted terror to others and shattered her family apart. She said that the decision of joining them deprived her of the chance to be with her family and fulfill her responsibility as a mother.

“That time, I admit that I neglected my responsibility as a mother to my three children. I missed guiding them and seeing them grow. Now, with the housing units formally turned over to us, this means a lot. The house symbolizes that we are together again. And this is a new life for us, more meaningful, more precious,” she added, exuding with joy.

For former rebel “Jeffrey”, words are not enough to show and measure his gratitude for the sincerity of the government in attending to their needs.

“The housing units that we just received are of big help to us who just came from the hinterlands, starting over again, and who do not have our own residences. Now we are back to our families with no more fears because we are already free, and the government is here to help us and has provided us with what they had promised,” he stressed.

Jeffrey joined the movement in 2013 and surrendered in 2015. Now, Jeffrey is bent on fulfilling his duty as a provider and patriarch of the family.

“I will use what I have learned from my skills training in TESDA, in Carpentry and Automotive Mechanic. As I am starting to work now in Bukidnon, nothing can compare to the joy of being there for your family and protect them, and provide their needs. So, I would like to express my gratitude again to the government,” he furthered.

Task Force Balik-Loob Chair Undersecretary Reynaldo Mapagu explained that the recipients were given Certificate of Entitlement, proof that they now have their own houses. He said the houses are not yet fully completed because they will finish it themselves so that they will have a sense of belongingness and ownership of the property.

“This is an essential part of the E-CLIP offered by the government. This is a new approach, since this really looks into the needs of the recipients and their families. While finishing their houses, they will be compensated, and the compensation will serve as capital for their livelihood,” he added.

Governor Nelson Dayanghirang reiterated that the provincial government will continue helping the former rebels, and will not leave them at a lost by not equipping them with what are needed for them enjoy a normal life again.

To the former rebels, seeing their children playing around in their new houses, although obscure of what lies ahead for them with the government’s interventions, they can vividly see the happiness, the innocence, and confidence that with their families complete now. “The best is yet to come, and a dream has just come true for us,” said one former rebel.

Province of Davao Oriental
Website:
http://www.davaooriental.com.ph
Facebook:
@provinceofdavaooriental

Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City

https://www.kalinawnews.com/former-rebels-thank-government-for-chance-to-be-reunited-with-families/

87 ex-rebels benefit from gov’t reintegration program

From the Panay News (Jul 24, 2019): 87 ex-rebels benefit from gov’t reintegration program

ILOILO City – Eighty-seven New People’s Army (NPA) members who surrendered this year benefited from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip) of the government.

Data from the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) showed that 57 of these ex-rebels were from the province of Capiz, seven from Iloilo and 23 from Negros Occidental.

According to Captain Cenon Pancito III,3ID spokesperson, these rebels surrendered between January and June.

“They can start new lives away from the hardships they suffered in the mountains,” said Pancito.

E-Clip offers surrendering rebels a holistic package of benefits that include livelihood assistance, medical assistance, education, housing, and legal assistance.

Pancito said a surrenderer will receive an initial benefit of P15,000 then another P50,000 will be released including housing and livelihood assistance, and another compensation if a firearm is surrendered.

“We assess the surrendering rebel. Dapat pasado ka sa mga criteria para maka-avail ngE-Clip kasi baka gamitin lang nila ang benefits na makuha nila at babalik rin sila,” said Pancito.

He urged rebels still hiding in the mountains to return to the fold of the government.

“Stop the armed-struggle and instead avail yourselves of the government’s E-Clip,” Pancito said.

https://www.panaynews.net/87-ex-rebels-benefit-from-govt-reintegration-program/

Rebels claim killingof NegOr policemen

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jul 23, 2019): Rebels claim killingof NegOr policemen

The New People’s Army yesterday claimed responsibility for the death of four police intelligence operatives in Ayungon, Negros Oriental.

Ka Dionesio Magbuelas, spokesman of the NPA’s Mt. Cansermon Command, said the four policemen were killed for intelligence gathering, in connection with the implementation of the deadly Synchronized Enhanced Managing Police Operations that has claimed the lives of many civilians in Negros Oriental.

The admission of the NPA came after the police filed multiple murder and theft charges against Victoriano Anadon, Jonathan Baldivino, Rengie Anadon Baluhabo, Gelie Anadon Ebedo, Joseph Torres Ogates, and Jelly Anadon Ebedobefore the Negros Oriental Provincial Prosecutor’s Office, for the killing of the four policemen, Negros Oriental provincial police director, Col. Raul Tacaca, said yesterday.

The six suspects were charged with murder for the deaths of Cpl. Relebert Beronio, and Patrolmen Raffy Callao, Ruel Cabellon and Marquino de Leon of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 7.

The four police intelligence officers were captured, tortured, and killed allegedly by 15 or more members of the NPA while they were on their way to the house of Anadon Jr. around 2:30 p.m. Thursday.

Robbery charges were also filed against them for allegedly taking away the cops’ service firearms and other personal belongings.

Luga said that based on witnesses’ testimonies and photos, all six suspects have been identified as NPA members.

Anadon is now under detention at the Ayungon Police Station awaiting a commitment order for transfer to the Negros Oriental Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Dumaguete City.

Police investigation also showed that it was Anadon, who tied up the policemen with nylon cords.

The four victims were then brought to the house of Anadon, where they were summarily executed by suspected NPA rebels, P/Brig. Debold Sinas, Central Visayas police director, said.

The victims suffered lone gunshot wounds on their heads, he added.

Sinas said the four, who initially resisted, were subdued and hit with rifle butts. Some of them suffered fractured ribs and hematoma, their autopsy reports showed.

Magbuelas, in his statement, said the four policemen harassed farmers in the area.

He also confirmed that they confiscated four handguns with 135 ammunition and an alleged target list from the four slain policemen.

Speaking to reporters after his fourth State of the Nation Address, President Rodrigo Duterte said that he would add another P300,000 if the leader of the perpetrators was presented to him dead or alive, bringing the total to P1.3 million.

Duterte Saturday conferred the Order of Lapu-Lapu with the Rank of Kalasag on the four policemen in rites held at Camp Francisco Fernandez in Sibulan, Negros Oriental, in the presence oftheir families.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/July/23/topstory7.htm

IN PHOTOS: Davao activists call for Duterte’s ouster on 4th SONA

Posted to the often pro-Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) online publication the Davao Today (Jul 22, 2019): IN PHOTOS: Davao activists call for Duterte’s ouster on 4th SONA

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Activists in Davao City staged a protest rally calling for President Rodrigo Duterte’s ouster in time for his fourth State of the Nation Address on Monday, saying he failed to deliver his promises.

Carlo Olalo of Kilusang Mayo Uno said three years have passed but Duterte has failed to address issues concerning contractualization, salary increase, militarization of civilian communities, human rights violations, and martial law in Mindanao among others.

“Duterte for three years neglected us workers and the people whom he promised better living,” Olalo said.

The progressive groups also slammed Duterte’s “weak response” to China’s “encroachment” of the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the West Philippine Sea.

READ: Fisherfolk group hits Duterte on “friendship” with China on Philippine seas row

“Duterte betrayed us, he promised us an independent foreign policy but what he did in the past three years is a total sell-out of our country’s patrimony and sovereignty to China while he continues to be a puppet of the US,” Olalo added.

Meanwhile, Jong Monzon of Pasaka said the Duterte administration also failed the indigenous peoples of Mindanao, especially those who forcibly evacuated from their communities due to incessant militarization.

“Duterte turned a blind eye to the Lumad evacuees, when he ordered the bombing of IP schools in his previous SONA. He then declared martial law in Mindanao which exacerbated the militarization of our communities and now this government wants to close Lumad schools by ordering the Department of Education to deny the school’s permit to operate,” Monzon said.

READ: Salugpungan schools to appeal against DepEd closure order

Monzon gave President Duterte a “negative grade” for his failure to deliver on his promise to help the Lumad evacuees return safely to their homes.

“We don’t expect anymore from him. It is clear that three more years in office will only result to more poverty and human rights violations. The indigenous people, along with the broad unity of disgruntled Flipino people, will work hard to oust him from the palace,” Monzon added.

About 500 activists from different parts of Southern Mindanao region converged at the Freedom Park along Roxas Avenue here for a protest rally on Monday morning.

Here are some photos during the protest in President Duterte’s hometown as he is about to deliver his fourth SONA:

‘DU-DIRTY BIN’. Protesters clean up their picket line and throw litter in a waste bin with an image of President Rodrigo Duterte covered in parasites, depicting the “rotten Duterte administration” after holding a protest at the Freedom Park in Davao City in time for the President’s fourth State of the Nation Address on Monday, July 22, 2019. (Ken E. Cagula/davaotoday.com)

MOTHER’S LAMENT. Lorena Mandacawan, member of the Parents -Teachers and Community Association (PTCA) of the Salugpungan schools, urges President Duterte to respect the indigenous peoples’ right to education. Mandacawan cried foul over the suspension order issued by the Department of Education against the Salugpongan schools where her children are currently studying. (Mara S. Genotiva/davaotoday.com)

‘SAVE OUR SCHOOLS’. Lumad students join the protest to lament the possible closure of their school following the Department of Education (DepEd) Region 11 order suspending the permit to operate of 55 Salugpongan schools catering to Lumads across the Davao region. (Mara S. Genotiva/davaotoday.com)

‘EDUCATION NOT WAR’. Lumad students show their calls in placards during Monday’s protest as President Rodrigo Duterte is set to deliver his fourth SONA speech. (Mara S. Genotiva/davaotoday.com)

PAY HIKE. Members of the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) demand for substantial salary increase for teachers and government workers. ACT said President Duterte has yet to fulfill his promise of a pay hike for teachers. (Ken E. Cagula/davaotoday.com)

LIVING WAGE. Workers led by Kilusang Mayo Uno join the protest rally to demand for the end of contractualization or labor-only contracting and to set the national minimum wage at P750 in the country. (Ken E. Cagula/davaotoday.com)

‘CHILDREN NOT CRIMINALS’. Members of various child rights group in Davao City call on the government to stop the proposed lowering of the minimum age of criminal responsibility from 15 years old to 12 years old. (Mara S. Genotiva/davaotoday.com)

BLOODY RECORD. Jay Apiag, secretary general of Karapatan, hits the Duterte administration for having a “bloody” record on human rights violations. Karapatan has recorded 96 cases of political killlings in Southern Mindanao region alone since 2016, 66 cases were documented during the implementation of martial law in Mindanao. (Mara S. Genotiva/davaotoday.com)

‘DANIELA’ JOINS PROTEST. Imitating a viral meme, an activist poses as the character Daniela Mondragon of a popular drama series during the protest. Donning the iconic red dress, with matching suitcase in tow, “Daniela” bears the militant groups’ call to end martial law in Mindanao. (Mara S. Genotiva/davaotoday.com)

http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/in-photos-davao-activists-call-for-dutertes-ouster-on-4th-sona/

9 Davao del Norte schools suspended due to threats

From the Mindanao Times (Jul 24, 2019): 9 Davao del Norte schools suspended due to threats

Classes in nine schools in Talaingod, Davao del Norte were suspended since Monday due to the threat of pangayao (tribal war) targeting school teachers.

The cancellation of classes came after Mayor Basilio Libayao received a text message last Saturday that threatened to attack school teachers following the order of the Department of Education (DepEd) to suspend all the 55 schools operated by the Salugpongan in the region that cater to the Lumad.

Col. Nolasco Mempin, the 1003rd Infantry Brigade commander, reported that DepEd Talaingod District Supervisor Justriano Cubar implemented the suspension of the classes upon the order of Mayor Libayao.

While the particular schools were not named, Mempin said the schools were located in Sitio Km. 31, Sitio Km. 25, Sitio Lomondong, Sitio Sambolongan, Sitio Dulyan, Sitio Pongpong, Sitio Central Baugan, Sitio Kamingawan and Sitio Mirato.

All the schools have around 30 teachers. No figure of students was reported.

However, Libayao directed for the resumption of the classes after hearing the assurance of the police and military on the safety of the teachers and the students during a meeting held at the City Mayor’s Office yesterday.

Capt. John Louie Dema-ala, the Civil-Military Operation (CMO) officer of 56th Infantry Battalion, assured that a Civilian Active Auxiliary (CAA) detachment is regularly doing patrol operation in the vicinity of the concerned schools to ensure the safety of the people.

Dema-ala said there “is no basis” for the threat as the source of the text message could not be determined.

Town police chief Captain Rogaciano Gara also sustained that they found no basis for such concern after looking into the matter.

The tribal leaders, headed by Datu Bubunan, also denied the possibility of pangayao during the meeting. They assured to provide assistance to the government troopers in securing the schools.

In a phone interview yesterday, DepEd regional spokesperson Jenielito Atillo said the DepEd supported the suspension of classes until the issue “will be cleared by the authorities.”

Atillo said they have received a copy of the threat message, said to be a retaliation for the suspension of the Salugpongan schools.

He said they could not yet ascertain if the threat is for real but there is a need to protect the teachers at all cost.

“We really cannot work in a situation like that (teachers are threatened),” he said.

The DepEd officer said the message could be sent by someone who was angered by the Salugpongan or from some groups who just wanted to create trouble using the issue.

Last July 12, the DepEd 11 ordered the suspension of 55 schools operated by the Salugpongan Ta’ Tanu Igkanogon Community Learning Centers in the region following claims that the schools were being used by communists to teach children to fight the government.

The DepEd is still determining to lift the suspension or to totally close down the Salugpongan schools.

http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/07/24/9-davao-del-norte-schools-suspended-due-to-threats/

Duterte hopes BTA can expedite establishment of regional gov’t

From MindaNews (Jul 23, 2019): Duterte hopes BTA can expedite establishment of regional gov’t

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 23 July) – President Rodrigo R. Duterte hopes the 80-member Bangsamoro Transition Authority will expedite the establishment of the regional Bangsamoro government to propel its growth as “our Muslim brothers in the ARMM have been mired in poverty.”

President Rodrigo Duterte and leaders of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority. MindaNews file photo by MANMAN DEJETO

In his fourth State of the Nation Address on Monday, Duterte said he wants the BTA to hasten the process to give the Moro and the indigenous peoples in the Bangsamoro territory a comfortable life after the ratification of Republic Act 11054 or the Organic Law for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (OLBARMM), the enabling mechanism of the 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, after almost two decades of peace negotiation.

The BTA will govern BARMM until the regular elections in 2022.

Speaking in a media forum on the Bangsamoro Peace Process and Violent Extremism in Davao City in August 2018, Undersecretary Nabil Tan, of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process, said the proposed Bangsamoro region will have more means to develop itself as it will keep all tax collections for the first 10 years.

After that, the Bangsamoro government will get 75% from local taxes and 25% will go to the national government, he added.

The OLBARMM provides for the annual block grants that are automatically appropriated for the region and special development fund to be allotted for the rehabilitation of conflict-ravaged communities.

Duterte also mentioned the vision of late Mindanao Development Authority chair Abul Khayr Alonto for a “progressive, peaceful, and united Mindanao during our lifetime.”

The President said he took helm of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict and assigned a Cabinet member to each region to harmonize government efforts in attaining national development and security.

MinDA public relations head Adrian Tamayo said the new leadership of MinDA will continue advocating for the bigger budget share which is a necessity to fund the peace programs and the construction of strategic infrastructures that will connect all regions of Mindanao to other islands and to neighboring countries through the BIMP-EAGA.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/07/duterte-hopes-bta-can-expedite-establishment-of-regional-govt/

DILG condemns brutal killing of 4 cops in Negros Oriental, assures assistance to bereaved families

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 23, 2019): DILG condemns brutal killing of 4 cops in Negros Oriental, assures assistance to bereaved families



QUEZON CITY -- The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has vehemently condemned the brutal killing of four police officers in Ayungon, Negros Oriental on Thursday by members of the New People’s Army (NPA), describing the incident as "an act that only cold-blooded monsters are capable of executing."

"They were playing God with the four cops in their mercy. We condemn such complete disregard for life. Grabe ang ginawa nila sa apat na pulis. We will not rest until these murderers and enemies of peace are captured," says Año who was with President Rodrigo Duterte when he visited the wake of the victims.

The slain cops, Cpl. Relebert Beronio, Pat. Raffy Callo, Pat. Roel Cabellon and Pat. Marquino de Leon, were intelligence personnel from the 704th Mobile Force Company Regional Mobile Force Battalion of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Central Visayas. They were conferred with the Order of Lapu-Lapu Rank of Kalasag medals during the President’s visit.

The DILG Secretary says that he ordered the PNP to work with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in scouring nearby provinces to capture the NPA members who were behind the heinous act.

“As a former uniformed officer, I am enraged at this latest atrocity of the NPA which is a huge affront to our uniform, our badge, and our dignity as men and women in uniform. We will make sure that justice will be served to the families of the victims,” he says.

According to PNP PRO 7 Director PBGen Debold Sinas, the four cops were "dragged, hogtied, buttstroked and ganged up by about 30-40 men with one officer's rib broken before they were shot kneeling down, resembling a summary execution, more than an ambush."

The victims were supposed to meet an informant who was believed to have set them up for with the NPA for an ambush. Año also says that the killing of the four police officers was a direct assault not just to the PNP but to the advocacy of the national government towards ending the decades-long communist insurgency in the country.

He points out, though, that the said incident will not deter nor dishearten the government to trek the path of peace, especially with the support it is receiving from President Duterte and the growing number of local government units (LGUs) who are joining the fight against insurgency by declaring NPA as persona non grata.

"Our rage brought about by this horrendous incident will fill us with greater resolve and passion to attain peace. We will continue dreaming and working to achieve lasting peace," he says.

Assistance for the bereaved

DILG Secretary Año also assures the bereaved family of the four police officers that the government recognizes the sacrifice their loved ones gave to the country.

According to him, the family members of the fallen cops will be beneficiaries of the Comprehensive Social Benefits Program (CSBP) for killed in action, wounded in action (KIA-WIA), and killed in police operations, wounded in police operations (KIPO-WIPO) of AFP and PNP personnel. (PIA InfoComm)

The CSBP covers four levels of assistance. A Special Finance Assistance (SFA) will be granted in two tranches to the beneficiaries of KIA/KIPO in the amount of PHP500,000; to WIA/WIPO with total permanent physical disability (TPPD) in the amount of PHP250,000; and to WIA/WIPO with major and minor injuries in the amount of PHP100,000.

There will also be generous Shelter Assistance to families of KIA/WIPO and WIA/WIPO with TPPD worth PHP450,000; Health Care Assistance through coverage of premiums from the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (Philhealth) worth PHP2400 per year, and maintenance medicines provided by the Department of Health for qualified beneficiaries of KIA/KIPO personnel; and Educational Assistance in the provision of annual stipends for up to two (2) children or other beneficiaries of KIA/KIPO and WIA/WIPO with TPPD.

"No amount of money, assistance can compensate for their loss. Nawalan sila ng asawa, ama, kapatid na kailanman ay hindi na maibabalik pero umaasa kami na sa pamamagitan ng CSBP, kahit papaano ay makatutulong ang pamahalaan para makabangon silang muli," Año says.

CSBP is being administered by the DILG and the Department of National Defense (DND), in cooperation with the Office of the President (OP) and other supporting agencies. 

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1024943

NPA declared persona non grata by Ata-Manobos

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 23, 2019): NPA declared persona non grata by Ata-Manobos



TALAINGOD, Davao del Norte (PIA) - Close to 200 leaders and members of the Ata-Manabo tribe here staged a rally on Saturday (July 20) to declare that the communist New People’s Army was unwelcome in their communities.

The rally, which declared the NPA as "persona non grata," was attended by Bae Pilar Libayao, Talaingod Indigenous People’s mandatory representative; Datu Lumansad Sibogan, tribal chieftain of Talaingod; and Datu Guibang Apoga, the founder of Salugpungan Ta’Tanu Igkanugon.

A persona non grata would be deemed ostracized.

Speaking at the rally, Talaingod Mayor Jonnie Libayao expressed his support to the Ata-Manobos, saying he intended to restore peace in the tribal communities of his town.

“Ang Kapayapaan ay makakamtan natin kung tayo ay magkakaisa at tutulong sugpuin ang mga mapagsamantalang mga komunistang NPA kabalikat ang kasundaluhan na walang sawang nagmamalasakit sa atin para makamtan ang tunay na kapayapaan sa Bayan ng Talaingod,” he said.

(We can attain peace if we will unite and cooperate to stop the abuse of NPAs with the help of the military which has been supporting us to achieve true peace in the municipality of Talaingod.)

For his part, Col. Alexis Noel Bravo, deputy commander of the Army's 1003rd Infantry Brigade, praised the Ata Manobos’ resolve to drive away the communist rebels.

“Ngayon masasabi ko na posible dahil ipinapakita ninyo, na kayo mismo ang nagtatakwil sa kanila. (Now I can say that it is possible because it is no other than you who are driving them out),” he said, referring to likelihood of ending communist insurgency in Talaingod.

Bravo assured the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) of the Army’s support in their bid to restore peace in the hinterlands which were once lairs of communist insurgents.

The rally was marked by the presentation of resolutions of Barangays Sto. Nino, Dagohoy and Palma Gil. The resolutions declared the NPA leaders and members as banned from entering these barangays.

The rally formed part of the peace-building seminar organized by the 56th Infantry Battalion at Tribal Hall, Sitio JBL, Brgy Sto Niño, Talaingod, Davao del Norte from July 18 to 20, 2019.

In his message during the seminar, 56th Infantry Battalion commander Lt. Col. Norman E. Valdez said the concern that the military had extended to IP communities in Talaingod “is sincere”.

He assured the Ata-Manobos of the continued and sustaining support of the military in restoring peace and paving the way for development especially in the hinterlands of Talaingod. (PIA-11/The Army's 56th Infantry Battalion contributed to this report)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1024939

Former rebels complete livelihood training in Eastern Samar town

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 23, 2019): Former rebels complete livelihood training in Eastern Samar town

BORONGAN CITY -- Some 26 former rebels of the New People’s Army (NPAs) completed the three-day Raise Organic Chicken Skills and Livelihood Training held on July 16-18, 2019 at the Multi-Purpose Hall, Can-avid in Eastern Samar.

The training with a theme: "From Arms to Farms: Growing Peace and Prosperity," provided adequate knowledge and skills to former rebels in order for them to earn a decent livelihood and to become more productive members of the society.

TESDA-ANAS teachers and the Phil. Army officials join the former rebels in a pose for posterity after the skills and livelihood training in Can-avid town early in July. (photo: 14th IB, Phil. Army)

In his message during the opening of the said training, Mayor Gil Norman Germino of Can-avid encouraged the former rebels to cooperate and internalize the knowledge and skills they will gain from the three-day training.

In his closing remarks, Lt. Col. Jasper Justito Pecson, commanding officer of the 14th Infantry Battalion (IB), urged the graduates to convince their comrades who are still in the mountains to return to the fold of the law so that they can avail the same benefits they have received from the government.

“After this training, I wish that each and everyone of you gained the knowledge and skills imparted and shared to you by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) officials,” Pecson said.

He also expressed his gratitude to TESDA - Arteche National Agricultural School (ANAS) and the local government of Can-avid for the successful conduct of the livelihood training which contributed to the peace and development of the province.

Each former rebel received 25 heads of chicks and one month allocation of feeds.

The reintegration program is a collaborative effort of national government agencies such as DILG, DOLE, DPWH, DOST, DND, DA, through the Philippine Army and TESDA. (NBQ/SDC/PIA-Eastern Samar with the 14th IB, Philippine Army)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1024926