AFP-CRS: CPP-NPA at ‘Front Organizations’, dineklarang persona non grata sa Cagayan Valley

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Aug 23, 2019): CPP-NPA at ‘Front Organizations’, dineklarang persona non grata sa Cagayan Valley



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2655639864454721/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo

AFP-CRS: Surigao del Sur Establishes Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Aug 23, 2019): Surigao del Sur Establishes Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2655645127787528/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo

AFP-CRS: CPP-NPA declared persona non grata in Negros town

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Aug 23, 2019): CPP-NPA declared persona non grata in Negros town



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2655642204454487/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo

AFP-CRS: DND chief hails president’s order on foreign warships passing PH waters

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Aug 23, 2019): DND chief hails president’s order on foreign warships passing PH waters



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2655646137787427/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo

AFP-CRS: Ang Tala Magazine goes online

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Aug 23, 2019): Ang Tala Magazine goes online

ANG TALA MAGAZINE GOES ONLINE!

Check out our digital edition of the magazine here:

https://www.afpcrs.com/ang-tala

And feel free to peruse 'Feedback box' if you have any more questions. We'd love to hear your thoughts. Happy reading!

#AFPyoucanTRUST

https://t.co/vXBqWkthDe

The Ang Tala magazine, published quarterly by the Information Development

Group of the Civil Relations Service, Armed Forces of the philippines, is an informational tool designed to keep its internal and external audiences aware of the AFP's activities, administrative and operational thrusts, and accomplishments. This publication can also be utilized to present novel ideas related to soldier's service to the country and the people.

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo

Andanar to Karapatan: Investigate NPA killings in Bukidnon

From PTV 4 (Aug 23, 2019): Andanar to Karapatan: Investigate NPA killings in Bukidnon

Communications Secretary Martin M. Andanar on Friday dared communist front organization Karapatan to investigate the execution of three missing persons in Kitaotao, Bukidnon after their bodies were exhumed on Thursday.

Andanar, the Region X representative under the Cabinet Officers for Regional Development and Security (CORDS), said that the supposed watchdog of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) in the Philippines should prove to the public that it is not affiliated with the terrorist group New People’s Army (NPA) that abducted the three victims in 2017.

“Clearly, this proves that the NPA is carrying out extra-judicial killings in the Philippines. As the Cabinet officer for Region X, I condemn this terrorist act and all their other atrocities against civilians, especially Indigenous Peoples,” Andanar said.

“If Karapatan is really a human rights watchdog of the Philippines and a defender of International Humanitarian Law, they should investigate this case and convince us that they are not connected with the NPA as they claim,” he added.

Philippine Army’s 89th Infantry Battalion commander Lt. Col. Silas Trasmontero, 10th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Jose Faustino Jr., and 1003rd Infantry Brigade commander Col. Nolasco Mempin led the exhumation of the bodies on Thursday.

According to authorities, the bodies were missing since August 2017 after they were taken by members of the new People’s Army (NPA) while passing a road blockade in Sitio Nabunturan, Barangay Digonga, Kitaotao, Bukidnon.

“The execution that they carried out is a clear violation of IHL. They killed non-combatants. If they would claim that those cadavers were captives, then the more that they are liable for IHL violation, punishable under RA 9851. Captives are supposed to be taken care of. If they are sick and wounded, they should be sent to a health services provider,” Brigadier General Edgardo De Leon, commander of the Army’s 403rd Infantry Brigade.

“We don’t know how they executed them, autopsy would show later how. But you can imagine how ISIS terrorists execute people, there is a certain similarity. So the NPAs are really terrorists, worthy of public condemnation,” he added.

The Presidential Communications Operations Office Chief meanwhile said that the government will continue to push for stronger civilian anti-insurgency efforts on top of law enforcement activities.

“Through CORDS and the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), we renew our commitment to promote the establishment of durable peace and development while empowering communities in the priority focus areas such as Mindanao,” Andanar said.

“Through peacebuilding and reconciliation, socio-economic transformation, good governance, and institution building, we can end this conflict,” Andanar said.

An offshoot of the NTF-ELCAC that was created by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte through Executive Order No, 70, CORDS takes a whole-of-nation approach to address the issues of insurgency in the country.

https://ptvnews.ph/andanar-to-karapatan-investigate-npa-killings-in-bukidnon/

DSWD DROMIC Report #1 on the Armed Conflict in Brgy. Ceboleda, Laak, Compostella Valley as of 22 August 2019, 4PM

From the Relief Web (Aug 22, 2019): DSWD DROMIC Report #1 on the Armed Conflict in Brgy. Ceboleda, Laak, Compostella Valley as of 22 August 2019, 4PM

REPORT from Government of the Philippines

Published on 22 Aug 2019 —View Original

Download PDF (137.11 KB)


SUMMARY

On 20 August 2019, an encounter transpired between the New People’s Army and military troops in Brgy. Ceboleda, Laak, Compostella Valley which resulted to the displacement of families and individuals in the area. Source: DSWD-FO XI

I. Status of Affected Families / Persons

A total of 40 families or 149 persons were affected by the armed conflict in Brgy. Ceboleda, Laak, Compostella Valley (see Table 1).

II. Status of Displaced Families/ Persons

There are 40 families or 149 persons who are currently staying at 3 Evacuation Centers in Brgy. Ceboleda, Laak, Compostella Valley (see Table 2).

https://reliefweb.int/report/philippines/dswd-dromic-report-1-armed-conflict-brgy-ceboleda-laak-compostella-valley-22

2 rebels, 2 soldiers killed in fresh Samar clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 24, 2019): 2 rebels, 2 soldiers killed in fresh Samar clash



Google map image

Two members of the New People’s Army (NPA) and two soldiers died in a clash in an upland village in Calbayog City on Friday morning.

The gun battle lasted for two hours after soldiers of the 43rd Infantry Battalion chanced upon seven members of the communist terrorist group extorting money and food from residents.

The rebels, who were carrying high-powered firearms, were led by Salvador Nordan under sub-regional committee emporium, according to the military report released Friday night.

“Government troops held their ground, thereby prompting NPA terrorists to run away in different directions, leaving behind their two dead comrades,” the Philippine Army said in its report.

The clash also wounded an NPA fighter. Authorities have yet to find out the identity of the dead NPA members.

Three soldiers were seriously injured during the encounter, but two of them died while being taken to a hospital in Calbayog City. Killed were 2nd Lt. Geroe Jade Nicor and Cpl. Joel Canico.

“It is very sad to note that with the sacrifice of two soldiers, two more NPA terrorists who are victims of deception also died for a senseless cause, wasting their lives in their failed armed revolution,” Maj. Gen. Pio Diñoso, commander of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division, said in a statement.

“I encourage the remaining NPA members to abandon their armed struggle, lay down their arms and return to the mainstream of society in the comfort of their families and friends,” Diñoso said

He added that they are willing to help NPA terrorists through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip).

The Samar provinces have been a stronghold of armed rebels due to their densely forested mountainous areas, high poverty incidence, and the issue of widespread landlessness, according to a 2013 study of William Norman Holden of the University of Calgary in Canada.

The NPA launched its first tactical operation in the country in Calbiga, Samar in 1974, when it ambushed an army scout patrol and seized a number of their weapons.

The CPP-NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

The Philippine Army is upbeat on ending insurgency in the Samar provinces by 2022 after the national government identified the area as one of its focus in its drive to wipe out the NPA.

Earlier, the Eastern Visayas region formed a regional task force operationalizing Executive Order 70 issued by President Rodrigo Duterte on Dec. 4, 2018. The directive institutionalizes a “whole-of-nation approach” in attaining an “inclusive and sustainable peace.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1078652

Kalinaw News: NPA Abduction, Execution victims exhumed, Kitaotao Bukidnon, August 2019

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 23, 2019): NPA Abduction, Execution victims exhumed, Kitaotao Bukidnon, August 2019

The remains of three persons believed to be those of retired policemanJoel Rey Galendez, 43, from Agusan Del Sur, Dionisio Havana, 37, from Carmen, Davao DN, and Sgt Reynante H Espana, 42, from San Frans, Agusan Del Sur who were abducted by the NPA on the night of August 22, 2017 in Sitio Nabunturan, Barangay Kalagangan,San Fernando, Bukidnon have been exhumed today in a remote area in Sitio Tabon, Barangay Digongan, Kitaotao, Bukidnon.

Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) have successfully retrieved the three remains in two closely adjacent, shallow graves. Broken bones seen in the remains bear a tell-tale sign that the victims have been killed because of bullet wounds of still unknown calibers.

The families of the victims positively confirmed the identity of the remains from the garments of the cadavers but SOCO authorities who performed the exhumation brought the remains to a lab in San Fernando City for DNA-testing to be sure of the results that would be out in days.

The graves were determined when informations about it have been revealed to the 89th Infantry Battalion by former NPA supporters who have by now already defected.

Murder and abduction charges are planned to be filed by the victims’ families.

[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.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/npa-abduction-execution-victims-exhumed-kitaotao-bukidnon-august-2019/

MILF: AFP to assist in healing, decommissioning process for MILF combatants

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Aug 23. 2019): AFP to assist in healing, decommissioning process for MILF combatants

CAMP AGUINALDO – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) forged an agreement Thursday to formalize their partnership in implementing the decommissioning process for 40,000 Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants and their weapons in the next three years.

At the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Agreement, AFP Chief of Staff General Benjamin Madrigal Jr. underscored the importance of the collaboration between OPAPP and the AFP in pushing forward the Bangsamoro peace process.

Unwavering commitment to peace

“The MOA that we signed today is not only about the transfer of funds from OPAPP to the Armed Forces but more importantly, it signifies our commitment to continue with the process of healing, and the process of normalization in the Bangsamoro.”

“We have long dreamed for peace in the Bangsamoro region,” Madrigal said, emphasizing that maintaining “mutual trust” between the government and the MILF is crucial in the Normalization process.

“One thing that we should further develop is the willingness to work together. This can only happen with the start of the healing process, and confidence building between Armed Forces (of the Philippines) and the MILF,” he said.

“And the process of Normalization will trigger our dream of a peaceful and developed Bangsamoro Autonomous Region,” Madrigal added.

From warriors to peacekeepers

Under the MOA, the AFP will provide basic military training to 3,000 MILF-Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) fighters in order to prepare them as members of the composite Joint Peace and Security Teams (JPST).

The 6,000-strong JPSTs will be composed of 3,000 MILF-BIAF members, 1,600 policemen and 1,400 soldiers. Currently, 220 MILF-BIAF combatants are undergoing training in Camp Lucero, in Carmen, North Cotabato.

JPSTs will be responsible for securing areas that will undergo the Normalization process, particularly the six-government acknowledged MILF camps which will be transformed into peaceful, progressive and resilient communities.

According to Madrigal, the training course for MILF members aims to achieve “same views towards security, to develop same parameters, and synchronization of the movement” in the maintenance of peace and order in Bangsamoro communities.

Under the MOA, the AFP will also be present in securing the actual decommissioning of MILF combatants and their weapons, and develop a program for small arms and light weapons management.

Normalization Track gains traction

Starting this year, 30% or 12,000 former MILF combatants will undergo decommissioning under the Normalization Track of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is expected to witness the public launch of the decommissioning process on September 7 in the municipality of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.

Earlier this year, the President signed the Executive Order No. 79 or “Implementing the Annex on Normalization under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro,” which aligned the efforts of concerned government agencies in the implementation of the Normalization process.

The Normalization Track’s four components include security, socio-economic, confidence-building measures, and transitional justice and reconciliation.

AFP: Indispensable partner in peacebuilding

For his part, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito G. Galvez Jr. lauded the AFP for its major role in laying the foundations of sustainable peace in the Bangsamoro.

“Over the years, the exceptional sense of professionalism, dedication and commitment of the AFP has been instrumental in sustaining the gains and pushing forward the Bangsamoro peace process,” Galvez said.

“The AFP has helped create a conducive environment where sustainable peace and genuine development can flourish in communities,” he added.

Galvez noted that this was made possible largely due to the efforts of the Joint Ceasefire Mechanisms that were established by the GPH-MILF Peace Implementing Panels.

These mechanisms include the Coordinating Committees on the Cessation of Hostilities, Ad Hoc Joint Action Group and the International Monitoring Team.

Composed of AFP, Philippine National Police and MILF members, these bodies are tasked to help create a conducive atmosphere that will pave the way for the implementation of the CAB and its annexes.

Galvez noted that the AFP’s participation in the ceasefire mechanisms was instrumental in the historic signing of the CAB, which ended decades of armed conflict in Mindanao.

“The AFP’s commitment to the primacy of the peace process has encouraged both parties to uphold the ceasefire agreement, leading to the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro,” he said.

“This favorable climate of peace that we are now experiencing in Mindanao should inspire us to work harder to strengthen the foundations of peace and prevent the recurrence of armed conflict,” Galvez said.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1883/afp-to-assist-in-healing--decommissioning-process-for-milf-combatants

MILF: DBM approves staff positions for the BTA Parliament

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Aug 23. 2019): DBM approves staff positions for the BTA Parliament

In Photo-At the podium, Minister of Finance, Budget and Management-BARMM Edward Guerra announces the approval of staff positions for BTA members held at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex

After numerous meetings and coordination with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the budget for the five (5) support staff for each BTA parliament member as well as the skeletal staffing for the newly created Ministries under the Bangsamoro Organic Law was finally approved.

This was announced by Arch’t Eduard U. Guerra, chair of the BTA Committee on Finance, and Budget and Management during the Parliament Regular Session held today, August 22 at the SKCC, BARMM Compound, Cotabato City.

Minister Guerra said in his presentation that this was the result of a meeting last August 16, 2019 with the newly appointed DBM National Secretary Atty. Wendel Avisado and Usec. Tina Rose Marie Canda. Both officials gave the details of the recently approved budget allotment for the BTA Parliament. The members of the BTA Committee on Finance, and Budget and Management chaired by Arch’t Eduard U. Guerra and co-chaired by Atty. Ubaida C. Pacasem pushed for its final approval by DBM. They were also supported by MFBM Technical Working Group (TWG) members Atty. Sittie Mariam I. Balahim and Ms. Fatima Mending-Abas, CPA.

Minister Guerra also shared that the Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) as well as the Notice of Cash Allocation (NCA) was already released and that the actual cash has been downloaded to the Office of the Chief Minister.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1882/dbm-approves-staff-positions-for-the-bta-parliament

MILF: Public launch of decommissioning of MILF forces to be held Sept. 7

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Aug 21. 2019): Public launch of decommissioning of MILF forces to be held Sept. 7



Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao—The public launch of the decommissioning of 1,026 MILF forces will be on September 7 with no less that Pres. Rodrigo Duterte attending the significant event, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez, Jr said in a Palace briefing.

The Philippine News Agency (PNA) did not mentioned in its report August 20 the venue of the decommissioning but most probably at Camp Darapanan, or at the Maguindanao Old Capitol, in Sultan Kudarat town.

Galvez said during the briefing that a total of 1,026 MILF forces and 920 firearms are scheduled to be decommissioned during the ceremony.

Galvez said the decommissioning process aims to decommission 30 percent or 12,000 out of the 40,000 MILF members for this year.

He said another 35 percent of the MILF forces will undergo the same procedure next year while the rest until 2022 in time for the Exit Agreement between the government and the MILF.

“It’s real” challenge,” Galvez said about the decommissioning.

The Normalization Track is anchored on the Annex on Normalization of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) signed between the government and the MILF in 2014.

Duterte earlier signed Executive Order No. 79 or the Annex on Normalization to consolidate whole of government-whole of nation peace-building initiatives under the Normalization Track. (Source: PNA)

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1881/public-launch-of-decommissioning-of-milf-forces-to-be-held-sept--7

CPP: Comment on plan to release convicted rapist and murderer Antonio Sanchez

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 23, 2019): Comment on plan to release convicted rapist and murderer Antonio Sanchez



The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) joins the Filipino people, especially the families of Eileen Sarmenta and Allan Gomez, in denouncing the suggestion of the Duterte government to effect the early release of convicted rapist and murderer Antonio Sanchez.

The plan reflects how rotten the justice system is in the country which favors the economically and politically powerful and connected people. Sanchez, who had Duterte’s alterego Salvador Panelo as his lawyer, is clearly enjoying political connections under the current degenerate regime. Even in prison, Sanchez and other moneyed people like him, continue to enjoy privileges and high-living, and are occasionally escorted secretly outside Muntinlupa to satiate their lifestyle desires. Releasing Sanchez will be a monstrous act of injustice.

Strong public reaction will probably prevent Malacañang from pursuing its plan to effect Sanchez’s early release. Whatever happens though, the Filipino people and the Sarmenta and Gomez families will always have the revolutionary movement to turn to in order to attain full justice.

https://cpp.ph/2019/08/23/comment-on-plan-to-release-convicted-rapist-and-murderer-antonio-sanchez/

CPP/NPA-Central Negros: Hinggil sa planong militarisasyon sa mga paaralan

NPA-Central Negros propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 23, 2019): Hinggil sa planong militarisasyon sa mga paaralan

JB REGALADO

NPA-CENTRAL NEGROS (LEONARDO PANALIGAN COMMAND)

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

AUGUST 23, 2019

Desperadong pananalasa ng mga mersenaryong tropa ng AFP at PNP ang pagpasok ang paglagay ng kanilang mga presensya sa mga paaralan, nagpapakita lamang ito ng kanilang takot sa lumalawak at lumalakas na pakikibaka ng mga kabataan sa pagsulong ng interes ng uring api at pinagsasamantalahan hindi lamang sa isla ng Negros kundi maging sa buong bansa.

Mahigpit na kinikondena at kinukutya ng LPC-NPA ang marahas na hakbang ng mga pasistang pwersa ng estado sa pakay nitong pagmilitarisa ng mga eskwelahan dahil ito’y klarong paglabag sa karapatang-pantao ng mga kabataan para sa akademikong kalayaan at pagsupil sa karapatang malayang magpahayag.

Bulok na ito na mga hakbang ng berdugong si Duterte kasama ang kanyang bayaran at uhaw sa dugo na mga AFP at PNP dahil dito mismo sa isla ng Negros partikular sa Sentral na bahagi, makikita ang kanilang madugong operasyon tulad ng talamak na pagpaslang sa mga tagapangtanggol ng karapatang-pantao at mga magsasaka, pag-aresto ng maraming mga inosenteng mamamayan na naging biktima ng mga gawa-gawang kaso. Dagdag pa, simula ng ipinatupad ng utak-pulbura na si Duterte ang Memorandum Order No.32 at Executive Order No.70 lumikha lamang ito ng malawakang militarisasyon sa kanayunan at komunidad na nagresulta ng matinding takot at pinsala sa buhay at kabuhayan ng mga mamamayan dahil sa malawakang dislokasyon at pagpapalabas ng mga pekeng “NPA Surrenderee” para magkamal ng malaking pondo sa kaban ng bayan.

Punong-puno na ang sambayanan sa tiraniko, diktador at pahirap na paghahari ni Duterte, ang pag-igting ng pakikibaka at paglawak ng pwersa ng mga kabataan at mamamayan ay bunga ng lumalalang inhustisya hindi lang dito sa Negros kundi maging sa buong bansa. Si Duterte kasama ang kanyang mga pasitang alipures at ang kanyang mga kontra-mamamayang mga polisiya at patakaran ang nagtulak sa mga kabataan at mamamayan na lumaban upang singilin at panagutin sila sa kanilang mga inutang na dugo.

Sa panahon na pasismo ang sagot ng gobyerno sa demokratiko at lehitimong panawagan ng mga mamamayan, nararapat na isulong ang pakikibaka sa pinakamataas na porma. Tibayan ang hanay ng aping sektor at depensahan ang buhay at kabuhayan. Patalsikin sa pwesto ang rehimeng US-Duterte!

Handa sa lahat ng panahon ang LPC-NPA sa paglunsad ng mga taktikal na opensiba upang ipagtanggol at depensahan ang kapakanan at hustisya-sosyal na matagal ng minimithi ng mamamayan. Ipatupad ang tunay na reporma sa lupa at pambansang industriyalisasyon bilang sagot sa ugat ng armadong tunggalian sa Pilipinas.

https://cpp.ph/statement/hinggil-sa-planong-militarisasyon-sa-mga-paaralan/

CPP/NPA-Negros Island: NPA confronts Brgy. Officials in Lamogong, Manjuyod

NPA-Negros Island propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 23, 2019): NPA confronts Brgy. Officials in Lamogong, Manjuyod

DIONESIO MAGBUELAS

NPA-NEGROS ISLAND (MT. CANSERMON COMMAND)

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

AUGUST 23, 2019

A unit of Mt. Cansermon Command-NPA confronts barangay officials in Lamogong, Manjuyod, Negros Oriental. This is in response to the call of the residents of Lamogong against the anti-people and counter revolutionary policies recently implemented in the barangay headed by Brgy. Captain Arsenio Cadiente. He directed residents to secure ID from the town proper. He wants to enforce ID system in the barangay and track movement of residents in an exercise of his own dictatorial rule. It can be remembered also that Mr. Cadiente denied that Teodore Casido, 49, his wife Rhea Casido, 31, Benan Cadelina, 61, and Danny Casido, 41, who were illegally arrested last June 28 as residents of his barangay and subscribed to the AFP theatrics that they are NPA red fighters. He has a habit of red tagging his own residents thus putting their lives in danger.

This only proves the desperation of the AFP as they are using civilians to go against the armed revolutionary movement.

If the military had their way, they want the nationwide imposition of Martial Law. While a nationwide declaration is not yet in place, the AFP established a National Task Force to End Communist Insurgency. In Negros it is known locally as Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF – ELCAC). Through this task force, civilian authority of the reactionary government will be under the authority, control and meddling of the military. Under the Local Government Empowerment Cluster of the task force, they wish to transform the different agencies of the reactionary government as one big machinery for surveillance against the revolutionary movement, including democratic organizations red tagged in counter-insurgency. They want to project that the national task force and its local counterpart is supported by the people. What they fail to understand is that no amount of token programs can solve the armed conflict. As long as they continue to neglect to address the root cause of armed revolution, the national task force and all other counter-insurgency program is doomed to fail.

May we remind local officials to be wary and critical of the orders of the AFP and PNP. Are these policies really for the benefit of the people especially to the victims of militarization in the countryside or for counter-insurgency measures? The people can easily unmask these programs for they know the true intent of the fascist AFP.

May our local officials keep in mind that an elected post has term limits but the revolutionary movement will persist as long as there is oppression. Do not use your position to further oppress and suppress the people. Even the dictator wannabe who sits in Malacañang will not be in power for long.

As always, the NPA is ever-ready to punish the most rabid fascist perpetrators and defend the people. We are ever-determined to advance the people’s war to victory. #

https://cpp.ph/statement/npa-confronts-brgy-officials-in-lamogong-manjuyod/

CPP: Comment on Bato badgering of student leader in Senate

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 23, 2019): Comment on Bato badgering of student leader in Senate



Sen. Bato Dela Rosa shamelessly displayed himself a fascist power-tripper when he badgered and intimidated a student leader in the senate committee hearing to revive mandatory military training for students. Dela Rosa has singlehandely turned the senate into a full-blown perya where he endlessly squawks senseless anti-communist vitriol.

Despite the badgering, NUSP President Raoul Manuel stood firmly and intelligently. He expressed the democratic position of the students against mandatory ROTC. He made remarks against Dela Rosa which reflect the sentiments of the silenced majority of the Filipino people against Oplan Tokhang and the release of convict Antonio Sanchez.

Dela Rosa is a one-track minded fascist. Anyone who disagrees with him is immediately called a communist and an “NPA recruiter.” Indeed, this is indoctrination AFP- and PNP-style. Dela Rosa, himself, is the best evidence why ROTC must be opposed and why the military and police have no place in univesity discourse.

https://cpp.ph/2019/08/23/comment-on-bato-badgering-of-student-leader-in-senate/

Task force to end insurgency readied

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 23, 2019): Task force to end insurgency readied

Days before the Negros Occidental Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NOCTF-ELCAC) is set to be formalized, Governor Eugenio Lacson ordered the conduct of a ELCAC Planning Workshop at the Negros First Residences Function Room in Bacolod City, yesterday.

A plan is being drafted on how local governments can contribute to end the insurgency in Negros Occidental, he said, adding that efforts will also be made for local peace talks. It is a very challenging task but we will try to at least make an effort, he added.

“The president in his last three years would like to really make a difference,” he said.

The task force is in compliance with President Duterte’s proclamation of Executive Order No. 70 entitled “Institutionalizing the Whole-of-Nation Approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace, Creating a National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, and Directing the adoption of a National Peace Framework”.

The activity was attended by Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, 303rd Infantry Brigade Commander; Police Col. Romeo Baleros, Negros Occidental Provincial Police Director; Ma. Lina Sanogal, Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator; mayors and vice mayors, planning and development officers, and Sanggunian peace and order chairpersons.

“I’m grateful to Governor Lacson for initiating this kind of activity and I’m optimistic on the upcoming creation of Negros Occidental Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NOCTF-ELCAC) as an opportunity for us to work together as part of the government and whole-of-nation approach to address the CPP-NPA,” Arevalo said.

“This kind of task force is to acknowledge the fact that the solution to end the insurgency problem is not in the hands of the security forces alone. So it is important that the local government units and national agencies are able to deliver their services especially to the far flung barangays who are usually being victimized by the deception and manipulation of the CPP-NPA-NDF,” Arevalo added.

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

NPA scored for terrorizing barangay

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 23, 2019): NPA scored for terrorizing barangay

The Army’s 3rd Infantry Division yesterday condemned in the strongest terms the attacks perpetrated by the New People’s Army against a remote village in Manjuyod, Negros Oriental.

On Wednesday, about 20 New People’s Army rebels swooped down on the barangay poblacion of Lamogong in Manjuyod, Negros Oriental, and raided its barangay hall, where village officials were having a meeting. Maj. Gen. Dinoh Dolina, 3ID commander, said.

Dolina added that the rebels took a hand held radio and a cellular phone owned by barangay, before withdrawing from the village.

He said the CPP-NPA once again showed without a second thought their true nature as cold-blooded terrorists.

What they have done is a confirmation of their identity as an anti-peace, anti-development, and anti-people organization, he added.

Stressing that he will not allow the terroristic activities of the NPA to continue, Dolina ordered his infantry units assigned in Negros Island to hunt them down and bring them to justice.

No one was reported hurt during the rebel attack

Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, aired suspicions that taking control of the barangay market area for more than one hour was a strategy of the CPP-NPA to ambush responding government troops.

Dolina called on Negrenses to be vigilant and report the presence, movement, and activities of the NPA to prevent them from causing similar atrocities.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/August/23/topstory2.htm

Islamic schools in Mindanao want gov’t recognition–study

From MindaNews (Aug 23, 2019): Islamic schools in Mindanao want gov’t recognition–study



Majority of madaris, or private Islamic schools, in the Bangsamoro region and adjacent areas want government recognition to get needed support, a study conducted by a Mindanao think tank showed.

Citing results of the study titled “Research on Traditional Madaris in ARMM and Adjacent Regions,” Benedicto Bacani, executive director of the Cotabato City-based Institute for Autonomy and Governance (IAG), said that most madaris are struggling with their operations due to limited resources and are hoping for government interventions.

ARMM stands for the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, which has been replaced by the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in February.

The study was launched in Manila on Thursday, August 22.

Bacani noted that the madrasah system is not getting the support it deserves from the government due to the principle of separation of the church and the state.

Madaris (singular: madrasah) generally refers to Muslim private schools with core emphasis on Islamic studies and Arabic literacy.

Currently, there are four types of programs offered by madaris: the Arabic Language and Islamic Values Education (ALIVE) for Filipino Muslim learners enrolled in the public schools nationwide; private madaris recognized by the Department of Education; Tahderriyah or kindergarten schools established in MILF communities with the UNICEF-BEAM Program for 3-5 years old children, and the traditional madaris that are operating outside the Philippine educational system.

“Traditional madaris are the most important educational institutions in Muslim Mindanao since they are looked up to not only as schools of learning but also as symbols of Islam,” the study stressed.

For the Moro people, they are the proper place to learn Islamic teachings and study Arabic language, it added.

From June 2018 until the second half of 2019, the IAG surveyed 1,850 heads of traditional madaris as part of the study conducted with the assistance of the Australian government.

Results of the study showed that 90 percent of those surveyed are interested in government recognition, eight percent are unsure, while only two percent shunned the idea altogether.

The study stressed that many of the madaris have no permit to operate and lack recognition by the government or any accrediting body in the Philippines. They depend primarily on the spirit of volunteerism, sustaining their existence through contributions by parents of their students and donations from the community.

Majority of the madaris aspire for government recognition because of the technical or financial support they can get from the state, the study pointed out.

Government recognition, according to the study, is also seen as a necessary measure to correct misperceptions that madaris have become hubs of recruitment for terrorists or are producing graduates joining violent extremist groups.

Respondents believed that most of the traditional madaris are vulnerable to extremism because of the absence of government system regulations and their dependence on third-party funding from Islamic countries. The latter has led to the perception that madrasah education is a breeding ground of extremism, an issue that developed as a consequence of the Marawi siege in 2017.

Among the government agencies that could provide recognition to traditional madaris are the National Council for Muslim Filipinos (NCMF); Bureau of Muslim Education in ARMM and Department of Education, as integrated madrasah; Technical Education and Skills Development Authority for the vocational and technical courses; and Commission on Higher Education for collegiate courses.

The study urged the passage of a law that will help the traditional madrasah grow and develop as an educational system suited to the needs of the Moro and Muslims in the Philippines.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/08/islamic-schools-in-mindanao-want-govt-recognition-study/

Caraga students create films as eye opener vs CPP-NPA-NDF

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 23, 2019): Caraga students create films as eye opener vs CPP-NPA-NDF

BUTUAN CITY - - Students from various schools in Caraga region featured their own produced films to enlighten the minds and perspective of the youth and Caraganons on the chaos which the terrorist groups Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army – National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) bring to the communities.

During the recently conducted 1st Philippine National Police (PNP) Film Festival, designated movie houses in Butuan City and Surigao del Sur were jampacked with movie-goers to express their support and appreciation to the craft among the participating student contenders.

Different sectors viewed the chosen 10 entries of the said film fest and recognized the inclination to filmmaking through the skills and artistry demonstrated by the student-film makers who conceptualized the whole stories that would remind the youth to be smart and wise enough not to be deceived by the recruitment of the NPAs and revolt against the government.

The 10 movie entries are "Kulintas" And "Bala" – two movies produced by the Agusan National High School in Butuan City; "Karapatan sa Kapahamakan" by Tubay National High School in Agusan del Norte; "Gamu-Gamo" and "Gomad" by Northwestern Agusan Colleges in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte; "Eli, Eli Lama Sabachthani" of Nasipit Vocational School, Agusan del Norte; "Uniporming Kupas" by Northern Mindanao Colleges Inc. in Cabadbaran City; "Ang Ugma" by Mother Of Mercy Academy of Barobo, Surigao del Sur; "Blood" by Saint Theresa College in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur; and "Magkabilang Panig" by Saint Michael College in Cantilan, Surigao del Sur and Maalman Community Christian Center.

In line with this, Police Brigadier General Gilberto DC Cruz commended the students for their enthusiasm in participating the first film fest of PNP Caraga, and for showing their best effort and care for the youth sector.

He emphasized that this event also forms part to the implementation of Executive Order No. 70 or the whole-of-nation approach to end the insurgency in the country. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1026131

Cebuano PR: RCSP teams gi-deploy sa 5 ka nailang armed conflict-affected areas sa Zambo Norte

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 23, 2019): Cebuano PR: RCSP teams gi-deploy sa 5 ka nailang armed conflict-affected areas sa Zambo Norte

DIPOLOG CITY, Zamboanga del Norte - - - Adunay 3 ka team sa tropa sa kapolisan ug militar ang gi-deploy karong bag-o pa lamang ngadto sa armed conflict-affected areas dinhi sa probinsya sa Zamboanga del Norte pinaagi sa Retool Community Support Program (RCSP).

Sa send-off ceremony nga gipahigayon, hugtanong gisuportahan ni Governor Roberto Uy ang maong programa diin gitutukan karon sa administrasyon ni Presidente Rodrigo Duterte.

Matud pa ni Provincial Director Engr. Mario Baterna sa Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) nga ang RCSP isip usa sa mga regular programs sa Armed Forces of the Philippines nagtutok sa mga kinahanglanon sa mga sibilyan nga apektado sa mga kagubot kon conflict-affected areas hinimo sa mga grupo sama sa Communist Party of the Philippines/New People’s Army (CPP/NPA).

Apan gumikan kay buot sa Presidente nga mapahugtan ang maong programa, kini ang miluwat sa Executive Order 70 aron sa pagtukod sa National Task Force-End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) nga gipanguluhan mismo sa Presidente.

Pinaagi sa EO 70, ang nasyonal nga kagamhanan miila sa 12 areas diin ang mga kinahanglanun sa mga rebelde mahatagan ug atensyon. Magtambayayong ang nagkalain-laing ahensya sa gobyerno aron mapaabot ngadto kanila ang serbisyo sa gobyerno nga wala sukad nila natagamtaman. Gumikan kay buot sa Presidente nga tuldukan ang local communist rebellion ug adunay hingpit nga kalinaw dinhi sa nasud.

Matud pa usab ni Lt. Col. John Andrada, commanding officer sa 97th Infantry Batallion sa Philippine Army, ang maong tropa sa kapolisan ug militar maoy mag-una sa naila nga armed conflict-affected areas dinhi sa probinsya sa dili pa mosulod ang gobyerno nga molugway sa nagkalain-laing serbisyo.

Ang tropa sa kapolisan ug militar gibendisyonan kini ni Reverend Father Jose Tagailo sa wala pa sila molakaw alang sa maong tahas.

Nanghinaut usab si Governor Uy nga magmalampuson sila sa ilang misyon inubanan sa pangaliya sa Labaw’ng Makakagahum.

Nasayran nga adunay lima ka lungsod ang naila nga armed-conflict areas dinhi sa probinsya. Kini mao ang lungsod sa Leon Postigo, Sergio Osmeña, Sindangan, Siayan ug Godod uban sa 14 ka barangay niini.

Mitambong usab si Police Col Ronald Briones, ang Police Director sa Zamboanga del Norte Police Provincial Office, Col. Jose Randolf Sino Cruz, ang Deputy Brigade Commander sa 102nd Infantry Brigade, Mayor Josecor Gepolongca sa Siayan ug Mayor Hermogenes Cordova sa leon Postigo.

Atul usab sa maong kalihukan, gi-presentar ni Lt. Col Andrada ang tulo ka indibidwal nga mibalik na sa sabakan sa balaud.

Gitahan sa tulo ka surrenderees ang 45 kalibre nga pistula nga ilang gibitbit atul sa ilang pag-ikyas gikan sa ilang mga kauban nga mga rebelde.

Sa pagpakighinabi sa usa kanila, gisaysay niini nga nakadesisyon siya sa pag-surrender tungod kay dili na niya magwanta ang pagdagan-dagan sa kabukiran nga walay tumong. Sa pagkakaron, haruhay na ang iyang pamati tungod kay anaa na siya sa luwas nga mga kamot sa gobyerno. (EDT/PIA9-Zamboanga del Norte with reports from Mishel B. Montederamos, ZN-PIC)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1026317

Army troopers, LGU launch activity for peace, dev't

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 23, 2019): Army troopers, LGU launch activity for peace, dev't

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – The local government unit (LGU) of Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte in partnership with the 30th Infantry Python Battalion (30IB) and other stakeholders, launched recently the peace and development program to the constituents of Barangay Camam-onan in Gigaquit town.

Among the activities included supplemental feeding, provision of slippers for children, free medical check-up, provision of vegetable seedlings, disaster kits and sanitary toilet bowls, free haircut, and massage.

Gigaquit Mayor Chandru Bonite, in his message, thanked all the government agencies, private sectors, and to the python troopers for their continued support to promote peace and development in the province particularly in the municipality of Gigaquit.

“We made this commitment to support and provide necessary help to extend the delivery of basic services to the indigenous peoples and marginalized sector to promote health, wellness, skills development and enhancement especially here in the far-flung areas of the Gigaquit,” Bonite said.

Meanwhile, 30IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Jeffrey A. Villarosa said that it is their mission to bring peace and security, especially in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs), Conflict-Affected Areas (ConAAs) and Conflict Vulnerable Areas (CVAs) in order to allow services and programs from the local government unit, provincial government, national government agencies and civil society organizations (CSOs).

Villarosa then urged the members of the New People’s Army (NPA) and their supporters to surrender now and lay down their arms and avail the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and not waste the opportunity to live a normal life once again with their families. (30IB-Philippine Army/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1026118

SurSur PRLEC expands members

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 23, 2019): SurSur PRLEC expands members

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – Aimed to combat insurgency thru the implementation of skills training and livelihood programs, the Poverty Reduction Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) has expanded its membership during its 5th regular meeting held on Aug. 19 at the Police Provincial Office (PPO) Conference Room, Camp Vicente L. Pimentel Sr., this city.

PRLEC members convene during its 5th regular meeting sponsored by the Police Provincial Office of Surigao del Sur held at the Conference Hall, PPO, Camp Vicente L. Pimentel Sr., Telaje, Tandag City on August 19, 2019. (Photo by TESDA-SDS)

Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA) Director and PRLEC Chair Rey Cueva said the expansion of membership implies additional intervention and livelihood program opportunities for the identified communities in the province.



The following agencies and stakeholders that were added included: Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Science & Technology (DOST), Surigao del Sur State University (SDSSU), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), and Philippine Information Agency (PIA).

Also, the three other battalions based in the province - the 75th Infantry Battalion (75th IB), 67th IB, and the 3rd Special Forces (3SF) were included in the expansion of membership.

Director Cueva also presented the updates on the program implementation to the pilot area in Sitio Ibuan, Barangay Mampi, Lanuza town.

As suggested by NCIP Chief Engr. Charlyn Binghoy and Provincial Tourism Representative Michelle Pareja, the preservation of the IP customs and traditions (rituals, songs, making their costumes and accessories, etc.) will be included in the program implementation.

Also included in the discussion is the identification of the next target barangays.

The shortlists included Barangay Carromata in San Miguel under the AOR of 36th IB, Rajah Cabunsuan in Lingig town under the AOR of 67th IB, (Kilometer 9) Barangay Diatagon in Lianga town under the AOR of 3SF and Doña Carmen in Tagbina town under the AOR of 75th IB. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1026252

Former teacher yields in SurSur

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 23, 2019): Former teacher yields in SurSur (By 36IB, Phil. Army)

TAGO, Surigao del Sur -- A former teacher of the Tribal Filipino Program of Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS) voluntarily surrendered to the 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion (36IB), bringing along with him one carbine and magazine with ammunition on Monday, August 19, 2019, at the 36IB headquarters, Barangay Dayoan, Tago, this province.



The said armed TRIFPSS teacher was identified as Alias Val, 25 years old, single, a Manobo tribe and a resident of Sitio. Baroboan, Barangay Carromata, San Miguel.

According to Val, he was recruited as TRIFPSS teacher from May 20, 2012 up to January 25, 2017, and his recruiters promised him that his families would be supported financially while he is teaching and serving on the armed struggle.

Due to the strong campaign of the army, tribal leaders and the Department of Education, the School of Living Tradition (SLT) was established, while TRIFPSS schools began to stop its operation in the said community. Val, accordingly, decided to continue to serve the armed struggle as a "Milisya ng Bayan" from February 2017 to March 2019.

Val said he voluntarily surrendered because he wanted to live in peace and harmony without fear to the security forces. He also wanted to help the government in the pursuit of achieving genuine peace and preserving the cultural integrity of every tribal community.

“I want to take part and help the government to combat insurgency especially to my fellow IPs because I saw that the government is serious in helping the marginalized sector of the society especially the indigenous people's communities,” Alias Val said.

According to 36IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Xerxes Trinidad, the surrender is a clear manifestation that the NPA is using TRIPFSS schools as their breeding ground for their future cadres and fighters.

"Alias Val is a proof that there is a link and support system between the TRIFPSS schools and the NPA Communist Terrorist Group," Lt. Col. Trinidad said.

The official further said that the radicalization process is being taught at TRIPFSS schools through poisoning the innocent minds and instilling hatred to the government.

Alias Val is still undergoing custodial debriefing and interview and will be processed and validated for enrollment to avail the Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government. (CMO, 36IB/PIA Surigao del Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1026282

NPA leader surrenders in Sursur

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 23, 2019): NPA leader surrenders in Sursur (By 36IB, Phil. Army)

TAGO, Surigao del Sur -- A leader of the New Peoples Army (NPA) Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) had voluntarily surrendered to the 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion (36IB) on August 20, 2019, at the 36IB headquarters, Barangay Dayoan, Tago, this province.

The surrenderer was identified as alias Kent, 25 yrs old, married, a Manobo tribe and a resident of Sitio Bato. Barangay Bitaugan, San Miguel, this province.

The said NPA leader brought along with him one KG9 Carbine and magazine with serviceable ammunition.

Alias Kent was recruited by his relatives who is also a member of the CTGs. After a month in the movement, he became a full-time member and promoted to a higher position as vice commanding officer of a platoon.

After years of serving, he decided to go on lie low and became the Sangay ng Partido sa Localidad (SPL) and at the same time serving as the commanding officer of Milisya ng Bayan of Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda-Interior, Sub-Regional Committee 2130.

Due to the intensive combat operation, the armed group was disbanded and Alias Kent lost his contact with the CTG. He decided to surrender because he learned that some of his comrades in the movement who were also from his community already surrendered and returned to the folds of the law.

Also, through the negotiation efforts of some rebel returnees, LGU San Miguel and intervention of the 36IB, he was convinced to lay down his arms.

In his statement, Lt. Col. Xerxes Trinidad, Commander, 36IB said that the surrender is a result of the relentless military combat operation in the 36IB area of operation and the pursuit of localized peace negotiation to the terrorist group.

“It was a bold move of the negotiating personalities especially the LGU who facilitated the surrender of Kent. The convergent efforts of the MLGU, former rebels, and the military proved to be effective in convincing the members of the CNTs to surrender. He has no choice but to lay down his arms and return to the folds of the law,” Trinidad said.

“To the remaining NPA CTG, again, surrender and lay down your arms and surrender. Help the government to achieve a long and lasting peace that every Surigaonons are longing for," he added.

Kent will be processed and validated to avail the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP of the government. (1Lt Jonald Romorosa, CMO-36IB/PIA Surigao del Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1026265

Army shows preparedness capability in quake drill

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 23, 2019): Army shows preparedness capability in quake drill (By 30IB, Philippine Army)

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte -- The personnel from 30th Infantry (Python) Battalion (30th IB), 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, together with the Surigao City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and the provincial government of Surigao del Norte, showcased their disaster response capabilities during the 3rd Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) on August 8, 2019 held this city.

During the simulation, the participants performed the duck, cover and hold.

Thereafter, the first responders, the Disaster Emergency Assistance and Rescue Team (DEAR) elements of 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) personnel and Surigao City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (DRRMC) provided emergency assistance to the victims as well as conducted rescue operations to those who are in peril.

The NSED is a quarterly drill that seeks to instill a culture of disaster preparedness and promote disaster awareness to all citizens, soldiers and other uniformed personnel included.

It is also done to evaluate the readiness of Disaster Response and Rescue Units (DRRU), the adeptness of their contingency plans and protocols to address natural disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons and landslides including man-made disasters such as fire and road mishaps.

Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey A. Villarosa, acting commanding officer of the 30IB said that the men and women Python troopers, through its  Disaster Emergency Assistance and Rescue (DEAR) teams, put to high regard its capability to conduct Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR).

“We see to it that our skills to conduct HADR operations are always honed; our equipment always ready so we can always inter-operate with our partners; and when the need arises, we can immediately shift from focused military operations (FMO) mode to HADR mode,” Villarosa said.

He also said that the ironclad partnerships with other DRRUs such as that of the provincial local government units (LGUs) of Surigao del Norte and Dinagat Islands, the city, municipal and barangay LGUs, civil society organizations are their best defense against any calamity and the best offense towards the prevention and mitigation of the occurrence and effects of disasters. (1Lt. Wilfredo F. Quilang, Acting Civil-Military Operations Officer, 30IB/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1026353

Labor union splits with KMU, forms new group

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 23, 2019): Labor union splits with KMU, forms new group

STARTING NEW. Officers of the HKJ-3 Workers Union take their oath on Tuesday after breaking away from the leftist Kilusang Mayo Uno to form their own independent labor group. Aerine Marie R Reyes, director of National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB) in Region 11, administers the oath. (Photo grabbed from 71st IB Facebook Page)

DAVAO CITY -- Some 220 members and officers of the Musahamat Workers Labor Union (MWLU) in Compostela Valley province withdrew from the leftist Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) to form their own organization, a military official said Thursday.

1Lt Jhocell Asis, civil-military operations officer of the Army's 71st Infantry Battalion (IB), said MWLU officers took their oath in Pantukan town on Tuesday after reorganizing under the new HKJ-3 Workers Union.

According to Asis, the MWLU members decided to bolt away from KMU because they felt being "used for selfish gains and being indoctrinated to go against the management of the company, resulting in different mass demonstrations."

The KMU has long been identified by military authorities as one of the legal fronts of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), and recruitment ground for its armed wing, the New People's Army (NPA). The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

In fact, Asis said the former MWLU members surrendered to the 71IB three months ago for being members of the NPA's underground mass-based organization.

"They are now free and they will no longer give monthly dues to KMU. Most importantly, they are no longer obliged to join rallies initiated by KMU," the Army official said.

During Tuesday's oath-taking ceremony, Asis said the HKJ-3 Workers Union thanked Lt. Col. Esteveyn Ducusin, commander of the 71IB, for shepherding the group's transition from a KMU-affiliated organization into an independent workers' union that only look after the welfare of its members.

Ducusin said the union's decision to break away from KMU reflects the level of cooperation among the Army, the local government units, and the national government.

"We will assure that we will continue to implement relevant activities for further development of the union,” Ducusin said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1078556

DILG urges Pangasinan execs to help end armed conflict

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 23, 2019): DILG urges Pangasinan execs to help end armed conflict



ENDING INSURGENCY. Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Assistant Secretary Francisco Cruz urged state workers in Pangasinan to help in ending local communist armed conflict during the Dagyaw Open Government and Participatory Governance Regional town hall meeting on Thursday (August 22, 2019). Cruz said it is high time to pursue development as the government now listens and is responsive to the people's needs. (Photo Courtesy of Provincial Government of Pangasinan)

An official of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) urged on Thursday state workers in Pangasinan to help in ending local communist armed conflict by delivering the basic social services to their constituents.

“Let us help in ending the five decades existence of leftists that has caused so much trouble, too much death and slowed down development in our country. Let us help end local communist armed conflict through retooled community support program (RCSP),” DILG Assistant Secretary Francisco Cruz said in his speech at the Dagyaw Open Government and Participatory Governance Regional town hall meeting here.

He noted the RCSP is an avenue for the engagement and dialogue between the people in the grassroots level and the national government.

“You could do much in ending local communist armed conflict by convincing the citizens that the government is doing something and is not absent. Those whose minds are being poisoned by the leftists, you could correct them,” he said.

Cruz said government officials and employees in Pangasinan could convince people who are on the “wrong way to redirect their paths” and join the government in developing the people’s lives and the communities.

“You will also be the ones who will embrace former rebels returning to the mainstream society and make them stay there and leave the life of rebellion,” he added.

Cruz also encouraged the Pangasinenses to say no to local communist armed conflict, and to pursue peace and order and development.

“This is the time to be one in development because our government now listens and is responsive to the people’s needs,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1078581

PNP acquires 10 new choppers

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 23, 2019): PNP acquires 10 new choppers



Police Lt. Gen. Archie Francisco Gamboa, Philippine National Police deputy chief for operations. (PNA Photo by Che Palicte)

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has acquired 10 new helicopters to further enhance its crime-fighting capability, an official said on Thursday.

Lt. Gen. Archie Francisco Gamboa, PNP deputy chief for operations, said the new helicopters worth PHP1.75 billion will be the police's first active air assets since 2009.

Gamboa said the new air assets consist of two training choppers costing PHP90 million each, seven single-engine units costing PHP250 million each, and a twin-engine unit costing PHP450 million.

Gamboa said the two training helicopters will arrive in September this year and another two will be arriving in November. The remaining helicopters will be delivered sometime in June next year.

“I will be flying to France next week to test the helicopters,” Gamboa added.

He said two helicopters will be assigned in the National Capital Region, two in the Visayas, and two in Mindanao.

Gamboa said lauded the government for "prioritizing the needs of the policemen by giving more than enough capital outlay to purchase various equipment."

“When PRRD (President Rodrigo Roa Duterte) was not yet President, the PNP only got PHP2 billion budget for the entire year. For 2017-2019, the PNP was already given PHP26 billion budget,” he said.

The official said the helicopters were purchased in the United States, Canada, and France.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1078623

Licup named new PNP acting head of operations

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 23, 2019): Licup named new PNP acting head of operations



PNP Acting Director for Operations, Brig. Gen. Emmanuel Luis Licup. (Photo courtesy: PNP PIO)

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, Gen. Oscar Albayalde, on Thursday named Brig. Gen. Emmanuel Luis Licup as acting director for operations.

Licup replaces Maj. Gen. Mao Aplasca who retired from the service.

He was erstwhile deputy director of the PNP Directorate for Personnel and Records Management (DPRM).

As director for operations, Licup will assist Albayalde in supervising and directing police operations, organization, employment, and deployment of police personnel, and public safety training of the PNP.

Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Rodolfo Azurin replaces Licup as the deputy director of the DPRM.

Other senior officers designated to new posts were Brig. Gen. Adolfo Samala Jr. who was named deputy director of the Directorate for Human Resource and Doctrine Development (DHRDD).

Meanwhile, Col. Rolando Miranda was named acting executive officer of the DHRDD, while Col. Robert Rodriguez was designated as acting executive officer of the DPRM.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1078543

S. Korean firm bags PH frigate upgrade deal

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 23, 2019): S. Korean firm bags PH frigate upgrade deal



BRP Gregorio Del Pilar. (File photo)

A South Korean defense manufacturer has won the contract for the Philippine Navy’s Del Pilar Class Frigate Upgrade Project to beef up the ship’s electronic capabilities and patrolling operations, the Department of National Defense said on Friday.

Based on the Notice of Award posted on DND’s official website, the project will be awarded to Hanwha Systems Co., Ltd.

"This is to inform you that the proposal of Hanwha Systems Co., Ltd. for the Del Pilar Class Frigate Upgrade Acquisition Project of the Philippine Navy, with a corresponding contract price of one billion three hundred four million two hundred thousand pesos (PHP1,304,200,000) is hereby accepted," DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in the NOA addressed company representative Kim Baeknyun.

The project has an approved budget of PHP1.5 billion which will be sourced from the Armed Forces of the Philippine Modernization Trust Fund.

The upgrade seeks to enhance the ships' combat management systems, electronic support and sonar capability to make it capable of operating with incoming and more modern naval assets like the two Jose Rizal-class missile frigates being completed by Hyundai Heavy Industries in South Korea.

The Del Pilar-class ships are three former US Coast Guard Hamilton-class cutters and converted into frigates and then offshore patrol vessels.

These vessels are the BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PS-15), BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16) and the BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS-17).

These ships have a gross tonnage of 3,250 tons, a length of 378 feet, beam of 43 feet, and draft of 15 feet while its propulsion systems consist of two diesel engines and two gas turbine engines, giving it a top speed of 29 knots.

These vessels have a cruising range of 14,000 miles and have a sea and loiter time of 45 days and armed with a 76mm Oto Melara automatic cannon, 25mm and 20mm light cannons and .50 caliber machineguns.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1078554

AFP commits support in decommissioning of MILF fighters

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 23, 2019): AFP commits support in decommissioning of MILF fighters



PEACEBUILDING PARTNERS. Officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) agree on peace building after signing a memorandum of agreement on Aug. 22, 2019. From L-R: Assistant Secretary David Diciano, OPAPP Chief of Staff; Secretary Carlito G. Galvez Jr., Presidential Peace Adviser; General Benjamin Madrigal Jr., AFP Chief of Staff; and, Major General Andres C. Centino, AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, J3. (OPAPP photo)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) forged an agreement on Thursday to formalize their partnership in decommissioning 40,000 Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants and their weapons in the next three years.

At the signing ceremony of the memorandum of agreement, AFP Chief of Staff, Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr. underscored the importance of the collaboration between OPAPP and the AFP in pushing forward the Bangsamoro peace process.

"The MOA that we signed today is not only about the transfer of funds from OPAPP to the Armed Forces but more importantly, it signifies our commitment to continue with the process of healing, and the process of normalization in the Bangsamoro," he said.

"We have long dreamed for peace in the Bangsamoro region," Madrigal said, noting that maintaining the "mutual trust" between the government and the MILF is crucial in the normalization process.

From warriors to peacekeepers

Under the MOA, the AFP will provide basic military training to 3,000 MILF-Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) fighters to prepare them as members of the composite Joint Peace and Security Teams (JPST).

The 6,000-strong JPSTs will be composed of 3,000 MILF-BIAF members, 1,600 policemen and 1,400 soldiers.

Currently, a total of 220 MILF-BIAF combatants are undergoing training in Camp Lucero, in Carmen, North Cotabato.

The JPSTs will be responsible for securing areas that will undergo the normalization process, particularly the six-government acknowledged MILF camps which will be transformed into peaceful, progressive and resilient communities.

Madrigal said the training course for MILF members aims to achieve "same views towards security, to develop same parameters, and synchronization of the movement" to maintain peace and order in Bangsamoro communities.

Under the MOA, the AFP will also be present in securing the actual decommissioning of MILF combatants and their weapons, and develop a program for small arms and light weapons management.

Normalization Track gains traction

Starting this year, 30 percent or 12,000 former MILF combatants will undergo decommissioning under the Normalization Track of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

President Rodrigo Duterte is expected to witness the public launch of the decommissioning process on September 7 in the municipality of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.

Earlier this year, the President signed the Executive Order No. 79 or “Implementing the Annex on Normalization under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro,” which aligned the efforts of concerned government agencies in the implementation of the normalization process.

The Normalization Track’s four components include security, socio-economic, confidence-building measures, and transitional justice and reconciliation.

Vital partner in peacebuilding

Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito G. Galvez Jr., meanwhile, lauded the AFP for its major role in laying the foundations of sustainable peace in the Bangsamoro.

"Over the years, the exceptional sense of professionalism, dedication and commitment of the AFP has been instrumental in sustaining the gains and pushing forward the Bangsamoro peace process," Galvez said.

"The AFP has helped create a conducive environment where sustainable peace and genuine development can flourish in communities," he added.

Galvez noted that this was made possible largely due to the efforts of the Joint Ceasefire Mechanisms that were established by the GPH-MILF Peace Implementing Panels.

These mechanisms include the Coordinating Committees on the Cessation of Hostilities, Ad Hoc Joint Action Group and the International Monitoring Team.

Composed of AFP, Philippine National Police and MILF members, these bodies are tasked to create a conducive atmosphere that will pave the way for the implementation of the CAB and its annexes.

Galvez noted that the AFP's participation in the ceasefire mechanisms was instrumental in the historic signing of the CAB, which ended decades of armed conflict in Mindanao.

"The AFP’s commitment to the primacy of the peace process has encouraged both parties to uphold the ceasefire agreement, leading to the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro," he said.

"This favorable climate of peace that we are now experiencing in Mindanao should inspire us to work harder to strengthen the foundations of peace and prevent the recurrence of armed conflict," Galvez said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1078587

Troops' entry in schools won't curtail academic freedom: AFP

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 23, 2019): Troops' entry in schools won't curtail academic freedom: AFP



AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo. (File photo)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Friday dismissed claims that allowing military personnel to enter schools will result in the curtailment of academic freedom.

AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, also scored allegations made by some sectors claiming that this will result in militarization.

"We do not find a basis in the accusation that giving access to military personnel in schools is militarization and will translate to the curtailment of academic freedom," Arevalo said in a message to reporters.

The military official said the visit or entry of AFP personnel will not be in the level of combat deployment and will only be in the nature of communication engagements.

"What is so worrisome with soldiers engaging the students during or information campaigns, in lectures during symposia; as trainers in subjects like humanitarian assistance and disaster response and preventing and countering violent extremism, or as speakers during commencement exercises?" he added.

Arevalo also dared those who opposed the proposal by invoking academic freedom (AF) to define what constitutes this term.

"If by AF they mean students and members of the faculty able to speak their minds openly; express their grievances freely; and criticize the government and its agencies fearlessly, then they are already enjoying the freedom to do that," he said.

Arevalo said the AFP supports academic freedom and helps protect freedom of assembly, of speech, and redress of grievances.

"There is no curtailment of academic freedom because we do not intend to and will not intervene in the determination of what subjects to be taught, who will teach, and how it will be taught," he added.

Arevalo, however, clarified that a line must be drawn between that of a valid exercise of such freedom and that of corrupting the minds of students— especially minors using a premeditated and systematic process of instilling hatred and indoctrination.

The military cannot allow these groups to take advantage of the youths' idealism and social imperfections and use this as an excuse to take up arms to overthrow the government through rebellion or insurrection where many of them die, he added.

"The latter we cannot allow," Arevalo said.

He said the hearings at the Senate and the testimonies under oath of two former rebels who have returned to the folds of the law are representations of many other former members of the New People's Army (NPA) who have joined the mainstream society.

"They confirm recruitment in schools because they were student-recruits and student-recruiters themselves," he added.

"There is deprivation of academic freedom when students are not afforded opportunity to listen to views and opinions from all sides—even from perceived adversaries—for them to make an informed judgment or an intelligent stand," he said.

Arevalo said the military finds it disconcerting that these protesters will block the opportunity for students to hear the side of the AFP and government on the many accusations hurled against it while they allow NPA recruiters access to the campuses.

The Communist Party of the Philippines - NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1078596

PH diplomacy on SCS fits int'l law principles: SC magistrate

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 23, 2019): PH diplomacy on SCS fits int'l law principles: SC magistrate



West Philippine Sea (PNA file photo)

A Supreme Court associate justice on Friday said the administration's path to diplomacy in handling the South China Sea dispute with China fits into the core policy objectives of the international law system.

SC Associate Justice Francis Jardeleza, during the 7th Biennial Conference of the Asian Society of International Law in Novotel, Manila, said the Duterte administration's mode of enforcing the Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) ruling through diplomacy adheres to international law principles, particularly fealty to the rule of law and the peaceful settlement of disputes.

"For now, the Philippines, with restraint, has chosen to enforce the Arbitral Award through diplomacy. This, of course, is a classic and recognized mode by which a state, through diplomatic action, could invoke redress, for itself or on behalf of its citizens, for injury caused by a wrongful act on another state," Jardeleza said.

Jardeleza cited that the Philippines has pushed, through the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), for the early conclusion of an agreement on a Code of Conduct (COC) among the different ASEAN states and China.

Jardeleza also noted that the country has embarked on a path of “bilateral diplomacy” with China, which has reportedly opened doors to closer economic ties with the Asian giant.

“In fact, President (Rodrigo) Duterte is scheduled to meet next week with President Xi Jin Ping for the fifth time where, as announced by the presidential spokesperson, he intends to raise the matter of the Arbitral Award and the COC, among others,” he said.

He said the Philippine government has responded to events on the ground, attributed to China, through diplomatic protests.

The government, he added, has taken steps to beef up its air and naval capabilities to protect the country’s territorial waters and exclusive economic zone.

“Whether these actions taken by our government are correct or will prove efficacious is, in my view, still too early to tell,” he said. “Ultimately, we are a republican state whose leaders are accountable to the people. At a certain point, Filipinos will ask for results. How we get to those results, in the national interest, is a delicate task for our present and future political leaders."

On July 12, 2016, the Philippines won its arbitration case filed against China in 2013, nullifying China’s nine-dash line claims of nearly the entire West Philippine Sea or the South China Sea, including part of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.

The PCA found “no legal basis” for China to claim historic rights to resources within the sea areas falling within the ‘nine-dash line” but China refused to recognize this.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1078640