Negros anti-insurgency task force chief blasts NDF

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 3, 2019): Negros anti-insurgency task force chief blasts NDF



TOGETHER FOR PEACE. Brig. Gen. Eric Vinoya (3rd from left), commander of Joint Task Force Negros, and Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo (4th from left), commander of 303rd Infantry Brigade, link arms for peace with (from left) Escalante Mayor Melecio Yap Jr., actor Robin Padilla, Negros Occidental Police Director Col. Romeo Baleros, and former rebel 'Ka Joros' during the North Negros Summit held in Escalante City, Negros Occidental on September 20, 2019. (PNA Bacolod file photo)

The chief of the military’s anti-insurgency unit in Negros Island has assailed the National Democratic Front (NDF)-Negros for making a mockery of the Negrenses’ desire for peace.

Brig. Gen. Eric Vinoya, commander of Joint Task Force (JTF) Negros, said in a statement on Wednesday it is a shame the NDF cannot comprehend the people’s will and still keeps on dreaming that it still have their support.

“Who are you to insult and belittle the Negrenses’ fervent desire to end your senseless and bloody armed struggle?” Vinoya questioned Bayani Obrero, spokesperson of NDF-Negros.

The NDF, the political wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA), recently posted on its website Obrero’s statement claiming that Vinoya, also the assistant commander of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division and Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, commander of 303rd Infantry Brigade, based in Murcia, Negros Occidental, are having the “illusion” of destroying insurgency in Negros by the end of the year.

“If there is someone who is hallucinating, it is you who is very desperate to destroy the concerted efforts of the people to stand against your ruthlessness and even have the guts to beg for their support,” Vinoya shot back at Obrero.

He added that the CPP-NPA-NDF will no longer get support from Negrenses who have chosen to embrace the culture of peace and even from their former comrades, who have forsaken them after being the living witnesses of the communist-terrorist group’s inhumane activities.

“The people have spoken. The cities and municipalities of Negros Island have declared you persona non grata which indicates they are fed up with your atrocities. The truth is they don’t want you to enter and hinder their peaceful and progressive community,” the Army official added.

Vinoya said the targets of JTF Negros are those waging violence and terror against the people, particularly the CPP-NPA-NDF, which are the true human rights violators.

“The JTF Negros is here to strengthen the majority’s effort to make your dying armed cause permanently irrelevant. Despite that, we are giving you the last chance to surrender before you will be hit by the iron fist of the JTF Negros,” he said.

Earlier, Vinoya said the JTF Negros will utilize the air and naval assets of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to complement the ground forces to fast-track the anti-insurgency campaign in the two Negros provinces.

“If you don’t surrender, expect more combat encounters in the next few weeks as all military units in Negros will be utilized to hunt you and hit you very hard,” the task force chief warned the CPP-NPA.

JTF Negros was formed on September 1 to “undertake(s) operational control of all AFP units in Negros in conducting internal security operations to ultimately dismantle priority guerilla fronts and defeat the communist terrorist group in the island.”
The NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1082114

CA confirms appointments of 9 AFP officers

From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 2, 2019): CA confirms appointments of 9 AFP officers

The Commission on Appointments (CA) confirmed on Wednesday the appointments of nine ranking officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).



Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) (MANILA BULLETIN)

They were confirmed based on the recommendation of Rep. Luis A. Ferrer IV, chairman of the CA national committee.

Confirmed in a plenary session presided by Senate President Vicente C. Sotto III, concurrent CA chairman, was Ferdinand M. Cartujano as major general.

The CA also confirmed as brigadier generals were Ernesto S Levanza, Adonis R. Bajao, Rodolfo B. Lavadia Jr., Vener Odilon D. Mariano, Pablo R. Rustria Jr., and Ferdinand M. Friginal.

Also confirmed was Jose Ambrosio as commodore, and Don L. Abalon as colonel.

All were present in the plenary session except Rustria who is with the party of President Duterte in his Russian state visit.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/10/02/ca-confirms-appointments-of-9-afp-officers/

Opinion: PhD thesis details Ninoy Aquino’s collaboration with Communist Party/NPA

Opinion piece posted to the Manila Times (Oct 2, 2019): PhD thesis details Ninoy Aquino’s collaboration with Communist Party/NPA (By Riboberto D. Tiglao)

First of a series on the Scalice revelations

THE Yellows’ martyr Benigno ‘Ninoy’ Aquino, Jr. was crucial in the founding and growth of the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People’s Army (CPP-NPA). Aquino, until his arrest when martial was declared in 1972, supported the CPP-NPA as one of his weapons to topple his arch-enemy Ferdinand Marcos.

This is among the many explosive conclusions and details of a 2017 PhD dissertation by Joseph Scalice at the University of California, Berkeley, entitled Crisis of Revolutionary Leadership: Martial Law and the Communist Parties of the Philippines, 1957-1974.

The 800-page thesis is replete with encyclopedic information not just on the old pro-Soviet Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas (PKP) and Jose Ma. Sison’s pro-China Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP). Scalice reveals surprising details on political figures of that era that would shock the Yellows and the Reds.

Scalice appears to have spent years on his thesis, poring over nearly every written material on the insurgency as well as interviewing participants in the “revolutionary struggle” (or at least those willing to be interviewed). His native fluency in Tagalog (he spoke the language since he was five, he says in his CV) enabled him to read the mountain of papers in the so-called Radical Papers at the UP library, an archive of all materials on the revolutionary struggle.

Was it actually Marcos vs the Aquino-Sison tandem? SOURCE: GOVT ARCHIVES

Hacienda Luisita

On the thesis’ page 378, Scalice shows how crucial Aquino’s role was in the founding of the CPP and the NPA:

“Aquino allowed [NPA head Kumander] Dante to move freely throughout his Hacienda Luisita, and Yap, on returning from a visit to China, had given Dante a copy of Mao’s Red Book.(RDT:Yap is the late congressman Jose Yap, Aquino’s close ally in Tarlac. Ironically perhaps, he was Cory Aquino’s peace negotiator with the CPP.)

“Dante provided Aquino with an armed base of popular opposition to Marcos. Connecting Dante with Jose Ma. Sison and the CPP presented Aquino the possibility of expanding his base of armed support to a national scale. In October 1968, Aquino and Sison met and discussed ‘how big a problem Marcos was,’ and Yap, Aquino and Rodolfo Salas [who would succeed Dante as NPA head] arranged a meeting between Sison and Dante.

“The meeting took place in late January 1969 in Dante’s hometown of Talimundoc, Capas. Aquino later reported to his friends that he personally drove Sison to this meeting. Among the crucial conditions which facilitated both the discussions between Sison and Dante from January to March 1969, as well as the founding of the CPP at the end of March, was the demilitarization of Tarlac from Nov. 7, 1968 to April 10, 1969.

“Dante and his men moved about in peace throughout the province, and Sison and his cohort traveled freely between Manila and Tarlac. The demilitarization, which effectively removed the massive military buildup of Task Force Lawin from the province, lasted precisely from the founding of the party to the establishment of the New People’s Army. The negotiated removal of the military was entirely the doing of Aquino and was referred to in the press as the ‘Ninoy Aquino peace plan’.”

“Scalice in page 392 would report an interesting detail: “Dante and (his deputy Rodolfo) Salas became political instructors in a party training school set up within the Voice of America radio relay station compound, housed on Aquino’s Hacienda Luisita. Dante’s men worked as security guards there and they gave Dante and Salas, dressed in blue security guard uniforms, access to the compound.”

Red Isabela

Sison’s plan right after the NPA was founded in 1969 was to build the communist first base in Isabela in the thick of the Sierra Madre mountains. This was of course his attempt to replicate Mao’s famous Red base in Yan’an, where the Chinese communists built up its forces to eventually defeat the Kuomintang in China’s civil war.

In his thesis’ page 292, Scalice reports how Sison’s fledgling band of former Huks like Dante and student drop-outs from Manila’s universities managed to build a base of sorts in Isabela, where an obscure fishing port there would be used as a landing site for Chinese-made rifles in May 1972):

“Salas recounted that Faustino Dy, the mayor of Cauayan, Isabela, ‘was instrumental in enabling the NPA to develop a base in the province.’ Ninoy Aquino, Salas claimed, ‘introduced Dy to the NPA.. For some time Joma even stayed in Dy’s house. … He helped us a lot.’ Salas further reported that with the NPA’s help, Dy was elected governor of Isabela in 1971.

“Dy broke with the NPA with the declaration of martial law and allied with Marcos, thus securing his hold as governor for the next twenty years. The NPA was friendly not only with the local political elite of Isabela but with logging corporations as well, and Sison recounted that ‘in the forest region of Isabela, we did united front work with logging businessmen’.”

Aquino’s money (“from the coffers of his wife.” Scalice scoffed) as well as from anti-Marcos oligarchs such as the Lopezes — whose plea for a rate increase for their Meralco electric distribution utility Marcos denied — funded the CPP’s front organizations, including their huge 1970 rallies romanticized as the “First Quarter Storm,” Scalice pointed out.

Tipped Aquino

The NPA was officially established in March 1969 in Capas, Tarlac by Dante and his eight lieutenants, along with Sison and four members of the CPP’s central committee. One of the eight was one Ruben Tuazon, known as Kumander Rubio and barrio captain of a town within the Cojuangcos’ Hacienda Luisita. According to Scalice, Tuazon was Aquino’s employee until his death right after martial law was declared.

Tuazon would be an intriguing protagonist in the CPP-Aquino saga. Scalice gave credence to an obscure and forgotten newspaper report in 1989 that it was Tuazon, then still a party central committee member, who tipped Aquino that the Liberal Party miting de avance on Aug. 21, 1971 would be bombed by CPP operatives and that he should delay his scheduled attendance in that rally.

Up to the last weeks before martial law ended his political career, Aquino was plotting with the CPP to seize power for himself, Scalice explains in pages 746 to 748 of his thesis:

“Aquino intended to seize power through an uprising led by the CPP in conjunction with a military coup and then immediately implement martial law. For this to succeed it was imperative that he have the support of Washington, and on September 12, Aquino held a private meeting with two political officers of the US Embassy.*

“Aquino first made clear that he supported military dictatorship regardless of who implemented it. He stated that ‘Marcos must take strong actions in the near future and these will include martial law. If the President follows this course, Aquino said that, ‘for the good of the country,’ he will support Marcos.’

Washington’s support

Having established that Washington could rely on his support for martial law, Aquino then informed the Embassy political officers that he might in the near future attempt to seize power. ‘Aquino believes that the possibilities of his becoming head of government by legitimate means are quickly diminishing, and he is accordingly keeping open an option to lead an anti-Marcos revolution in alliance with the communists.’

“During the same meeting, Aquino informed the Embassy officers that he had recently held a secret meeting with Sison. Aquino and Sison discussed the possibility of forming a broad united front in opposition to the Marcos administration. Aquino said that he had been offered and had declined as being premature and unwarranted by the present situation, the position of leading a revolutionary government ‘in the hills’ in alliance with the CPP.

“In Aquino’s view, however, the internal security and socio-economic situation in the Philippines was rapidly deteriorating. He believed that President Marcos intended to stay in power indefinitely and that his own chances of becoming head of the government by legitimate means were slight. He thus may be willing at some point in the future to ally himself with the communists as the leader of a revolution, if he is convinced that this is the best way for him to realize his ultimate political ambition.

“Aquino’s failed bid for dictatorship is one of the gross miscalculations in Philippine political history; it proved so slight, so insubstantial, that most are unaware that it was even attempted.”

Are we sure we want our airport to be named after this man, and have his statues in prominent places as if he were a hero who opposed Marcos because of his democratic ideals?

*Scalice’s source here: “Airgram From the Embassy in the Philippines to the Department of State,” chap. Document 257 in Foreign Relations of the United States, 1969-1976, Volume XX, Southeast Asia, 1969-1972 (Washington: United States Government Printing Office, 2006)

Email: tiglao.manilatimes@gmail.com
Facebook: Rigoberto Tiglao
Twitter: @bobitiglao
Book orders: www.rigobertotiglao.com/debunked

https://www.manilatimes.net/2019/10/02/opinion/columnists/topanalysis/phd-thesis-details-ninoy-aquinos-collaboration-with-communist-party-npa/624846/

Philippine separatist leaders’ embrace hints at thaw in ties

From the Arab News (Oct 3, 2019): Philippine separatist leaders’ embrace hints at thaw in ties

Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) forces at their camp. (Shutterstock)

Philippines top Muslim separatist leaders, who have been at odds for decades, on Monday shook hands and embraced each other

MANILA: In another historic moment in the Philippines’ quest to bring lasting peace to Mindanao, the country’s top Muslim separatist leaders, who have been at odds for decades, on Monday shook hands and embraced each other.

The warm exchange between Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chair Nur Misuari and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) chair Murad Ibrahim, who is now interim chair of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao, came as the two Muslim revolutionary leaders crossed paths at the culmination of the National Peace Month celebrations.

The event, broadcast live on social media, was hosted by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, which was also celebrating its 26th anniversary. Also present were other former revolutionary leaders, active and retired military officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and peace advocates.

Minutes before the end of the event, special guests, including Misuari and Murad, were called to the stage for a group photo. When the two took to the stage, the surprising moment followed. Murad extended his hand to Misuari and they then shook hands and embraced each other, sparking hopes of possible reconciliation.

Misuari and Murad have not been under one roof in decades. The two Moro leaders distanced themselves from each other after the MILF broke away from the MNLF in 1977.

Aside from Murad, Misuari also exchanged warm greetings with former MNLF secretary general Muslimin Sema.

“The meeting was indeed historic. What we are seeing here is a reflection of the collective desire of all revolutionary leaders and the government to attain lasting peace in the country,” said Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr.

“In line with the peace commitment of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, we at the OPAPP will continue to do our best to bridge people, promote understanding and unity all in the name of peace,” he added.

“It’s a wonderful night that gave us the sign that it is now the time for our deep wounds from all conflicts to heal,” Galvez continued.

Misuari lauded Duterte’s strong political will and unwavering commitment to resolve the decades-long armed conflict in Mindanao.

“I look forward to the success of our peace process… The president knows how to totally achieve peace. I do believe this is a very opportune time for all of us to join hands to concretize what the president wants to happen very soon (in the peace process),” Misuari said.

It can be recalled that Malacanang announced last August the creation of a coordinating committee with the MNLF, as instructed by the president. While it is not clear “whether the committee will be used to thresh out a new agreement with the MNLF on a new territory for them,” Duterte’s spokesman Salvador Panelo said, “the committee would be a venue to seek the cooperation of the MNLF to achieve immediate peace in Sulu.”

Meanwhile, Murad extended a message of peace to the other Moro fronts in Mindanao — a gesture of goodwill that could invaluably contribute to achieving sustainable peace in the island region.

“We are open, our arms are open, we are inviting all groups. We also believe that the real success of the peace process is the collective effort of everybody. We cannot afford to isolate anybody. We need everybody,” Murad said, referring to the ongoing implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, which paved the way for the establishment of the BARMM.

Murad likewise said they still recognize Misuari as their leader, as he pointed out it was the MNLF chair who was the first to “unite the entire Bangsamoro.”

Murad also expressed his desire to mend the differences between him and Misuari so they can work together for a united Bangsamoro.

Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri, who was instrumental in the passage and ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, recognized the OPAPP’s key role in pushing forward the Bangsamoro peace process.

“OPAPP has been an invaluable instrument for peace in the nation. In particular, OPAPP has served and continues to serve a vital purpose in our journey toward genuine and lasting peace in Mindanao,” noted Zubiri, who was the event’s guest of honor.

https://www.arabnews.com/node/1562781/world

AFP-CRS: CPP-NPA also Corrupt IP Tongue: NCIP Chief (3)

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 2, 2019): CPP-NPA also Corrupt IP Tongue: NCIP Chief (3)



"The Philippines, which has more than 100 languages that are used by various ethnolinguistic groups, reaffirms its strong commitment to the promotion and preservation of indigenous languages. Recognizing IP languages is vital in recognizing and respecting the identity, culture, and customs of the country's indigenous peoples."

This, according to National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) head, Secretary Allen A. Capuyan, during the Annual Panel on the Rights of Indigenous People themed “Indigenous Languages” during the 42nd Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland on September 18.

#AFPyoucanTRUST |www.afpcrs.com

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2737098429642197/?type=3&theater

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

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

AFP-CRS: Have a Heart and Soul New PMA Chief Tells Cadets

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 2, 2019): Have a Heart and Soul New PMA Chief Tells Cadets



HEART AND SOUL. Rear Admiral Allan Cusi addresses cadets as he takes over as superintendent of the Philippine Military Academy in Baguio City on October 1, 2019.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2737160726302634/?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: CPP-NPA also Corrupt IP Tongue: NCIP Chief (2)

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 2, 2019): CPP-NPA also Corrupt IP Tongue: NCIP Chief (2)



Such actions by the CPP-NPA and its allies are also parties to corrupting words sacred to the IPs should be condemned and penalized because they are in violation of the IP rights.

This, according to National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) head, Secretary Allen A. Capuyan, during the Annual Panel on the Rights of Indigenous People themed “Indigenous Languages” during the 42nd Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland on September 18. Capuyan was referring to the following IP words which were misappropriated by the communist rebels:

* Bagani, a word signifying tribal defense and law enforcement, has been corrupted and used to name communist armed units “Pulang Bagani Command” or “Red Bagani Units” which fight against the government;
* Salugpungan, a word signifying protection of the ancestral domain, has been exploited to refer to training schools for child combatants and warriors and to people’s organizations or non-government organizations (NGOs) headed by non-indigenous people for purposes of raising funds from international sources to serve criminal ends; and
* Pantaron, a word signifying sacred place and paradise, has been misappropriated to refer to NPA encampment areas, headquarters, and national operational command.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2737084932976880/?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: CPP-NPA also Corrupt IP Tongue: NCIP Chief (1)

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 2, 2019): CPP-NPA also Corrupt IP Tongue: NCIP Chief (1)



Aside from committing atrocities and other acts of violence against the country's indigenous peoples, the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) and its allies are also parties to corrupting words sacred to the IPs.

This, according to National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) head, Secretary Allen A. Capuyan, during the Annual Panel on the Rights of Indigenous People themed “Indigenous Languages” during the 42nd Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland on September 18.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2737083322977041/?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 Chief Expects Acting PMA Head to Make Difference

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 2, 2019): AFP Chief Expects Acting PMA Head to Make Difference



Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff, LtGen Noel S Clement expects incoming Philippine Military Academy (PMA) acting Superintendent, Rear Admiral Allan Cusi, to make a positive impact during his stint at the country's premier military school.

LtGen Clement is also confident that Cusi will succeed given his known competence as a trainer, mentor, leader, and commander in various levels of command and staff positions.

Philippine Military Academy "Face-Bok"
#IBelieveInPMA
#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2736977339654306/?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 Acquires Israeli Drones

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 2, 2019): AFP Acquires Israeli Drones



The DND has contracted 12 UAV from Elbit Systems of Israel — three Hermes 450 and nine units of Hermes 900 under an P8 billion project.

Described as the workhorse of the Israeli Defense Force in counterterror operations, the Hermes 450 drones are said to be the mature and combat-proven units, which have a class-leading safety and reliability record. The acquisition of UAV is just part of the PAF’s modernization program.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2737003982984975/?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: 3,700 COMVAL Student Empowered as Peace Months Ends

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 2, 2019): 3,700 COMVAL Student Empowered as Peace Months Ends

A total of 3,784 Student Leaders from 26 Secondary Schools in Comval were engaged by the Youth for Peace Movement Comval over the month as its flagship program named 3rd Comval Campus Peace Symposium (CPS) kickstarted on September 16 to 30, 2019.

As a multi-stakeholder activity, the CPS is also conducted in partnership with various peace partners in Comval such as the Provincial Local Government Unit (PLGU), led by Gov. Jayvee Tyron L. Uy, DepEd, Department of Interior and Local Government Government (DILG), 1001st Infantry Brigade and 66th Infantry Battalion – Philippine Army, Comval Provincial Police Office (CVPPO), and Supreme Student Government (SSG)

With the theme, “Engaging Student Leaders, Empowering Peacebuilders, to Ripple Genuine Peace-building in the Zones of Peace,” CPS aims to inform the students of the different issues and concerns in the country and allow them to suggest possible solutions to these.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2736951812990192/?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: Ex-Militant Group Members Undergo TESDA Livelihood Training

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 2, 2019): Ex-Militant Group Members Undergo TESDA Livelihood Training



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2736893406329366/?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/NPA-Negros Island: The armed movement in Negros remains ablaze following the deafening rage of the people emanating from the injustices perpetrated by the AFP and PNP

NPA-Negros Island propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 1, 2019): The armed movement in Negros remains ablaze following the deafening rage of the people emanating from the injustices perpetrated by the AFP and PNP

JUANITO MAGBANUA

NPA-NEGROS ISLAND

APOLINARIO GATMAITAN COMMAND

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

OCTOBER 01, 2019

Joint Task Force (JTF) – Negros Commander BGen. Eric Vinoya is daydreaming and floating on the air with his statement aiming to convince red fighters of the NPA to abandon armed struggle and return to the fold of government to receive freedom and various services of the reactionary state.

The counter-revolutionary campaign’s desperation in sowing terror and curbing the intensifying and broadening struggle of the oppressed masses hints of the fascist Duterte regime’s panic along with its militarist dogs. From the implementation of Memorandum Order 32, Executive Order 70, and the recently formed Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) under the NTF-ELCAC, the lastest JTF Negros only exacerbates injustice that triggered the spillage of blood right here in Negros Island.

However, beyond the worsening brutality of the US-Duterte regime, it continues to fail because of the accumulation of the people’s outrage and the fervour of the whole revolutionary force to demand reckoning and make the fascist reign of Duterte pay for all crimes committed against the Filipino people.

Duterte’s evil work exhibits the rottenness of his decaying dictatorship that can never be concealed. Indeed to all butcher officials in the AFP and PNP, prepare for your warranted defeat. And to the AFP/PNP rank-and-file who have witnessed the violence, corruption, anomalies and inhumane schemes within your ranks, it is not yet too late to change your ways and join the revolution.

The NPA is ever-ready as the soldiers of the oppressed class to do everything to frustrate all anti-people military campaigns. The NPA is determined to wage successive tactical offensives against the mercenary AFP/PNP to weaken the Duterte regime until it can be overthrown. The whole revolutionary force will intensify further protracted people’s war to carry forward the national democratic revolution to a higher stage up to victory. #

https://cpp.ph/statement/the-armed-movement-in-negros-remains-ablaze-following-the-deafening-rage-of-the-people-emanating-from-the-injustices-perpetrated-by-the-afp-and-pnp/

Kalinaw News: 74 Lumads complete various livelihood skills

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 2, 2019): 74 Lumads complete various livelihood skills

HEADQUARTERS, 1003rd Brigade, Barangay Mahayag, DC – A closing ceremony for the graduates of various skills trainings and course initiated by the 56th Infantry Battalion with the Provincial Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA) of Davao Del Norte commenced today in Sitio Tibucag, a far-flung area in Barangay Dagohoy, Talaingod, Davao Del Norte.

A closing ceremony for the graduates of various skills trainings and course initiated by the 56th Infantry Battalion with the Provincial Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA) of Davao Del Norte commenced today in Sitio Tibucag, a far-flung area in Barangay Dagohoy, Talaingod, Davao Del Norte.

The 74 graduates, all Ata-Manobo men and women from the said area, satisfactorily finished the 20-day Plaster Concrete Masonry Surface (Leading to Masonry National Certificate II) with 34 male graduates and the 3-day Beads Making with 20 female graduates and Abaca Processing with 20 female graduates.

The trainings were conducted in partnership with the 1003rd Brigade, the Municipality of Talaingod, the Provincial Social Welfare and Development of Davao Del Norte (PSWD), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PFIDA).

The Plaster Concrete Masonry graduates while on training were provided 100.00 pesos as daily allowance for the duration of their training. Collectively, all the trainees were provided free meals during their training. Present during the Closing ceremony were: Colonel Nolasco A Mempin, Commander of the 1003rd Brigade, Lieutenant Colonel Norman E Valdez, Commanding Officer of the 56 Infantry Battalion, Honorable Jonnie A Libayao, Mayor of Talaingod Town, Ms Arlene S Bandong, Provincial Director of TESDA Region XI, Mr Jeffrey R Calamongay representing Davao Del Norte Governor Edwin I Jubahib and other representative officials from the province of DTI and PFIDA.

The said training was the first conducted under Davao Del Norte’s Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) headed by TESDA. PRLEC is one of the clusters under Davao Del Norte’s Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict conducting poverty alleviation efforts in Conflict-Affected and Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (CONAAs and GIDAs) as embodied in the President’s Executive Order Number 70.

Source: 1003rd Infantry Brigade

https://www.kalinawnews.com/74-lumads-complete-various-livelihood-skills/

Kalinaw News: Community support program culmination of Sitio Naputkalan

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 2, 2019): Community support program culmination of Sitio Naputkalan

Talaingod, Davao del Norte – The 56th Infantry “Tatag” Battalion, Philippine Army under the leadership of LTC NORMAN E VALDEZ INF (GSC) PA, Battalion Commander in cooperation with the Local Government Unit and agencies of Talaingod culminated the Community Support Program (CSP) in Sitio Naputkalan, Brgy Sto Niño, Talaingod, Davao del Norte today, October 01, 2019.

The 56IB deployed CSP team in Sitio Naputkalan on June 21, 2019 to identify primary issues and concerns of the lumad community and address such issues thru the covergence of the local goverment under the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

The deployment of CSP team is one way of bringing the government closer to the people, particularly in those areas where government services seldom reach the people.

The culmination was highlighted by a dialogue with the community that discussed the efforts of the different agencies in making Sitio Naputkalan a peaceful and conflict-resilient community.

CPT JOHN LOUIE S DEMA-ALA, CMO Officer of 56IB in his speech said that, “Hindi ito ang katapusan ngunit ito lamang ay isang hakbang natin na magsisilbi o maituturing natin na simula ng ating pagkakaisa para sa pagkamit natin sa mapayapa at maunlad na Naputkalan. Ang inyong kasundaluhan sa 56th IB ay hinding-hindi magsasawang maging tulay ninyo upang iparating sa kinauukulan ang inyong mga magandang ninanais tungo sa ikabubuti ng nakararami at nang ating komunidad”.

Ltc Valdez expressed his gratitude to the Provincial Government Office of Davao del Norte, LGU Talaingod, DepEd, DSWD, MAGRO, Talaingod MPS, NGOs and other stakeholders of Talaingod for their trust and support to the CSP Team deployed in Sitio Naputkalan.

The CSP is in line with the Development Support and Security Plan “KAPAYAPAAN” of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to conduct Development Support Operations, sustain the peace, ensure security and help maintain public order to foster the foundation for economic and human development.

56th Infantry Battalion 7th Infantry Division
CPT John Louie Dema-ala (INF)
Public Information Officer
56th Infantry (TATAG) Battalion
Cellphone No: 09673514403
E Mail Address: cmotatag56@gmail.com

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/community-support-program-culmination-of-sitio-naputkalan/

Kalinaw News: Armed encounter ensued between gov’t troops and communist terrorists in Albay

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 2, 2019): Armed encounter ensued between gov’t troops and communist terrorists in Albay

CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur-Government troops and members of Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) clashed anew around 10:30 in the morning, Tuesday, October 1.

Combined elements of 31st Infantry Battalion and Police Mobile Force Company were conducting combat operation in response to a report made by the residents in Barangay Oma-oma, Ligao City in Albay province about the presence of CTG’s when they encountered more or less five members of Sentro De Grabidad, Larangan 1, Komiteng Probinsya 5 under Elmer Olie, AKA Rommel.

The firefight lasted for almost seven minutes before the armed rebels withdrew. No one was hurt in the government side but still undetermined in the enemy’s side.

Troops were able to recover one carbine rifle, bandolier with six magazines of the said firearm, one live ammunition of 40mm HE and personal belongings.

LTC CHARLIEBEN DELAMIDE, Battalion Commander of 31st IB directed his troops to continue implementing tight security in the area to preempt any violent attacks and extortion activities of CTG’s which only bring harm to the innocent civilians.

Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB) under MGEN FERNANDO T TRINIDAD AFP on the other hand thanked the residents for the prompt report made and underscored that it is a clear proof that the public is already fed up with the armed group’s illegal activities.

Nevertheless, JTFB reiterated its call for the communist terrorists to lay down their arms and abandon the useless cause of CTG because with the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) or Task Force Katuninongan asin Kauswagan, more government agencies will be able to assist them to reestablish their lives.

This is aside from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) where rebel returnees is given livelihood and housing assistance as well as firearm renumeration.

Division Public Affairs Office 9th Infantry Division Philippine Army
Cpt Joash Pramis
Chief, Division Public Affairs Office, 9ID
Camp Elias Angeles, Pili, Camarines Sur, Philippines
Cell number: 09151434816
email: dpao.9id.pa@gmail.com

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]
https://www.kalinawnews.com/armed-encounter-ensued-between-govt-troops-and-communist-terrorists-in-albay/

Kalinaw News: University students in Butuan city pledge support to peace, write open letter to NPAs

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 2, 2019): University students in Butuan city pledge support to peace, write open letter to NPAs

Bancasi, Butuan City – Students of the National Service Training Program (NSTP) of Father Saturnino Urios University (FSSU) have pledged support for Peace and wrote open letters to the CPP-NPA-NDF during the Information Education Campaign (IEC) on Public Safety and Security at FSSU Gym, Butuan City on September 28, 2019.

About one thousand (1,000) students of NSTP attended the IEC against insurgency initiated by the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) in partnership with the 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade to instill awareness about the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) and prevent recruitment of youths from schools, universities and colleges.

In line with the objectives of the Situational Awareness and Knowledge Management (SAKM) Cluster of the Regional Task Force in Ending the Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) under the Executive Order No 70, the NICA in cooperation with Army units in Caraga is conducting massive Information Education Campaign to provide information and awareness to all sectors against CPP-NPA-NDF particularly the CTG recruitment towards vulnerable sectors such as the youth and IPs.

Among the highlights during the activity was the oath of the students pledging support against the CTGs, and the discussion of the CTG Youth Recruitment and Infiltration Strategy in campuses.

Major Francisco P Garello Jr, Civil Military Operations Officer of the 402nd Brigade lectured on the Security Awareness discussing on Insurgency, nature of CTGs and Stages of CTG Infiltration of the campuses. As part of taking the pulse of the students and gauge their understanding about the situation involving the CPP-NPA-NDF, Major Garello Jr posed a question to the students asking, “If you are to write an Open Letter to the NPA, What would you say?, “After my discussion, we were overwhelmed about how the students grasp their role in building a peaceful community. When I asked them to write something to the NPA, they themselves appealed to the NPA to stop recruiting the youth and take away their future and even encouraged them to go back to the folds of the law. As young as they are, they are now more concerned after learning the true nature of the communist terrorist group and appealed to the NPA that we unite and live in peace.”

One student wrote to the NPA saying “violence and revolution are not the answer or solution to what you are fighting for. Please stop, stop recruiting the young. Please stop! Don’t be the source of destruction. See the good in everything. Be the source of hope and peace in the world we live in that’s full of chaos.”

Another one said, “To: NPA, Please Stop! Let’s just unite! Let’s give peace for our beloved nation” The open letters have shown and amplify the true voice of the youth supporting the peace and abhorring violence brought by the CTG.

In his statement, COL MAURITO L LICUDINE, Commander of the 402nd Brigade said “The letters we received from the students with their increased awareness are indications that the youth do not want violence and the revolution that the CTG have been espousing for over 50yrs had been affecting them. It is only the exploitation and manipulation of the weakness and vulnerabilities of the people that they able to deceive the youths in joining their group.”

“They must be stopped! All of us must be united and be alert of the CTG threat and to prevent their recruitment from all sectors or else this insurgency problem will persist for many years. Even so, your Army is still open for those CTG members who wanted to lay down their arms and go back to the folds of the law. They can always avail of the E-CLIP of the government and start a new life”, COL LICUDINE added.

402nd Infantry Brigade, 4th Infantry Division Philippine Army
CPT FRANCISCO P GARELLO JR (INF) PA
402nd Bde Civil Military Operations Officer
Contact Number:0915-054-3439/0948-641-6783
Add us on Facebook at: RAJAH KULAMBO (Stinger)

[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/university-students-in-butuan-city-pledge-support-to-peace-write-open-letter-to-npas/

Sara Duterte urges Bayan Muna solon to resign: She’s a big empty space

From Politiko Mindanao (Oct 2, 2019): Sara Duterte urges Bayan Muna solon to resign: She’s a big empty space



Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte has demanded the resignation of neophyte Bayan Muna Cong. Eufemia Cullamat for allegedly spreading false allegations against the administration of her father President Rodrigo Duterte.

“The government pays for her office. The same government that has helped hundreds if not thousands of IP (indigenous people) students compared to the NPA (New People’s Army) school they call Salugpungan,” Mayor Duterte said in a statement.

Cullamat, in a press release, chided the President’s daughter for allegedly misinforming the public about the “Lumad” or Salugpungan school established by various organizations to address discrimination, poverty and militarization of indigenous communities in Southern Mindanao, particularly in Davao region.

Cullamat accused Mayor Duterte of destroying the credibility of the institution instead of supporting moves to educate Lumad youth.

“Ang anak na ito ng Pangulo ay hindi na nahiya sa pinagsasasabi niyang kasinungalingan, at pinaggagagawa niyang pagpapatuta sa mga militar,” said Cullamat.

In response, the Davao City mayor accused Cullamat of being a defender of the communist insurgents.

“Apart from being a mouthpiece and defender of the CPP-NPA-NDFP, she is a big empty space. And for the record the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) works for me, they only do as much as I allow them because civilian authority is supreme over the military,” said Mayor Duterte.

The military has long suspected some schools established and supported by left-leaning organizations as institutions used by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA) to indoctrinate young Lumads.

Mayor Duterte earlier revealed that Davao City Council had passed a resolution urging the Department of Education to terminate and cancel the permit to operate issued to 11 Salugpungan schools in Davao City.

“The decision was based on facts, not on a whim or rumors as critics and anti-government forces want the public to believe,” said the President’s daughter.

https://politics.com.ph/sara-duterte-urges-bayan-muna-solon-to-resign-shes-a-big-empty-space/

Senators want inter-agency task force to probe alleged recruitment of 'missing minors'

From ABS-CBN (Oct 3, 2019): Senators want inter-agency task force to probe alleged recruitment of 'missing minors'

Jovita Antoniano, mother of a missing 11th-grader, wipes her eye as she looks at an alleged former New People's Army (NPA) rebel during a Senate inquiry on missing minors supposedly being recruited by leftist organizations. Jonathan Cellona, ABS-CBN News/file

Senators are seeking the creation of an inter-agency task force to look into alleged recruitment of minors by militant groups.

Fifteen senators representing various committees and three ex-officio members signed Senate Committee Report No. 10, penned and submitted by Sen. Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa on Tuesday.

The report centers on the findings and recommendations arrived at by the Senate committees on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, headed by Dela Rosa and National Defense, Peace, Unification and Reconciliation, chaired by Sen. Panfilo Lacson.
The committee report stemmed from Resolution No. 38 that seeks to probe the reported “missing minors” allegedly recruited by various militant organizations which serve as fronts of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army - National Democratic Front (CCP-NPA-NDF).

Last July, the Senate listened to the stories of four mothers whose daughters were allegedly recruited by youth groups Anakbayan, Kabataan Party-list and League of Filipino Students.

The complainants were Relissa Lucena, mother of Alicia who was recruited by Anakbayan while studying at Far Eastern University Senior High School; Elvie Caalaman, mother of Lorevie, a student of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines; Luisa Espina, mother of Erika who was enrolled in PUP Sta. Mesa as a senior high school student; Gemma Labsan, mother of Ghemarie, a grade 11 student of the University of the East, and Jovita Antonino, mother of Trisha who was also a student of PUP.

The report underlined 11 recommendations, which included the creation of an inter-agency task force composed of the Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Commission on Human Rights and other government agencies and private institutions.

One of its tasks will be to "investigate other students that might have been recruited by communist-terrorist groups and provide protocol to search and rescue them without compromising the security of the latter and their respective families."

The report also recommends further investigation into Kabataan Party-list Rep. Sarah Elago and others mentioned by the complainants throughout the course of the Senate investigation.

“Schools mentioned in this Report should be investigated as to the reported recruitment activities of minor students within the premises of their campuses. Should evidence warrant, corresponding administrative sanctions should be meted out against erring and negligent school administrators,” the report stated.

Elago and progressive groups tagged in the report have yet to issue statements, as of posting.

The report's other recommendations are as follow:

• Adopt psychological de-briefing/ de-radicalization program for students to be performed by the DSWD and in coordination with PNP
• Investigation of allegations against teachers
• Regular review of academic curriculum / modules, and monitoring and evaluation of school activities
• AFP/PNP to conduct seminars/lectures to students and parents on “arouse, organize, mobilize” and career orientation in the law enforcement sector
• CHED and DEPED should look into the possible liabilities of school administration and teachers
• Strictly implement Department Order No. 66 and CHED Memorandum Order 63 that regulate the conduct of off-campus activities
• Stringent regulations on the issuance of student identification cards
• Police visibility around and within campus’ premises, and;
• Increased /intensified internal security enforcement in schools

The report also recommends amendments to the following laws:

• Republic Act 11188 - Special Protection of Children in Situations Of Armed Conflict Act
• Republic Act 9208 - Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003
• Republic Act 7610 - The Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act
• Republic Act 7941 - Party-List System Law
• Republic Act 9372 - The Human Security Act

Senators who signed the report include Lacson, Dela Rosa, Francis Tolentino, Christopher “Bong” Go, Manny Pacquiao, Richard Gordon, Lito Lapid, Bong Revilla, Joel Villanueva, Imee Marcos, Sonny Angara, Nancy Binay, Cynthia Villar, Sherwin Gatchalian and Ex-Officio members Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto and Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon.

https://news.abs-cbn.com/spotlight/10/03/19/senators-want-inter-agency-task-force-to-probe-alleged-recruitment-of-missing-minors

ACLED Regional Overview – Asia (2 October 2019)

Posted to the Relief Web (Oct 2, 2019): ACLED Regional Overview – Asia (2 October 2019)

REPORT

from Armed Conflict Location and Events Dataset
Published on 02 Oct 2019 —View Original

Download PDF (555.56 KB)


Last week, in South and Southeast Asia, key trends include: election-related violence in Afghanistan; an increase in militant violence in Pakistan and India’s Jammu and Kashmir state; deadly demonstrations in Indonesia; attacks on opposition activists in Cambodia; and anti-government demonstrations in Nepal.

Over the last week, violent events rose significantly in Afghanistan, particularly on Election Day (28 September). Voter turnout was low even in secure areas with early data suggesting that only 25% of registered voters participated (BBC, 30 September 2019). This was reportedly the lowest voter turnout in the last 18 years for Afghanistan, since the Taliban were ousted (Washington Post, 29 September 2019). On Election Day, the Taliban launched a series of attacks on polling centers to disrupt the elections and to deter civilians from voting. Three people were reportedly killed by Taliban mortars in Kunduz city; one civilian was reportedly killed by a bomb next to a polling center in Jalalabad city, Nangarhar; while at least 15 were wounded by another bomb attack in Kandahar. Last year, the Taliban also attacked a similar number of polling centers, which resulted in a similar number of reported fatalities. However, the major difference between last year and this year is that the attacks are concentrated in different areas. Last year, attacks took place throughout central and eastern Afghanistan. This year the majority of attacks on polling centers took place in southern Afghanistan where Taliban attacks have generally increased in 2019. The highest number of attacks occurred in Kandahar Province, the former capital of the Taliban.

Additionally, at least 40 civilians at a wedding party were reportedly killed by a US airstrike (Reuters, 23 September 2019). Afghan forces revealed that they were conducting a raid against the Taliban and Al Qaeda close to the wedding (Long War Journal, 24 September 2019). This is the second week in which a US operation has mistakenly killed civilians. Also, the Taliban claimed to seize control over Qaramqol district in Faryab, and Dara I Sufi Payan district in Samangan, though the Afghan government disputed these claims. In prior weeks, neither district had been a battleground between the Taliban and Afghan forces. The alleged takeover of Dara I Sufi Payan, if true, would be important as it generates a lot of revenue due to its coal mines. ACLED data show that the Taliban took control of the district in 2017 and 2018, though the government seized it back each time. The government has maintained control over the area since November 2018.

In Pakistan, last week, violence perpetrated by domestic armed groups increased following a lull in the number of reported events over the past couple of weeks. Security forces and members of political parties were targeted in two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) attacks in Balochistan province, while in North Waziristan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province security forces and a team of a gas exploration company were targeted in an ambush. Attacks on employees of private companies are more frequent in Balochistan province owing to the separatist militants Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) targeting Chinese-funded projects in the area. BLA violently opposes the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which is part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative and involves the development of a huge port in Gwadar city (Foreign Policy, 30 May 2019). Meanwhile, in North Waziristan, this is only the second report of such an attack on employees of natural resource mining and exploration companies this year.

In India, strict security restrictions, including the continued disconnection of mobile and internet services, remain in place in most parts of the Kashmir Valley. The state has been on lockdown since 5 August when the central government revoked Article 370 which gave special status to J&K. Day-time restrictions were temporarily relaxed in all police station jurisdictions in Kashmir (Economic Times, 28 September 2019). However, in light of Imran Khan’s speech on Kashmir at the United Nations General Assembly on 28 September, authorities again tightened restrictions on movement to prevent possible protests (Reuters, 28 September 2019). Last week, in the most significant outbreak of fighting between militants and state forces since the beginning of the lockdown, at least four militants and two state personnel were reportedly killed in clashes in Ramban, Doda, and Ganderbal districts.

In Myanmar, fighting between the Arakan Army (AA) and Myanmar military continued across northern Rakhine state. As well, clashes between the Myanmar military and the Palaung State Liberation Front/Ta’ang National Liberation Army (PSLF/TNLA) were reported in Shan state. Notably, the Myanmar military was also involved in a skirmish last week with the Restoration Council of Shan State/Shan State Army-South (RCSS/SSA-S), a signatory to the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA).

Separatist violence continued in Thailand as a man believed to be a military informant was killed when suspected separatists fired on his residence. The violence comes as it was announced that the head of the National Security Council in Thailand would take over as lead negotiator for the government in peace talks with the separatists (Benar News, 26 September 2019).

The Philippine military and the New People’s Army (NPA) clashed in the Philippines as the government has created new task forces to target the NPA in Western Visayas (Philippine News Agency, 20 September 2019). There were eighteen reported fatalities from police drug raids last week; the deaths come as the Philippines has rejected aid from countries that supported the recent UN resolution calling for an investigation into the ongoing ‘war on drugs’ (Rappler, 30 September 2019).

In anticipation of exiled Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) leader Sam Rainsy’s 9 November return to Cambodia, CNRP members have come under increasing attack and have faced ongoing judicial harassment. Last week, two CNRP members were assaulted by unknown assailants. Several CNRP members have likewise been arrested in recent months (Radio Free Asia, 25 September 2019). In 2017, in a move by Hun Sen to consolidate his power, the CNRP was dissolved so as not to pose a threat to the ruling Cambodia People’s Party (CPP) in the 2018 elections (for more on this, see this ACLED piece).

Demonstrations were reported across Indonesia last week. Students have been at the forefront of demonstrations over proposed laws concerning crime and corruption. The new criminal code is seen as violating the rights of LGBT, women and religious minorities (Human Rights Watch, 23 September 2019). Last week was also marked by particularly deadly rioting in the Papua region stemming from anger over racial taunts; at least 33 people were reportedly killed in the rioting.

In Nepal, the Nepali Congress, the main opposition party, led anti-government demonstrations staged in all 77 districts of the country. The demonstrators accused the government of heading towards authoritarian rule by breaching the constitution and for not acting against corruption, violence and price hikes.

https://reliefweb.int/report/afghanistan/acled-regional-overview-asia-2-october-2019

Senate panels recommend police presence in schools, checking student activities amid NPA recruitment

From GMA News Online (Oct 2, 2019): Senate panels recommend police presence in schools, checking student activities amid NPA recruitment

Two committees at the Senate have recommended police presence inside schools and scrutiny of student activities inside and outside the campus “to ensure their security, safety and well-being” amid the so-called recruitment of minors into the communist movement.

Committee Report No. 10 by the Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, chaired by Senator Ronald dela Rosa, and National Defense and Security, Peace, Unification and Reconciliation, chaired by Senator Panfilo Lacson, was released following an inquiry into the missing minors who were allegedly enticed to join by leftist organizations into joining the New Peoples Army, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines.

The report will be sponsored in plenary for debates.

The report recommended, among others:

• Increased/intensified interal security enforcement in schools
• Police visibility around the within campus premises
• Strict regulations on issuance of IDs
• Study possible liability of school administration and teachers
• Allow the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police to conduct lectures to students and parents, and career orientation on the law enforcement sector
• Regular review of academic curriculum / modules, and monitoring and evaluation of school activities:
• Filing of charges, when there is evidence, against the leftist leaders
• Investigation of allegations against teachers

“Amidst threats of terrorism, prevalence of recruitment of students as armed
combatants, increased criminality rates, reported incidence of drug-related
problems within the campus, there is a justified need for the school authorities to
occasionally allow the presence of a reasonable number of police forces in the
school premises at an acceptable designated time,” the report said.

It added that there is a “need ... to scrutinize the activities of the youth, specially the student sector, be it inside or outside the campus, so as to ensure their security, safety and well-being.”

The report urged the Commission on Higher Education and Department of Education to look into “possible liabilites of school administration and teachers” of the universities where the missing minors were enrolled.

It said that DepEd and CHED should also investigate allegations against teachers “who instigate their students to participate in rallies and street demonstrations that advocate radical and subversive ideologies.”

The report also named several students leaders and a party-list representative, Sarah Elago, as the “recruiters of the minors,” who should be charged when there is sufficient evidence.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/710244/senate-panels-recommend-police-presence-in-schools-checking-student-activities-amid-npa-recruitment/story/

WESCOM: WESCOM fully supports the Provincial Task Forces to Eng the Insurgency in Palawan

Posted to the Western Command (WESCOM) Facebook Page (Oct 2, 2019): WESCOM fully supports the Provincial Task Forces to Eng the Insurgency in Palawan

Camp General Artemio Ricarte -- Commander, Western Command, VADM RENE V MEDINA AFP attended the Joint PPOC and PDC meeting of the Provincial Government of Palawan yesterday, 01 October 2019 at the Provincial Capitol, Puerto Princesa City.

As part of the agenda, WESCOM briefed on the Current Internal Security Situation of the province and cascaded the developments of the National Plan in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (NP-ELCAC).

Further, the meeting was primarily focused in the creation of the Provincial Task Force ELCAC of the Province of Palawan which is a trailblazing feat for the province to implement Executive Order No. 70 of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte which aims to prioritize and harmonize the delivery of basic services and social development in the conflict affected areas and vulnerable communities, facilitates social inclusivity and ensure participation of all sectors.

VADM Medina acknowledged the initiative of the Provincial Government to establish PTF ELCAC in the Province as an enabling mechanism to operationalize the EO70.

“With the creation of TF-ELCAC in the province, we fervently hope that Palaweños will continue to unite and together address the root causes of the insurgency that hinders progress for the longest time. With this convergence, we will now be able to synchronize our efforts to end all forms of armed conflicts and attain a just and lasting peace in the Province”, said VADM Medina.

WESCOM is looking forward that all the municipalities will follow suit in order to accelerate the operationalization of EO70. COMWESCOM also encourages the Chief Executives of the Municipalities to do the same as we also assure our full commitment to the PTF-ELCAC in its resolve towards a CTG-Free Palawan.

“We, in Western Command, are more than hopeful to work with other lead agencies in providing the needed support to the different Task Forces at various levels in order for the Local Government Units to be empowered in ending the local communist armed conflict in the Province of Palawan”, VADM Medina added.

https://www.facebook.com/wescom/photos/pcb.1431464283652395/1431449936987163/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/wescom/photos/pcb.1431464283652395/1431447886987368/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/wescom/photos/pcb.1431464283652395/1431463396985817/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/wescom/photos/pcb.1431464283652395/1431463420319148/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/wescom/

Negros JTF getting air, naval assets

From the Visayan Daily Star (Oct 2, 2019): Negros JTF getting air, naval assets

The Joint Task Force – Negros has been provided with air and naval assets of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to complement the Philippine Army in fast-tracking its counter-insurgency operations in Negros Island.

Brig. Gen. Eric Vinoya, JTF-Negros commander, called on leaders and members of the Komiteng Rehiyonal-Negros to surrender now, or suffer the full force of the task force.

In a statement issued by JTF-Negros Vinoya said that they will hit the communist rebels, if they will not surrender, and warned them to expect more combat encounters in the next few weeks.

Rico Obrero, spokesman of the National Democratic Front-Negros, had said earlier said in a statement that Vinoya and Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, are hallucinating in their claims of destroying the Northern and Central Negros Fronts by the end of the year.

“To save your life, you (communist rebels) still have the chance to leave the armed movement and go back to the folds of the law and enjoy the true freedom and different government basic services together with your loved ones,” Vinoya said.

The JTF-Negros was created on Sept. 1 to undertake operational control of all AFP Units in Negros in conducting internal security operations to ultimately dismantle priority guerilla fronts and defeat communist rebels in the island.

Capt. Sherwin Parro, spokesman of JTF-Negros, said the creation of the task force is not only to defeat the local armed insurgents but also to develop good working relationships with other stakeholders through the whole-of-nation approach in ending local communist armed conflict.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/October/02/topstory11.htm

Army troopers in Leyte feted for seizure of NPA arms cache

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 2, 2019): Army troopers in Leyte feted for seizure of NPA arms cache



AWARDED. Brig. Gen. Lope Dagoy, commander of the 802nd IBde, leads the pinning of Military Merit Medal on the 14 soldiers who bravely fought the New People's Army in Caghalo village in Carigara, Leyte on Wednesday (Oct. 2, 2019). The ceremony was held at the camp of 93rd Infantry Battalion in Kananga, Leyte. (PNA photo by Roel Amazona)

The leadership of the Philippine Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade (802nd IBde) commended its men for the military operation in Caghalo village in Carigara, Leyte resulting in the recovery of high-powered firearms from the New People’s Army (NPA).

Brig. Gen. Lope Dagoy led the pinning of merit medals on the 14-member operating team during a ceremony held Wednesday at the camp of 93rd Infantry Battalion (93IB) in Kananga, Leyte. He was assisted by Lt. Col. Roberto Beatisula, commander of the 93IB.

“Your distinctive accomplishment reflects your commitment to sustaining a decisive result drive military operation and enforcing peace and security to preserve the lives of Filipino in the countryside,” Dagoy told soldiers.

On Monday, soldiers of 93IB, acting on reports of villagers on NPA sightings, went to Caghalo village and clashed with the rebels.

The troops seized an M16 rifle, two M1 Garand rifles, two M1 carbine rifles, an improvised shotgun, a hand grenade, an improvised explosive device, bandolier with magazines for M16 rifles and carbine rifle, and some personal belongings of rebels.

There was no casualty on the government side while an undetermined number of rebels are believed to have been wounded. Operating troops are still pursuing the NPA members who fled from the site with their wounded comrades, the Army said.

Based in Kananga, Leyte, the military activated the 93IB last year to reinforce military units in the more aggressive fight against communist rebels in the region. The battalion, considered as one of the Army’s elite forces, is composed of well-trained army officers and enlisted military personnel.

The military unit is working hard to clear Carigara’s upland villages of NPA threat. The area is considered by the military as the bastion of the communist terrorist group in Leyte.

“I want you to sustain that level of expertise you acquire. The more of improving your capacities the better for you to catch your objective,” Dagoy said.

Based on the latest information by the military, there are only 15 remaining members of NPA in Leyte Island with dwindling ground support from the people.

“The people wanted to end their influence and have peace in their community that is the reason why they are cooperating now with our soldiers,” Dagoy added.

Instead of fighting against the government, the official urged members of the NPA to surrender and avail of the government programs and live peacefully with their families.

“The government is extending its hand for you to return to the fold of the law, it is not too late for you to go back and be with your family,” he said, adding that there will be no mercy for those who will not surrender.

The NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, 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/1082064