10th ID soldiers manning checkpoints to be deputized as LTO agents

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 28, 2019): 10th ID soldiers manning checkpoints to be deputized as LTO agents

DAVAO CITY -- The Regional Law Enforcement Coordinating Committee (RLECC) in Davao Region today adopted the motion for the deputation of all members of the 10th Infantry Division manning checkpoints as agents of the Land Transportation Office.

In the 261st meeting today of the RLECC at the Police Regional Office XI, the National Intelligence and Coordinating Agency XI earlier sought for the deputation of all the regular members of the 10th Infantry Division to enforce traffic rules and regulations as they inspect vehicles that pass the checkpoints.

Prior to the adoption of the measure, Police Brig. General Marcelo Morales, regional director of the Police Regional Office XI and chair of the RLECC XI said that with the deputation, soldiers can enforce traffic rules and regulations even in conflict-affected areas during the conduct of checkpoint operations.

“They must be in complete uniform,” he stressed.

Morales also stressed that soldiers must be briefed by the LTO on their corresponding duties and responsibilities once they will be deployed as deputized agents.

He said with the deputation, the soldiers can help enforce the traffic rules and regulations not only on the fixed checkpoints like the ones instituted by the Task Force Davao but also in the inner barangays.

“It is important to control the movement of the motorcycles, the most convenient mode of transportation of communist terrorist groups. Soldiers can have a hold of the vehicles by invoking their LTO deputation,” Morales stressed.

Earlier, the LTO XI lamented that more than 70 percent of the motorcycles in Davao Region are unregistered and the office is conducting outreach programs in the barangays to have these motorcycles registered. (PIA XI-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1027983

PH, India armies vow mutual support

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 28, 2019): PH, India armies vow mutual support



MUTUAL SUPPORT. Philippine Army vice commander Maj. Gen. Reynaldo M. Aquino (center left) and IAF-AWC 48th Higher Command Course and delegation head, Maj. Gen. Mandip Singh (center right), vow to strengthen each other's capabilities, during a meeting at the Army headquarters in Taguig City on Thursday (Sept. 26, 2019). This includes the conduct of training courses and programs that would enhance both Filipino and Indian troops’ abilities in countering insurgency. (Photo courtesy of the Office of the Army Chief Public Affairs)

The Philippine Army (PA) and the Indian Armed Forces - Army War College (IAF-AWC) have committed to strengthen each other's capabilities.

Army vice commander Maj. Gen. Reynaldo M. Aquino and IAF-AWC 48th Higher Command Course and delegation head, Maj. Gen. Mandip Singh, made the commitment as they discussed training courses and programs that would enhance both Filipino and Indian troops’ abilities in countering insurgencies, at the Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Thursday.

In a statement Friday, PA spokesperson Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said the Army offered its command and general staff course, career and service course, civil-military courses, and other exchange training courses.

Meanwhile, the IAF-AWC vowed to support the PA through aircraft familiarization as the latter is establishing its aviation regiment.

Aquino also shared the command’s strategies anchored on preventing and countering violent extremism after Singh noted similar terrorism problems in India and the Philippines, particularly in the Mindanao region, where insurgencies arise due to extreme ideologies.

During the forum highlighting PA’s Marawi experience, IAF-AWC delegates learned about the Army’s intensified civil-military operations as an integral part in ending the insurgency crisis.

Army officers also reiterated the importance of advancing its aviation functions and other technologies to augment the capability gap learned during Marawi.

“Our transformation journey has taught us to put a premium on the knowledge and expertise that we learn from our allies and counterparts in the defense establishment. I am confident that through this activity (this Foreign Academic Travel), the bilateral cooperation between our two institutions will continue to strengthen,” Aquino said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1081704

Army formally deploys 73 new officers

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 28, 2019): Army formally deploys 73 new officers



READY TO SERVE. A total of 73 newly-graduated second lieutenants join the ceremony for their deployment, held at the Army Officers Club House in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Wednesday (Sept. 25, 2019). These individuals took the Officer Candidate Course in December 2017 and after a year of rigorous training, they underwent the 45-day Scout Ranger Orientation Course, the Common Module Phase, and the recently-concluded Service Orientation. (Photo courtesy of the Office of the Army Chief Public Affairs)

A total of 73 newly-graduated second lieutenants were formally deployed to various Philippine Army (PA) units nationwide on Wednesday.

“Your position holds high expectations and great responsibilities, as you will lead our soldiers in development support and security operations,” Army commander, Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto, said during the send-off ceremony of Class 51-2018, held at the PA Officers Club House in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

According to a statement made by PA spokesperson Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala on Friday, the new officers each received a Glock 17 pistol, as symbol of their role as vanguards of security, peace, and progress in the country.

Before their appointment and commissioning, they took the Officer Candidate Course last December 2017 and after a year of rigorous training, they underwent the 45-day Scout Ranger Orientation Course, the Common Module Phase, and the recently-concluded Service Orientation.

“I also advise you to maintain your integrity, as it entails discipline and utmost loyalty to duty and service. You have entered this profession with work realities that will, at times, test your morals, but always look back to our core values of Honor, Patriotism, and Duty,” Alberto added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1081706

‘Miag-ao, Igbaras mountains not safe for hikers’

From Panay News (Sep 28, 2019): ‘Miag-ao, Igbaras mountains not safe for hikers’

AIN’T NO MOUNTAIN HIGH. Hikers trek to Mt. Napulak in Igbaras, Iloilo. Mt. Napulak is a favorite destination of hiking enthusiasts but according to the Philippine Army, it is not safe to go there at this time, citing a series of clashes between government troops and New People’s Army rebels. PHOTO BY ROBERTO ESPOSADO

ILOILO – Citing the recent successive encounters between rebels and government troops in the municipalities of Miag-ao and Igbaras, the Philippine Army advised mountain hiking enthusiasts and tourists to stay away from the two areas for now.

If the mountain trek is really necessary, according to Lieutenant Colonel Joel Benedict Batara, commander of the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion, trekkers must coordinate with barangay officials, Philippine National Police and Philippine Army.
In recent years, the two municipalities’ hinterlands have been attracting tourists, specifically hikers. In Miag-ao, the Kabugsokan Falls in Barangay Dalije and Tinagong Dagat in Barangay Ongyod are fledgling tourist spots.

On the other hand, Mt. Opao and Mt. Napulak in Igbaras are favorite destinations of mountain trekkers.

On Sept. 20 government troops and some 15 rebels clashed in Barangay Ongyod, Miag-ao. This was repeated three days after, on Sept. 23. One rebel died and a soldier was wounded.

On Sept. 25 10 rebels exchanged fire with Army troops in Barangay Igcabugao, Igbaras at around 8 a.m.

“Kung hindi naman importante, hindi na muna mag-hiking,” said Batara. “Kasi hindi natin alam baka bumalik ang mga rebelde.”

This public advisory stays until the Army has ascertained it is safe again to trek the mountains of Miag-ao and Igbaras, stressed Batara.

“Mahirap magbigay ng specific date kung hanggang kailan ang warning,” he said. “Namatayan ang mga rebelde. Baka gustong bumawi.”

Trekkers could be caught in the crossfire between government troops and rebels, said Batara.

This was not the first time the Army issued such advisory. It made one in March this year following four clashes between soldiers and New People’s Army cadres in Barangay Alimodias, Miag-ao on March 24; Sitio Igburay, Barangay Indaluyon, Igbaras on March 20; Barangay Osorio 1, San Remigio, Antique on March 19; and Barangay Mulangan, Igbaras on March 17.

The Army explained there could be more clashes in the days leading to the NPA’s founding anniversary on March 29.

The NPA is the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines. It was founded on March 29, 1969.

Rebels usually mark their anniversary by staging offensives against government troops.

On Thursday, Sept. 26, following the clashes in Miag-ao and Igbaras, the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) put on alert all police stations in the province.

Of particular concern to the IPPO are 16 towns considered rebel-infested. These are the following:

* Guimbal, Miag-ao, Tubungan, Igbaras, and San Joaquin in the 1st District

* Alimodian and Leon in the 2nd District

* Calinog, Maasin, Bingawan, Janiuay, Lambunao, and Badiangan in the 3rd District

* Passi City in the 4th District

* San Rafael and Lemery in the 5th District

“All police units have been instructed to fully guard their stations. Policemen were also ordered to carry long and short firearms and be ready to engage the rebels if attacked,” said Police Captain Antonio Monreal, IPPO spokesperson.

Police Colonel Roland Vilela, IPPO director, also directed police stations to strengthen their barangay intelligence network. The goal is to monitor the rebels’ movement and preempt attacks.

https://www.panaynews.net/miag-ao-igbaras-mountains-not-safe-for-hikers/

Army seizes NPA camp in Leyte

From the Sun Star-Tacloban (Sep 27, 2019): Army seizes NPA camp in Leyte

ARMY troopers from 78th Infantry Battalion seized on Friday, September 27, an enemy camp after a 20-minute firefight with suspected members of the New People's Army (NPA) in Mahaplag, Leyte.

Second Lieutenant Christopher Tanteo, platoon leader of Scout Platoon of 78th Infantry Battalion under Lieutenant Colonel Roberto Obaob, said they responded to an information regarding the presence of suspected communist rebels in Sitio Tay-ong, Barangay Pinamonoan, Mahaplag town.
In a statement, the Army said the suspected NPA members were from the Platoon 1, Front 42, Sub Regional Committee, Levox.
No casualty was reported on the government side while it was undetermined on the enemy side, said the Army.

The government troops captured some weapons and documents inside the camp.

The seized items include one M16A1 rifle, 130 rounds of live ammunition (5.56), three long magazines for M16, four short magazines for M16, one improvised explosive device, one cellular phone, one handheld radio (Baofeng), medical paraphernalia, and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

"It is a good thing the townsfolk reported the presence of the NPA in the area. The people made their stand, they have enough of the terrorism made by the NPA," said Obaob.

Meanwhile, Brigadier General Lope Dago, commander of 802nd Infantry Brigade, urged the communist rebels "to heed the call of the communities and lay down your arms and avail of the enhanced integration program of the government."

"Allow then the government to resolve the issues of the communities and the end of this armed conflict. We will actively support the program of the government to peacefully resolve all armed conflicts against peace loving people of Leyte, Southern Leyte and Biliran," said Dago in a statement.

"Let us condemn those who advocate violence and use arms," he added.

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1825116/Tacloban/Local-News/Philippine-Army-seizes-New-Peoples-Army-camp-in-Mahaplag-Leyte

Philippine Military Captures Suspected Militant Allegedly Involved in Kidnappings

From BenarNews (Sep 27, 2019): Philippine Military Captures Suspected Militant Allegedly Involved in Kidnappings



Norwegian national Kjartan Sekkingstad speaks during a news conference after he was freed by the Abu Sayyaf militant group in the southern Philippine province of Sulu, while President Rodrigo Duterte listens, Sept. 18, 2016. Reuters

Philippine security forces have arrested a suspected militant on allegations of involvement in recent kidnappings of a Jordanian journalist and a retired Italian priest in the country's southern region, officials said Friday.

Nasirin Balajadji (alias Zaed) was captured by police and military officers Wednesday in the town of Naga in the southern province of Zamboanga Sibugay, Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo, chief of the local infantry battalion, told reporters.

“He was involved in the kidnapping of Baker Atyani, a Jordanian journalist in 2012,” Templonuevo said, referring to Balajadji.

It was not immediately clear if Balajadji had hired a lawyer who could be asked for comment.

Balajadji is the third-highest member of an Abu Sayyaf unit specializing in kidnap for ransom, Templonuevo said.

Atyani thought he would interview an Abu Sayyaf leader in Jolo for a documentary when he was taken hostage seven years ago. He escaped after 18 months, according to officials.

Col. Leonel Nicolas, commander of the army’s 102nd Brigade, said investigators also believe Balajadji was involved in the abduction of retired Italian priest Rolando Del Torchio in 2015 in the southern city of Dipolog, and the kidnapping of an 8-year-old Filipino boy in 2016 in Zamboanga Sibugay province.

Torchio was freed after six months following an apparent ransom payment, while the boy was freed after almost seven months of captivity.

Jordanian journalist says he never met suspect

Atyani, a veteran journalist for Arab News, a newspaper published in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, said he never met the suspect but was informed by Philippine police that Balajadji was “one of the key guys” behind his kidnapping.

He told Arab News that he went to the Philippines in June 2012 to work on a documentary about Muslims.

Apparently, Atyani said, his local contact led him on. “The whole interview was actually setting a trap for my kidnapping,” he said.

The Abu Sayyaf is a small gang of militants blamed for some of the worst atrocities in the country, including bombings, kidnappings and random killings.

A faction of the group headed by Isnilon Hapilon pledged allegiance to the Islamic State extremist group and led a siege of southern Marawi city by militants two years ago. More than 1,200 people, most of them militants, were killed in a five-month battle that ensued.

https://www.benarnews.org/english/news/philippine/philippines-militants-09272019130422.html

Report to Congress on U.S.-China Competition in the South, East China Seas

Posted to USNI News (Sep 27, 2019): Report to Congress on U.S.-China Competition in the South, East China Seas

The following is the Sept. 24, 2019, Congressional Research Service report, U.S.-China Strategic Competition in South and East China Seas: Background and Issues for Congress.
From the report

In an international security environment described as one of renewed great power competition, the South China Sea (SCS) has emerged as an arena of U.S.-China strategic competition. U.S.-China strategic competition in the SCS forms an element of the Trump Administration’s more confrontational overall approach toward China, and of the Administration’s efforts for promoting its construct for the Indo-Pacific region, called the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP).

China’s actions in the SCS in recent years—including extensive island-building and base-construction activities at sites that it occupies in the Spratly Islands, as well as actions by its maritime forces to assert China’s claims against competing claims by regional neighbors such as the Philippines and Vietnam—have heightened concerns among U.S. observers that China is gaining effective control of the SCS, an area of strategic, political, and economic importance to the United States and its allies and partners. Actions by China’s maritime forces at the Japan-administered Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea (ECS) are another concern for U.S. observers. Chinese domination of China’s near-seas region—meaning the SCS and ECS, along with the Yellow Sea—could substantially affect U.S. strategic, political, and economic interests in the Indo-Pacific region and elsewhere.

Potential general U.S. goals for U.S.-China strategic competition in the SCS and ECS include but are not necessarily limited to the following: fulfilling U.S. security commitments in the Western Pacific, including treaty commitments to Japan and the Philippines; maintaining and enhancing the U.S.-led security architecture in the Western Pacific, including U.S. security relationships with treaty allies and partner states; maintaining a regional balance of power favorable to the United States and its allies and partners; defending the principle of peaceful resolution of disputes and resisting the emergence of an alternative “might-makes-right” approach to international affairs; defending the principle of freedom of the seas, also sometimes called freedom of navigation; preventing China from becoming a regional hegemon in East Asia; and pursing these goals as part of a larger U.S. strategy for competing strategically and managing relations with China.

Potential specific U.S. goals for U.S.-China strategic competition in the SCS and ECS include but are not necessarily limited to the following: dissuading China from carrying out additional base-construction activities in the SCS, moving additional military personnel, equipment, and supplies to bases at sites that it occupies in the SCS, initiating island-building or base-construction activities at Scarborough Shoal in the SCS, declaring straight baselines around land features it claims in the SCS, or declaring an air defense identification zone (ADIZ) over the SCS; and encouraging China to reduce or end operations by its maritime forces at the Senkaku Islands in the ECS, halt actions intended to put pressure against Philippine-occupied sites in the Spratly Islands, provide greater access by Philippine fisherman to waters surrounding Scarborough Shoal or in the Spratly Islands, adopt the U.S./Western definition regarding freedom of the seas, and accept and abide by the July 2016 tribunal award in the SCS arbitration case involving the Philippines and China.

The Trump Administration has taken various actions for competing strategically with China in the SCS and ECS. The issue for Congress is whether the Trump Administration’s strategy for competing strategically with China in the SCS and ECS is appropriate and correctly resourced, and whether Congress should approve, reject, or modify the strategy, the level of resources for implementing it, or both.

Download the document here.
https://news.usni.org/2019/09/27/report-to-congress-on-u-s-china-competition-in-the-south-east-china-seas

AFP-CRS: AFP-PNP dispose captured IEDs, proof of NPA Terrorists’ violation on Human Rights and International Humanitarian Laws

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 27, 2019): AFP-PNP dispose captured IEDs, proof of NPA Terrorists’ violation on Human Rights and International Humanitarian Laws



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2726128700739170/?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/

AFP-CRS: Enlightened populace march for peace in Arakan

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 27, 2019): Enlightened populace march for peace in Arakan



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2726176097401097/?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/

AFP-CRS: 2 Military Officers to head PMA in acting capacity

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 27, 2019): 2 Military Officers to head PMA in acting capacity



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2726187800733260/?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/

AFP-CRS: New AFP chief wants change in PMA mindset

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 27, 2019): New AFP chief wants change in PMA mindset



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2726200667398640/?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/

AFP-CRS: Reorientation of PMA cadets ordered

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 27, 2019): Reorientation of PMA cadets ordered



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2726209034064470/?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/

AFP-CRS: Indigenous People Ask Help in Spreading Message vs. CPP/NPA

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 27, 2019): Indigenous People Ask Help in Spreading Message vs. CPP/NPA



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2726227514062622/?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/

AFP-CRS: Fifth suspect in Sultan kudarat bombing arrested

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 27, 2019): Fifth suspect in Sultan kudarat bombing arrested



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2726232524062121/?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/

AFP-CRS: MisOr, Bukidnon declare CPP-NPA persona non grata

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 27, 2019): MisOr, Bukidnon declare CPP-NPA persona non grata



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2726247937393913/?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/

Kalinaw News: Laguna is now “Insurgency Free”

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 27, 2019): Laguna is now “Insurgency Free”

CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal – Laguna became the second province of Region 4A to be declared as an area with Stable Internal Peace and Security or SIPS after the ceremonial signing of documents held at the Provincial Capitol on Thursday.

The Memorandum of Agreement was signed by Gov Ramil Hernandez and BGen Arnulfo Marcelo B Burgos Jr, Commander of the AFP unit which has operational jurisdiction over CALABARZON, during the Provincial Peace and Order Council which was attended by the mayors and government agencies as well as military and police commanders operating in the province.

Colonel Alex Rillera, Commander of 202nd Infantry Brigade, presented the parameters which need to be satisfied in order for a locality to be declared as free from insurgency.

He stressed that “such declaration is a testament of Laguna’s peace-loving people’s desire to liberate themselves from the clutches of terrorism and instead harness their economic potentials by ensuring peace in their community.”

Under the AFP’s phases of normalization, a province is given the SIPS status if no violent terroristic activity has been conducted by the NPAs for at least one year. Per the military, no atrocity has been recorded in Laguna for more than a year.

Gov Hernandez emphasized that the rare distinction was attained “through the national and local government’s concerted effort” through which they “were able to provide lasting solutions to the issues which the NPAs are exploiting, thus, denying the terrorists the ability to recruit our people.”

He expressed confidence that by being known as an insurgency free area, “businesses will further flourish and prosperity shall became a way of life in every corner of Laguna.”

The ceremony’s highlight was the awarding of ₱584,000 to 12 former rebels representing the government’s firearms remuneration under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP.

BGen Burgos said that the declaration and handover of grants are tangible proofs that the government is serious and sincere in its desire to finally attain national unity by ending local communist armed conflict.

He added that “the quest for an inclusive peace is now on the doorstep of each Filipino” as manifested by the “unified stand of the Local Chief Executives in operationalizing PRRD’s Directive through the different Task Forces ELCAC at all levels of government.”

He ended his statement by congratulating the people of Laguna and subsequently calling on the “few remaining NPA Terrorists to surrender and be part of the solution to help our country regain its glory so that our people may finally enjoy the peace, prosperity and development which every Filipino citizen truly deserve.”

Laguna became the second province of CALABARZON and the fourth in the entire country to be declared as SIPS following Cavite on Dec 4, 2018, Romblon on Feb 21, 2019 and Marinduque on Mar 25, 2019.

The handover of cheques for firearms remuneration was the second such undertaking in CALABARZON in less than a week after the Sept 20 event at Brgy Magsaysay of Infanta, Quezon wherein five former rebels received Php302,000 pesos.

Division Public Affairs Office 2nd Infantry Division Philippine Army
CPT JAYROLD TERNIO
Chief, DPAO, 2ID, PA
Camp General Mateo Capinpin, Tanay, Rizal
09175047068

[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/laguna-is-now-insurgency-free/

Kalinaw News: Rice forcibly taken by NPA terrorists from communities, returned by Maringal troopers

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 27, 2019): Rice forcibly taken by NPA terrorists from communities, returned by Maringal troopers

MARAMAG, Bukidnon – The Militia ng Bayan (MB) who surrendered to the troops of 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion brought along with them 22 gallons of rice which were entrusted to them by the NPA terrorists belonging to Company Thunder of SRC2, NCMRC for safekeeping. Said supplies came from the different Sitios and Puroks of Barangay Banlag, Valencia City, Bukidnon which were forcibly taken from the poor families. The number of containers is equivalent to 11 sacks of rice.

Jun-jun one of the MB said, “Kining mga ginalon nga bugas, gipahipusan kanako sa mga NPA aron nga kung sila mobalik dinhi sa among dapit aduna sila’y makaon. Ang NPA walay mga kalooy, kay bisan ang pagkaon nga para unta sa pamilya sa pobreng mga mag-uuma ila paman nga ginakuha para sa ilang kaayuhan. Busa, karon nga nibalik na kami sa panggamhanan, gusto namo nga matabangan ang gobyerno nga mahunong ug maundang na ang dili tawhanon nga mga lihok sa mga terorista. Dili na kami gusto nga ilang gamiton pag-usab aron dili na kami makahatag ug dugang kalisod ug kasakit sa among kauban nga mag-uuma.” These gallons of rice were left to us so that when the NPA returned near our area, they have something to eat. The NPA has no mercy, even the food for the family of poor farmers were taken for their consumption. With our surrender, we want to help the government by putting an end to this inhumane act of these terrorists. We don’t want to be utilized again and add sufferings to our fellow farmers.”

88th Infantry Battalion 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army
CPT NORVEN JAY GARCIA (INF) PA/CMO Officer
Contact Number: ‎09456077245
Email Address: 88Maringals7@gmail.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.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/rice-forcibly-taken-by-npa-terrorists-from-communities-returned-by-maringal-troopers/

WESTMINCOM: WestMinCom chief visits soldiers in ZamPeLan

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Website (Sep 27, 2019): WestMinCom chief visits soldiers in ZamPeLan



Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of Western Mindanao Command, checked on the conditions of military troops during his visit to the different units under the Joint Task Force ZamPeLan on September 25, 2019.



The WestMinCom commander also received updates on the security campaign against the communist terrorist and other lawless groups in the operational area in a series of conferences with ground commanders in ZamPeLan area.

“I exhort you to maintain your excellence, commitment, and diligence in order that we can sustain our unprecedented gains against private armed and communist groups. Let us not falter in keeping guard against those who sow terror and prey on the innocent,” said Lt. Gen. Sobejana to the military troops.



Lt. Col. Leon Onggao, 42nd Infantry Battalion Commander, welcomed the WestMinCom commander and party at the Battalion headquarters in Sirawai, Zamboanga del Norte at 8am on September 25.

“What we have accomplished must serve as our benchmark to carry on our internal security campaign against insurgents and terrorists who are now losing their grounds,” added Lt. Gen. Sobejana.

At 11am of same day, 102nd Infantry Brigade Commander Col. Leonel Nicolas represented by Col Randolph M. Jose Sino Cruz, Officer-in-Charge welcomed him in Sanito, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay where he was given updates on the relentless offensives of the combat troops.



“I am here to personally see the morale and welfare of our frontline troops, more so to check if there are things that we can do to assist our soldiers in the field,” said Lt. Gen. Sobejana.

The 97th Infantry Battalion troops, led by Lt. Col. John Andrada with Ltc Col. Ray Tiongson, Commanding Officer of 10th Infantry Battalion that covers the area of Misamis Occidental welcomed WestMinCom commander during his visit in Manukan, Zamboanga del Norte at 2:30pm same day.

“Your numerous feats bespeak of your unfailing dedication and bring a sense of pride and honor not only to the Armed Forces of the Philippines but also to our fellow Filipinos,” said Lt. Gen. Sobejana.

“I am proud and elated to work and lead you in accomplishing our operational objectives and in bringing into reality the hopes of the people to attain genuine peace and sustainable development in Mindanao,” concluded Lt. Gen. Sobejana.

Source: PIO Western Mindanao Command

http://www.westmincom.com/westmincom-chief-visits-soldiers-in-zampelan/

WESTMINCOM: WestMinCom Peace and Security Plan presented in RPOC meetings

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Website (Sep 27, 2019): WestMinCom Peace and Security Plan presented in RPOC meetings



Local and security leaders submitted their accomplishment reports and tackled the ongoing campaign against the local communist armed conflict in two Regional Peace and Order Council meetings on September 26.

The provinces of Cotabato, Sarangani, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and General Santos presented their respective implementation plan for the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict in a discussion with security and local leaders in Koronadal City, South Cotabato.



Jonathan Malaya, DILG undersecretary for Plans, Public Affairs and Communication, discussed the overall national ELCAC program.

Said meeting was held to bridge active support and participation of all stakeholders in formulating and advocating plans, policies, and programs for peace and development in the SOCCSKSAGEN region.



Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of Western Mindanao Command, joined local chief executives and other security officials during the 3rd quarter RPOC meeting of Region XII at EMR Center in Koronadal City.

“The ELCAC implementation plan determines the action plans of the task forces in their campaign to address local communist armed conflict. The security sector will extend all cooperation and assistance to ensure that these implementation plans are well-executed and that our anti-insurgency campaign is efficient and effective,” said Lt. Gen. Sobejana.

The WestMinCom chief also joined local leaders during the 2nd regular meeting of the Regional Peace and Order Council of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao at the Office of the Chief Minister in BARRM Compound, Cotabato City yesterday.

The Provincial Peace and Order Council of Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Lanao del Sur, and Maguindanao also submitted their accomplishment reports during the said meeting.



Abduraof Macacua, BARMM Minister of Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy, representing the BARMM RPOC led by Murad Ebrahim, graced the said meeting.

Macacua encouraged the rest of the council members to be an active partner in promoting peace and development in the Bangsamoro.

Security and local leaders also discussed the NTF-ELCAC, E-CLIP program, and security in Shariff Aguak, Pagatin, Mamasapano, and Salibo in Maguindanao and Lanao provinces.

“The synergy of efforts among sector leaders will always bear positive outcomes in as far as our security campaign is concerned, and this is evident in the development that we are seeing in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao,” said Lt. Gen. Sobejana.



Source: PIO Western Mindanao Command

http://www.westmincom.com/westmincom-peace-and-security-plan-presented-in-rpoc-meetings/

Brawner to leave post, takes PMA’s vacant position

From the Mindanao Daily News (Sep 27, 2019):Brawner to leave post, takes PMA’s vacant position

ILIGAN City--The Army’s 103rd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army based in Marawi City will have its new officer-in-charge starting Friday, September 27.

This after Brigadier General Romeo Brawner, who was its brigade commander since December 5, 2018, is being ordered to assume as Commandant of Cadets of the Philippine Military Academy, replacing Brigadier General Bartolome Vicente Bacarro who resigned following the death of Cadet 4th Class Darwin Dormitorio in September 24.

In July 2017, Brawner was sent to Marawi, after his graduation from United States Army War College, to act as the spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines during the Marawi siege.

Brawner, of PMA Class 1989, said he received the order in September 24 to replace Bacarro’s post.

Following his relief, Deputy Brigade Commander Col. Jose Maria Cuerpo, of PMA Class 1990, will take over as officer-in-charge of 103rd Brigade starting September 27.

Cuerpo has been the brigade’s second highest official since June 1, 2017.

The 103rd Brigade has jurisdiction over Marawi City and the province of Lanao del Sur excluding Malabang, Balabagan, Kapatagan and Picong.

http://mindanaodailynews.com/news/front-page/todays-top-stories/brawner-to-leave-post-takes-pmas-vacant-position

Task Force Davao holds anti-terrorism seminars

From Politiko Mindanao (Sep 27, 2019): Task Force Davao holds anti-terrorism seminars



Task Force Davao has conducted series of anti-terrorism seminars for vendors, business owners, drivers, and mall workers to inculcate the “culture of security,” an official said.

Colonel Consolito Yecla, commander of Task Force Davao, said that almost 400 Roxas Night Market vendors attended the seminar recently in preparation for the declaration of the area as a maximum security zone.

A bomb ripped Roxas Night Market on Sept. 2, 2016, killing 15 people and injuring 69 others.

The same seminar was also separately given to business owners, public utility vehicle drivers, and mall workers, Yecla said.

“They were given a checklist by TFD on how to secure themselves and the market, through the practice of the culture of security,” he said.

The culture of security is part of the anti-terrorism drive of the government. Lessons also emphasize the importance of sharing or reporting of information and maintaining cleanliness and orderliness for the area’s security.

“It is easy to identify potential threat such as unattended baggage if the area is clean and orderly,” Yecla said.

Roxas Avenue is being eyed as the second maximum security zone in the city because it is where people converge and several events are also held, he said.

The first declared maximum security zone is the San Pedro Square which is also the site of major events such as the Araw ng Dabaw, Kadayawan Festival, and Pasko Fiesta.

Yecla explained that the maximum-security zone is an area to which access is controlled through an entry point and limited to authorized, appropriately screened personnel and authorized and properly escorted visitors, and monitored 24 hours a day and seven days a week by peace-keeping forces. This means stricter measures are implemented.

https://mindanao.politics.com.ph/task-force-davao-holds-anti-terrorism-seminars-1/

Councilor requests colleagues to rally behind Lumad schools

From the Mindanao Times (Sep 27, 2019): Councilor requests colleagues to rally behind Lumad schools

A councilor appealed to her colleagues to investigate the accusation leveled against the Salugpongan Community Learning Center as a recruiting ground for the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army.
Councilor Leah Librado said the schools under Salugpongan Community Learning Center and Mindanao Interfaith Services Foundation, Inc. (MISFI) that were ordered to be temporarily closed by DepEd Region 11 are located in:

• Sitio Gatongon in Tapak, Paquibato District
• Sitio Alon in Malabog, Paquibato District
• Sitio Kapatagan in Malamba, Marilog District
• Sitio Taga Ibo in Malamba, Marilog District
• Sitio Kabalantian in Gumitan, Marilog District
• Sitio Licuyan in Tambobong in Baguio District
• Sitio Indawbong in Salaysay, Marilog District
“I rise because this body needs to address this issue. Some of the Lumad students have been
displaced and are staying here in a sanctuary in this city,” Librado said in her speech. “Most of them due to this temporary closure order, have been long displaced from their communities in Talaingod and Kapalong due to militarization in their community.”

Librado said Salugpongan has requested a dialogue with Vice Mayor Sebastian Duterte in a letter officially received by the Sangguniang Panlungsod last September 4, 2019.

“I rise to appeal to my colleagues that we need to verify this accusation and see how as a collective body we can address the need to protect the rights of the Lumad children to education and to protect them from these issues,” she said.

She said the schools were closed without due process and only on the prodding of National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, which identified the schools were exploiting the kids in protest rallies and also teaching them to hate the government.

“The host communities were witnesses to the gradual development of the schools from being literacy-numeracy programs into formal institutions,” she said.

Librado also questioned how the DepEd has come up with a suspension order if they had recognized these schools in the past.

“We also further question the process of their suspension, as they had done this without undergoing due process to investigate first the schools to verify the claims of a report. I have heard statements from school officials that they had received the information first from the media, before they received the suspension order,” Librado said.

Librado also called the other councilors to make room for dialogue and listen to the sentiments of the Lumad communities. “For the rights of our indigenous peoples are the same human rights accorded to each one of us,” she said.

http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/09/27/councilor-requests-colleagues-to-rally-behind-lumad-schools/

Former NPA allies receive aid from DILG, PLGU

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 27, 2019): Former NPA allies receive aid from DILG, PLGU

Nueva Vizcaya Gov. Carlos Padilla and DILG Prov'l Director Elma Urbina urged former NPA aides to use the government assistance for their livelihood to support their families during the release of fund aid for 13 former 'Militia ng Bayan' members of the NPA.#

BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya – At least 13 former members of the New People Army (NPA) 'Militia ng Bayan’ recently received assistance from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and provincial government here.

The villagers who came from barangays Dulli, Amueg and Camandag in Ambaguio town received checks worth P15,000.00 each which were handed by Governor Carlos Padilla and DILG provincial chief Elma Urbina.

Padilla and Urbina, in their messages encouraged the recipients to use their assistance wisely to support their families.

Milagros Sicat, provincial government’s coordinator for rebel returnees the recipients served as helpers of the NPA in their various activities in their communities.

“They were former allies of the NPA and returned back to the government through the assistance of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP),” she said.

Sicat added that more assistance will be given to rebel returnees this year through the government’s amnesty program (MDCT/BME/PIA 2-Nueva Vizcaya)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1027889

Nueva Vizcaya declares NPA ‘Persona Non Grata’

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 27, 2019): Nueva Vizcaya declares NPA ‘Persona Non Grata’

BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya – The Provincial Peace and Order and Provincial Anti-illegal Drugs Councils (PPOC-PADAC) recently declared the New People’s Army operating in the province as ‘Persona Non Grata.’

The declaration came during the September 2019 joint meeting of the PPOC and PADAC at the Nueva Vizcaya Pasalubong Center in this town.

Military officials said the official declaration of the NPA as ‘Persona Non Grata’ in the province will provide barangay officials a legal basis in resisting and objecting their possible stay in their respective communities.

Lt. Colonel Remigio Dulatre, commanding officer of the army’s 86th Infantry Batallion said this will dissuade efforts of the communist rebels in conducting their recruitment and other anti-government activities in the 275 barangays of Nueva Vizcaya.

Nueva Vizcaya thru its Prov'l Peace and Order Council (PPOC) declares the CPP-NPA-NDF as 'Persona Non Grata' during the recent meeting in Bayombong. (PIA Photo)

“This declaration will also serve as a legal document for our barangay officials not to accommodate them and further advise the communist rebels to get out from their communities,” he said.

The declaration of the NPA as ‘Persona Non Grata’ has been pushed by military officials in Cagayan Valley as a form of legal rejection on their presence in the province.

Army officials said the province, surrounded by the Cordillera, Caraballo and Sierra Madre Moutnain Ranges serves as one of the major areas for NPA infiltration in the region.

They said the CPP-NPA-NDF has been causing inhumane and terrorist activities since 1987 to present, causing apprehension, anxiety and fear among the villagers.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has declared the CPP-NPA-NDF as terrorist group in December 5, 2017 under Republic Act 10168 or the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suspension Act of 2012.# (MDCT/BME/PIA 2-Nueva Vizcaya)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1027820

AgNor LGU welcomes over 200 NPA surenderees

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 27, 2019): AgNor LGU welcomes over 200 NPA surenderees

BUTUAN CITY -- The provincial government of Agusan del Norte has welcomed and received the more than 200 members and supporters of the New People’s Army in the three barangays of Agusan del Norte, who have voluntarily surrendered to the folds of the law and promised to closely coordinate with the government to help curb the problem on insurgency in the area.

This was in time with the conduct of the Provincial Peace And Order Council (PPOC) immersion held in Barangay Tagbongabong in the municipality of Remedios T. Romualdez (RTR).

According to Rocky, a former member of the Militia Ng Bayan, his voluntary surrender to the government meant a lot to his family, as he would now be able to spend quality time with them and could now send his children to school.

“I’m happy to see my family again and will now live peacefully with them. My children would now go to school and I will be there to guide them,” he said.

Edwin, another surrenderee, also shared his hardships and sufferings while he was still in the organization. He expressed his hope that his decision of going back to the mainstream society will ultimately improve his way of living.

“It’s been hard, but now that I’m back in the community, I’m optimistic that there’s a lot of opportunities that I could avail from the government’s programs and services,” he said.

According to Brigadier General Maurito Licudine, commander of 402nd Brigade, Philippine Army, the Barangays Tagbungabong, Balang-Balang, San Antonio and Mahaba are rebel-infested areas, where the terrorist-NPAs recruit new members and supporters.

Along with the conduct of the PPOC immersion in Barangay Tagbongabong, the local residents also declared the NPAs as persona non-grata. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1027781

Tagalog News: 200 miyembro, supporters ng NPA nagbalik-loob sa gobyerno

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 27, 2019): Tagalog News: 200 miyembro, supporters ng NPA nagbalik-loob sa gobyerno 

LUNGSOD NG CABADBARAN, Agusan del Norte -- Mahigit 200 myembro at supporters ng New People's Army o NPA sa tatlong barangay ng RTR, Agusan del Norte ang nagbalik loob at makikipagtulongan sa gobyerno upang tuluyang sugpuin ang insurhensiya sa lugar.

Sa ginawang provincial peace and order council o PPOC immersion sa barangay ng Tagbongabong sa bayan ng RTR, nanumpa silang itakwil ang teroristang grupo at nangakong makipagtulungan sa gobyerno at makipag-ugnayan sila sa militar upang tuluyang masugpo ang mga gawaing terorista ng mga NPA.

Pahayag pa ni Rocky, dating miyembro ng militia ng bayan, malaki ang tulong ng kanyang pagbabalik-loob sa gobyerno dahil makapag-aral na ng maayos ang kanyang anak.

Isinalaysay din ni Edwin ang hirap na kanyang naranasan noong siya pa ay miyembro ng NPA, umaasa siyang sa pagbabalik-loob nya sa gobyerno mag iba ang takbo ng kanyang buhay.

Ayon kay Brigadier General Maurito Licudine ng 402nd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army ang barangay ng Tagbungabong, Balang-balang, San Antonio at Mahaba sa bayan ng RTR ay mga rebel-infested barangays kung saan dito ang mga NPA kumukuha ng mga bago nilang kaanib at mga susuporta. (May Amor O. Alabado/NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1027784

EV RTF-ELCAC priority barangays undergo LGSF orientation

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 27, 2019): EV RTF-ELCAC priority barangays undergo LGSF orientation

DBM RO VIII Dir. Annabelle C. Echavez as she delivers her opening message during the LGSF-FA to LGUs orientation for RTF8-ELCAC priority barangays on Sep. 17, 2019 at DBM RO VIII, Tacloban City. (DBM-8)

TACLOBAN CITY -- An orientation on the Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 Local Government Support Fund – Other Financial Assistance to Local Government Units (LGSF-FA to LGUs), designed for the 31 priority barangays of the Regional Task Force VIII – End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF8-ELCAC) was spearheaded by Department of Budget and Management Regional Office VIII (DBM RO8) as a member of the Task Force, on September 17, 2019 at its office in Tacloban City.

The concerned Punong Barangays and Chairpersons of the Sangguniang Barangays’ Committee on Appropriations, totalling to 64 barangay officials of the 30 out of the 31 barangays invited were able to attend the orientation.

The activity aimed at sharing information on the said government program which could be an opportunity to support the unmet needs and unfunded priority projects of the said barangays based on the result of the Community Support Programs (CSP) conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in these areas.

The CSP is a program of the AFP which is an upgraded version of the Peace and Development Outreach Program that aims to transform insurgency affected areas into thriving and sustainable communities by integrating programs that promote economic growth and address fundamental issues affecting lasting peace and security.

DILG RO VIII Regional Director Artemio B. Caneja as he gives his message during the LGSF-FA to LGUs orientation for RTF8-ELCAC priority barangays on Sep. 17, 2019 at DBM RO VIII, Tacloban City. (DBM-8)
DBM RO8 Regional Director Annabelle C. Echavez, in her opening message, gave an overview of the Executive Order (EO) No. 70 (Institutionalizing the Whole-Of-Nation Approach in Attaining Inclusive and Sustainable Peace, Creating a National Task Force, and Directing the Adoption of a National Peace Framework), and acknowledged that it is imperative for the government to prioritize and harmonize the delivery of basic services as provided in the Local Government Code. She emphasized further that in the implementation of any undertaking, funding is an important component.

The full support of Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) RO VIII and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) RO VIII has been evident with the presence of the DILG RO VIII Regional Director Artemio B. Caneja and NICA RO VIII Assistant Regional Director Roselyn Segura who took the occasion to impart messages in relation to their respective mandate and as lead members of the RTF8.

Dir. Caneja in his message to the barangay officials, acknowledged that their barangays are still wanting of the government’s basic services but assured of the present administration’s persistent convergence efforts to meet those desired services. He likewise reminded the barangay officials that on the exercise of their functions, a clean, transparent and efficient governance should be of prime consideration.

Assistant Director Segura discussed the salient points of the EO No. 70, with emphasis on the efforts of the government in addressing the root causes of insurgencies, and the role of the key governance factors in the initiative. Further, she highlighted the importance of good planning as the foundation of effective and efficient utilization of funds.

NICA RO VIII Assistant Regional Director Roselyn P. Segura as she discusses EO No. 70 during the LGSF-FA to LGUs orientation for RTF8-ELCAC priority barangays on Sep. 17, 2019 at DBM RO VIII, Tacloban City. (DBM-8)

The discussion of the FY 2019 LGSF-FA and facilitation of the open forum was made by OIC-Chief Budget and Management Specialist Juvy A. Lobedica.

The participants were thankful of the activity as they gained important information of some of the government’s initiatives. They emphatically relayed, however, during the open forum, the top most priority need of their barangays which are Local Concrete Roads or Farm to Market Roads as their areas are situated to as much as 28 kilometers from the Municipal’s poblacion. Their miserable road condition is a major factor that affects the depressing social and economic condition of their barangays.

Even a single lane road would be a very much welcome development to their area as it will ease or alleviate their difficulty in transporting their farm produce to the market, provide access to government’s health and other social services and minimize road accidents.

In her closing statement, Assistant Regional Director Aleli N. Hernandez acknowledged the presence of the LGU officials, especially those from far-flung areas, which shows the LGU’s interest in the programs of the government. Also, she appreciated the concerns and questions being raised by the LGU officials. She reiterated the willingness of the government, through DBM and its staff, to provide technical assistance for the benefit of the LGUs. (DBM-8/PIA-8)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1027987

Abra LGUs declare CTGs 'persona-non-grata'

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 27, 2019): Abra LGUs declare CTGs 'persona-non-grata'



BANGUED, Abra -- All the municipal local government units of the province have declared all Communist-Terrorist Groups (CTGs) as “persona-non-grata” in their areas of localities through their enacted Sangguniang Bayan resolutions.

Through these declarations, the presence of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), the New Peoples’ Army (NPA), National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) and other left-leaning groups is not wanted and welcome in the territorial jurisdictions of the municipalities.

Governor Maria Jocelyn V. Bernos said this is a manifestation that the mayors are willing to attain sustainable peace across the province. She lauded all the municipal local government units (LFUs) for their initiative on this matter of peace and security.

BGen. Henry Robinson, Assistant Brigade Commander of the 7th Infantry Division, reported this development during the 3rdquarter joint meeting of the Provincial Peace and Order Council and Provincial Development Council. However, he explained that fighting insurgency does not end in declarations and resolutions alone. Instead, LGUs must also take appropriate actions to prevent or stop the spread of rebel recruitments especially to the youth.

During the joint meeting, Executive No. 70, s. 2018 of President Rodrigo Duterte institutionalizing a “Whole-of-Nation Approach” towards the attainment of inclusive and sustainable peace was explained by National Intelligence Coordinating Agency Cordillera Director lawyer Roel Ubosan.

“This means that fighting insurgency is not solely a responsibility of the men in uniform alone. The EO of President Duterte now involves all sectors in combating insurgency,” he said.

Following the creation of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC), LGUs are urged to create their respective task force ELCAC to harmonize and optimize government efforts and resources the their level to address the root causes of insurgency.

In line with EO 70, Bernos directed all municipal and barangay LGUs to immediately enact a resolution creating their own ELCAC task force not later than September 30, 2019. (JDP/CAGT-PIA CAR, Abra)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1027991

Tagalog News: Mahigit 2,000 residente nakinabang sa 'Project Heart' ng PNP Caraga

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 27, 2019): Tagalog News: Mahigit 2,000 residente nakinabang sa 'Project Heart' ng PNP Caraga

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN -- Mahigit 2,000 residente sa Barangay San Antonio, bayan ng Remedios T. Romualdez (RTR) sa Agusan del Norte ang nakinabang sa isinagawang outreach program kamakailan na tinawag na “Project Kasing-Kasing” o “Project Heart” ng Philippine National Police (PNP) Caraga, 33 porsyento nito ay mga Indigenous Peoples (IPs).

Tumanggap ng libreng gamot ang mga residente matapos dumaan sa medical check-up, tooth extraction, eye check-up, at circumcision. Nabigyan din sila ng school supplies, tsinelas, laruan, libreng gupit, at food packs.

Laking pasasalamat din ni Mayor Richard Daquipil sa PNP dahil sa napili ang kanyang barangay na maging benepisyaryo ng outreach program. Ang Barangay San Antonio ay napabilang sa NPA-affected barangay sa rehiyon ng caraga.

Ilan-ilang insidente na rin ang naitala sa lugar kung saan nagdulot ng pangamba sa seguridad ng mga residente. Matatandaan na noong nakaraang taon, tatlong sundalo ang napatay sa pag-ambush ng teroristang grupong Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) sa nasabing lugar

Ayon kay dating PNP Caraga Regional Director Police Brigadier General Gilberto Dc Cruz, ang “Project Heart” ay flagship program ng Police Regional Office 13 na layung matulungan ang mga kababayang mahihirap na nasa liblib na lugar ng rehiyon. layun din nitong mas pagtibayin pa ang magandang relasyon ng mga kapulisan sa ibat-ibang komunidad na apektado ng insurhensiya.

Ito ay isang paraan din ng PNP sa pagpapatupad ng Executive Order No. 70 o ang whole of nation approach sa pagsugpo ng insurhensiya at pagkamit ng pangmatagalan na kapayapaan at kaunlaran sa bansa.

Ibinahagi rin ng opisyal na mula Enero hanggang Agosto ngayong taon, may kabuuang 2,000 Caraganons na ang nakabenepisyo sa kanilang “Project Heart.” (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1027935

Soldier killed, fellow hurt in Sagada clash with Reds

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 27, 2019): Soldier killed, fellow hurt in Sagada clash with Reds



Google map of Sagada, Mt. Province

CAMP MELCHOR DELA CRUZ, Gamu, Isabela -- An Army trooper was killed and another was hurt in a running battle with communist guerrillas in the mountains of Barangay Aguid, Sagada, Mountain Province on Thursday, the military said.

The fatality, Cpl. Jordan Malnawa of Pinukpuk, Kalinga, was brought to a funeral parlor and a necrological service was being readied for him at the military headquarters here, said Army Major Noriel Tayaban, 5th Infantry Division spokesperson.

"Corporal Malnawa is a hero for risking his life for the sake of achieving peace," Tayaban told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Friday.

The wounded, whose name has not been released by the military, has yet to be extricated from the battle scene as of this writing.

The soldiers found two anti-personnel mines and assorted chemical components for improvised explosive devices in the vicinity of the clash site.

It was also believed that some members of the New People's Army (NPA) were either killed or injured in the 30-minute gunfight, as evidenced by bloodstains from their withdrawal route, said Brig. Gen. Henry Doyaoen, 503rd Infantry Brigade commander.

Doyaoen said they have been scouring the area to remove planted mines as reported by villagers, when they encountered the undetermined number of communist rebels.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1081623

GenSan cops appeal for calm amid leak of memo on terror plot

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 27, 2019): GenSan cops appeal for calm amid leak of memo on terror plot



TERROR PLOT LEAK. Col. Aden Lagradante, General Santos City police director, appeals to the public to remain calm after the circulation of an alert memo regarding a terror plot reportedly targeting the city. He admitted on Friday (Sept. 27, 2019) that the memo was issued by their office but said it was supposed to be an internal document and not intended to be made public. (File photo courtesy of the city police office)

GENERAL SANTOS CITY -- Authorities appealed to residents here to remain calm after a police memo indicating a terror plot reportedly targeting the city was leaked.

Col. Aden Lagradante, city police director, admitted on Friday that the security memorandum was issued by their office but said it was supposed to be an internal document and was not intended to be made public.

Lagradante confirmed the contents of the document, which detailed alleged plans by a local terrorist group to launch bomb attacks in key areas in the city.

“This should not have leaked as we don’t want people to panic. Rest assured that we are doing everything to properly secure the city,” he said.

The alert memo, dated September 24, started circulating on social media on Wednesday.

It contained Lagradante’s instruction to the city’s eight police stations to intensify security measures due to a monitored terrorist threat.

It cited information from a “reliable source” that the group of fugitive bombing suspect Joeffrey Nilong alias Momoy, who has been tagged as a remnant of the Ansar Al-Khilafa Philippines terror group and sub-leader of the Dawlah Islamiyah-Maguif faction, was “planning to conduct terror activities” in the city.

The memo cited as primary targets the KCC Mall, Gaisano Mall, and the city central public market, using improvised explosives fashioned from 60mm and 81mm mortars.

Lagradante said the areas cited in the memo are considered as “soft targets” and they already laid out various security measures to avert these attacks.

“We should avoid going to crowded places as these are likely targets,” he said.

As to the release of the confidential memo to the public, the police official said they have adopted a system to prevent another leak in the future.

“The process is that we only release the internal alert memo to our lower units for proper action. Then the public will only feel the impact of these actions later on,” he said.

The city remains under Alert Level 3 due to the continuing security threats and the prevailing martial law in Mindanao.

Nilong, who is the subject of a continuing manhunt, was among those charged over the bomb blast in front of a lying-in clinic on Sept. 16, 2018 that left eight people wounded.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1081632

Laguna declared 'insurgency-free'

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 27, 2019): Laguna declared 'insurgency-free'



INSURGENCY-FREE. Brig. Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo B. Burgos Jr.(3rd from left), Commander of the Army’s 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division (2ID) is joined by Laguna Gov. Ramil Hernandez (4th from left), Laguna Police Provincial Office (LPPO) director, Col. Eleazar Pepito Matta (2nd from left) and Col. Alex Rillera, Commander of 202nd Infantry Brigade, in presenting the firearms remunerations to 12 former rebels. The officials signed documents declaring Laguna as “Stable Internal Peace and Security” (SIPS) at the Laguna Provincial Capitol on Sept. 26, 2019. (Photo courtesy of 2ID-DPAO)

CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal – Laguna is now an “insurgency-free” province following the joint military and government declaration and signing of the documents as an area with “Stable Internal Peace and Security” (SIPS).

In a ceremonial signing at the Laguna Provincial Capitol on Thursday, Gov. Ramil Hernandez inked the memorandum of agreement (MOA) with Brig. Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo B. Burgos Jr., Commander of the Army’s 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division (2ID) which has military operational jurisdiction over Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon)

Hernandez and Burgos signed the agreement during the Provincial Peace and Order Council attended by Laguna mayors, officials from government agencies, and the military and police commanders in the province.

Laguna is the second among the five Calabarzon provinces and the country's fourth province with such declaration after Cavite province pioneered in the country as SIPS on Dec. 4 last year.

This year, Romblon announced its declaration on February 21 while Marinduque followed on March 25.

Col. Alex Rillera, Commander of 202nd Infantry Brigade, presented the parameters where a locality has met the necessary requirements to be declared free from insurgency.

“Such declaration is a testament of Laguna’s peace-loving people’s desire to liberate themselves from the clutches of terrorism and instead harness their economic potentials by ensuring peace in their community,” Rillera said.

Under the Armed Forces of the Philippines' (AFP) phases of normalization, a province is given the SIPS status if no violent terroristic activity has been conducted by the NPAs for at least one year.

Based on the military records, no atrocity has been recorded in Laguna for more than a year now.

“This rare distinction was attained through the national and local governments’ concerted efforts in providing lasting solutions to the issues which the NPAs are exploiting, thus, denying the terrorists the ability to recruit our people,” Hernandez said.

The governor is confident that by being known as an insurgency-free area, “businesses will further flourish and prosperity shall become a way of life in every corner of Laguna.”

During the ceremony, the national government also awarded some PHP584,000 as firearms remunerations to some 12 former rebels, as part of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Burgos said the declaration and handover of grants are tangible proofs of the government’s “serious and sincere desire to finally attain national unity by ending the local communist armed conflict.”

“The quest for an inclusive peace is now on the doorstep of each Filipino,” Burgos said.

The handover of cheques for firearms remuneration to the former rebels was the second of such undertaking in the Calabarzon after five former rebels received around PHP302,000 on Sept. 20 at Barangay Magsaysay in Infanta, Quezon.

“There is now the unified stand of the local chief executives in operationalizing President Rodrigo Duterte's directive through the different Task Forces to End Local Communist Armed Conflicts (ELCAC) at all levels of government," Burgos said.

The 2ID commanding general also congratulated all Lagunenses for their support in bringing about peace in the province.

“I am calling on the few remaining NPA Terrorists to surrender and be part of the solution to help our country regain its glory so that our people may finally enjoy the peace, prosperity, and development which every Filipino citizen truly deserve,” Burgos said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1081693

Antique creates task force to end insurgency

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 27, 2019): Antique creates task force to end insurgency



ENDING INSURGENCY. The province of Antique has established on Thursday (Sept. 26, 2019) its Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC). Lt. Col. Joel Benedict Batara, Commanding Officer of the Army's 61st Infantry Battalion, said Antique was the first province to put up said task force in Panay island. (Photo courtesy of 61IB, Philippine Army)

Antique province has established its Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) on Thursday, an official of the Philippine Army said.

The PTF-ELCAC was created through an Executive Order and joint resolution passed during the Sept. 26 joint meeting of the Antique Peace and Order Council (PPOC), Peace Development Council (PDC) and Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council at the Provincial Capitol Building in San Jose de Buenavista town.

Antique Governor Rhodora Cadiao led the signing of Executive Order No. 119 creating the Antique PTF-ELCAC.

In an interview Friday, Lt. Col. Joel Benedict Batara, commander of the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion (61IB), lauded Antique for being the first province in Panay to create the PTF-ELCAC.

“The national task force is headed by the President, and it will be cascaded to provinces, to municipalities and villages,” he said.

Batara noted that the task force is joined by the council concerned with security and development “to harmonize programs of peace and order with development”.

“One of the priorities (of the task force) is here on the conflict and vulnerable areas to address insurgency. This is part of the whole-of-nation approach since the problem on insurgency is not only the concern of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alone,” he said.

Although Antique was already declared “peaceful and ready for development” in 2015, Batara noted the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) has “recovery efforts” in some of Antique's towns.

He said Antique is the go-to province of rebels when the government troops conduct operations in neighboring Iloilo province.

“They (rebels) have recovery efforts in towns of Culasi, Valderrama, San Remigio, Sibalom, and Hamtic. This will be the focus of the task force, to clear these areas, so that the rebels will not succeed in their recovery efforts,” Batara said.

With the creation of the task force, a series of workshops to end local insurgency will be held in the provincial level. Also, specific tasks will be identified and implementation plans will be crafted.

Batara said the task force will also work towards the declaration of the CPP-NPA as persona-non-grata in the province.

“That will be included in the program,” he said.

The towns of Anini-y, Belison, Libertad, Culasi, San Jose de Buenavista and Lauan have earlier passed a resolution condemning the terroristic activities of the CPP-NPA and declaring them unwelcome in their respective localities.

Batara urged the leaders of Antique province to continue their efforts towards peace, security and development and said he expects other provinces to also establish the same task force on ending local insurgency.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1081672

Hacienda Luisita farmers’ group withdraws support to Reds

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 27, 2019): Hacienda Luisita farmers’ group withdraws support to Reds



COMMITMENT VS. TERRORISM. Former members of the Alyansa ng Manggagawang Bukid sa Hacienda Luisita (AMBALA) sign a pledge of commitment against terrorism during a peace forum held in Barangay Balete, Hacienda Luisita in Tarlac on Wednesday (Sept. 25, 2019). AMBALA is known for its alliance with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army that capitalizes on the non-distribution of lands in the sugar plantation in order to recruit members and stage mass actions against the government. (Photo from 1st Civil Relations Group, CRS-AFP)

SAN MIGUEL, Tarlac—At least 120 former members of the Alyansa ng Manggagawang Bukid sa Hacienda Luisita (AMBALA) have withdrawn their support to the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

The former AMBALA members, together with other farmers and tenants from the 11 barangays of Hacienda Luisita, attended a peace forum held Wednesday in Barangay Balete of the sugar plantation in this province, where they condemned the CPP-NPA and its allied organizations.

AMBALA is known for its alliance with the rebel group that capitalizes on the non-distribution of lands to the landless farmers in Hacienda Luisita in order to recruit members and stage mass actions against the government.

“We always joined rallies and demonstrations with a promise that they will give us lands. Instead, it brought turmoil in our lives,” said Florida Sibayan, former AMBALA chair, in an interview.

Sibayan said they formed a new organization called the Malayang Magsasaka ng Hacienda Luisita (MALAYA), a legal group that is free from deception and is supportive of the government.

At present, she said that they are working for the accreditation of MALAYA with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Lt. Col. Norberto P. Aromin Jr., commanding officer of Philippine Army’s 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion, said everyone is longing for peace.

According to him, sustainable peace in Hacienda Luisita will be attained if residents will commit to support President Rodrigo Duterte's whole-of-nation approach to ending the decades-long insurgency.

“Let us carry on with the same fervor and perseverance to convince all those skeptics that if we unite and work together for peace, we can make change happen, not just for our family but for the Hacienda Luisita and for the entire nation,” Aromin said.

The 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion, together with the 703rd Agila Brigade, 7th Infantry Division, Philippine Army and 1st Civil Relations Group, Civil Relations Service-Armed Forces of the Philippines, in collaboration with the provincial government of Tarlac, facilitated the peace forum with the theme “Sama-sama at Magkaisa Tungo sa Mapayapang Hacienda Luisita.”

The event aimed to enlighten the participants on the issue of land reform through a dialogue with the Provincial Agrarian Reform Office (PARO).

Representatives of concerned government agencies such as the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) also discussed the programs of the government that could help the former AMBALA members and farmers uplift their living condition.

The forum was highlighted with the presentation of Executive Order No. 70 on the Whole-of-Nation Approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict through the delivery of basic social services and development in cooperation with the concerned government agencies.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1081682

Maritime students learn communism's pitfalls

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 27, 2019): Maritime students learn communism's pitfalls



COMMUNISM'S UGLY HEAD. A former NPA rebel dedicates her time enlightening college students on communism in the Philippines and why it is senseless. The 53-year-old speaker, "Lola", encourages the youth to love and dedicate themselves to serving the country. (PNA photo by Christine Cudis)

For some students training to be seafarers, communism is an issue they rarely discuss thinking it will not affect them once they graduate and work overseas.

But after a forum on Thursday organized by the Philippine Air Force's Civil-Military Operations, the students weighed in on the matter.

First-year marine engineering student Shushan Odango said he thought that communists join the movement fully aware of the cause and its end-goal.

“Hindi pala sila voluntary sumali. Yung karamihan sa kanila ay nirecruit tapos ginipit din. They [recruiters from communist-front groups] are manipulating the minds of Filipino students, mahirap pala ang karanasan nila [na-recruit na member] (I found out that they did not get in on their own accounts. Most of them were recruited and then blackmailed/deceived. Recruiters are manipulating the minds of Filipino students, I realized their situation is difficult),” Odango said.

Odango was one of the many students of the Asian Institute of Marine Studies (AIMS) who attended the forum on Campus Peace and Development and heard 53-year old former rebel, "Lola", share her 10-year experience being a political officer of the New People’s Army (NPA), the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines.

Lola told the forum participants that communist recruiters are usually deceptive, using their physical attributes to lure young people into the movement.

“The recruiters are among you, they do not show to you as armed rebels as they come from the mountains, they pose as friendly strangers, presentable, and some of them are good looking (it helps with the recruitment). Then, they try to know your personal issues, bank on your anger and gradually grow them to bigger issues, societal issues,” the former rebel said.

“Wag nyong biguin ang magulang ninyo, Ang mahal ng tuition. May pamangkin ako, nagchichip in kami para mapag-aral sya (Do not disappoint your parents. It is expensive to send a child to college. I have a nephew who is now a Captain, my siblings and I chipped in so he can finish school),” Lola added.

Xyruss Macatangay, a 20-year-old marine transportation student, said he is also more dedicated to doing good in school after knowing the ill-effects brought to other students who were persuaded to join the communist movement.

“Mahal po ang tuition tapos nakakaawa naman po nagpa-aral sa amin pag di kami magtapos (Our tuition is expensive and I do not want to waste the time and money of the people who sent us to school to go to waste if we chose not to continue studying),” he said in an interview.

Lola also encouraged the students to love their country wherever their job may take them.

"Eventually, you will leave your country. But don’t forget to love it because, at the end of it all, this is your home-- you will always come back here," she added.

AIMS Center for Student Services and Development director Lamberto Mindanao who requested for the forum said he wants to instill discipline on the students.

“This stuff is not taught in school so inviting these experts into our school is an avenue for students to learn and be aware of the government’s cause as well as other social concerns,” he added.

Lt. Col. Sir Byron de Ocampo of the Civil-Military Operations, who lead the organizing team, said it is their fourth time to conduct an information drive regarding peace and development.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1081595