https://www.facebook.com/Bangsamorodailynews2018/photos/pcb.1120964118293734/1120963544960458/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/Bangsamorodailynews2018/
Monday, September 30, 2019
BDN: Surgical Strike
Posted to the MNLF-affiliated Bangsamoro Daily News (BDN) Facebook Page (Sep 22, 2019): Surgical Strike
https://www.facebook.com/Bangsamorodailynews2018/photos/pcb.1120964118293734/1120963544960458/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/Bangsamorodailynews2018/
https://www.facebook.com/Bangsamorodailynews2018/photos/pcb.1120964118293734/1120963544960458/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/Bangsamorodailynews2018/
BDN: 2nd Round of GPH-MNLF PEACE Coordinating Committee Meeting Soon..
Posted to the MNLF-affiliated Bangsamoro Daily News (BDN) Facebook Page (Sep 29, 2019): 2nd Round of GPH-MNLF PEACE Coordinating Committee Meeting Soon...🕊☮🚩🇵🇭
#OnwardFederalism
#LongLiveMNLF
#LongLiveMaasNurPMisuari
#LongLivePRRD
MNLF Moro National Liberation Front - Members of OIC, PUIC
Nur P. Misuari
YOUTH IN REVOLT - MNLF
https://www.facebook.com/Bangsamorodailynews2018/photos/a.645635595826591/1126923321031147/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/Bangsamorodailynews2018/
#OnwardFederalism
#LongLiveMNLF
#LongLiveMaasNurPMisuari
#LongLivePRRD
MNLF Moro National Liberation Front - Members of OIC, PUIC
Nur P. Misuari
YOUTH IN REVOLT - MNLF
https://www.facebook.com/Bangsamorodailynews2018/photos/a.645635595826591/1126923321031147/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/Bangsamorodailynews2018/
BDN: Nur Misuari and Al-Haj Murad meet at OPAPP National Peace Consciousness Month Celebration
Posted to the MNLF-affiliated Bangsamoro Daily News (BDN) Facebook Page (Sep 30, 2019): Nur Misuari and Al-Haj Murad meet at OPAPP National Peace Consciousness Month Celebration
Masha'Allah!
Maituturing isa sa makasaysayang kaganapan ang nangyaring pagkikita-kita nang harapan nang mga BangsaMoro Leaders o Ameer. Na pinangungunahan nang ating Mahal Na Ameer MNLF Founding Leader Chairman Dr. Prof. NUR P. MISUARI Al-hadj, BARMM CM / MILF Murad Ibrahim Al-hadj, at 15 EC Muslimin Sema. Kasama din sa larawan ang butihing OPAPP Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. At Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri. Naganap ang makasaysayang pagtatagpong eto sa PICC, Pasay, Metro Manila Habang ipinagdiriwang ang "PEACE CULMINATION MONTH CELEBRATION" September 30, 2019 araw ng Lunes. Eto'y programa na pinangunahan ng OPAPP in Partnership sa mga iba't-ibang Peace Advocates Groups, NGO's, Individuals at iba pang Ahensya ng Gobyerno.
Isang pagpapatunay na ang BangsaMoro ay Handang harapin ang lahat nang balakid sa daan patungo sa landas ng Tunay at Wagas na Kapayapaan.
#WeAreMNLFAndWeAreForPeace👍✌☮🕊
YOUTH IN REVOLT - MNLF
Masha'Allah!
Maituturing isa sa makasaysayang kaganapan ang nangyaring pagkikita-kita nang harapan nang mga BangsaMoro Leaders o Ameer. Na pinangungunahan nang ating Mahal Na Ameer MNLF Founding Leader Chairman Dr. Prof. NUR P. MISUARI Al-hadj, BARMM CM / MILF Murad Ibrahim Al-hadj, at 15 EC Muslimin Sema. Kasama din sa larawan ang butihing OPAPP Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. At Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri. Naganap ang makasaysayang pagtatagpong eto sa PICC, Pasay, Metro Manila Habang ipinagdiriwang ang "PEACE CULMINATION MONTH CELEBRATION" September 30, 2019 araw ng Lunes. Eto'y programa na pinangunahan ng OPAPP in Partnership sa mga iba't-ibang Peace Advocates Groups, NGO's, Individuals at iba pang Ahensya ng Gobyerno.
Isang pagpapatunay na ang BangsaMoro ay Handang harapin ang lahat nang balakid sa daan patungo sa landas ng Tunay at Wagas na Kapayapaan.
#WeAreMNLFAndWeAreForPeace👍✌☮🕊
YOUTH IN REVOLT - MNLF
U.S. and Philippine Forces Conduct Joint Training in Negros Occidental
From US Embassy Philippines Website (Sep 23, 2019): U.S. and Philippine Forces Conduct Joint Training in Negros Occidental
U.S. Army Special Forces and Philippine security forces partnered for a joint training exercise at 6th Special Action Battalion Camp, Sagay City, Negros Occidental, from Aug. 26 to Sept. 20.
The four-week training, dubbed Badge Piston 19, focused on refining and developing the following disciplines: human rights, law of armed conflict, tactical combat casualty care, combat and sniper marksmanship, and rural and urban reconnaissance. The training included classroom instruction to facilitate an exchange of tactics, techniques, and procedures, and joint U.S.-Philippine practical exercises.
A total of 50 personnel from the Philippine National Police 6th Special Action Battalion, Philippine Army 79th Infantry Battalion, and 2nd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne), U.S. Army, participated in the training.
“Our partnership with U.S. forces participating in this exercise allowed us to share knowledge and skills that are very useful in the fight against terrorism. These four weeks of training developed a profound sense of camaraderie and brotherhood between both sides,” said Maj. John Mocyat Jr., Philippine National Police, 6th Special Action Battalion.
“This U.S.–Philippine joint training provided opportunities for both parties to exchange expertise and build interoperability, to increase mission success,” said the Detachment Commander of the U.S. forces.
The United States, as a longstanding friend, partner, and ally of the Philippines, continues to exchange expertise and train with Philippine security forces.
The four-week training, dubbed Badge Piston 19, focused on refining and developing the following disciplines: human rights, law of armed conflict, tactical combat casualty care, combat and sniper marksmanship, and rural and urban reconnaissance. The training included classroom instruction to facilitate an exchange of tactics, techniques, and procedures, and joint U.S.-Philippine practical exercises.
A total of 50 personnel from the Philippine National Police 6th Special Action Battalion, Philippine Army 79th Infantry Battalion, and 2nd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne), U.S. Army, participated in the training.
“Our partnership with U.S. forces participating in this exercise allowed us to share knowledge and skills that are very useful in the fight against terrorism. These four weeks of training developed a profound sense of camaraderie and brotherhood between both sides,” said Maj. John Mocyat Jr., Philippine National Police, 6th Special Action Battalion.
“This U.S.–Philippine joint training provided opportunities for both parties to exchange expertise and build interoperability, to increase mission success,” said the Detachment Commander of the U.S. forces.
The United States, as a longstanding friend, partner, and ally of the Philippines, continues to exchange expertise and train with Philippine security forces.
AFP-CRS: 100 ex-NPA members, supporters torch rebel flags
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 30, 2019): 100 ex-NPA members, supporters torch rebel flags
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2732064193478954/?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/
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2732064193478954/?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: AFP: NPA leader killed in clash with Army in Bukidnon
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 30, 2019): AFP: NPA leader killed in clash with Army in Bukidnon
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2732066903478683/?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/
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2732066903478683/?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: NTF ELCAC exec on Makabayan bloc's silence
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 30, 2019): NTF ELCAC exec on Makabayan bloc's silence
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2732086496810057/?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/
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2732086496810057/?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: NTF ELCAC exec: "Makabayan bloc took turns hitting the agency heads during the budget hearing."
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 30, 2019): NTF ELCAC exec: "Makabayan bloc took turns hitting the agency heads during the budget hearing."
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2732087790143261/?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/
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2732087790143261/?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: NTF ELCAC exec: CPP-NPA proves 32 years of peace double talks
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 30, 2019): NTF ELCAC exec: CPP-NPA proves 32 years of peace double talks
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2732090293476344/?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/
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2732090293476344/?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: NTF ELCAC exec on Makabayan bloc's plans and version of peace
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 30, 2019): NTF ELCAC exec on Makabayan bloc's plans and version of peace
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2732092050142835/?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/
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2732092050142835/?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: NTF ELCAC exec: They do not intend to demobilize the NPA
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 30, 2019): NTF ELCAC exec: They do not intend to demobilize the NPA
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2732093686809338/?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/
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2732093686809338/?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: NTF ELCAC exec on Makabayan Bloc's red-tagging issue: "They want your Armed Forces disbanded."
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 30, 2019): NTF ELCAC exec on Makabayan Bloc's red-tagging issue: "They want your Armed Forces disbanded."
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2732096523475721/?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/
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2732096523475721/?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/
CPP/NDF-Negros: The cause of the transport sector is a cause of the exploited class
NDF-Negros propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Sep 30, 2019): The cause of the transport sector is a cause of the exploited class
BAYANI OBRERO
SPOKESPERSON
NDF-NEGROS
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES
SEPTEMBER 30, 2019
The monopoly of the ruling class of big bureaucrat-comprador bourgeoisie such as the families of Villar, Sy, Aboitiz ang Pangilinan are the ones who will benefit from PUV modernization. This is along the neoliberal policy of the Philippine economy where the inutile reactionary government abandoned its full responsibility of basic social services like the transport sector.
Despite the responsibility of the government to ensure a safe, efficient, cheap and reliable transport service, it pushed for a devious “modernization” of PUVs as pretext of the Duterte’s reactionary government and Department of Transportation (DOTr) full hand over of the transport sector to big private corporations that will eradicate the livelihood of drivers, submerge them in debt and devastate small operators in the name of super profits.
The conditions of the transportation sector worsened still with the anti-poor policies, regulations and guidelines of the DOTr/LTFRB in favor of the monopoly of bus companies particularly here in Negros. Furthermore the unceasing hike of oil prices under the deregulation policy while prices of basic goods are skyrocketing. Yet, wages of sugar workers in cane fields and mills and other sectors have not increased.
The DOTr and LTFRB responds to the resounding clamor of workers and small operators with fascism. They threaten them with the revocation of driver’s licences and the operators’ franchises to quell and foil their legitimate struggle. Clearly, the Duterte regime is only for the big capitalist comprador bourgeoisie and land lords. The ardent voices and movement of the drivers, operators, federations and other democratic sectors is justified in fighting against any form of the anti-poor PUV “modernization”. The cause of the transportation sector will also be the cause of the exploited classes of workers, peasants, fisherfolk, urban poor, youth and students, professionals, businessmen, church people and other democratic forces.###
https://cpp.ph/statement/the-cause-of-the-transport-sector-is-a-cause-of-the-exploited-class/
The monopoly of the ruling class of big bureaucrat-comprador bourgeoisie such as the families of Villar, Sy, Aboitiz ang Pangilinan are the ones who will benefit from PUV modernization. This is along the neoliberal policy of the Philippine economy where the inutile reactionary government abandoned its full responsibility of basic social services like the transport sector.
Despite the responsibility of the government to ensure a safe, efficient, cheap and reliable transport service, it pushed for a devious “modernization” of PUVs as pretext of the Duterte’s reactionary government and Department of Transportation (DOTr) full hand over of the transport sector to big private corporations that will eradicate the livelihood of drivers, submerge them in debt and devastate small operators in the name of super profits.
The conditions of the transportation sector worsened still with the anti-poor policies, regulations and guidelines of the DOTr/LTFRB in favor of the monopoly of bus companies particularly here in Negros. Furthermore the unceasing hike of oil prices under the deregulation policy while prices of basic goods are skyrocketing. Yet, wages of sugar workers in cane fields and mills and other sectors have not increased.
The DOTr and LTFRB responds to the resounding clamor of workers and small operators with fascism. They threaten them with the revocation of driver’s licences and the operators’ franchises to quell and foil their legitimate struggle. Clearly, the Duterte regime is only for the big capitalist comprador bourgeoisie and land lords. The ardent voices and movement of the drivers, operators, federations and other democratic sectors is justified in fighting against any form of the anti-poor PUV “modernization”. The cause of the transportation sector will also be the cause of the exploited classes of workers, peasants, fisherfolk, urban poor, youth and students, professionals, businessmen, church people and other democratic forces.###
https://cpp.ph/statement/the-cause-of-the-transport-sector-is-a-cause-of-the-exploited-class/
CPP/NDF-EV: NDF-EV scores fascist orientation behind PMA hazing and campus militarization in the region
NDF-Eastern Visayas propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Sep 30, 2019): NDF-EV scores fascist orientation behind PMA hazing and campus militarization in the region
FR. SANTIAGO “KA SANNY” SALAS
SPOKESPERSON
NDF-EV
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES
SEPTEMBER 30, 2019
The National Democratic Front-Eastern Visayas today said the hazing problem in the Philippine Military Academy that recently killed a cadet will not go away but may in fact become widespread through the Duterte regime’s drive to militarize campuses. “Hazing is inherent in the fascist orientation of the military and police that are essentially molded as anti-people, anti-democratic and mercenary,” said NDF-EV spokesperson Fr. Santiago Ka “Sanny” Salas. “The PMA, Philippine National Police Academy, and the training courses for officers and enlisted personnel are widely known to practice hazing, some of which have been exposed earlier.
“This is part of turning out armed minions of the state who are unquestioning robots blindly obedient to the chain of command. No matter how stupid, savage and sinister their generals and Duterte are, the military and police are ordered to follow them in mass killings of the poor, in Red-tagging progressive and patriotic groups, and in doing the bidding of US imperialism against their fellow Filipinos.”
Fr. Salas noted that the hazing and regimentation practiced in the service academies are being brought by the Duterte government to other campuses through reviving mandatory Reserved Officers Training Corps (ROTC) as well as repressing campus freedom. “On the very same day PMA cadet Darwin Dormitorio died, Sept. 18, the PNP’s 803rd Maneuver Company swooped down on a forum that students were forced to attend at the University of Eastern Philippines in Catarman, Northern Samar. In full battle gear, the police harangued the students on ‘anti-terrorism,’ ‘anti-drugs,’ and on joining the PNPA.
“They maliciously linked civilian and unarmed activist student organizations with the New People’s Army and NDF, dismissing the issues they raise and and saying these only want to make fools of the students. They glorified their anti-drugs campaign that has killed more than 30,000 poor people while billion-peso drug smuggling continues under Duterte’s watch. They extolled joining the police academy so there would be more officers to conduct Tokhang, Sauron and other operations to murder the poor and the resistance to Duterte’s tyranny.”
The NDF-EV spokesperson urged the UEP students and the youth of Eastern Visayas to stand up to the militarization of the campuses and of society under the fascist Duterte regime. “We call on the UEP students and the youth and students throughout the region to unite and condemn the Duterte regime’s militarization of campuses, of the government and of society. We urge them to study the roots of the crisis in the Philippines and to struggle for national sovereignty and social justice.
“The NDF-EV also appeals to the junior officers and rank-and-file elements among the AFP-PNP to not blindly follow their orders and to be critical of the institutions they belong to. We encourage them to also study the basic problems of society and to listen to the sufferings of their fellow Filipinos. There is democracy in the NPA galvanizing it for nationalist and democratic ideals worth fighting for, and none in the AFP-PNP that is stifled by a fascist orientation in guarding the the unjust and oppressive ruling system against the rising people.”#
https://cpp.ph/statement/ndf-ev-scores-fascist-orientation-behind-pma-hazing-and-campus-militarization-in-the-region/
FR. SANTIAGO “KA SANNY” SALAS
SPOKESPERSON
NDF-EV
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES
SEPTEMBER 30, 2019
The National Democratic Front-Eastern Visayas today said the hazing problem in the Philippine Military Academy that recently killed a cadet will not go away but may in fact become widespread through the Duterte regime’s drive to militarize campuses. “Hazing is inherent in the fascist orientation of the military and police that are essentially molded as anti-people, anti-democratic and mercenary,” said NDF-EV spokesperson Fr. Santiago Ka “Sanny” Salas. “The PMA, Philippine National Police Academy, and the training courses for officers and enlisted personnel are widely known to practice hazing, some of which have been exposed earlier.
“This is part of turning out armed minions of the state who are unquestioning robots blindly obedient to the chain of command. No matter how stupid, savage and sinister their generals and Duterte are, the military and police are ordered to follow them in mass killings of the poor, in Red-tagging progressive and patriotic groups, and in doing the bidding of US imperialism against their fellow Filipinos.”
Fr. Salas noted that the hazing and regimentation practiced in the service academies are being brought by the Duterte government to other campuses through reviving mandatory Reserved Officers Training Corps (ROTC) as well as repressing campus freedom. “On the very same day PMA cadet Darwin Dormitorio died, Sept. 18, the PNP’s 803rd Maneuver Company swooped down on a forum that students were forced to attend at the University of Eastern Philippines in Catarman, Northern Samar. In full battle gear, the police harangued the students on ‘anti-terrorism,’ ‘anti-drugs,’ and on joining the PNPA.
“They maliciously linked civilian and unarmed activist student organizations with the New People’s Army and NDF, dismissing the issues they raise and and saying these only want to make fools of the students. They glorified their anti-drugs campaign that has killed more than 30,000 poor people while billion-peso drug smuggling continues under Duterte’s watch. They extolled joining the police academy so there would be more officers to conduct Tokhang, Sauron and other operations to murder the poor and the resistance to Duterte’s tyranny.”
The NDF-EV spokesperson urged the UEP students and the youth of Eastern Visayas to stand up to the militarization of the campuses and of society under the fascist Duterte regime. “We call on the UEP students and the youth and students throughout the region to unite and condemn the Duterte regime’s militarization of campuses, of the government and of society. We urge them to study the roots of the crisis in the Philippines and to struggle for national sovereignty and social justice.
“The NDF-EV also appeals to the junior officers and rank-and-file elements among the AFP-PNP to not blindly follow their orders and to be critical of the institutions they belong to. We encourage them to also study the basic problems of society and to listen to the sufferings of their fellow Filipinos. There is democracy in the NPA galvanizing it for nationalist and democratic ideals worth fighting for, and none in the AFP-PNP that is stifled by a fascist orientation in guarding the the unjust and oppressive ruling system against the rising people.”#
https://cpp.ph/statement/ndf-ev-scores-fascist-orientation-behind-pma-hazing-and-campus-militarization-in-the-region/
Kalinaw News: Ex-Militant group members undergo TESDA livelihood training
Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 30, 2019): Ex-Militant group members undergo TESDA livelihood training
Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur—The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the 9th Special Forces (HOUNDS) Company of the 3rd Special Forces (ARROWHEAD) Battalion in coordination with the Barangay Local Government Units (BLGUs) of Diatagon and San Isidro, Lianga, Surigao del Sur (SDS) conducted a community based training program on Agricultural Organic Production to forty six (46) former members of the militant group, Kapunungan sa mga Mag-uuma sa Surigao del Sur (KAMASS). The 29-day training formally opened last September 19, 2019 at Mejares Fun Farm, a TESDA Accredited Agricultural school in barangay Banahao, Lianga, SDS.
The former KAMASS members are now active members of Camansi and Agila Peoples’ Organizations. These are the results of the peace and development efforts of the Community Support Program (CSP) which identified their livelihood issues used by militant group, KAMASS, to organize and mobilize them in anti-government demonstrations. Last month, the peoples’ organizations received vegetable seedlings to aid them in their farming. The next phase of trainings will include Abaca Production Technology Technical Training under the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PHILFIDA).
Lieutenant Colonel Joey B Baybayan INF (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer of the 3RD Special Forces (ARROWHEAD) Battalion said that it is better if basic delivery services and social issues are resolved through proper channel such as this.
“Yes there are various issues that affect our communities and these are best resolved through the convergence and synergy between government and the affected community. Front groups of Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) pretend to help those in need by bringing them on the streets to exploit them in demonstrations as a show of force to discredit the government. If they are sincere in addressing the issue, why not bring them to the appropriate and concerned government agencies which can resolve their issues instead of dragging them on the streets and giving them false hopes, “he said.
The Surigao del Sur TESDA office which leads the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) marshals new strategies that ensure better services for communities, as part of the state’s efforts to further promote sustainable and inclusive peace.
Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur—The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the 9th Special Forces (HOUNDS) Company of the 3rd Special Forces (ARROWHEAD) Battalion in coordination with the Barangay Local Government Units (BLGUs) of Diatagon and San Isidro, Lianga, Surigao del Sur (SDS) conducted a community based training program on Agricultural Organic Production to forty six (46) former members of the militant group, Kapunungan sa mga Mag-uuma sa Surigao del Sur (KAMASS). The 29-day training formally opened last September 19, 2019 at Mejares Fun Farm, a TESDA Accredited Agricultural school in barangay Banahao, Lianga, SDS.
The former KAMASS members are now active members of Camansi and Agila Peoples’ Organizations. These are the results of the peace and development efforts of the Community Support Program (CSP) which identified their livelihood issues used by militant group, KAMASS, to organize and mobilize them in anti-government demonstrations. Last month, the peoples’ organizations received vegetable seedlings to aid them in their farming. The next phase of trainings will include Abaca Production Technology Technical Training under the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PHILFIDA).
Lieutenant Colonel Joey B Baybayan INF (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer of the 3RD Special Forces (ARROWHEAD) Battalion said that it is better if basic delivery services and social issues are resolved through proper channel such as this.
“Yes there are various issues that affect our communities and these are best resolved through the convergence and synergy between government and the affected community. Front groups of Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) pretend to help those in need by bringing them on the streets to exploit them in demonstrations as a show of force to discredit the government. If they are sincere in addressing the issue, why not bring them to the appropriate and concerned government agencies which can resolve their issues instead of dragging them on the streets and giving them false hopes, “he said.
The Surigao del Sur TESDA office which leads the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) marshals new strategies that ensure better services for communities, as part of the state’s efforts to further promote sustainable and inclusive peace.
[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]
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]
Kalinaw News: Kins of two NPA killed in Bukidnon, thanked 88IB for doing all to save their loved one
Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 30, 2019): Kins of two NPA killed in Bukidnon, thanked 88IB for doing all to save their loved one
Joven Manggatawan – NPA Leader. Abandoned his family for the terrorist group, 3 of his children regret’s their father’s absence on their wedding day. 88IB tried to convince him to live a peaceful life with his family, but he threatened to kill the emissary. During the encounter last Saturday, he was wounded on his right arm. Abandoned by his comrades, army medics rushed to save him by putting a tourniquet. He expired after running out of blood. 88IB with Quezon LGU contacted his family and prepared a decent burial assistance. His wife and relatives are thankful of 88IB for paying respect to their love one.
Oliver Cabusog – NPA Element. Being the remaining single (unmarried) amongst his siblings, Oliver took charge of their farm owned by his father. During the same encounter last Sept 28, he cried for help after being hit on his left leg. Army Medics applied first aid and immobilized his legs by makeshift splint. He was tactically carried down from the mountains by our soldiers reaching Bukidnon Provincial Hospital – Maramag early dawn Sept 29 concious. His family was shocked upon learning he was wounded and with the NPAs. They said he is a very good son, the last time they met, Oliver said he is going to his mother’s side in Lagonglong, MisOr. They arrived in the hospital afterlunch, he was unconcious and unstable. Soldiers rushing in and out of hospital to buy medicines and other materials needed. One braved the rain, arriving back only learn Oliver expired at around 5PM. His sisters, brother and father saw all the effort and thanked our soldiers. On an interview, they advised the relatives of NPAs to convince them to come home before its too late.
Ang ating mga kasundaluhan ay mahigpit na sumusunod sa International Humanitarian Law (IHL) /Geneva Convention/Law of Armed Conflict na naglalayong maproteksyonan ang mga sibiyan, kasama na rito ang mga walang kakayahan lumaban gaya ng mga sugatan, maging kalaban man ito. Ang tawag dito ay principle of distinction.
Saklaw ng IHL ang mga NPA, kung kayat dinidisiplina at pinagmumulta ng CPP ang mga lider nilang napapatunayang lumapastangan sa IHL.
Sa mga nabangit na lugar, mayroong mga conflict dahil presensya ng mga NPA kung kayat IHL na masusunod na bahagi rin naman ng ating batas na R.A. 9851.
403rd Infantry "Peacemaker" Brigade 4 Infantry Division Philippine Army
Cpt Marcelito Quijano
CMO Officer, 403Bde, 41D, PA
Malaybalay City, Bukidnon
09564177497
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]
Joven Manggatawan – NPA Leader. Abandoned his family for the terrorist group, 3 of his children regret’s their father’s absence on their wedding day. 88IB tried to convince him to live a peaceful life with his family, but he threatened to kill the emissary. During the encounter last Saturday, he was wounded on his right arm. Abandoned by his comrades, army medics rushed to save him by putting a tourniquet. He expired after running out of blood. 88IB with Quezon LGU contacted his family and prepared a decent burial assistance. His wife and relatives are thankful of 88IB for paying respect to their love one.
Oliver Cabusog – NPA Element. Being the remaining single (unmarried) amongst his siblings, Oliver took charge of their farm owned by his father. During the same encounter last Sept 28, he cried for help after being hit on his left leg. Army Medics applied first aid and immobilized his legs by makeshift splint. He was tactically carried down from the mountains by our soldiers reaching Bukidnon Provincial Hospital – Maramag early dawn Sept 29 concious. His family was shocked upon learning he was wounded and with the NPAs. They said he is a very good son, the last time they met, Oliver said he is going to his mother’s side in Lagonglong, MisOr. They arrived in the hospital afterlunch, he was unconcious and unstable. Soldiers rushing in and out of hospital to buy medicines and other materials needed. One braved the rain, arriving back only learn Oliver expired at around 5PM. His sisters, brother and father saw all the effort and thanked our soldiers. On an interview, they advised the relatives of NPAs to convince them to come home before its too late.
Ang ating mga kasundaluhan ay mahigpit na sumusunod sa International Humanitarian Law (IHL) /Geneva Convention/Law of Armed Conflict na naglalayong maproteksyonan ang mga sibiyan, kasama na rito ang mga walang kakayahan lumaban gaya ng mga sugatan, maging kalaban man ito. Ang tawag dito ay principle of distinction.
Saklaw ng IHL ang mga NPA, kung kayat dinidisiplina at pinagmumulta ng CPP ang mga lider nilang napapatunayang lumapastangan sa IHL.
Sa mga nabangit na lugar, mayroong mga conflict dahil presensya ng mga NPA kung kayat IHL na masusunod na bahagi rin naman ng ating batas na R.A. 9851.
403rd Infantry "Peacemaker" Brigade 4 Infantry Division Philippine Army
Cpt Marcelito Quijano
CMO Officer, 403Bde, 41D, PA
Malaybalay City, Bukidnon
09564177497
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]
Kalinaw News: AFP concludes Joint Exercise DAGIT-PA
Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 30, 2019): AFP concludes Joint Exercise DAGIT-PA
CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) concluded its third multi-service military exercise DAGIT-PA with a ceremony held Monday, September 30 at the AFP Education Training and Doctrine Command (AFPETDC), here.
During the AFP Joint Exercise DAGIT-PA which ran from September 16 to 27, different units from the Army, Air Force and Navy, including reservists, took part in major joint interoperability events as well as command post exercises. These events included amphibious operations, airfield retake and aviation operations, urban operations, and cyber defense training throughout Northern and Western Philippines.
“AJEX DAGIT-PA brought out the best in our troops during various field and staff exercises. Our units from the regular and reserve force greatly benefitted from this multi-service exercise that aimed to develop our skills and capabilities in joint sea, air and land operations. We do this to better perform our mission of protecting the people and the state,” said Commodore Adeluis Bordado, Commander of AFPETDC and Exercise Director for AJEX DAGIT-PA.
The exercise encompassed four major events namely Air/Maritime Interdiction in Palawan; Amphibious Operations in Zambales; Airfield Seizure and Military Operation in Urban Terrain in Nueva Ecija; and Combined Arms Live Fire in Tarlac.
The AFP showcased four of its newly procured Amphibious Assault Vehicles during the amphibious exercise in Zambales. Reservist also played a vital role in exercises that sought to enhance military capabilities on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
A Cyber Defense Exercise was also held to test the military’s cyberspace capabilities in building a strong infrastructure that can protect, detect, and respond to network attacks.
“It is a continuous endeavour of the AFP to achieve better unity of command and capitalize on the synergy of military operations. Constant joint training exercises like AJEX DAGIT-PA are necessary to enhance personnel capacity and unit capabilities of the joint forces. This will enable our members to be readily deployable to address contingencies across all mission areas,” said Commodore Bordado.
More than 1,500 regular soldiers and reservists from the Army, Air Force, Navy and Marines participated in AJEX DAGIT-PA which stands for Dagat-Langit-Lupa (Sea, Sky, Land). It is an AFP-wide/AFP-only exercise aimed at enhancing interoperability, capabilities, and readiness requirement during joint operations.
Public Affairs Office, Armed Forces of the Philippines
COL NOEL J DETOYATO GSC (INF) PA
Public Affairs Office AFP
Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo Quezon City
911-6001 Local 6000 & 6700
CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) concluded its third multi-service military exercise DAGIT-PA with a ceremony held Monday, September 30 at the AFP Education Training and Doctrine Command (AFPETDC), here.
During the AFP Joint Exercise DAGIT-PA which ran from September 16 to 27, different units from the Army, Air Force and Navy, including reservists, took part in major joint interoperability events as well as command post exercises. These events included amphibious operations, airfield retake and aviation operations, urban operations, and cyber defense training throughout Northern and Western Philippines.
“AJEX DAGIT-PA brought out the best in our troops during various field and staff exercises. Our units from the regular and reserve force greatly benefitted from this multi-service exercise that aimed to develop our skills and capabilities in joint sea, air and land operations. We do this to better perform our mission of protecting the people and the state,” said Commodore Adeluis Bordado, Commander of AFPETDC and Exercise Director for AJEX DAGIT-PA.
The exercise encompassed four major events namely Air/Maritime Interdiction in Palawan; Amphibious Operations in Zambales; Airfield Seizure and Military Operation in Urban Terrain in Nueva Ecija; and Combined Arms Live Fire in Tarlac.
The AFP showcased four of its newly procured Amphibious Assault Vehicles during the amphibious exercise in Zambales. Reservist also played a vital role in exercises that sought to enhance military capabilities on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
A Cyber Defense Exercise was also held to test the military’s cyberspace capabilities in building a strong infrastructure that can protect, detect, and respond to network attacks.
“It is a continuous endeavour of the AFP to achieve better unity of command and capitalize on the synergy of military operations. Constant joint training exercises like AJEX DAGIT-PA are necessary to enhance personnel capacity and unit capabilities of the joint forces. This will enable our members to be readily deployable to address contingencies across all mission areas,” said Commodore Bordado.
More than 1,500 regular soldiers and reservists from the Army, Air Force, Navy and Marines participated in AJEX DAGIT-PA which stands for Dagat-Langit-Lupa (Sea, Sky, Land). It is an AFP-wide/AFP-only exercise aimed at enhancing interoperability, capabilities, and readiness requirement during joint operations.
Public Affairs Office, Armed Forces of the Philippines
COL NOEL J DETOYATO GSC (INF) PA
Public Affairs Office AFP
Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo Quezon City
911-6001 Local 6000 & 6700
[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/afp-concludes-joint-exercise-dagit-pa/
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]
https://www.kalinawnews.com/afp-concludes-joint-exercise-dagit-pa/
Guihulngan hinterlands getting police precincts
From the Visayan Daily Star (Sep 30, 2019): Guihulngan hinterlands getting police precincts
The Police Regional Office 7 is complimenting the military outposts of the 94th Infantry Battalion, with police community precincts in the hinterlands of Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, where the New People’s Army has managed to establish its foothold.
A Police Community Precinct (PCP) was formally established on Saturday in Brgy. Buenavista, Guihulngan, whose barangay chairman, Romeo Alipan, was killed allegedly by communist rebels in July.
The PCP is jointly manned by the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office personnel and troopers of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 7, PBrig. Gen. Debold Sinas, regional police director of Central Visayas, said.
Sinas was accompanied by Rep. Jocelyn Limkaichong, PCol. Rizalito Gapas, officer-in-charge of NORPPO, and Lt. Col. Bonifacio Tecson, Guihulngan City police chief, and ViceMayor Ernesto Reyes, in the inauguration of the new PCP, the second to be established in Guihulngan City, next to Brgy. Trinidad.
Before his death, Alipan reportedly requested for the establishment of PCP in his barangay, that allegedly got the ire of insurgents in the area.
Sinas called on Buenavista residents not to allow themselves to be used as a “tool” of the NPA to hurt police troopers assigned in their barangay.
Limkaichong and Reyes, meanwhile, urged Buenavista barangay residents to support the government.
Sinas also requested Vice Mayor Reyes to pass an ordinance to make the establishment of Police Community Precincts in Guihulngan City permanent.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/September/30/topstory11.htm
A Police Community Precinct (PCP) was formally established on Saturday in Brgy. Buenavista, Guihulngan, whose barangay chairman, Romeo Alipan, was killed allegedly by communist rebels in July.
The PCP is jointly manned by the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office personnel and troopers of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 7, PBrig. Gen. Debold Sinas, regional police director of Central Visayas, said.
Sinas was accompanied by Rep. Jocelyn Limkaichong, PCol. Rizalito Gapas, officer-in-charge of NORPPO, and Lt. Col. Bonifacio Tecson, Guihulngan City police chief, and ViceMayor Ernesto Reyes, in the inauguration of the new PCP, the second to be established in Guihulngan City, next to Brgy. Trinidad.
Before his death, Alipan reportedly requested for the establishment of PCP in his barangay, that allegedly got the ire of insurgents in the area.
Sinas called on Buenavista residents not to allow themselves to be used as a “tool” of the NPA to hurt police troopers assigned in their barangay.
Limkaichong and Reyes, meanwhile, urged Buenavista barangay residents to support the government.
Sinas also requested Vice Mayor Reyes to pass an ordinance to make the establishment of Police Community Precincts in Guihulngan City permanent.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/September/30/topstory11.htm
Abu Sayyaf kidnaps teacher in Jolo
From the Manila Bulletin (Sep 30, 2019): Abu Sayyaf kidnaps teacher in Jolo
Suspected members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) kidnapped a public school teacher in front of the Mt. Carmel Catholic Church in Jolo, Sulu, Friday, just minutes after she attended mass in the capital town of Sulu.
Police Regional Office for Zamboanga Peninsula (PRO-9) Director Police Brig Gen Froilan F Quidilla identified the victim as Rosina Ejansantos Singua, 58, married, a public school teacher at the Culianan Elementary School and a resident of Zone 5, Barangay, Culianan in this city.
Police major Chester Natividad, chief of the Culianan police station said Singua left her residence last Friday, September 27, together with her woman friend a certain “EMS” to attend a wedding in Dipolog City.
It was not known how Singua and her companion reached Jolo in Sulu province, hotbed of the ASG in ZamBaSulTa (Zamboanga-Basilan-Sulu and Tawi-Tawi) area.
Sherwin Ejansantos Singua, son of Rosina who is now in Manila, received a call from her mother (Rosina) last Saturday at about 9:23pm, informing him that she was kidnapped by armed men in front of the Mt Carmel Catholic Church located at Barangay Walled City in Jolo, Sulu, Saturday.
Sherwin told police probers that his mother informed him that the kidnappers had brought him to an unknown place in the hinterland of Sulu province and was demanding a certain amount of money as ransom in exchange for her safe release from captivity.
Adding she will call again Sherwin after four days (Wednesday) to check for an update on the ransom demand for her abductors.
Natividad said Sherwin informed him that an unidentified male caller told him not to report the matter to the authorities for the safety of her mother, Rosina.
Sherwin told Natividad because of fear to the safety of his mother, he decided not to report to the police in this city and instead report the incident to the Police Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) in Camp Crame, Quezon City.
Natividad said his office is now reviewing some CCTV records taken at the local port here and the manifest of all vessels leaving for Jolo, Sulu, last Friday.
He also furnished the picture of Rosina to all security outpost inside the Pier to help them in the investigation of the incident.
Police Regional Office for Zamboanga Peninsula (PRO-9) Director Police Brig Gen Froilan F Quidilla identified the victim as Rosina Ejansantos Singua, 58, married, a public school teacher at the Culianan Elementary School and a resident of Zone 5, Barangay, Culianan in this city.
Police major Chester Natividad, chief of the Culianan police station said Singua left her residence last Friday, September 27, together with her woman friend a certain “EMS” to attend a wedding in Dipolog City.
It was not known how Singua and her companion reached Jolo in Sulu province, hotbed of the ASG in ZamBaSulTa (Zamboanga-Basilan-Sulu and Tawi-Tawi) area.
Sherwin Ejansantos Singua, son of Rosina who is now in Manila, received a call from her mother (Rosina) last Saturday at about 9:23pm, informing him that she was kidnapped by armed men in front of the Mt Carmel Catholic Church located at Barangay Walled City in Jolo, Sulu, Saturday.
Sherwin told police probers that his mother informed him that the kidnappers had brought him to an unknown place in the hinterland of Sulu province and was demanding a certain amount of money as ransom in exchange for her safe release from captivity.
Adding she will call again Sherwin after four days (Wednesday) to check for an update on the ransom demand for her abductors.
Natividad said Sherwin informed him that an unidentified male caller told him not to report the matter to the authorities for the safety of her mother, Rosina.
Sherwin told Natividad because of fear to the safety of his mother, he decided not to report to the police in this city and instead report the incident to the Police Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) in Camp Crame, Quezon City.
Natividad said his office is now reviewing some CCTV records taken at the local port here and the manifest of all vessels leaving for Jolo, Sulu, last Friday.
He also furnished the picture of Rosina to all security outpost inside the Pier to help them in the investigation of the incident.
Lorenzana to release decision on AFP-Dito deal in a week’s time
From GMA News Online (Sep 30, 2019): Lorenzana to release decision on AFP-Dito deal in a week’s time
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said Monday he will hand down his decision on the deal between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and China-backed Dito Telecommunity Corporation (formerly Mislatel) within the week.
Asked by Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon during the budget hearing, Lorenzana said he has yet to receive the recommendation of the DND legal office but he will decide in the interest of the country.
“Soon, like in a week’s time,” Lorenzana said, to which Drilon replied the people still have a week to pray.
“I trust that you will exercise your good judgment on this. So we have a week to pray. Isang linggo tayong magdadasal nito, Mr. Secretary,” the senator said.
Drilon asked Lorenzana to provide the Senate a copy of the agreement before it is approved.
The Defense secretary said he will amend the agreement allowing Dito to build towers inside 130 military camps if he finds it necessary.
“I am the approving authority. I can remand it back to the AFP general headquarters,” he said.
Lorenzana, however, said the Dito towers will be placed where the towers of Smart Communications and Globe are located.
“The towers of Mislatel will be located where the towers of Globe and Smart are already located. There are 130 place allocations that are all over the country that belongs to the Armed Forces where Globe and Smart are already there since 2000,” he said.
Drilon then pointed out that Smart and Globe are both private entities with private partners while the partners of Dito are China-backed.
“The issue cropped up because the joint venture partner of Mislatel is China Tel and Chinese government has control over China Tel which is different in the situation of Globe and Smart which are purely private entities even if they have foreign equity like Globe would have Sing Tel,” he said.
“Yes they will be located only where Globe and Smart are located but that means that the Chinese government will have 130 listening posts inside our camp. Is that a fair assessment? Is that fear unfounded?” he added.
Lorenzana said it is not fair because China Tel is only a minority investor in Dito and it is still a Filipino company, but Drilon replied the fact remains that China is involved and many Filipinos are concerned especially with the incidents in the West Philippine Sea.
Drilon said the concern is the presence of Chinese company inside the military camps and it is something that should be addressed.
The Defense chief said he will look into the concern and he will talk to the AFP personnel in charge with the facilities to know how the towers are located in the camps. Lorenzana, however, believes the fear is unfounded because both Smart and Globe are using Huawei system, a Chinese company.
Drilon countered that the two telecommunication companies are using Chinese equipment but they do not have Chinese equities.
“Supply and equipment siguro which they can terminate any time, not equity. I’m not aware that Huawei has equity in Globe. They maybe a supplier of Globe but not equity where they can participate in the day to day affairs,” he said.
Lorenzana then asked senators why Congress approved the franchise of Mislatel.
“If there are questions about the ownership, then why did Congress approved it?” he said.
Drilon said he voted against the approval of the Mislatel franchise but he explained that 40% equity is allowed by the law.
“The issue that now confronts the country is the security issue not the legality of the 40% of China Telecom. The concern is andami namang mapaglagyan ng mga towers na ‘yan bakit doon pa sa loob ng kampo?” he said.
Lorenzana said the telecommunications companies wanted to build their towers inside military camps for security reason.
“So many towers were being blown up by the NPA (New People’s Army) before so Globe and Smart asked the AFP if they can co-locate in areas na secured. Not all towers of the two telcos are inside the camps,” he said.
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/709855/lorenzana-to-release-decision-on-afp-dito-deal-in-a-week-s-time/story/
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said Monday he will hand down his decision on the deal between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and China-backed Dito Telecommunity Corporation (formerly Mislatel) within the week.
Asked by Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon during the budget hearing, Lorenzana said he has yet to receive the recommendation of the DND legal office but he will decide in the interest of the country.
“Soon, like in a week’s time,” Lorenzana said, to which Drilon replied the people still have a week to pray.
“I trust that you will exercise your good judgment on this. So we have a week to pray. Isang linggo tayong magdadasal nito, Mr. Secretary,” the senator said.
Drilon asked Lorenzana to provide the Senate a copy of the agreement before it is approved.
The Defense secretary said he will amend the agreement allowing Dito to build towers inside 130 military camps if he finds it necessary.
“I am the approving authority. I can remand it back to the AFP general headquarters,” he said.
Lorenzana, however, said the Dito towers will be placed where the towers of Smart Communications and Globe are located.
“The towers of Mislatel will be located where the towers of Globe and Smart are already located. There are 130 place allocations that are all over the country that belongs to the Armed Forces where Globe and Smart are already there since 2000,” he said.
Drilon then pointed out that Smart and Globe are both private entities with private partners while the partners of Dito are China-backed.
“The issue cropped up because the joint venture partner of Mislatel is China Tel and Chinese government has control over China Tel which is different in the situation of Globe and Smart which are purely private entities even if they have foreign equity like Globe would have Sing Tel,” he said.
“Yes they will be located only where Globe and Smart are located but that means that the Chinese government will have 130 listening posts inside our camp. Is that a fair assessment? Is that fear unfounded?” he added.
Lorenzana said it is not fair because China Tel is only a minority investor in Dito and it is still a Filipino company, but Drilon replied the fact remains that China is involved and many Filipinos are concerned especially with the incidents in the West Philippine Sea.
Drilon said the concern is the presence of Chinese company inside the military camps and it is something that should be addressed.
The Defense chief said he will look into the concern and he will talk to the AFP personnel in charge with the facilities to know how the towers are located in the camps. Lorenzana, however, believes the fear is unfounded because both Smart and Globe are using Huawei system, a Chinese company.
Drilon countered that the two telecommunication companies are using Chinese equipment but they do not have Chinese equities.
“Supply and equipment siguro which they can terminate any time, not equity. I’m not aware that Huawei has equity in Globe. They maybe a supplier of Globe but not equity where they can participate in the day to day affairs,” he said.
Lorenzana then asked senators why Congress approved the franchise of Mislatel.
“If there are questions about the ownership, then why did Congress approved it?” he said.
Drilon said he voted against the approval of the Mislatel franchise but he explained that 40% equity is allowed by the law.
“The issue that now confronts the country is the security issue not the legality of the 40% of China Telecom. The concern is andami namang mapaglagyan ng mga towers na ‘yan bakit doon pa sa loob ng kampo?” he said.
Lorenzana said the telecommunications companies wanted to build their towers inside military camps for security reason.
“So many towers were being blown up by the NPA (New People’s Army) before so Globe and Smart asked the AFP if they can co-locate in areas na secured. Not all towers of the two telcos are inside the camps,” he said.
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/709855/lorenzana-to-release-decision-on-afp-dito-deal-in-a-week-s-time/story/
AFP sets sight on preparing for, resisting foreign invasion in DAGIT-PA 2020
From the Manila Bulletin (Sep 30, 2019): AFP sets sight on preparing for, resisting foreign invasion in DAGIT-PA 2020
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is planning for one “big” military exercise that would prepare them in case of a foreign invasion in the fourth iteration of the joint DAGIT-PA exercises in 2020.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) (MANILA BULLETIN)
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is planning for one “big” military exercise that would prepare them in case of a foreign invasion in the fourth iteration of the joint DAGIT-PA exercises in 2020.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) (MANILA BULLETIN)
This, just as the AFP joint exercises (AJEX) DAGIT-PA 2019 officially ended on Monday with a fitting closing ceremony held at the AFP Education Training and Doctrine Command (AFPETDC) headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
DAGIT-PA is a term coined for “dagat, langit at lupa” which represents the sea, air and land exercises intended to test and enhance the cohesion of the Philippine Army, Philippine Navy and Philippine Air Force during joint operations.
“AJEX DAGIT-PA brought out the best in our troops during various field and staff exercises. Our units from the regular and reserve force greatly benefitted from this multi-service exercise that aimed to develop our skills and capabilities in joint sea, air and land operations,” said Commodore Adeluis Bordado, exercise director for AJEX DAGIT-PA and commander of the AFPETDC.
As for its next iteration, Colonel Alvin Flores, exercise director of DAGIT-PA for Army, bared that the AFP General Headquarters (GHQ) is planning for a major exercise next year that would focus on territorial defense in case of a foreign invasion, and emergence of hybrid threats.
“I think it’s [in] a big island, like Corregidor type of operation just like during the World War 2. We would like to see a very big AFP unit that will be participating,” he said.
“It’s a very conventional type of operation and we also have hybrid threats like IED-borne suicide bombers and so on. Dati wala tayong (Before, we don’t have a) suicide bomber in the country but now we have. This is the way to go. We have to think as one, operate as one, accomplish the mission as one,” he noted.
During this year’s DAGIT-PA that ran from September 16 to 27, more than 1,500 soldiers and reservists from the major services of the AFP participated in four events namely air/maritime interdiction in Palawan; amphibious operations in Zambales; airfield seizure and military operations on urban terrain in Nueva Ecija, and combined arms live fire exercise in Tarlac.
The AFP also showcased four of its newly-procured amphibious assault vehicles (AAVs) during the amphibious exercise while reservists played a vital role in testing the military’s capabilities on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.
A cyber defense exercise was also held to test the military’s cyberspace capacity in building a strong infrastructure that can protect, detect and respond to network attacks.
“Constant joint training exercises like AJEX DAGIT-PA are necessary to enhance personnel capacity and unit capabilities of the joint forces. This will enable our members to be readily deployable to address contingencies across all mission areas,” Bordado said.
DAGIT-PA is a term coined for “dagat, langit at lupa” which represents the sea, air and land exercises intended to test and enhance the cohesion of the Philippine Army, Philippine Navy and Philippine Air Force during joint operations.
“AJEX DAGIT-PA brought out the best in our troops during various field and staff exercises. Our units from the regular and reserve force greatly benefitted from this multi-service exercise that aimed to develop our skills and capabilities in joint sea, air and land operations,” said Commodore Adeluis Bordado, exercise director for AJEX DAGIT-PA and commander of the AFPETDC.
As for its next iteration, Colonel Alvin Flores, exercise director of DAGIT-PA for Army, bared that the AFP General Headquarters (GHQ) is planning for a major exercise next year that would focus on territorial defense in case of a foreign invasion, and emergence of hybrid threats.
“I think it’s [in] a big island, like Corregidor type of operation just like during the World War 2. We would like to see a very big AFP unit that will be participating,” he said.
“It’s a very conventional type of operation and we also have hybrid threats like IED-borne suicide bombers and so on. Dati wala tayong (Before, we don’t have a) suicide bomber in the country but now we have. This is the way to go. We have to think as one, operate as one, accomplish the mission as one,” he noted.
During this year’s DAGIT-PA that ran from September 16 to 27, more than 1,500 soldiers and reservists from the major services of the AFP participated in four events namely air/maritime interdiction in Palawan; amphibious operations in Zambales; airfield seizure and military operations on urban terrain in Nueva Ecija, and combined arms live fire exercise in Tarlac.
The AFP also showcased four of its newly-procured amphibious assault vehicles (AAVs) during the amphibious exercise while reservists played a vital role in testing the military’s capabilities on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.
A cyber defense exercise was also held to test the military’s cyberspace capacity in building a strong infrastructure that can protect, detect and respond to network attacks.
“Constant joint training exercises like AJEX DAGIT-PA are necessary to enhance personnel capacity and unit capabilities of the joint forces. This will enable our members to be readily deployable to address contingencies across all mission areas,” Bordado said.
Opinion: New AFP chief out in three months
Opinion piece in the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 30, 2019): New AFP chief out in three months (By: Ramon Farolan)
The invitation read: “The Armed Forces of the Philippines with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte as Guest of Honor and Presiding Officer cordially invites you to the Armed Forces of the Philippines Change of Command Ceremony and Testimonial Review in Honor of General Benjamin R. Madrigal Jr., AFP Chief of Staff.”
For the last three years, I have received six of these invitations. They are accompanied by an orange car pass and a blue diagram of seating arrangements. At the Lapu-Lapu grandstand of Camp Aguinaldo, they have placed me with former secretaries of national defense, former AFP chiefs and former major service commanders.
This Change of Command Ceremony at the highest level of the AFP should be an event eliciting much excitement, enthusiasm and emotion among the officers and men. It is especially true for classmates and family members of the honorees. But when it is carried out too often — six changes in three years — it loses much of its meaning and significance. Change of Command signifies new blood, a bold vision for the future dynamic ideas and programs being injected into the organization. But with a tour of duty of from six months to a year, or even less, there is not much to expect and nothing to get excited about.
This time, I sent in my regrets and, apparently, even the Commander in Chief decided to skip the event, leaving Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana to do the honors for him. According to presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo, this was due to the President’s “punishing schedule of official and social events affecting slightly his body temperature.” As I can recall, it was the first time a Commander in Chief was absent from turnover rites of the AFP high command.
The new AFP chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Noel Clement, PMA Class 1985, will be retiring on Jan. 5, 2020, giving him just over three months in office. He will celebrate Christmas and New Year with the troops, and his New Year call on the secretary of national defense will also serve as his last. In a few weeks’ time, his speechwriters will be drafting a farewell message for another Change of Command Ceremony.
The AFP is now a source of embarrassment for the nation. Foreign diplomats with their military attachés are guests at Change of Command ceremonies, and they ask themselves, how can any organization be effective with such a rapid turnover of leadership, not only at the top but also at the area and division command levels? The country has a long-running insurgency, and the military leadership is a revolving door.
At Mutual Defense Board conferences with US officials, the standing joke is that we have a new chief of staff for almost every meeting.
Under these circumstances, one could ask, where is the AFP headed for in the years ahead? When Secretary Lorenzana was new in office, I asked him about his views on the frequent change in AFP leadership. He said he wanted more stability and continuity of command, but apparently, on this issue, his voice does not carry much weight and other voices appear to have the President’s ear.
I have devoted a number of my columns to this subject because I believe in the importance and the necessity of a fixed term of office for the AFP chief, the major service commanders (Army, Air Force and Navy) and also for the post of Philippine Military Academy superintendent. A fixed term of three years for the AFP chief and two years for the service commanders will go a long way in providing stability and continuity of command, as well as sustainability of reforms necessary for the AFP to fulfill its constitutional mandate as “the protector of the people and the State.”
If we are truly serious about providing change, the bills submitted to Congress in the past on this issue can be easily revived and certified as urgent. Without an AFP chief in position for a given period, the goal of ending the NPA insurgency during the President’s time in office will remain difficult and demanding, if not impossible. This is not to say that a fixed term for our key commanders will automatically bring about success, but it would be a logical step in the right direction. Many of our AFP chiefs of staff were competent and dedicated officers. But they were not allowed the opportunity to serve long enough in the position to truly make a difference.
The ball is now in the hands of Congress and the Commander in Chief. Only they can stop the revolving door of the AFP.
https://opinion.inquirer.net/124304/new-afp-chief-out-in-three-months
The invitation read: “The Armed Forces of the Philippines with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte as Guest of Honor and Presiding Officer cordially invites you to the Armed Forces of the Philippines Change of Command Ceremony and Testimonial Review in Honor of General Benjamin R. Madrigal Jr., AFP Chief of Staff.”
For the last three years, I have received six of these invitations. They are accompanied by an orange car pass and a blue diagram of seating arrangements. At the Lapu-Lapu grandstand of Camp Aguinaldo, they have placed me with former secretaries of national defense, former AFP chiefs and former major service commanders.
This Change of Command Ceremony at the highest level of the AFP should be an event eliciting much excitement, enthusiasm and emotion among the officers and men. It is especially true for classmates and family members of the honorees. But when it is carried out too often — six changes in three years — it loses much of its meaning and significance. Change of Command signifies new blood, a bold vision for the future dynamic ideas and programs being injected into the organization. But with a tour of duty of from six months to a year, or even less, there is not much to expect and nothing to get excited about.
This time, I sent in my regrets and, apparently, even the Commander in Chief decided to skip the event, leaving Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana to do the honors for him. According to presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo, this was due to the President’s “punishing schedule of official and social events affecting slightly his body temperature.” As I can recall, it was the first time a Commander in Chief was absent from turnover rites of the AFP high command.
The new AFP chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Noel Clement, PMA Class 1985, will be retiring on Jan. 5, 2020, giving him just over three months in office. He will celebrate Christmas and New Year with the troops, and his New Year call on the secretary of national defense will also serve as his last. In a few weeks’ time, his speechwriters will be drafting a farewell message for another Change of Command Ceremony.
The AFP is now a source of embarrassment for the nation. Foreign diplomats with their military attachés are guests at Change of Command ceremonies, and they ask themselves, how can any organization be effective with such a rapid turnover of leadership, not only at the top but also at the area and division command levels? The country has a long-running insurgency, and the military leadership is a revolving door.
At Mutual Defense Board conferences with US officials, the standing joke is that we have a new chief of staff for almost every meeting.
Under these circumstances, one could ask, where is the AFP headed for in the years ahead? When Secretary Lorenzana was new in office, I asked him about his views on the frequent change in AFP leadership. He said he wanted more stability and continuity of command, but apparently, on this issue, his voice does not carry much weight and other voices appear to have the President’s ear.
I have devoted a number of my columns to this subject because I believe in the importance and the necessity of a fixed term of office for the AFP chief, the major service commanders (Army, Air Force and Navy) and also for the post of Philippine Military Academy superintendent. A fixed term of three years for the AFP chief and two years for the service commanders will go a long way in providing stability and continuity of command, as well as sustainability of reforms necessary for the AFP to fulfill its constitutional mandate as “the protector of the people and the State.”
If we are truly serious about providing change, the bills submitted to Congress in the past on this issue can be easily revived and certified as urgent. Without an AFP chief in position for a given period, the goal of ending the NPA insurgency during the President’s time in office will remain difficult and demanding, if not impossible. This is not to say that a fixed term for our key commanders will automatically bring about success, but it would be a logical step in the right direction. Many of our AFP chiefs of staff were competent and dedicated officers. But they were not allowed the opportunity to serve long enough in the position to truly make a difference.
The ball is now in the hands of Congress and the Commander in Chief. Only they can stop the revolving door of the AFP.
https://opinion.inquirer.net/124304/new-afp-chief-out-in-three-months
Amazon leader arrested in joint PNP-Army operation
From the Mindanao Times (Oct 1, 2019): Amazon leader arrested in joint PNP-Army operation
A high-ranking official of the New People’s Army was arrested in a joint police and military operation at the San Francisco Public Market in Agusan del Sur at 4:48 p.m. on Saturday.
Lt. Col. Ernesto Castillo, the chief of the Digos City Police Station identified, her to TIMES as Rachel Cortez Daguman alias Kumander Jasmin, 44, secretary of Front Committee 51, Sub-regional Command, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee(SMRC).
Castillo said Kumander Jasmin was the former head of Regional Peasant Bureau (RPB), and a resident of Coronon in Sta. Cruz. Davao del Sur. “She is number one in PRRD’s list.”
He said Jasmin has a pending warrant of arrest for robbery with homicide with CC No. 160 (08) issued by Regional Trial Court 11th Judicial region, Branch 19 in Digos City, Davao del Sur dated Nov. 28, 2008 with no bail recommended.
According to the report, the operation was jointly conducted by Digos City Police Station, led by Lt. Col. Ernesto Castillo; San Francisco Municipal Police Station; intelligence operatives from 75th Infantry Battalion; Army Intelligence Regiment; Regional Intelligence Unit; Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office; 401st Infantry Brigade; 10th Military Intelligence Battalion of the 10th Infantry Division; and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency XI.
Meanwhile, Castillo said, that Jasmin was already transferred to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in Digos City yesterday.
Also he said their personnel are on alert status for possible retaliation of the NPA.
In the Philippine Information Agency report last March 2015, Rachel Daguman or Jasmin led rebels under Guerrilla Front 6 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee as they flagged down several vehicles at 5:45 a.m. on March 8 along Davao-Buda road in Barangay Palacapao, Quezon, Bukidnon.
They burned three prime movers (containing one Bantuanon truck loaded with bananas, one trans-special truck, one FSTA truck loaded with cartons); three wing-van trucks (containing a Nestle van loaded with milk products, one Purefoods van loaded with hotdogs, one van loaded with drums); and one San Miguel 10-wheeler truck loaded with Red Horse Beer. Two of the trucks were bound for Bukidnon while five others were heading to Davao.
http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/10/01/amazon-leader-arrested-in-joint-pnp-army-operation/
A high-ranking official of the New People’s Army was arrested in a joint police and military operation at the San Francisco Public Market in Agusan del Sur at 4:48 p.m. on Saturday.
Lt. Col. Ernesto Castillo, the chief of the Digos City Police Station identified, her to TIMES as Rachel Cortez Daguman alias Kumander Jasmin, 44, secretary of Front Committee 51, Sub-regional Command, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee(SMRC).
Castillo said Kumander Jasmin was the former head of Regional Peasant Bureau (RPB), and a resident of Coronon in Sta. Cruz. Davao del Sur. “She is number one in PRRD’s list.”
He said Jasmin has a pending warrant of arrest for robbery with homicide with CC No. 160 (08) issued by Regional Trial Court 11th Judicial region, Branch 19 in Digos City, Davao del Sur dated Nov. 28, 2008 with no bail recommended.
According to the report, the operation was jointly conducted by Digos City Police Station, led by Lt. Col. Ernesto Castillo; San Francisco Municipal Police Station; intelligence operatives from 75th Infantry Battalion; Army Intelligence Regiment; Regional Intelligence Unit; Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office; 401st Infantry Brigade; 10th Military Intelligence Battalion of the 10th Infantry Division; and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency XI.
Meanwhile, Castillo said, that Jasmin was already transferred to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in Digos City yesterday.
Also he said their personnel are on alert status for possible retaliation of the NPA.
In the Philippine Information Agency report last March 2015, Rachel Daguman or Jasmin led rebels under Guerrilla Front 6 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee as they flagged down several vehicles at 5:45 a.m. on March 8 along Davao-Buda road in Barangay Palacapao, Quezon, Bukidnon.
They burned three prime movers (containing one Bantuanon truck loaded with bananas, one trans-special truck, one FSTA truck loaded with cartons); three wing-van trucks (containing a Nestle van loaded with milk products, one Purefoods van loaded with hotdogs, one van loaded with drums); and one San Miguel 10-wheeler truck loaded with Red Horse Beer. Two of the trucks were bound for Bukidnon while five others were heading to Davao.
http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/10/01/amazon-leader-arrested-in-joint-pnp-army-operation/
Alleged NPA leader nabbed in Agusan Sur
From MindaNews (Sep 30, 2019): Alleged NPA leader nabbed in Agusan Sur
An alleged ranking leader of the New Peoples’ Army (NPA) said to be operating in North Cotabato was arrested in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur on Saturday, police said.
The arrest of Rachel Daguman Cortez, also known as Commander Jazmin or Yate or Raya, was confirmed by Col. Maximo Layugan, provincial director of the Cotabato Police Provincial Office.
Her arrest came after a tip from sources in the community where her presence was monitored, police said.
Jazmin was apprehended by members of a task force led by the Intelligence Security Unit of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency national headquarters, police operatives and some civilian intelligence agents.
Layugan said Jazmin would be brought to North Cotabato to face multiple murder cases and other charges related to her alleged involvement in the communist-led insurgency.
Jazmin is the alleged commander of NPA Front 51 whose operations cover the towns of President Roxas, Antipas, Arakan and Magpet, and Kidapawan City in North Cotabato.
She married a certain Commander Benjie Pahak who was killed in an Army raid in 2005 in Barangay Kisante, Makilala, Cotabato.
https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/09/alleged-npa-leader-nabbed-in-agusan-sur/
An alleged ranking leader of the New Peoples’ Army (NPA) said to be operating in North Cotabato was arrested in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur on Saturday, police said.
The arrest of Rachel Daguman Cortez, also known as Commander Jazmin or Yate or Raya, was confirmed by Col. Maximo Layugan, provincial director of the Cotabato Police Provincial Office.
Her arrest came after a tip from sources in the community where her presence was monitored, police said.
Jazmin was apprehended by members of a task force led by the Intelligence Security Unit of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency national headquarters, police operatives and some civilian intelligence agents.
Layugan said Jazmin would be brought to North Cotabato to face multiple murder cases and other charges related to her alleged involvement in the communist-led insurgency.
Jazmin is the alleged commander of NPA Front 51 whose operations cover the towns of President Roxas, Antipas, Arakan and Magpet, and Kidapawan City in North Cotabato.
She married a certain Commander Benjie Pahak who was killed in an Army raid in 2005 in Barangay Kisante, Makilala, Cotabato.
https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/09/alleged-npa-leader-nabbed-in-agusan-sur/
Mayor Sara rebuffs Davao councilor on Salugpongan schools
From MindaNews (Sep 30, 2019): Mayor Sara rebuffs Davao councilor on Salugpongan schools
Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte on Monday maintained the local government would stand pat on its decision calling for the closure of schools for Lumad (indigenous peoples) accused of having links with the communist underground.
Duterte said the 55 schools operated by the Salugpongan Ta’ Tanu Igkanogon Community Learning Center “failed to give justice to sacrifices and dreams of the Lumad students.”
“Salugpongan shall never operate in Davao City again because of this failure and unforgivable injustice,” Duterte said in a statement released by the City Information office on Monday.
The mayor was reacting to a privilege speech last week by City Councilor Pamela Librado-Morata, who voiced support for the Salugpongan.
Eleven Salugpongan schools are operating in the city’s hinterlands and the rest in various provinces of Davao Region.
Duterte said the local government conducted due diligence “in inquiring into the activities of Salugpungan schools before the City Peace and Order Council released a resolution seeking closure of the Salugpongan schools.”
“The councilor from Davao City who called on the Sangguniang Panlungsod to inquire into the closure of the Salugpungan schools in our city should first check the facts that form the basis of the request for closure, and not rely on the disinformation fed to her by the Makabayan bloc and its CPP-NPA-NDFP (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front of the Philippines) allies,” she said.
On March 19, the CPOC submitted a resolution to the Department of Education (DepEd) requesting that the permit to operate of the Salugpungan schools in the city be terminated and canceled completely.
The resolution cited as grounds the alleged absence of academic records and individual learner’s reference number of the students and presence of DepEd schools in areas where Salugpongan operates.
Duterte said the schools “failed to give justice to the sacrifices and dreams of the Lumad students who spent their time with their organization, believing the school will help them better their chances in the future.”
She added the local government was provided with a written report containing the statement of an alleged Salugpongan pupil that students were taught how to use firearms and that they were indoctrinated with anti-government propaganda.
She said the government schools now had accommodated displaced students from 11 Salupongan schools.
Citing the report submitted by National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, DepEd-Davao Evelyn Fetalvero said in her July 10 order that the Salugpongan schools had been suspended for failing to teach in accordance with the guidelines set forth by DepEd, using the children in rallies and teaching the pupils an anti-government ideology.
Fetalvero was acting on the report submitted by Esperon, also the vice chair of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, which was accompanied by an affidavit from a certain Melvin M. Loyod, who claimed to have volunteered as a teacher at Salugpongan in Sitio Pongpong, Barangay Sto. Niño, in Talaingod, Davao Del Norte after finishing Grade 12.
https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/09/mayor-sara-rebuffs-davao-councilor-on-salugpongan-schools/
Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte on Monday maintained the local government would stand pat on its decision calling for the closure of schools for Lumad (indigenous peoples) accused of having links with the communist underground.
Duterte said the 55 schools operated by the Salugpongan Ta’ Tanu Igkanogon Community Learning Center “failed to give justice to sacrifices and dreams of the Lumad students.”
“Salugpongan shall never operate in Davao City again because of this failure and unforgivable injustice,” Duterte said in a statement released by the City Information office on Monday.
The mayor was reacting to a privilege speech last week by City Councilor Pamela Librado-Morata, who voiced support for the Salugpongan.
Eleven Salugpongan schools are operating in the city’s hinterlands and the rest in various provinces of Davao Region.
Duterte said the local government conducted due diligence “in inquiring into the activities of Salugpungan schools before the City Peace and Order Council released a resolution seeking closure of the Salugpongan schools.”
“The councilor from Davao City who called on the Sangguniang Panlungsod to inquire into the closure of the Salugpungan schools in our city should first check the facts that form the basis of the request for closure, and not rely on the disinformation fed to her by the Makabayan bloc and its CPP-NPA-NDFP (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front of the Philippines) allies,” she said.
On March 19, the CPOC submitted a resolution to the Department of Education (DepEd) requesting that the permit to operate of the Salugpungan schools in the city be terminated and canceled completely.
The resolution cited as grounds the alleged absence of academic records and individual learner’s reference number of the students and presence of DepEd schools in areas where Salugpongan operates.
Duterte said the schools “failed to give justice to the sacrifices and dreams of the Lumad students who spent their time with their organization, believing the school will help them better their chances in the future.”
She added the local government was provided with a written report containing the statement of an alleged Salugpongan pupil that students were taught how to use firearms and that they were indoctrinated with anti-government propaganda.
She said the government schools now had accommodated displaced students from 11 Salupongan schools.
Citing the report submitted by National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, DepEd-Davao Evelyn Fetalvero said in her July 10 order that the Salugpongan schools had been suspended for failing to teach in accordance with the guidelines set forth by DepEd, using the children in rallies and teaching the pupils an anti-government ideology.
Fetalvero was acting on the report submitted by Esperon, also the vice chair of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, which was accompanied by an affidavit from a certain Melvin M. Loyod, who claimed to have volunteered as a teacher at Salugpongan in Sitio Pongpong, Barangay Sto. Niño, in Talaingod, Davao Del Norte after finishing Grade 12.
https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/09/mayor-sara-rebuffs-davao-councilor-on-salugpongan-schools/
Photo: Brief reunion
Posted to MindaNews (Sep 30, 2019): Photo: Brief reunion
(The) anniversary celebration of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process on Monday, 30 September 2019, paved the way for a brief reunion among brothers in the Bangsamoro struggle — Nur Misuari, founding chair of the Moro National Liberation Front (2nd from Left, between Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez and Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri), Ahod “Al Haj Murad” Ebrahim, chair of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and Chief Minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim MIndanao, and Muslimin Sema, former chair of an MNLF faction and former Cotabato City mayor. The three Moro leaders were reunited onstage for a souvenir photo with personalities from other peace processes. Sema reached out to shake Misuari’s hand, hugged and kissed him on both cheeks, followed by Murad. Photo courtesy of OPAPP
23 ex-rebels in Misamis Oriental get P1.551 M assistance thru E-CLIP
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 30, 2019): 23 ex-rebels in Misamis Oriental get P1.551 M assistance thru E-CLIP
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- Twenty-three (23) former rebels in Misamis Oriental received financial assistance totaling P1,551,000 through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government.
The checks were handed over to the returnees during the activation of the Misamis Oriental Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MOTF-ELCAC) held September 26 at Sitio Moya, Barangay Eureka in Gingoog City.
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- Twenty-three (23) former rebels in Misamis Oriental received financial assistance totaling P1,551,000 through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government.
The checks were handed over to the returnees during the activation of the Misamis Oriental Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MOTF-ELCAC) held September 26 at Sitio Moya, Barangay Eureka in Gingoog City.
Director Arnel Agabe of DILG-10 says a total of P17,326,526 has been released to 251 former rebels in Northern Mindanao since 2018 through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government. (RDM/PIA Cagayan de Oro)
Arnel M. Agabe, regional director of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 10, said E-CLIP is the assistance of the government to former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA- NDF) who express desire to abandon armed struggle and become productive members of the society.
Under the program, former rebels get immediate assistance of P15,000, livelihood assistance of P50,000, reintegration assistance of P21,000, and firearms remuneration amounting to twice the value of the surrendered firearms.
Returnees will also receive additional assistance from other national government agencies such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, and Department of Agriculture, among others.
Before the distribution of the checks, the 23 former rebels took their oath of allegiance to the government and burned the flag of the CPP.
Meanwhile, Agabe disclosed that DILG-10 has already released a total of P17,326,526 to 251 former rebels in Northern Mindanao since 2018. This amount excludes the P1.551 million released September 26.
Moreover, the DILG Central Office also approved the release of financial assistance to 89 former rebels in Bukidnon and Cagayan de Oro City amounting to P5,291,825.
“This is to encourage our brothers and sisters who have not yet decided to return to the fold of the law to lay down their arms and be a partner of the government in making Misamis Oriental and Region 10 peaceful and progressive,” Agabe added. (APB/PIA10)
Under the program, former rebels get immediate assistance of P15,000, livelihood assistance of P50,000, reintegration assistance of P21,000, and firearms remuneration amounting to twice the value of the surrendered firearms.
Returnees will also receive additional assistance from other national government agencies such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, and Department of Agriculture, among others.
Before the distribution of the checks, the 23 former rebels took their oath of allegiance to the government and burned the flag of the CPP.
Meanwhile, Agabe disclosed that DILG-10 has already released a total of P17,326,526 to 251 former rebels in Northern Mindanao since 2018. This amount excludes the P1.551 million released September 26.
Moreover, the DILG Central Office also approved the release of financial assistance to 89 former rebels in Bukidnon and Cagayan de Oro City amounting to P5,291,825.
“This is to encourage our brothers and sisters who have not yet decided to return to the fold of the law to lay down their arms and be a partner of the government in making Misamis Oriental and Region 10 peaceful and progressive,” Agabe added. (APB/PIA10)
20 MisOr villages cleared of NPA affectation, now ready for economic dev’t.
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 30, 2019): 20 MisOr villages cleared of NPA affectation, now ready for economic dev’t.
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The economic condition of 20 barangays in Misamis Oriental is seen to improve after it was declared free from affectation of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA).
The declaration was made by Provincial Governor Yevgeny Vincente Emano upon the recommendation of Provincial Police Office Director Robert Roy Bahian during the activation of the Misamis Oriental Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MOTF-ELCAC) held September 26 at Sitio Moya, Barangay Eureka in Gingoog City.
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The economic condition of 20 barangays in Misamis Oriental is seen to improve after it was declared free from affectation of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA).
The declaration was made by Provincial Governor Yevgeny Vincente Emano upon the recommendation of Provincial Police Office Director Robert Roy Bahian during the activation of the Misamis Oriental Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MOTF-ELCAC) held September 26 at Sitio Moya, Barangay Eureka in Gingoog City.
Provincial Police Office Director Robert Roy Bahian names the 20 barangays to be declraed free from NPA affectation.(PIA Cagayan de Oro)
The cleared barangays are Balintad and Binkilian in Manticao; Barangay Tula in Alubijid; Kauyunan in Opol; Eureka and Lawaan in Gingoog City; Pelaez and Pamburgas in Claveria; San Juan Blanco, Samay and Linabo in Balingasag; Banglay and Umagos in Lagonglong; Alipuaton, Bunal,Tinagaan, and Matampa in Salay; and Kalaitan in Kinoguitan.
Bahian said the successful clearing was a result of the months-long Community Support Program of 58th and 65th Infantry Battalions of the Philippine Army.
"They researched the issues used by the NPA against our government. Through their dedication, they made the communities aware of the help and support of the City Government of Gingoog and the Provincial Government of Misamis Oriental," he said.
After the CSP, the barangays were evaluated by the clearing evaluation team of 403rd Infantry Brigade then validated by the 4th Infantry clearing board. (APB/PIA10)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028021
Bahian said the successful clearing was a result of the months-long Community Support Program of 58th and 65th Infantry Battalions of the Philippine Army.
"They researched the issues used by the NPA against our government. Through their dedication, they made the communities aware of the help and support of the City Government of Gingoog and the Provincial Government of Misamis Oriental," he said.
After the CSP, the barangays were evaluated by the clearing evaluation team of 403rd Infantry Brigade then validated by the 4th Infantry clearing board. (APB/PIA10)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028021
6 NPAs surrender to Army in SurSur
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 30, 2019): 6 NPAs surrender to Army in SurSur
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – Six members of the New People’s Army (NPA) of the weakened Guerilla Front 14 North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (WGF14, NEMRC) have voluntarily surrendered to the troops of the 75th Infantry (Marauder) Battalion (75IB), Philippine Army based in Bislig City, this province on Sept. 23, 2019, a military official confirmed.
Capt. Edwin Leo Francisco, 75IB Civil-Military Operations (CMO) Officer, identified the surrenderees as AKA Bong, AKA Pat, AKA Adan, AKA Shiela, AKA Bugoy and AKA Galo.
Francisco said they have also surrendered several war materials, namely: one M4 Carbine; two cal. 45 pistol; one M16A1 rifle (Elisco); one M653 assault rifle; four rifle grenades; live ammunition; and three bandoliers.
The surrenderees will undergo the process of validation before they will be enrolled in a government program intended for Former Rebels (FRs) - the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). The process included the documentation, debriefing, and psychosocial intervention, the official said.
They will receive immediate cash assistance, reintegration, and livelihood assistance, as well. The firearms and weapons they surrendered will be assessed and the remuneration depends on the condition if it is serviceable or not, Capt. Francisco added.
Meanwhile, 75IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Warren Munda called on the remaining NPA terrorists to surrender and return to the folds of the government.
The official is optimistic to accomplish their mission with the support from people in the community and the local government units under their area of responsibility. (75IB/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – Six members of the New People’s Army (NPA) of the weakened Guerilla Front 14 North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (WGF14, NEMRC) have voluntarily surrendered to the troops of the 75th Infantry (Marauder) Battalion (75IB), Philippine Army based in Bislig City, this province on Sept. 23, 2019, a military official confirmed.
Photo credit: 75IB, PA
Capt. Edwin Leo Francisco, 75IB Civil-Military Operations (CMO) Officer, identified the surrenderees as AKA Bong, AKA Pat, AKA Adan, AKA Shiela, AKA Bugoy and AKA Galo.
Photo credit: 75IB, PA
Francisco said they have also surrendered several war materials, namely: one M4 Carbine; two cal. 45 pistol; one M16A1 rifle (Elisco); one M653 assault rifle; four rifle grenades; live ammunition; and three bandoliers.
The surrenderees will undergo the process of validation before they will be enrolled in a government program intended for Former Rebels (FRs) - the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). The process included the documentation, debriefing, and psychosocial intervention, the official said.
They will receive immediate cash assistance, reintegration, and livelihood assistance, as well. The firearms and weapons they surrendered will be assessed and the remuneration depends on the condition if it is serviceable or not, Capt. Francisco added.
Meanwhile, 75IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Warren Munda called on the remaining NPA terrorists to surrender and return to the folds of the government.
The official is optimistic to accomplish their mission with the support from people in the community and the local government units under their area of responsibility. (75IB/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
NPA bomb expert surrenders in SurSur
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 30, 2019): NPA bomb expert surrenders in SurSur
BISLIG CITY, Surigao del Sur -- A New People’s Army (NPA) bomb expert identified as AKA Junio surrendered to the 75th Infantry “Marauder” Battalion (75IB) headquarters in Bislig City on Sept. 24, 2019.
According to 75IB Civil-Military Operations (CMO) officer Captain Edwin Leo Francisco, he brought along with him several war materials composed of one cal. 45 pistol, one magazine loaded with five rounds cal. 45, and one 357 revolver with four rounds of ammunition.
Capt. Francisco said AKA Junio was convinced by his comrades to surrender to the 75IB. Through proper coordination, the troops extended its assistance to secure for his safety, to live a normal life with his family and children.
"Wala na ko gaduha-duha nga mosurrender sa 75IB. Gusto na ko nga magpuyo nga malinawon kauban ang akong pamilya nga wala nay gikahadlukan pa (I did not hesitate to surrender to the 75IB. I want to live in peace with my family without worrying)," AKA Junio said.
Meanwhile, 75IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Warren Munda called on the remaining NPA terrorists to go back to the folds of the government. (75IB/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
BISLIG CITY, Surigao del Sur -- A New People’s Army (NPA) bomb expert identified as AKA Junio surrendered to the 75th Infantry “Marauder” Battalion (75IB) headquarters in Bislig City on Sept. 24, 2019.
According to 75IB Civil-Military Operations (CMO) officer Captain Edwin Leo Francisco, he brought along with him several war materials composed of one cal. 45 pistol, one magazine loaded with five rounds cal. 45, and one 357 revolver with four rounds of ammunition.
Capt. Francisco said AKA Junio was convinced by his comrades to surrender to the 75IB. Through proper coordination, the troops extended its assistance to secure for his safety, to live a normal life with his family and children.
"Wala na ko gaduha-duha nga mosurrender sa 75IB. Gusto na ko nga magpuyo nga malinawon kauban ang akong pamilya nga wala nay gikahadlukan pa (I did not hesitate to surrender to the 75IB. I want to live in peace with my family without worrying)," AKA Junio said.
Meanwhile, 75IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Warren Munda called on the remaining NPA terrorists to go back to the folds of the government. (75IB/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
AgNor villages avail free services
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 30, 2019): AgNor villages avail free services
BUTUAN CITY -- As the government intensifies the implementation of the Executive Order No. 70 or the whole-of-nation approach to end local communist armed conflict in the Caraga region, the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC)-Agusan del Norte has conducted another immersion in the three barangays of Remedios T. Romualdez (RTR) town.
More than 800 residents from different walks of life in the barangays of Tagbongabong, San Antonio and Balang-Balang of RTR have availed and benefitted from the medical, dental and social services, including legal consultations held in Barangay Tagbongabong.
Krizia Mae Mangadlao, a six-month pregnant from Barangay Balang-Balang was one of the beneficiaries who also received a buntis kit from the government. She said she was able to save some money intended to buy things for her baby.
“This is really of great help to me and the rest of the pregnant women. I hope this kind of activity will continue to help more Agusanons,” said Mangadlao.
The senior citizens also availed of the free services, which included Rosalinda Mundia, who benefitted from the free medicines.
“Thank you to all the government agencies who took part in this immersion and we continue to give our trust and confidence to the administration,” Mundia said.
Mayor Richard Daquipil was thankful to the different government agencies for choosing the municipality of RTR as the venue for the conduct of PPOC immersion, as it was the first time that such kind of activity was held in their area.
This, according to the mayor, is one of the ways to show to the locals that the government is doing its best to provide what they need by bringing the services closer to the people.
Mayor Daquipil also urged all residents to help the government in its effort to address the problem on insurgency.
The barangays of Tagbongabong, Mahaba, San Antonio and Balang-Balang were among the identified rebel-infested barangays in the region. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1027847
More than 800 residents from different walks of life in the barangays of Tagbongabong, San Antonio and Balang-Balang of RTR have availed and benefitted from the medical, dental and social services, including legal consultations held in Barangay Tagbongabong.
Krizia Mae Mangadlao, a six-month pregnant from Barangay Balang-Balang was one of the beneficiaries who also received a buntis kit from the government. She said she was able to save some money intended to buy things for her baby.
“This is really of great help to me and the rest of the pregnant women. I hope this kind of activity will continue to help more Agusanons,” said Mangadlao.
The senior citizens also availed of the free services, which included Rosalinda Mundia, who benefitted from the free medicines.
“Thank you to all the government agencies who took part in this immersion and we continue to give our trust and confidence to the administration,” Mundia said.
Mayor Richard Daquipil was thankful to the different government agencies for choosing the municipality of RTR as the venue for the conduct of PPOC immersion, as it was the first time that such kind of activity was held in their area.
This, according to the mayor, is one of the ways to show to the locals that the government is doing its best to provide what they need by bringing the services closer to the people.
Mayor Daquipil also urged all residents to help the government in its effort to address the problem on insurgency.
The barangays of Tagbongabong, Mahaba, San Antonio and Balang-Balang were among the identified rebel-infested barangays in the region. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1027847
Sec. Esperon to public: Help prevent NPA's recruitment to studes in HEIs
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 30, 2019): Sec. Esperon to public: Help prevent NPA's recruitment to studes in HEIs
BUTUAN CITY -- With the government’s strengthened campaign against the recruitment of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) to students of various colleges and universities in the country, National Security Adviser Secretary Hermogenes Esperon Jr., urged all stakeholders to be cautious and help prevent such acts of the communist-terrorist groups.
He said President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s administration gives priority to education to ensure the youth’s bright future. Hence, it also assures the provision of appropriate programs, projects, and opportunities for the youth’s welfare.
“Remember that the president, it is the president who wants for free tertiary education in all the state universities. So you can say that he has a big concern for education especially for those who could not afford to a more expensive tertiary learning institutions,“ said Sec. Esperon.
Esperon was also dismayed on several youths who were deceived and recruited by the CPP-NPA and were not able to continue their education. However, he also cited the significant number of young NPA members who surrendered to the folds of the law.
“We’ve seen that there are Grades 3 and 5 who were included in the surrenderees. Just imagine if only they were given the chance to continue their education, they could have experienced a happy childhood. And that is why we are now very strong on alternative learning systems and TESDA skills trainings and scholarship program because we want to capacitate our human resources,” said Esperon.
The official also emphasized that provinces of Caraga region could have been more developed without the chaos, exploitation, and abuse among indigenous peoples and farmers that were instigated by the CPP-NPA.
The Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) has been stepping up its effort and initiatives with the different sectors in Caraga to continuously address the insurgency problem in the barangay level.
Meanwhile, Esperon stressed that barangay officials should take this move seriously to help the government achieve lasting peace and development in the country. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1027852
He said President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s administration gives priority to education to ensure the youth’s bright future. Hence, it also assures the provision of appropriate programs, projects, and opportunities for the youth’s welfare.
“Remember that the president, it is the president who wants for free tertiary education in all the state universities. So you can say that he has a big concern for education especially for those who could not afford to a more expensive tertiary learning institutions,“ said Sec. Esperon.
Esperon was also dismayed on several youths who were deceived and recruited by the CPP-NPA and were not able to continue their education. However, he also cited the significant number of young NPA members who surrendered to the folds of the law.
“We’ve seen that there are Grades 3 and 5 who were included in the surrenderees. Just imagine if only they were given the chance to continue their education, they could have experienced a happy childhood. And that is why we are now very strong on alternative learning systems and TESDA skills trainings and scholarship program because we want to capacitate our human resources,” said Esperon.
The official also emphasized that provinces of Caraga region could have been more developed without the chaos, exploitation, and abuse among indigenous peoples and farmers that were instigated by the CPP-NPA.
The Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) has been stepping up its effort and initiatives with the different sectors in Caraga to continuously address the insurgency problem in the barangay level.
Meanwhile, Esperon stressed that barangay officials should take this move seriously to help the government achieve lasting peace and development in the country. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1027852
NPAs, supporters pledge loyalty to gov't
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 30, 2019): NPAs, supporters pledge loyalty to gov't (By 29IB Philippine Army)
CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte -- Two hundred nineteen members and supporters of the New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists from three different far-off areas of the municipality of Remedios T. Romualdez (RTR), Agusan del Norte recently took their oath and pledged allegiance of support to the government by simultaneously declaring the NPA as persona non-grata (PNG) in their barangays held recently in Brgy. Tagbongabong, RTR, Agusan del Norte.
The said members and mass supporters were composed of 38 members of the NPA, 22 Militia ng Bayan (MB) and 159 Underground Mass Organizations (UGMOs), all of whom were identified through the initiative if the 29IB. The efforts of the 29IB Community Support Teams were strengthened with the assistance from the Philippine National Police counterparts in the areas of Barangays San Antonio, Balang-balang and Tagbongabong.
The said 219 individuals took their oath of allegiance to the government led by Governor Dale B. Corvera of Agusan del Norte. Said oathtaking was followed by the symbolic burning of the NPA’s flag and clothes as a sign of withdrawal of support to the NPA.
The pledge of loyalty was also reinforced as two barangays of Balang-balang and Tagbongabong signed a resolution declaring NPA as Persona Non-grata in their barangays.
Mayor Richard B. Daquipil of RTR urged his people to withdraw whatever support they are providing to the NPAs, "because as we can see the government is here to help and support us. A government who truly looks after its people and its domain. Let us therefore come and work together in unity for RTR’s peace and development.”
“There would be no development in the area if there would be no peace. Likewise, there would certainly be no peace, if there would be no development," said Gov. Corvera.
"It goes together. So, let us, therefore, bear in mind that this insurgency, is not just a military or police problem, but rather this is everyone’s concern. Therefore, we must do something to contribute in resolving this issue,” he added. (1Lt Nonette B. Banggad, CMO Officer, 29IB, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)
CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte -- Two hundred nineteen members and supporters of the New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists from three different far-off areas of the municipality of Remedios T. Romualdez (RTR), Agusan del Norte recently took their oath and pledged allegiance of support to the government by simultaneously declaring the NPA as persona non-grata (PNG) in their barangays held recently in Brgy. Tagbongabong, RTR, Agusan del Norte.
The said members and mass supporters were composed of 38 members of the NPA, 22 Militia ng Bayan (MB) and 159 Underground Mass Organizations (UGMOs), all of whom were identified through the initiative if the 29IB. The efforts of the 29IB Community Support Teams were strengthened with the assistance from the Philippine National Police counterparts in the areas of Barangays San Antonio, Balang-balang and Tagbongabong.
The said 219 individuals took their oath of allegiance to the government led by Governor Dale B. Corvera of Agusan del Norte. Said oathtaking was followed by the symbolic burning of the NPA’s flag and clothes as a sign of withdrawal of support to the NPA.
The pledge of loyalty was also reinforced as two barangays of Balang-balang and Tagbongabong signed a resolution declaring NPA as Persona Non-grata in their barangays.
Mayor Richard B. Daquipil of RTR urged his people to withdraw whatever support they are providing to the NPAs, "because as we can see the government is here to help and support us. A government who truly looks after its people and its domain. Let us therefore come and work together in unity for RTR’s peace and development.”
“There would be no development in the area if there would be no peace. Likewise, there would certainly be no peace, if there would be no development," said Gov. Corvera.
"It goes together. So, let us, therefore, bear in mind that this insurgency, is not just a military or police problem, but rather this is everyone’s concern. Therefore, we must do something to contribute in resolving this issue,” he added. (1Lt Nonette B. Banggad, CMO Officer, 29IB, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)
Army encounters NPA terrorists anew, captures high powered firearms
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 30, 2019): Army encounters NPA terrorists anew, captures high powered firearms (By 802nd Brigade, 8ID)
ORMOC CITY -- Operating troops from the 93 Infantry Battalion based in Brgy. Aguiting, Kananga, Leyte engaged in a 10-minute firefight with remnants of the Communist Terrorist Group of FRONT 41, SRC LEVOX, EVRPC in Brgy. Caghalo, Carigara, Leyte early this morning September 30, 2019.
Lieutenant Colonel Roberto Q. Beatisula said they have been receiving reports from the communities in Carigara, Leyte the previous weeks thus, they initiated focused military operations in the area.
He said, “We have monitored the NPA presence in the area with the help of the populace. This indicates that our people had enough of the terrorism of the NPA and want to have peace in their communities. Their disgust led them to report NPA terrorist presence in their barangay. “
The encounter resulted to the capture of War Materiel including: 1-M16 Rifle, 2-M1 Garand Rifles, an explosive, Bandolier with Magazines for M16 Rifle and some personal effects of the fleeing enemy.
While scouring the encounter site in Brgy. Caghalo, Carigara, Leyte. Operating Troops captured the following additional war materials: two (2) M1 Carbine Rifles with one (1) Magazine, one (1) Improvised Shotgun, one (1) Bandolier and 75 Rounds M16 Ammo.
He added that while there was no casualty on the government troops, he believes some of the fleeing NPA terrorists are wounded based on the bloodstains in the encounter site. The operating troops are still pursuing the NPA members who fled from the site.
Meanwhile Brigadier General Lope C. Dagoy, Brigade Commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army said “This encounter speaks of the Army's commitment to end the insurgency here in Leyte. These communists have no place in the area of the peace-loving people of Carigara.”
“I encourage you to heed the call of the communities, lay down your arms and avail of the enhanced comprehensive local integration program (E-CLIP) of the government before you will get killed in combat. For those who are wounded due to this encounter, you have a choice, surrender, or die alone. I am sure your comrades have left you as they fled the area, the government is extending its hand for you to return to the folds of law, it is not too late for you to go back and be with your family," BGen Dagoy added.
"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 Let us condemn those who advocate violence and use arms," Dagoy concluded. (PA/PIA)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028087
ORMOC CITY -- Operating troops from the 93 Infantry Battalion based in Brgy. Aguiting, Kananga, Leyte engaged in a 10-minute firefight with remnants of the Communist Terrorist Group of FRONT 41, SRC LEVOX, EVRPC in Brgy. Caghalo, Carigara, Leyte early this morning September 30, 2019.
Lieutenant Colonel Roberto Q. Beatisula said they have been receiving reports from the communities in Carigara, Leyte the previous weeks thus, they initiated focused military operations in the area.
He said, “We have monitored the NPA presence in the area with the help of the populace. This indicates that our people had enough of the terrorism of the NPA and want to have peace in their communities. Their disgust led them to report NPA terrorist presence in their barangay. “
The encounter resulted to the capture of War Materiel including: 1-M16 Rifle, 2-M1 Garand Rifles, an explosive, Bandolier with Magazines for M16 Rifle and some personal effects of the fleeing enemy.
While scouring the encounter site in Brgy. Caghalo, Carigara, Leyte. Operating Troops captured the following additional war materials: two (2) M1 Carbine Rifles with one (1) Magazine, one (1) Improvised Shotgun, one (1) Bandolier and 75 Rounds M16 Ammo.
He added that while there was no casualty on the government troops, he believes some of the fleeing NPA terrorists are wounded based on the bloodstains in the encounter site. The operating troops are still pursuing the NPA members who fled from the site.
Meanwhile Brigadier General Lope C. Dagoy, Brigade Commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army said “This encounter speaks of the Army's commitment to end the insurgency here in Leyte. These communists have no place in the area of the peace-loving people of Carigara.”
“I encourage you to heed the call of the communities, lay down your arms and avail of the enhanced comprehensive local integration program (E-CLIP) of the government before you will get killed in combat. For those who are wounded due to this encounter, you have a choice, surrender, or die alone. I am sure your comrades have left you as they fled the area, the government is extending its hand for you to return to the folds of law, it is not too late for you to go back and be with your family," BGen Dagoy added.
"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 Let us condemn those who advocate violence and use arms," Dagoy concluded. (PA/PIA)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028087
8ID intensifies participation in the 118th Balangiga Encounter Day Commemoration
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 30, 2019): 8ID intensifies participation in the 118th Balangiga Encounter Day Commemoration (By 8ID, Philippine Army)
CAMP MAJOR EUGENIO DAZA, Samar -- The 8th Infantry Division “Stormtroopers” through the leadership of Major General Pio Q. Diñoso III, AFP, actively joined the provincial local government of Eastern Samar in commemorating the 118th Balangiga Encounter Day through various activities on September 25- 28, 2019 at the Balangiga Town Plaza, Poblacion, Balangiga, Eastern Samar.
The municipality of Balangiga with the Provincial Government of Eastern Samar hosted again the yearly Balangiga Encounter Day commemoration and this year’s theme, “Remembering the heroism of the Balangigan-on towards a better appreciation of our local history.”
Different activities such as the Kasugbong Art Exhibit, Service Fair, Banda Parada Competition, Bloodletting, Cultural competitions, Civic-Military parade and wreath-laying ceremony highlighted the affair.
Personnel from the 8th Infantry Division based in Brgy Maulong, Catbalogan, Samar rendered free services to the locals and spectators of the events, from security operations to community outreach activities.
The 8ID Marching Band marched together with the locals during the civic-military parade.
Further, personnel from the 14th IB joined in the service fair and bloodletting while the medical team augmented the local MDRRMC.
MGen Diñoso, commander of the 8th ID, PA, the military host, accompanied Sen. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go during the wreath-laying ceremony in honor of the brave and courageous Filipino (Samarenos) who gallantly fought the American colonizers.
The 14th IB Armored vehicles afforded the event with 21 gun salute. Security personnel and bomb-sniffing dogs from the K-9 units of the Philippine Army were deployed while joint AFP/PNP checkpoints were conducted along the national highway of the province.
Twenty-Three (23) local chief executives from the province of Eastern Samar with thousands of spectators gathered together to commemorate one of the bloodiest events during the Philippine-American war.
According to Col Camilo Z. Ligayo, commander of the 801st Infantry Brigade whose area covers the whole of Eastern Samar, “I will not allow any peace spoilers to spread chaos during the momentous event of Balangiga Day. I will utilize all available assets to keep safe every individual who wish to celebrate. We will work hand-in-hand with the PNP counterparts for the safety of everybody.”
The 8ID’s effort during the 118th Balangiga Encounter Day commemoration was recognized by no less than Sen. “Bong” Go who at the same time was the guest speaker during the event.
“Considering the people behind the 118th Balangiga Encounter Day commemoration, the untiring working committees and whose contributions are unparalleled, to the 8th Infantry Division, you deserve to be recognized,” Go told the troops.
The 8th Infantry (STORMTROOPERS) Division will work hand in hand and bring about a concerted effort among the different stakeholders towards attaining a peaceful 118th Balangiga Encounter Day commemoration. (PA)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028089
CAMP MAJOR EUGENIO DAZA, Samar -- The 8th Infantry Division “Stormtroopers” through the leadership of Major General Pio Q. Diñoso III, AFP, actively joined the provincial local government of Eastern Samar in commemorating the 118th Balangiga Encounter Day through various activities on September 25- 28, 2019 at the Balangiga Town Plaza, Poblacion, Balangiga, Eastern Samar.
The municipality of Balangiga with the Provincial Government of Eastern Samar hosted again the yearly Balangiga Encounter Day commemoration and this year’s theme, “Remembering the heroism of the Balangigan-on towards a better appreciation of our local history.”
Different activities such as the Kasugbong Art Exhibit, Service Fair, Banda Parada Competition, Bloodletting, Cultural competitions, Civic-Military parade and wreath-laying ceremony highlighted the affair.
Personnel from the 8th Infantry Division based in Brgy Maulong, Catbalogan, Samar rendered free services to the locals and spectators of the events, from security operations to community outreach activities.
The 8ID Marching Band marched together with the locals during the civic-military parade.
Further, personnel from the 14th IB joined in the service fair and bloodletting while the medical team augmented the local MDRRMC.
MGen Diñoso, commander of the 8th ID, PA, the military host, accompanied Sen. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go during the wreath-laying ceremony in honor of the brave and courageous Filipino (Samarenos) who gallantly fought the American colonizers.
The 14th IB Armored vehicles afforded the event with 21 gun salute. Security personnel and bomb-sniffing dogs from the K-9 units of the Philippine Army were deployed while joint AFP/PNP checkpoints were conducted along the national highway of the province.
Twenty-Three (23) local chief executives from the province of Eastern Samar with thousands of spectators gathered together to commemorate one of the bloodiest events during the Philippine-American war.
According to Col Camilo Z. Ligayo, commander of the 801st Infantry Brigade whose area covers the whole of Eastern Samar, “I will not allow any peace spoilers to spread chaos during the momentous event of Balangiga Day. I will utilize all available assets to keep safe every individual who wish to celebrate. We will work hand-in-hand with the PNP counterparts for the safety of everybody.”
The 8ID’s effort during the 118th Balangiga Encounter Day commemoration was recognized by no less than Sen. “Bong” Go who at the same time was the guest speaker during the event.
“Considering the people behind the 118th Balangiga Encounter Day commemoration, the untiring working committees and whose contributions are unparalleled, to the 8th Infantry Division, you deserve to be recognized,” Go told the troops.
The 8th Infantry (STORMTROOPERS) Division will work hand in hand and bring about a concerted effort among the different stakeholders towards attaining a peaceful 118th Balangiga Encounter Day commemoration. (PA)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028089
Mayor Sara wants 11 Salugpungan schools out of Davao City
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 30, 2019): Mayor Sara wants 11 Salugpungan schools out of Davao City
TOTAL SHUTDOWN. Davao City Mayor Sara Z. Duterte calls for the total shutdown of 11 Salugpungan schools in the city on Monday (Sept. 30, 2019), accusing the school system of using its learners to promote the communist rebel movement's ideology. The mayor also accused Salugpungan's backers of duplicity and "deceptive acts and practices." (Graphics courtesy of the Davao City Information Office)
DAVAO CITY -- Mayor Sara Z. Duterte has called for the immediate closure of 11 tribal schools operated by the Salugpongan Ta' Tanu Igkanugon Community Learning Center Inc. (STICLCI) in the city, accusing its backers of "deceptive acts and practices."
In a statement released on Monday, Mayor Sara cited the March 19, 2019 City Peace and Order Council (CPOC) resolution asking the Department of Education (DepEd) to terminate Salugpungan's permit to operate.
The CPOC resolution cited the local government's findings that include the persistent problem of Salugpungan students not having academic records and individual learner’s reference numbers. The findings also noted the presence of DepEd schools in areas where Salugpungan operates, negating the purpose of a Salugpungan school.
She said the Salungpungan learners are being used by its backers to raise funds that never went to the intended beneficiaries, and are instead being used for anti-government propaganda.
In particular, she singled out the Save Our Schools (SOS) Network, which she said "continues to shamelessly lick its wound publicly over the closure of Salugpungan schools. It scampered in obvious panic, but it is relentless in its efforts to sow disinformation about the government and why the closure was enforced."
The SOS Network, she said, even hosted a concert in Manila -- a fundraiser for the so-called students of “bakwit school” or a “school-on-the-run”.
“It is clearly another form of abuse and oppression of Lumad children by a group that pretends to be its protectors and defenders. A bakwit school, just like Salugpungan schools, is useless because it is not and it will never be recognized by DepEd and it is another ploy to solicit pity and money from the public while advancing their propaganda against the government,” she added.
Duterte maintained that the students of "bakwit" schools are Indigenous People's (IPs) children sprung out by SOS Network from their communities and forcibly brought in to the cities, "away from their homes to be used as poster boys and girls in their anti-government agenda."
“Salugpungan clearly failed to give justice to the sacrifices and dreams of the Lumad students who spent their time with their organization, believing the school will help them better their chances in the future. Salugpungan shall never operate in Davao City again because of this failure and unforgivable injustice,” she said.
Sara issued the statement following Councilor Pamela Librado-Morata's privilege speech on Sept. 24, in which the latter appealed to her colleagues to investigate the accusation leveled against STICLCI as a recruitment venue for the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).
“I 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,” Librado-Morata said.
Specifically, Librado-Morata was referring to the seven IP schools located in Paquibato and Marilog which are among the 55 IP schools ordered to be temporarily closed by DepEd-Region 11.
Check facts
She urged Librado-Morata to first "check the facts that form the basis of the request for closure, and not rely on the disinformation fed to her by the Makabayan bloc" and the CPP-NPA.
“The city government conducted due diligence in inquiring into the activities of Salugpungan schools before coming up with a CPOC resolution. The decision was based on facts, not on a whim or rumors as critics and anti-government forces want the public to believe,” Duterte said.
She added that the CPOC resolution came after the local government was provided with a written report containing the revelation made by a former Salugpungan student about the school teaching students how to use firearms, aside from them being indoctrinated with anti-government propaganda.
In July, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon accused the Salugpungan tribal school system of promoting the CPP-NPA's communist ideology that espouses the violent overthrow of the government; training its students to hold mass actions against the government and using curriculum not in accordance with the DepEd guidelines.
Esperon, who is also the vice-chairperson of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, said the allegations are backed by the testimonies of former students and teachers.
Also in July, Datu Joel Unad, chairman of the Mindanao Indigenous Peoples Council of Elders, said DepEd should close the Salugpungan school system for propagating the "ideology" behind the communist rebellion in the country.
Unad made the call following DepEd's order earlier that month temporarily suspending the operation of 55 Salugpungan schools in Region 11.
STTICLCI executive director Maria Eugenia Nolasco has denied the allegations.
DepEd-11 has since created a committee to investigate the claims and issue a recommendation whether to lift or make permanent the temporary suspension on STTICLCI's permit to operate.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1081772
TOTAL SHUTDOWN. Davao City Mayor Sara Z. Duterte calls for the total shutdown of 11 Salugpungan schools in the city on Monday (Sept. 30, 2019), accusing the school system of using its learners to promote the communist rebel movement's ideology. The mayor also accused Salugpungan's backers of duplicity and "deceptive acts and practices." (Graphics courtesy of the Davao City Information Office)
DAVAO CITY -- Mayor Sara Z. Duterte has called for the immediate closure of 11 tribal schools operated by the Salugpongan Ta' Tanu Igkanugon Community Learning Center Inc. (STICLCI) in the city, accusing its backers of "deceptive acts and practices."
In a statement released on Monday, Mayor Sara cited the March 19, 2019 City Peace and Order Council (CPOC) resolution asking the Department of Education (DepEd) to terminate Salugpungan's permit to operate.
The CPOC resolution cited the local government's findings that include the persistent problem of Salugpungan students not having academic records and individual learner’s reference numbers. The findings also noted the presence of DepEd schools in areas where Salugpungan operates, negating the purpose of a Salugpungan school.
She said the Salungpungan learners are being used by its backers to raise funds that never went to the intended beneficiaries, and are instead being used for anti-government propaganda.
In particular, she singled out the Save Our Schools (SOS) Network, which she said "continues to shamelessly lick its wound publicly over the closure of Salugpungan schools. It scampered in obvious panic, but it is relentless in its efforts to sow disinformation about the government and why the closure was enforced."
The SOS Network, she said, even hosted a concert in Manila -- a fundraiser for the so-called students of “bakwit school” or a “school-on-the-run”.
“It is clearly another form of abuse and oppression of Lumad children by a group that pretends to be its protectors and defenders. A bakwit school, just like Salugpungan schools, is useless because it is not and it will never be recognized by DepEd and it is another ploy to solicit pity and money from the public while advancing their propaganda against the government,” she added.
Duterte maintained that the students of "bakwit" schools are Indigenous People's (IPs) children sprung out by SOS Network from their communities and forcibly brought in to the cities, "away from their homes to be used as poster boys and girls in their anti-government agenda."
“Salugpungan clearly failed to give justice to the sacrifices and dreams of the Lumad students who spent their time with their organization, believing the school will help them better their chances in the future. Salugpungan shall never operate in Davao City again because of this failure and unforgivable injustice,” she said.
Sara issued the statement following Councilor Pamela Librado-Morata's privilege speech on Sept. 24, in which the latter appealed to her colleagues to investigate the accusation leveled against STICLCI as a recruitment venue for the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).
“I 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,” Librado-Morata said.
Specifically, Librado-Morata was referring to the seven IP schools located in Paquibato and Marilog which are among the 55 IP schools ordered to be temporarily closed by DepEd-Region 11.
Check facts
She urged Librado-Morata to first "check the facts that form the basis of the request for closure, and not rely on the disinformation fed to her by the Makabayan bloc" and the CPP-NPA.
“The city government conducted due diligence in inquiring into the activities of Salugpungan schools before coming up with a CPOC resolution. The decision was based on facts, not on a whim or rumors as critics and anti-government forces want the public to believe,” Duterte said.
She added that the CPOC resolution came after the local government was provided with a written report containing the revelation made by a former Salugpungan student about the school teaching students how to use firearms, aside from them being indoctrinated with anti-government propaganda.
In July, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon accused the Salugpungan tribal school system of promoting the CPP-NPA's communist ideology that espouses the violent overthrow of the government; training its students to hold mass actions against the government and using curriculum not in accordance with the DepEd guidelines.
Esperon, who is also the vice-chairperson of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, said the allegations are backed by the testimonies of former students and teachers.
Also in July, Datu Joel Unad, chairman of the Mindanao Indigenous Peoples Council of Elders, said DepEd should close the Salugpungan school system for propagating the "ideology" behind the communist rebellion in the country.
Unad made the call following DepEd's order earlier that month temporarily suspending the operation of 55 Salugpungan schools in Region 11.
STTICLCI executive director Maria Eugenia Nolasco has denied the allegations.
DepEd-11 has since created a committee to investigate the claims and issue a recommendation whether to lift or make permanent the temporary suspension on STTICLCI's permit to operate.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1081772
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