New Regional Counterterrorism Training Center to Boost U.S.-Philippine and Regional Cooperation

From the US Embassy Manila, Philippines (Oct 11 2019): New Regional Counterterrorism Training Center to Boost U.S.-Philippine and Regional Cooperation

U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Y. Kim and Philippine Police Chief General Oscar Albayalde lead the groundbreaking of a new state-of-the-art Regional Counterterrorism Training Center at the PNPA Academy in Silang, Cavite.

As part of our deepening bilateral counterterrorism partnership, today, Philippine Police Chief General Oscar Albayalde and U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim broke ground on a new state-of-the-art Regional Counterterrorism Training Center in the Philippines.
The U.S. and Philippine governments will construct and operate the center on the grounds of the PNP Academy in Silang, Cavite. The U.S. Department of State has secured Php 520 million ($10 million) in counterterrorism partnership funds to establish and jointly operate the center with the PNP.

Once constructed, the center will provide counterterrorism training for law enforcement units and personnel from the Philippines and regional partner nations.

The initiative comes in response to a request from the PNP for a state-of-the-art facility to provide enhanced regional counterterrorism training. The establishment of this center reflects the U.S.’ enduring commitment to support Philippine counterterrorism efforts and work together to address threats to peace and security in the region.

https://ph.usembassy.gov/new-regional-counterterrorism-training-center-to-boost-us-philippine-and-regional-cooperation-2/

Training hub to boost fight vs. terrorism in PH

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 12, 2019): Training hub to boost fight vs. terrorism in PH



TRAINING HUB VS. TERRORISM. Philippine National Police chief Police Gen. Oscar Albayalde (4th from right) join US officials led by Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim (5th from right) and a representative from the Department of Foreign Affairs in the ceremonial lowering of a time capsule during the groundbreaking ceremony of the first-ever, state-of-the-art Regional Counterterrorism Training Center (RCTTC) in the Philippines held at Camp General Mariano Castañeda, Silang, Cavite on Friday (Oct. 11). The RCCTC will train Filipino law enforcement personnel on counter-terrorism operations and strengthen the regional security relationship and cooperation between the Philippines and East Asia Pacific partners nations-- Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia. (PNA photo by Gladys S. Pino)

SILANG, Cavite -- The government's fight against terrorism in the Philippines will be strengthened after the recent groundbreaking of the first-ever counter-terrorism training center in Southeast Asia here.

The PHP350 million, state-of-the-art Regional Counter-Terrorism Training Center (RCTTC) that would rise at Camp General Mariano A. Castañeda will be jointly operated by the United States (US) and Philippine governments.

The RCTTC, which forms part of the PHP520-million US investment, aims to train Filipino law enforcement personnel on counter-terrorism operations and further strengthen the regional security relationship and cooperation between the Philippines and East Asia Pacific partners nations-- Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia.

The project, built on decades of US' close counter-terrorism cooperation with the Philippine National Police, "is a major step in the deepening of our counter-terrorism partnership," said US Ambassador Sung Kim, who led on Friday the groundbreaking rite along with PNP chief, Gen. Oscar Albayalde.

"This reflects the enduring US commitment to support the Philippines' counter-terrorism efforts and to work together to address threats to peace and security in the whole region," Kim added.

Meanwhile, Albayalde said as terrorism continues to pose a serious threat to the Philippines and across Asia, the RCTTC will empower the Philippine law enforcement personnel in the pursuance of their mission.

"With the RCTTC in place, we hope to be able to keep in step with the latest training methods and technology in fighting terrorism," he said.

The PNP led the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the US government, through the support of the US Department of State Anti-Terrorism Assistance (ATA) Program for the construction and operation of a multi-purpose RCTTC last Aug. 15 this year.

The RCTTC will provide a venue for the ATA counter-terrorism training for PNP units, particularly the Special Action Force (SAF), EOD/K-9 Group, Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG), Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG), Aviation Security Group (ASG), Intelligence Group (IG), and Police Security and Protection Group (PSPG).

Other Philippine law enforcement group that will also benefit from the project are the National Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Immigration, Office for Transport Security, among others.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1082970

Philippine air force reactivates seven old Huey helos thanks to spares from Japan

Posted to Defense News (Oct 11, 2019): Philippine air force reactivates seven old Huey helos thanks to spares from Japan

Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. service members exit a helicopter during air assault training at Fort Magsaysay, Philippines in 2014. The Philippine Air Force seeks to boost its helcopter fleet using donated spares from Japan. (U.S. Army Photo by Spc. Michael G. Herrero/Released)

The Philippines is set to return more U.S.-built utility helicopters to its stretched helicopter fleet thanks to spare parts from Japan, even as the country continues to buy newer transport helicopters and is reportedly seeking more.

According to the government’s official newswire, Philippine Air Force (PAF) spokesman Maj. Aristides Galang said in a statement that seven Bell UH-1 "Huey" helicopters would be brought back to flying status using the spares donated by the Japanese government in March this year.

Galang was quoted by the Philippine News Agency as also saying that an inspection team from the PAF’s 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing visited the storage unit holding the spares earlier this month and found several items needed for restoring seven of the helicopters in operational status.

The inspected spare parts were main rotor blades, tail rotor blades, and tail rotor driveshafts, which were then turned over to the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing the next day for restoration work on the helicopters.

The PAF has received a large fleet of the 1960s-vintage UH-1s on hand, including several received from surplus U.S. military stocks, although it has faced issues sustaining the fleet and keeping them flying in the past, leaving many airframes either mothballed or unserviceable.

"The restoration and maintenance of UH-1 aircraft are vital in performing missions such as humanitarian assistance and disaster response, transport, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance activity of the PAF," Galang said.

He added that the remaining donated spare parts will be utilized for the PAF’s existing fleet of UH-1 helicopters to maintain and increase higher operational readiness of the PAF.

In addition to the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing, the UH-1s are also operated by the PAF’s 505th Search and Rescue Group. The Philippines has gotten a lot of use out of its UH-1s, with the helicopters seeing use in the disaster relief role as well as counter-insurgency operations against communist and separatist movements in the country.

The Philippines has also signed a contract for 16 Sikorsky S-70i Blackhawk helicopters to be produced by Poland’s PZL Mielec to further bolster its helicopter fleet. Local media has reported that the U.S. ally is also on the verge of signing a contract for 16 Russian-built Mi-17 transport helicopters.

https://www.defensenews.com/global/asia-pacific/2019/10/11/philippine-air-force-reactivates-seven-old-huey-helos-thanks-to-spares-from-japan/

Caraga intensifies human-induced displacement preparedness

Posted to the Relief Web (Oct 11, 2019): Caraga intensifies human-induced displacement preparedness

REPORT from Government of the Philippines
Published on 11 Oct 2019 —View Original

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 11 (PIA) -- The members of the response cluster and Caraga Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council convened in this city to polish the comprehensive plan as the basis for concrete response action and implementation of policy relating to human-induced displacement.

The three-day workshop aims to review and update the regional document where the interoperability of the established response systems such as the cluster approach, emergency operations center and incident command center will be integrated in the updated contingency plan.

Office of Civil Defense Caraga regional director Liza Mazo puts a strong emphasis on the importance of following the response protocols in addressing crisis not only caused by natural calamities but including armed conflict.

“The formulation of this contingency plan started in 2016 and we need to revisit and update it as this will be our guide in responding well to an emergency and its potential humanitarian impact. This will be useful especially now that we are intensifying our efforts related to the implementation of Executive Order (EO) 70 of President Duterte,” said Mazo.

Arthur Casiño, resource person, also tackled the conflict sensitivity approach and ‘Do No Harm’ (DNH) principle.

He said the main call for the DNH is to encourage the responding individuals or organizations to make sure that their actions will not cause any problem.

According to him, there are practical tools that focus on how organizations interact with conflict and how they can work effectively in conflict contexts while helping to mitigate their negative impacts on conflict, and support local capacities for peace.

“To do that we have to exercise conflict sensitivity. It is good to note that state actors in Caraga region are doing this and that I see a growing practice of the DNH principle,” Casiño said.

Captain Aldim Viernes, civil-military operations (CMO) officer of the 401st Brigade, Philippine Army who joined the planning workshop, said the plan will be helpful in providing effective, efficient, timely and well-coordinated response mechanisms in the event of the occurrence of armed conflict in the region.

Mazo said the contingency plan and the formulation of strategies are vital in doing appropriate actions and in developing community resilience. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

https://reliefweb.int/report/philippines/caraga-intensifies-human-induced-displacement-preparedness

PA senior officers brief PMA cadets on leadership

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2019): PA senior officers brief PMA cadets on leadership



CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM. Philippine Army Commander, Lt. Gen. Macairog Alberto speaks before PMA cadets during the Cadet Leadership and Character Development Program in Fort Gregorio Del Pilar, Baguio City on Thursday (Oct. 10, 2019). The activity seeks to come up with recommendations in solving malpractices and obsolete traditions that hinder professionalism in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). (Photo courtesy of the Office of the Army Chief Public Affairs)

The Philippine Army (PA), headed by its commander, Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto and other senior officers, conducted on Thursday a Cadet Leadership and Character Development Program at the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) in Baguio City to come up with recommendations in solving malpractices and obsolete traditions that hinder professionalism in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

The initiative aims to impart a development tool in managerial and leadership skills anchored in the Army’s core values of honor, patriotism, and duty, PA spokesperson Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said in a statement.

The seminar came in wake of the alleged maltreatment incidents, which caused the death of Cadet 4th Class Darwin Dormitorio and hospitalization of several others last month.

Under the guidance of the PA chief, Army general staff officers, former company commanders, senior non-commissioned and legal officers, a focused group discussion was held with the PMA's third, second, and first-class cadets.

The speakers shared their experiences in motivating subordinates and exercising compassion without sacrificing discipline.

They highlighted the value of “Mission First, People Always” and the promotion of the mental and physical well-being of their future comrades as an important factor in mission accomplishment.

“True leaders manage people and bring out the potential and capability in each of them in constructive approaches,” Macairog said. On the other hand, Army legal officers also provided additional lectures on Republic Act No. 8049 or the Anti-Hazing Law.

“True leadership requires taking responsibility for the people you command, which means caring for your troops, ensuring their safety, and looking out for their welfare. As you continue with your training and education here at the Academy, I encourage you to develop an appreciation for the deeper purpose of your formation as future officers of the AFP,” Alberto said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1082875

CPP: Duterte’s antagonism towards the people breeding conditions for NPA recruitment

CPP propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 11, 2019): Duterte’s antagonism towards the people breeding conditions for NPA recruitment

Like Marcos before him, Duterte has now become the No. 1 recruiter of the New People’s Army (NPA). His corruption and anti-people policies have inflicted greater sufferings on the people resulting in widespread indignation and fueling resistance.

Duterte’s corruption was put on public display by the recent purchase of two luxury jets worth P2-billion each for his personal use. Using the people’s money, Duterte satisfied his lust for high-style travel and rubbed salt into the wounds of millions who suffer daily his regime’s failure to address the breakdown of public transportation.

While he spends billions of pesos on his whims in the form of so-called discretionary funds, Duterte has ignored the clamor for salary increases of hundreds of thousands of public school teachers, nurses and government employees who struggle daily to make ends meet. He has also dismissed with contempt the widespread opposition of drivers and operators and other transport workers to the pro-business jeepney phaseout plan.

Duterte is completely indifferent to the widespread problems of joblessness, low wages, high prices, lack of access to education and health services, and so on.

Instead of addressing the social and economic plight of the people, Duterte and the AFP/PNP have obsessed themselves with “ending the local communist armed conflict.” Under his overarching “counterinsurgency” plan, Duterte has ordered intensified state acts of repression in a futile attempt to silence the people and make them bow to his tyrannical rule.

Duterte and his military and security officers, however, are succeeding only in inciting more resistance in their overzealous drive to tag all opposition as communists, communist recruiters, sympathizers or collaborators. Duterte is creating more and more enemies by red-tagging youth activists, workers and peasants, as well as teachers, journalists, religious people, Lumad community schools, film makers, artists, and so on. They are being put under surveillance, threatened, persecuted, arrested, detained and/or murdered.

Duterte’s reign of undeclared martial rule, widespread violation of democratic rights and political repression are the most glaring aspect of the rottenness of the ruling system and rationale of the need for the people to wage national democratic revolution.

Duterte is inciting widespread hatred for his regime. Duterte’s oppression, corruption and treachery, are negative examples which are generating widespread animosity and teaching and convincing more and more people to support or join mass struggles and all forms of resistance.

With his anti-people and anti-poor policies, Duterte is actually helping the Party and the NPA by creating conditions favorable for widespread recruitment . Through red-tagging and undeclared martial law nationwide and shutting down by degrees all avenues of seeking redress within the legal system, Duterte is pushing more and more people to join or support the revolutionary underground and the armed struggle.

https://cpp.ph/2019/10/11/dutertes-antagonism-towards-the-people-breeding-conditions-for-npa-recruitment/

NDF-Negros: Oppressed peasants struggle and grow stronger

NDF-Negros statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 11, 2019): Oppressed peasants struggle and grow stronger

BAYANI OBRERO

SPOKESPERSON

NDF-NEGROS

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

OCTOBER 11, 2019

In the Philippines, peasants have suffered perennial hunger and poverty meanwhile Malacañang bureaucrats bloat and indulge their corruption.

Land is the basic source of living for farmers who feed the whole population as the backbone of our economy. They break sweat from dawn till dusk; a bit more and their body will bleed from exhaustion, they are our true heroes. Because of the backwardness of agriculture and rudimentary tools of production, they are deep in debt and are chained to slavery.

Furthermore, every year “tiempo muerto” or dead season (commonly called tigkiriwi) worsens. It aggravates the hardship of workers in sugarcane fields and sugar mills while land lords continue to monopolize vast haciendas in Negros.

The Duterte regime is slowly killing the peasants. It burdens the people with the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law. The flood of imported rice in the Philippines after the Rice Tariffication Law was passed resulted to economic loss of farmers. In Negros, the price of rice has plunged to P10 per kilo.

Peasants and their families suffered severely from economic crisis since Duterte became president. In the worsening crisis faced by the people, the peasant masses unitedly cry out against anti-people laws and programs; there is no else to blame but the Duterte regime.

If we recall, nine farmers were massacred in Hacienda Nene, Barangay Bulanon, Sagay City last October 20, 2018. It has been a year since the land lords displayed their barbaric and traitor character but until now justice eludes the peasants who only wanted to get the land taken from them.

Negros became a massacre capital of the Philippines after the Sagay 9 fell victim to state fascism. Included here are the 14 farmers and other innocent civilians experiencing fascism of combined troops of the AFP/PNP.

The peasants cry for LAND, upon the orders of Joint Task Force – Negros they are answered with BULLETS. Under de facto martial law, oppression, human rights violations, fake surrenderees, illegal arrests and trumped-up charges will proliferate.

As blood spills from the lives of butchered peasant so will their strong determination to struggle for the realization of genuine land reform.

This October, peasants’ month, the broad people must unite against tyranny and courageously topple down a pro-land lord, big bourgeois comprador Duterte regime.

https://cpp.ph/statement/oppressed-peasants-struggle-and-grow-stronger/

Kalinaw News: Inter-agency arrest NPA spox and a leader in Far South

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 11, 2019): Inter-agency arrest NPA spox and a leader in Far South

NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – A Spokesman and a Leader of CPP-NPA-NDF Terrorist Group (CTG) being monitored in Far South Mindanao, together with two others, were arrested by an Inter-Agency Group composed of the elements of 1002nd Infantry Brigade under BGen. Adonis Bajao and Police Region Office 12, during a Law Enforcement Operation at Barangay Kalaong, Maitum, Sarangani Province in the early morning of October 10, 2019.

Ltc. Jones Otida, Commanding Officer of 27th Infantry Battalion, identified the arrested as Nicanor Pason or also known as Kumander Costan, Leader of a CTG being monitored in the provinces of Sarangani, South Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat; Bernard Prespetero, Spokesperson of the Far South Mindanao Regional Committee of the CTG; and a certain Josephine Carvajal Sumagaysay and Reynaldo Beringel Loyola, both CTG couriers and contacts.

Alias Costan has a standing Warrant of Arrest for murder issued by Regional Trial Court 11, Branch 38 Alabel, Sarangani Province.

Accordingly, during the apprehension, Costan attempted to diffuse a fragmentation grenade to negate arrest which prompted the arresting troops to execute a calibrated action to immobilize the subject.

Alias Costan, who is the lone wounded was brought by the apprehending soldiers to Maitum Hospital for immediate treatment and further medical attention while the three others were brought the PNP station for necessary legal proceedings.

“Now that the CTG is losing mass support and manpower brought about by the initiatives of LGUs and other government agencies, we will be running after their leaders who continuously embrace the violent armed struggle,” Lt. Gen. Felimon T. Santos Jr., Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command said.

“While doing so, we will continue to work for the resolution of issues that are being exploited by the CTGs, so that, once and for all, we will achieve peace under the President’s timeline,” he added.

27th Infantry Battalion 10th Infantry Division Philippine Army
1LT Efren James C Halawig (INF) PA
0948-737-8176
0997-691-2064

[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/inter-agency-arrest-npa-spox-and-a-leader-in-far-south/

IED explodes inside Bilibid’s maximum security compound

From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 11, 2019): IED explodes inside Bilibid’s maximum security compound

An improvised explosive device (IED) suddenly went off while authorities were demolishing illegal structures inside the maximum security compound (MaxSeCom) of the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City on Friday morning.

Police Major General Guillermo Eleazar, regional director of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), said the blast occurred inside Quadrant 4, east sector of the MaxSeCom, NBP around 10 a.m.

The area is occupied by violent extremist offenders, including jailed members of the Abu Sayyaf Group, Islamic State (ISIS)-affiliated Maute terrorist group, Rajah Solaiman Group, Jimaah Islamiya and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) PDLs (persons deprived of liberty).

Authorities have yet to determine if there were any casualties.

Police were also trying to establish whether the IED was deliberately detonated, or was accidentally triggered while the clearing operations were ongoing.
Eleazar said joint teams from the Explosive Ordnance Division and K9 unit of the NCRPO were immediately dispatched to the area to investigate the incident.

“The EOD team conducted a thorough search within the area for possible secondary explosive device using explosive detection dogs,” Eleazar said.

He added that the team found two more hand grenades and two blasting caps inside a shanty adjacent to the site of explosion.

Joint government agencies have been conducting clearing operations inside the national penitentiary since Tuesday to demolish illegal structures, such as kubols or shanties allegedly built by inmates with “powerful connections.”

https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/10/11/ied-explodes-inside-bilibids-maximum-security-compound/

DoJ to probe explosion in Bilibid

From Business World (Oct 11, 2019): DoJ to probe explosion in Bilibid



JUSTICE SECRETARY MENARDO I. GUEVARRA — PCOO.GOV.PH

THE Department of Justice (DoJ) will be looking into security breaches in the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) after an IED exploded in the maximum security compound on Friday morning.

Justice Secretary Menardo I. Guevarra confirmed there was an explosion at the eastern portion of the maximum security compound of the NBP. He added that he will be ordering Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Director General Gerald Bantag to submit the findings on BuCor’s investigation to him.

Other than the BuCor, the Philippine National Police (PNP) contingent stationed inside the NBP will also be conducting an investigation.

“(I)t’s an indication of how serious the security problem is inside the NBP,” Mr. Guevarra said in a Viber message to the press on Friday.

According to a National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) report released on Friday, there was an explosion inside the NBP at around 10 a.m. The NCRPO’s K9 team checked the site and found the remains of an improvised explosive device (IED).

As the search continued for a possible second device, the unit found two grenade hands and two blasting caps inside the shanties adjacent to the explosion site.

The explosion site, according to the report, “was occupied by violent extremist offenders,” including members of the Abu Sayyaf, Maute Isis, Rajah Solaiman Group, Jimaah Islamiya, and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

https://www.bworldonline.com/doj-to-probe-explosion-in-bilibid/

NPA leader, 3 others arrested in Sarangani province

From CNN Philippines (Oct 11, 2019): NPA leader, 3 others arrested in Sarangani province



Metro Manila (CNN Philippines — Government forces captured a ranking commander of the New People's Army (NPA) and three other members of the rebel group on Thursday in Sarangani province, authorities said.

Nicanor Pason, alias Kumander Costan — said to be the leader of the guerilla front operating in Sarangani, South Cotabati and Sultan Kudarat — was wounded and arrested during the joint operation of the Army's 27th Infantry Battalion and the police in Sarangani's Maitum town. Also arrested were Bernard Presbetero (alias commander Aldrin), Josephine Sumagaysay, and Reynaldo Loyola.

The Army's 10th Infantry Division said in a statement that Costan was captured following a tip from disgruntled former members of his group, who have since returned to the fold of the law.

It said operatives were supposed to serve 10 warrants of arrest for cases including murder and arson against Costan and several others, but the rebel leader resisted and threw a grenade that wounded a member of the arresting team.

Two hand grenades. several blasting caps. a mobile phone. and documents were reported recovered from the rebels during the arrest.

Costan was taken to hospital for treatment, while Presbetero, Sumagaysay, and Loyola were temporarily brought to the municipal police station, authorities added.

https://cnnphilippines.com/regional/2019/10/11/NPA-Sarangani-province.html

NPA leader, spokesman nabbed in Sarangani

From MindaNews (Oct 11, 2019): NPA leader, spokesman nabbed in Sarangani

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – A law-enforcement interagency task force composed of the military and the police arrested a ranking leader and the alleged spokesman of the New People’s Army in Southern Mindanao and two of their companions in Sarangani province Thursday, the military said.

Nicanor Pason aka Kumander Costan (left) and his three companions. Photo courtesy of EastMinCom

The arrest of Nicanor Pason, also known as Kumander Costan allegedly operating in Sarangani, South Cotabato and Sulan Kudarat, came hours before police in Butuan City arrested 68-year-old peasant leader Virgilio Torralba Lincuna, whom they accused to be the head of the NPA’s urban unit in the area.

Lt. Col. Ezra Balagtey, spokesperson of the Armed Forces Eastern Mindanao Command, said Pason was wounded when he tried to resist arrest by lobbing a grenade at the arresting team.

Also arrested with Costan was Bernard Prespetero, NPA spokesperson of the Far South Mindanao Regional Committee, Balagtey said.

With the two NPA leaders during the raid in Barangay Kalaong in the municipality of Maitum were Josephine Carvajal Sumagaysay and Reynaldo Beringel Loyola, reportedly couriers for the rebel group.

Balagtey said Pason was arrested on the strength of a warrant of arrest for murder issued by Regional Trial Court 11, Branch 38 in Alabel, Sarangani.

He said while the Army and police team made the arrest, Pason allegedly tried to throw a grenade, prompting the law enforcement team to fire and neutralize him.

Balagtey said the soldiers brought the wounded Pason to a hospital in Maitum town for treatment while his three companions were brought to the PNP station for legal proceedings.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/10/npa-leader-spokesman-nabbed-in-sarangani/

Summit tackles sustaining gains, closing gaps in addressing insurgency

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 11, 2019): Summit tackles sustaining gains, closing gaps in addressing insurgency

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The six Regional Task Forces to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) in Mindanao converged here to tackle how to sustain the gains and address the gaps in the fight against insurgency.

National Security Adviser Hermogenes C. Esperon, Jr. gives guidance on how to harmonize the efforts between the National task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) and the Regional Task Force-ELCAC. (PIA Cagayan de Oro)

National Security Adviser Hermogenes C. Esperon, Jr. said the Mindanao RTF-ELCAC Summit was convened so that Mindanao RTFs can learn from the successes and best practices of other regions noting that many of the good accomplishments were coming from Mindanao.

He said the summit was also intended to harmonize the current undertakings of the task forces and identify the issues and concerns, and possible solutions to close the gaps in addressing insurgency.

"We have to plan for a more systematic, harmonized convergence of efforts to defeat the CTG," he said.

He also emphasized the transformation from military-driven operations to civilian-led operations. "We cannot defeat the CTG by the efforts of the military and the police alone. We need the civilian sector. You have the key to the solution of the CTG problem not only in Mindanao but the entire Philippines," he added.

For his part, Cagayan de Oro Mayor Oscar S. Moreno stressed the importance of coming together to bring government closer to the people to address the root causes of insurgency.

Cagayan de Oro Mayor Oscar S. Moreno cites the importance of the national and local governments coming together to bring services closer to the people. (PIA Cagayan de Oro)

"If we want to end insurgency, then we have to bring government closer to the people, that's the only effective way," he said while citing the Lantad experience as a possible model of convergence and government's determination of reaching out to its constituents.

During the summit, all six RTFs presented their accomplishments. Some of the gains cited were the increases in the number of barangays cleared and local government units declaring CPP-NPA as persona non grata.

Accordingly, the focused military operations also resulted in the reduction of CTG capability. NPA-initiated violence incidence also declined. Immediate assistance to surrenderees was further provided through the Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Moreover, the government's delivery of major programs and projects, as well as basic services, were prioritized in the focused areas.

Despite being hounded by certain concerns such as scarcity of funds, the Mindanao RTFs underscored the need to strengthen the link between the national task force and RTFs as well as among the local task forces.

The conduct of regular RTF clusters and inter-cluster meetings to deliberately discuss actions and ways forward in the operationalization of Executive Order 70 was also emphasized.

The Mindanao RTF-ELCAC Summit was participated by RTF-ELCAC Technical Working Group chairpersons, heads of the RTF-ELCAC clusters in Mindanao regions, nominated chairpersons of the Regional Peace and Order Council and Regional Peace and Order Council, NCIP regional and provincial directors, and NTF-ELCAC Secretariat.

The Cabinet Officers for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) of the Mindanao regions who graced the summit include Secretary Rolando Joselito D. Bautista, CORDS IX; Usec. Lorraine A Badoy representing Secretary Jose Ruperto Martin M. Andanar, CORDS X; Asec. Danielle Marie S. Rieza-Culangen representing Secretary Carlos S. Dominguez, CORDS XI; Secretary Isidro S. Lapeña, CORDS XII; Cabinet Secertary Karlo B. Nograles, CORDS Caraga; and Usec. Cesar B. Yano representing Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana, CORD­S BARMM.

Participants to the Mindanao RTF-ELCAC Summit listen to the best practices of Northern Mindanao in the fight against insurgency being presented by RTF-ELCAC TWG chairperson MGen. Franco Nemesio Gacal. (PIA Cagayan de Oro)

The Commanders of the Western and Eastern Mindanao Command and the Directorate for Integrated Police Operations for both Eastern and Western Mindanao were also present during the summit.

The RTF-ELCAC summit will also be conducted in Luzon and Visayas this month. The results of the summits will be presented to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte during the National Summit.

It can be recalled that on December 4, 2018, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed Executive Order No. 70 known as Institutionalizing the Whole-of-Nation Approach (WNA) in Attaining Inclusive and Sustainable Peace, Creating a National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), and Directing the Adoption of a National Peace Framework.

Through EO 70, the President directed the adoption of a national peace framework and institutionalizes the whole-of-nation approach in addressing the root causes of local armed conflict by prioritizing the delivery of basic government services, social development packages, and construction of needed infrastructures with the end-in-view of ushering inclusive development in the pursuit of the country’s peace agenda. (APB/PIA10)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028572

Capiz forms Task Force vs. insurgency

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 11, 2019): Capiz forms Task Force vs. insurgency

ROXAS CITY, Capiz – The province of Capiz has already formed its Provincial Task Force to counter insurgency.

Resolution No. 1, series of 2019, jointly passed and approved by the Provincial Peace and Order Council and Provincial Development Council has created the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) in the province of Capiz.

Governor Esteban Evan B. Contreras presides the joint meeting of the Provincial Peace and Order Council and Provincial Development Council which passed and approved Resolution No. 1, series of 2019 that created the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) in the province of Capiz.

The joint meeting held September 30 here was presided by Governor Esteban Evan B. Contreras and attended by majority of the members of the two councils.

The Task Force is chaired by the Governor with the Vice Governor as the vice chairperson.

Members of the Task Force are all the mayors from the city and municipalities here, key officials and heads of the provincial local government, heads of identified national government agencies and civil society organizations.

The creation of the PTF-ELCAC is in view of Executive Order No. 70 issued by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte that institutionalizes the Whole-of-Nation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace in the countryside by putting an end to local insurgency.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government had earlier issued Memorandum Circular No. 2019-125 directing local government units to strengthen the Whole-of-Nation approach to attain the goal of attaining inclusive and sustainable peace through intensified development and other peace building initiatives in conflict and vulnerable communities.



The primary responsibility of the Provincial Task Force is to harmonize and optimize government efforts and resources at the provincial level to address the root causes of insurgency and attain sustainable peace and development.

On the other hand, the 12 Clusters/Lines of Efforts under the Whole-of-Nation approach National Framework have already prepared their respective Implementation Plan.

The 12 clusters/lines of efforts include Situational Awareness and Knowledge Management, Local Government Empowerment, Legal Cooperation, Strategic Communication; Sectoral Unification, Capacity-building and Empowerment; Basic Services; Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment; Infrastructure, Resource Management and Employment; Localized Peace Engagement; Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support; E-CLIP and Amnesty Program; and International Engagement. (JBG/PIA6-Capiz)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028567

3S strengthens ‘Whole-of-Nation’ approach vs. insurgency

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 11, 2019): 3S strengthens ‘Whole-of-Nation’ approach vs. insurgency

ROXAS CITY, Capiz – The National Anti-Poverty Commission’s Sambayanihang Serbisyong Sambayanan (3S) will strengthen the Whole-of-Nation approach towards inclusive and sustainable peace in the countryside by putting an end to local insurgency.

National Anti-Poverty Commission Secretary Noel Felongco said that through the 3S, convergence of all the sectors and government services towards poverty alleviation is ensured.

National Anti-Poverty Commission Secretary lawyer Noel Felongco conveys that the NAPC's Sambayanihang Serbisyong Sambayanan (3S) will strengthen Executive Order No. 70 issued by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte that institutionalizes the Whole-of-Nation approach towards inclusive and sustainable peace in the countryside by putting an end to local insurgency.

This, he said, is in line with Executive Order No. 70 issued by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte that institutionalizes the Whole-of-Nation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace in the countryside by putting an end to local insurgency.

The 3S is a five-year development program of NAPC that aims to have a climate-responsive, culture and gender-sensitive and participatory, convergent anti-poverty strategies in the country, he said.

Felongco said “In this plan, we are asking the cooperation of the LGUs to actively cooperate and participate in the poverty reduction program of President Duterte, in view of poverty being one of the issues raised by the insurgents.”

He said that to end local communist armed conflict (ELCAC) there is need to plan and implement programs that will benefit the unserved or underserved areas.

The programs now of the government are focused on addressing the 10 basic needs to include food, water, shelter, employment, healthcare, education, social protection, healthy environment, peace, and people’s participation.

Felongco said that NAPC was created and sits in the convergence meetings to ensure the proper implementation of social reform and poverty alleviation initiatives of the national, regional and local levels. (JBG/PIA6-Capiz)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028574

LGU-Lianga, Army donate TV set in IP community

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 11, 2019): LGU-Lianga, Army donate TV set in IP community (By 3rd Special Forces Battalion, PA)

BAYUGAN CITY, Agusan del Sur – The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Lianga, Surigao del Sur, in partnership with the 9th Special Forces (Hounds) Company of the 3rd Special Forces (Arrowhead) Battalion and the Diatagon Indigenous People’s (IP) community leaders have donated and installed a television (TV) set with satellite TV subscription to make the conflict-affected community of Sitio Simowao (Kilometer 9) in Diatagon, Lianga, become aware of the current events and the government’s programs through the national and local news. The TV is located at the social hall of the sitio to cater all of its residents.

The Army and the LGU believed that in this way, it could widen their perspectives towards facing the challenges affecting their community. They also believed that this will liberate the community from misinformation and with this, they can fully exercise their right to self-determination because they will be given the liberty to decide and comment based on the wide array of information they can obtain through watching current events and relevant programs.

Lieutenant Colonel Joey Baybayan, commander of 3rd Special Forces Battalion said conflict is often caused by feeding any person with wrong information. “This wrong information can lead to misunderstanding. This happens when Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) poison the minds of the innocent people in the hinterlands. So, in our own little ways, we address this cause of conflict hoping that it will make people believe that the best way to address issues is to peacefully resolve it through the synergy of the government and the community,” he said.

“This initiative maybe as simple as it is but it can already provide the community a psychological barrier or shield against the CNTs deceptive propaganda that tears the country apart,” added Baybayan.

This is the first time in the sitio that a television set becomes readily available for the locals. (1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan, CMO officer, 3SFBn/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028352

Another AgSur town declares CPP-NPA persona non-grata

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 11, 2019): Another AgSur town declares CPP-NPA persona non-grata (By 26IB, Philippine Army)

TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur  – The municipality of Esperanza, Agusan del Sur has denounced the communist NPA terrorist and its allied organizations and subsequently declared them as persona non-grata on Monday, October 7, 2019.

The declaration took effect when the local legislative council headed by Vice Mayor Eric Rey G. Siohan passed and unanimously signed Resolution No. 273 series of 2019 during the conduct of their 9th Regular Session of 20th Sangguniang Bayan (SB) held at the SB Session Hall of the said municipality.The said resolution states that the Communist Party of the Philippines – New people’s Army (CPP-NPA) and its leaning organizations have long been identified with the main ideology of replacing the democratic system of the government into communism.

The locals expressed that the presence and activities of the communist terrorists have been a problem of the entire nation and considered a threat to national security as they instill fear to people in the communities, recruit new members and sow terror to investors as well as killing members of Indigenous Peoples (IPs), barangay officials and civilians who contradict their propaganda.

In a statement, the Municipal Mayor Leonida P. Manpatilan said, “This is our contribution and our way of doing our part in the intensified campaign of the national government to end the five decades of communist armed conflict in the entire nation.”

“Rest assured that our municipality will continue to project good governance by way of addressing the issues and problems of the community in connection to the implementation of Executive Order No. 70,” she added.

Likewise, Lt. Col. Romeo Jimenea, commanding officer of 26th Infantry Battalion, said that the resolution is in line with the DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2018-211 or the Prohibition of Support to Left-Wing Rebel Groups, and Executive Order No. 70, which creates the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

“I commend the legislative bodies and the whole municipality of Esperanza for initiating and signing resolution No. 273 and declaring the CPP-NPA as persona non-grata,” Jimenea added.

The official further said that Esperanza is now prepared to attain long lasting peace and development and is eager to participate in the socio-cultural and economic programs of the government. This will give its people a chance to have better and peaceful lives. (1Lt. Percival Carido, CMO officer, 26IB/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028570

Eastern Samar town creates TF End Local Communist Armed Conflict

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 11, 2019): Eastern Samar town creates TF End Local Communist Armed Conflict



ARTECHE, EASTERN SAMAR — Arteche town organized its Local Task Force End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) on October 10, 2019.

All 20 barangay chieftains, local department heads, the Sangguniang Bayan, the police and the army were present in the event.

PAMANA Regional Manager Imelda Bonifacio shared the salient features on the operationalization of the Executive Order Number 70 , institutionalizing the whole-of-nation approach in attaining an inclusive and lasting peace in Arteche town on October 10, 2019. (nbq/PIA 8-E Samar)

PAMANA Regional Manager Imelda Bonifacio shared the salient features on the operationalization of the Executive Order Number 70 , institutionalizing the whole-of-nation approach in attaining an inclusive and lasting peace.

Bonifacio also shared the 12 different clusters of the Task Force enjoining the department heads for active engagement.

For her part, DILG Provincial Director Visitacion Giba oriented the TF members about the community support program where she encouraged them to do an immersion especially in the most distant barangays.

"We need to experience their lives to know what they need," she told them.

Sangguniang Bayan Member Adulf Pajanustan said that the most geographically isolated area is Barangay Casidman, an inland barangay reachable by boat for three hours and a trek for another hour.

On August 6, 2019, the Sangguninag Bayan of Arteche passed a resolution condemning the relentless atrocities of the CPP-NPA-NDF and declaring them Persona-Non-Grata.

"Since the establishment of the CPP-NPA, they began to infiltrate some of the remote barangays of the municipality creating not only fear among the community but affecting the livelihood of the people through forced collection of revolutionary taxes from the residents especially the officials who are required to give 20% of the Economic Development Fund of the barangay," an excerpt of Resolution Number 19-04-A read.

Arteche Mayor Rolando Evardone said that the CPP-NPA thretens the security and development of his municipality during the creation of the Task Force End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) on October 10, 2019. (nbq/PIA 8-E. Samar) 

So that after a thorough discussion of the rudiments of the task force, the members then decided to organize Task Force End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) in Arteche town.

Arteche is a 3rd class municipality with more than 16, 000 population according to PSA Census of 2015. Mayor Rolando Evardone is the chief executive. (nbq/PIA 8-E Samar)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028601

ZamboSur creates task force to track kidnap victims

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 11, 2019): ZamboSur creates task force to track kidnap victims

PAGADIAN CITY — A Task Force was created to track the whereabouts of kidnap victims Allan Arthur Hyrons, a British national and wife Wilma, a government official said.

Zamboanga del Sur Governor Victor Yu said the Hyrons’ couple were abducted by 4 unidentified gunmen at their resort in Barangay Alindahaw in Tukuran on October 4.

Yu in an interview said, the Task Force is composed of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Marines, and Philippine Navy.

He said the provincial government is providing logistical support to the Task Force, including transportation, fuel, food and other immediate needs of the operatives.

It can be recalled that on the day of the incident, the good governor, offered P1-M reward money for any information to locate the victims.

Yu said that according to the information he received from the authorities, up to this report, the family of kidnap victims has not yet received a call from the kidnappers demanding a ransom in exchange for the release of the couple.

“The kidnap victims are believed to be somewhere in the coastal municipalities of the province and we are still in contact with the authorities. We will prevent them to go far from our province,” Yu announced.

The governor said authorities have already the lead on the suspects behind the abduction of Hyrons’ couple but they cannot give the details.

He also appealed to the people to remain in full alert and to report to authorities the presence of armed groups in their area, saying that peace and order and security is not the sole responsibility of the government but rather a shared responsibility with all sectors of society. (RVC/GCC/PIA-Zamboanga del Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028467

'Top NPA leader' in Caraga falls

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2019): 'Top NPA leader' in Caraga falls



BUSTED. The alleged top leader of the New People’s Army in the Caraga region, Virgilio Lincuna, is arrested by government forces in an operation conducted at noon in Butuan City on Thursday (Oct. 10, 2019). Lincuna is facing three attempted murder charges. (Photo courtesy of PRO-Caraga)

BUTUAN CITY -- The Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 (Caraga) announced the arrest of a top official of the New People’s Army (NPA) in the region during a joint police and military operation conducted at about 12:30 noon on Thursday.

In a statement, PRO-13 Director, Brig. Gen. Joselito T. Esquivel Jr., identified the rebel leader as Virgilio Torralba Lincuna, 68, married, and a resident of Purok 3, Barangay Banza, Butuan City.
Government forces arrested Lincuna at the Unyon ng mga Mag-uuma sa Agusan del Norte (UMAN) office in Purok 3-A, Barangay Tiniwisan, Butuan City.

The arrest was carried out under three arrest warrants issued by a regional court in Lianga, Surigao del Sur dated last May 14, all for attempted murder.

Lincuna, who is also the chairperson of the Kilusang Mayo Uno in the region, was also ordered to post a PHP300,000 bail.

Esquivel said the joint operation was launched after a month of surveillance on Lincuna, allegedly the secretary of the Regional Urban Committee, Regional White Area Committee, and Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee.

The operation was conducted by a team of the Butuan City Mobile Force Company, Butuan City Police Office - Intelligence Branch, Butuan City Police Station 4, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, and elements of the Army's 402nd Brigade.

“This notable accomplishment is attributed to the good relationship between the PNP (Philippine National Police) and AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) in the region that resulted in information sharing and collaborative efforts between the government forces,” Esquivel said.

He added that the active support of the community also played a vital role in the success of the joint operation.

“I encourage the community to continue giving your support to our government forces who always ensure the safety and security of the Caraganons,” Esquivel added.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1082873

Army molds Southern Tagalog’s youth into peace builders

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2019): Army molds Southern Tagalog’s youth into peace builders



LEADERS’ SUMMIT. The Philippine Army’s 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division (2ID) and other government agencies gathered around 42 youth leaders from the Southern Tagalog region for the two-day 7th Regional Youth Leadership Summit (RYLS) as part of the Philippine Army’s 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division (2ID) “October Peace” at Camp Capinpin, Tanay, Rizal from Oct. 5 to 6. The event aims to transform them into “peacebuilders” and “catalysts for development” while enhancing their awareness to insulate them from deceptions and recruitment by the New People’s Army (NPA) and other lawless elements. (Photos courtesy of 2ID-DPAO)

CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal – Around 42 youth leaders from the Southern Tagalog region have completed their two-day 7th Regional Youth Leadership Summit (RYLS) as part of the Philippine Army’s 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division (2ID) “October Peace” celebration at this camp.

Brig. Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo B. Burgos Jr., 2ID Commander, told the Philippine News Agency on Thursday that the leadership summit aims to transform the youth into “peacebuilders” and “catalysts for development” while enhancing their awareness to insulate them from deceptions and recruitment by the New People’s Army (NPA) and other lawless elements.

“This noble undertaking initiated by the 2ID seeks to insulate our future leaders from the NPA terrorists as well as other lawless elements and empower them to become the best leaders which our beloved motherland and countrymen truly deserve,” Burgos said.

He also assured that the Army’s 2ID here will continue to lead the awareness drive to educate the people to “build the youth for our country’s future.”

"We will continue to pursue our genuine desire to empower these young people to be active in every way they can so that they may contribute positively towards attaining our common aspirations of winning the peace which is now within our reach," he added.

Youth leaders thanked the facilitators and organizers “for the once in a lifetime experience and for fanning the embers of idealism and patriotism in our hearts.”

“We are Filipinos and we will give our all for the Filipinos,” one of the youth leaders said.

Among the speakers during the event on Oct. 5 to 6 were Relissa S. Lucena, of the cause-oriented group #HandsOffOurChildren, who shared a mother’s experience of nearly losing her daughter to the communist movement.

Lucena narrated to some 24 female and 18 male youth leaders, aged 15 to 25, the awful experiences of mothers whose sons and daughters were recruited by the NPAs.

A youth participant who was moved by Lucena’s ordeal described “theirs was a heartbreaking story which no parent ever deserve.”

Al Jazeera correspondent Jamela Alindogan also inspired the millennial participants with her own experience and advised some approaches to overcome life’s challenges and set out determined goals to move on in life’s journey.

“Go outside of yourself, do something for our country,” Alindogan said, urging the millennial leaders to be good in their quest to serve because “nothing is worth more than dignity.”

Besides the 2ID’s information, education and communication (IEC) campaign to shun from NPA deceptions, the leadership summit also served as a venue for future leaders to establish links with their respective local government units (LGUs).

Summit participants were also encouraged to develop a better appreciation and understanding of participative governance and productive community engagements that redound to benefit them and their localities.

Meanwhile, Laguna Provincial Peace and Order Officer Maricar Palacol lauded the 2ID for spearheading the summit and “for continuously supporting the young generation by instilling the spirit of patriotism, nationalism and social responsibility.”

Palacol also assured the Laguna provincial government’s pledge to support youth programs that will contribute toward peace and development not only in the province but also for the entire country.

"The youth plays an integral part in society. They need to be armored with enthusiasm and courage to become great leaders of our country," she said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1082887

Maguindanao town adopts Army general as ‘son’

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2019): Maguindanao town adopts Army general as ‘son’



ADOPTED SON. Mayor Zamzamin Ampatuan (right) of Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao, hands over a memento to Maj. Gen. Diosdado Carreon (left), chief of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, on Thursday (Oct. 10, 2019). Carreon will be known as “Datu Didagen”, a Moro term for “impregnable leader”, as he was made an adopted son of Rajah Buayan for his contribution to the town’s peace and development initiatives. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

RAJAH BUAYAN, Maguindanao -- An Army general became an adopted son of this Maguindanao town on Thursday.

Maj. Gen. Diosdado Carreon, commander of the 6th Infantry Division (6ID) and head of the Army-led Joint Task Force Central, is now known as “Datu Didagen” to residents of this municipality situated in the province’s second district.

“Datu Didagen” is a Moro term for “impregnable leader”.

“I am humbled by this recognition, I did not see this coming,” Carreon said after the conferment program led by Rajah Buayan Mayor Zamzamin Ampatuan.

During the simple yet meaningful and colorful program, the local government honored Carreon for his valuable contribution to peace and development initiatives in this once conflict-affected town.

Ampatuan, who was vested with the authority by the town’s Sangguniang Bayan (Municipal Council), said the recognition was bestowed to Carreon for his role as a partner in the development of the Buayan area.

“Yes, he is an ‘adopted son’ of Rajah Buayan, and we accorded him respects, courtesies, and honors as Datu,” Ampatuan said.

The conferment ceremony was held in time for the celebration of Rajah Buayan’s 15th founding anniversary, a town carved from the municipality of Sultan sa Barongis.

The event was witnessed by Carreon’s wife, Gina; Col. Elmer Kato, former 33rd Infantry Battalion (IB) commander; Lt. Col. Elmer Boongaling, 33rd IB chief; and Col. Jose H. Narciso, 601st Infantry Brigade commander.

Speaking before the conferment, Ampatuan recalled how Carreon, then a brigadier general, devoted his time to ensure that residents of Rajah Buayan remained safe from lawless elements.

“From the very start, I knew Gen. Carreon was a respected leader and one that cannot be defeated easily, impregnable he is,” he said.

Carreon said he was humbled by the recognition and acknowledged the regal title with deep humility, heartfelt appreciation, and respect.

"I can hardly find words that rightly describe how I feel being given this honor,” he said, even as he rallied the people to continue to shun extremist groups, such as the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

“If you can tell them to lay down their arms, that would be a welcome move,” Carreon said in the vernacular.

Early on, Ampatuan declared Rajah Buayan as “BIFF-cleared”.

“The people are cooperating with the government, they report to us if they see armed BIFFs in our 11 villages,” he said.

Rajah Buayan was created through Muslim Mindanao Act 166 in 2004. As of the 2015 population count, it had a population of 23,652.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1082900

Another ‘communist rebel leader’ in Caraga arrested

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2019): Another ‘communist rebel leader’ in Caraga arrested



ARRESTED. The mug shot of communist rebel leader Nori L. Torregosa, 37, who was arrested by police forces on Thursday afternoon in Barangay Limaha, Butuan City. Torregosa has a warrant of arrest for illegal firearms charge. (Photo courtesy of PRO-13)

After the arrest of the top leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Caraga Region Thursday noon, authorities scored another apprehension with the arrest of a ranking official of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) in the area.

In a statement released on Friday, Brig. Gen. Joselito T. Esquivel, director of Police Regional Office in Caraga Region (PRO-Caraga), identified the arrested rebel as Nori L. Torregosa, 37, of Purok 1, Barangay Maasin, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur.

Esquivel said Torregosa is the finance officer of the CPP-NPA Komisyon Mindanao (KOMMID) in charge of the management of the collection and distribution of extortion money in Mindanao.

Torregosa was arrested in Barangay Limaha, Butuan City at around 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, by the elements of the Regional Intelligence Division (RID) of PRO-13, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in the region (CIDG-13), and Butuan City Police Station 1 and 2.

Arrested with Torregosa was his live-in partner, Melissa A. Comiso.

The arrest was carried out by virtue of a search warrant issued by Presiding Judge Emmanuel E. Escatron of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 4 of Butuan City for loose firearms.

Seized from Torregosa were two hand grenades, a caliber .45 pistol, six .45 caliber ammunition, a magazine, a caliber .38 revolver, three caliber .38 ammunition, five blasting cap assemblies with wire connector and switches, a rolled detonating cord, four laptops, five cellular phones, suspected subversive documents, and a passport.

Esquivel believes Torregosa has extensive knowledge on the extortion activities of the NPA rebels, not only in Caraga but also in the entire Mindanao.

“We hope that they will cooperate with the investigating team in identifying individuals, business institutions and groups that are providing financial support to the CPP-NPA terrorists,” Esquivel said in the statement.

“The government’s efforts against the CPP-NPA terrorists are relentless and we will not stop here until we can ensure the safety and security of the Caraganons," Esquivel said.

He also urged the other NPA rebels to surrender and avail of the government’s peace and reconciliatory programs and initiatives.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1082903

Farmer leader gunned down in Bataan

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2019): Farmer leader gunned down in Bataan



CRIME SCENE. Police Major Jeffrey Onde, the chief of police of Hermosa, Bataan, arrives in the residence of farmer leader Honorio Samaniego in Barangay Almacen, who was shot and killed by assassins on Friday morning (Oct. 11, 2019). Samaniego was former barangay chairman of Almacen for six years and president of Alyansa ng Magbubukid sa Bataan (ALMABA) based in Hermosa. (Photo by Ernie Esconde)

Three still unidentified men shot and killed on Friday morning a farmer leader, who failed in his mayoralty bid here in the May 2019 elections.

Honorio Samaniego, 66, was attacked at the back of his house in Barangay Almacen of this town. His family members rushed him to a hospital in Dinalupihan town where he was declared dead upon arrival.

Samaniego was former barangay chairman of Almacen for six years and president of Alyansa ng Magbubukid sa Bataan (ALMABA) based here.

Police Major Jeffrey Onde, the Hermosa police chief, said that witnesses told investigators the victim had just arrived from his farm and was washing his hands when gunned down around 8:20 a.m.

Colonel Villamor Tullao, Bataan Police Director who rushed to the crime scene, said three suspects alighted from a gray Innova SUV and shot the victim.

“May lumabas sa kotse na tatlong naka-bonnet, armado sila ng hand gun na hindi pa natin matukoy kung caliber .45 o 9mm. Then, nakarinig ng sunod-sunod na putok (There were three suspects wearing bonnets that alighted from the car. They were armed with handguns which are yet to be identified whether caliber .45 or 9mm. Then, successive shots were heard),” Onde said.

He said investigators recovered seven empty shells from a still undetermined caliber of a firearm from the crime scene.

The victim’s wife refused to be interviewed by the media.

“Nag-coconduct tayo ng mga checkpoint, nakikipag-coordinate sa iba-ibang opisina at patuloy na nakikipag-ugnayan sa pamilya para malutas ang nangyaring pamamaril. Pagtutulong-tulungan namin na malutas ang problemang ito (We are conducting checkpoints, coordinating with various offices and keeping in touch with the family to solve the shooting incident. We will help one another to solve this problem),” Onde said.

“Nagkakaroon tayo ng back-tracking, inaalam natin kung ano ang personality ng biktima at from there, baka magkaroon tayo ng malinaw at comprehensive na motibo (We have back-tracking, determining what is the personality of the victim and from there, we might get clear and comprehensive motive),” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1082921

Northern Samar cops belie torture of captured rebels

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2019): Northern Samar cops belie torture of captured rebels



CAPTURED. Rey Christian Sabado, one of the three members of the New People's Army captured in Las Navas, Northern Samar last Oct. 3. The Northern Samar Police Provincial Office on Friday (Oct. 11, 2019) denied the allegations of a left-leaning group that the captured rebels were physically abused. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army 20th IB)

The Northern Samar Police Provincial Office (NSPPO) has denied the allegation of a left-leaning group that three captured members of the New People's Army (NPA) were physically abused by authorities.

The police said there is no truth to the allegations hurled against them by the Katungod Sinirangan Bisayas (Rights Eastern Visayas) -Karapatan.

“In (the) light (of the need) to correct this malicious and fabricated statement of Karapatan, the NSPPO firmly stands that no single human right violation has been committed from the time the members of New People’s Army (were apprehended),” NSPPO said in a statement issued Friday.

On Oct. 3, the military arrested Rey Christian Sabado, Anton Mañoso, and Edwin Picson while conducting extortion activities in Las Navas, Northern Samar. They were turned over to the police custodial facility.

On Oct. 8, Karapatan issued a statement that the three NPA members were tortured and traumatized for suffering intense pain.

NSPPO belied the claims saying that the three rebels were brought by policemen to the Northern Samar Provincial Hospital for medical examination.

“The result presented by Dr. Hannah Grace Lucero certifies that the three are essentially normal at the time of the medical examination. This result clearly belies the claim of Karapatan that suspects were tortured and harassed,” the NSPPO statement said.

The military apprehended the three NPA members, acting on reports of extortion activities by the communist terrorist group in the villages of Quirino, San Miguel, and San Francisco in Las Navas town.

Government troops recovered from their possession firearms, explosives and documents that contain information linking NPA with front organizations and the list of business establishments targeted for their extortion activities.

“I assure the public that the rights of apprehended persons are being respected. Moreover, the public is enjoined to be watchful and vigilant against this kind of deceiving and treacherous propaganda to discredit government’s stand for continuous peace and development in Eastern Visayas and throughout the country as well,” said Northern Samar Police provincial director Col. Reynaldo Dela Cruz.

In a video released earlier by the Philippine Army’s 20th Infantry Batallion (IB), Sabado appealed to the front organization to stop malicious propaganda against the military and the police saying that the captured suspects are giving information to the military without being coerced.

The 20th IB earlier assured the family of the three NPA members that they are humanely treated under the law.

“The public should readily dismiss these social media postings of the terrorist-front organizations, as it is treacherously aimed at deceiving the populace and discrediting the government’s peace and development efforts,” the 20th IB said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1082943

PH Marines getting familiar with new amphibious assault vehicles

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2019): PH Marines getting familiar with new amphibious assault vehicles



An amphibious assault vehicle (Photo by Priam Nepomuceno)

The Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) is familiarizing itself with the newly acquired and state-of-the-art amphibious assault vehicles (AAVs) that are now participating in military drills.

PMC spokesperson Capt. Felix Serapio made this remark when asked on why these AAVs, of which eight were acquired from South Korean defense manufacturer, Hanwha Systems, are present in the just concluded "DAGIT-PA" exercise last September and why the same vehicles are again participating in another amphibious exercise off Ternate, Cavite this October 12 as part of the ongoing "KAMANDAG" drills.

During the "DAGIT PA" exercise, four AAVs participated in ship-to-shore exercise off Subic Bay, Zambales.

"DAGIT-PA" short for "Dagat-Langit-Lupa" is a joint exercise with Air Force, Navy, and Army units and ran from September 16 to 27 while "KAMANDAG" ("Kaagapay ng mga Mandirigma ng Dagat") is scheduled from October 9 to 18 and consists of Marine units from the Philippines, United States, and Japan.

"Since the AAVs are new in our inventory, we are maximizing our opportunities to put them into action because we are applying our amphibious doctrines and integrating it with the newly-acquired technology," Serapio said in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Thursday.

The constant handling and training with these AAVs would also increase the proficiency of Marine and Navy units tasked to man these vehicles, he added.

"This will also enhance the proficiency of our Marines and the Navy as a whole. Our Marine Corps regularly conducts retraining activities - rotational to every battalion to refresh their skills," Serapio said.

The first four AAVs were delivered last May and activated during the 121st founding anniversary of the Philippine Navy on June 17 at Naval Base Heracleo Alano, Sangley Point, Cavite.

The second batch arrived in August and activated during short ceremonies at the PN headquarters in Naval Station Jose Andrada in Roxas Boulevard, Manila last September 23.

The AAV contract, worth PHP2.42 billion, are armed with .50-caliber machine guns, 40mm grenade launchers and smoke launchers and will be used for amphibious landing operations.

They are based aboard the two strategic sealift vessels -- the BRP Tarlac (LD-601) and BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602).

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1082876

PCG to hire more personnel in next 3 years

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2019): PCG to hire more personnel in next 3 years



MORE PCG PERSONNEL. PCG Commandant, Admiral Elson Hermogino (7th from left), DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade (6th from left), PCG Vice Admiral Joel Garcia (5th from left) and other officials pose for a photo during the 118th anniversary celebration of the PCG on Thursday (Oct. 10) at the PCG headquarters in Port Area, Manila. Hermogino said President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s mandate to have 36,000 PCG personnel is possible within the next three years. (PNA photo by Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)

An official of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said on Thursday President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s goal to have 36,000 PCG personnel is possible within three years or before the chief executive steps down from office.

“'Yung target nating (Our target of) 36,000, hopefully by three years we can achieve that,” PCG Commandant Adm. Elson Hermogino said in an interview during the 118th PCG anniversary at the PCG headquarters in Port Area, Manila.

He said training allocation is 2,000 trainees per year, hoping the number would be doubled once they find a bigger training facility in Fort Magsaysay.

“When we are able to find a bigger facility, which we are looking doon sa (for in) Fort Magsaysay... we will be able to train 4,000 every year,” Hermogino said.

In his keynote speech during the event, Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade said PCG personnel are now around 13,000, a far cry from the estimated 5,000 personnel in the beginning of Duterte’s term.

“When we started our term in this government there were only 5,000 to 6,000 men and women of the PCG. As we speak, I understand that we have already a population of 12,000 to 13,000--in fact, close to 14,000 as of today,” Tugade said.

He said the government wants more “dedicated and committed” people to join the PCG which they hope would reach 36,000 before the end of Duterte’s term.

Tugade added he has been assured by both Hermogino and PCG Vice Adm. Joel Garcia that the 36,000 personnel goal is achievable.

“Nasabi po sakin ni Adm. (Hermogino) and VAdm. (Joel Garcia), kaya hong gampanan at tuparin yang mandato ng ating Pangulo na tayo ay maging isang lupon ng 36,000 (I was told by Adm. Hermogino and VAdm. Joel, it’s possible to achieve and fulfill the mandate of our President for us to become a group of 36,000),” Tugade said.

Aside from the increase in PCG personnel, other efforts of the government in enhancing the capabilities of the PCG include modernization of equipment such as the recent procurement of several small and large boats as well as land and airborne assets.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1082898

5 senior officers shortlisted for Coast Guard top post

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2019): 5 senior officers shortlisted for Coast Guard top post



LOOMING RETIREMENT. PCG Commandant, Admiral Elson Hermogino answers questions from the media during the 118th anniversary of the PCG on Thursday at the PCG headquarters in Port Area, Manila. Hermogino said the five candidates they submitted to President Rodrigo Duterte are the most senior officers of the PCG and are the most qualified. (PNA photo by Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Thursday said it has submitted to President Rodrigo Duterte the names of five candidates for Commandant, which will be vacated by Admiral Elson Hermogino upon his retirement on October 22.

In a message sent to the media, PCG spokesperson, Capt. Armando Balilo said these include:

-Vice Admiral Joel Garcia, deputy commandant for operations, director of the National Coast Watch Center, and a merchant marine officer from the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy;

-Rear Admiral Leopoldo Larroya, deputy commandant for operations and a graduate from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) class of 1988;

-Rear Admiral Jorge Ursabia, commander of Marine Environmental Protection Command and a graduate of PMA class of 1987;

-Rear Admiral Lyndon La Torre, commander of the Internal Affairs Service and a graduate of PMA class of 1987; and

-Rear Admiral Joselito de la Cruz, commander of Maritime Security Command and a graduate of PMA class of 1988.

On the sidelines of the 118th anniversary of the PCG, Hermogino said the five recommendations are the most senior officers of the PCG and all possess the necessary qualifications.

“We have submitted those qualified officers so let the President (decide). I do not want na pangunahan kung sino ang matunog (to pre-empt who’s most likely to be chosen),” Hermogino said in an interview.

He added that the list has been submitted since last month and his replacement will probably be chosen a day or two before his retirement.

During the event, Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade lauded the efforts of the PCG in boosting their capability in maritime safety and security through modernization and other efforts.

"I came to you today, in my own self, to assure you that for so long as it is needed for the security and safety of our maritime waters, I shall be with the Philippine Coast Guard," Tugade said.

Tugade said before the end of Duterte’s term, he hopes to see the PCG hospital, PCG academy, and the K9 training school realized to bolster the capabilities of the maritime security group.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1082830

AFP lauds ranking PMA cadet for quitting post

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2019): AFP lauds ranking PMA cadet for quitting post



RESIGNED. AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo says on Friday (Oct. 11, 2019) that the military lauded Cadet 1st Class Ram Michael Navarro, brigade commander of the Cadet Corps of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (CCAFP), for voluntarily stepping down as "Baron" for command responsibility over the alleged maltreatment death of Cadet 4th Class Darwin Dormitorio last September 18. Navarro volunteered to resign and follow the example of former PMA Superintendent, Lt. Gen. Ronnie Evangelista, and Commandant of the Corps of Cadet, Brig. Gen. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro, who earlier resigned from their posts. (File photo)

The military lauded Cadet 1st Class Ram Michael Navarro, brigade commander of the Cadet Corps of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (CCAFP), for voluntarily stepping down as "Baron" for command responsibility over the alleged maltreatment death of Cadet 4th Class Darwin Dormitorio last September 18.

"The AFP takes cognizance of, and with admiration, the voluntary relinquishment by Cadet 1st (Class) Ram Michael Navarro of his post as the Brigade Commander of the Cadet Corps Armed Forces of the Philippines of the Philippine Military Academy," AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said in a message to reporters Friday.

Navarro volunteered to resign and follow the example of former PMA Superintendent, Lt. Gen. Ronnie Evangelista, and Commandant of the Corps of Cadet, Brig. Gen. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro, who resigned for reasons of command responsibility some two weeks ago.

"His selfless act of stepping down (not resigning) from his esteemed and coveted position of leadership in Cadet Corps as the 'Baron' is not only commendable, but worthy of citation and emulation," Arevalo said.

Navarro, who was replaced by Cadet 1st Class Marion Dale Cordova, was reassigned as the operations officer of the CCAFP.

Earlier, Brig. Gen. Romeo Brawner, the new Commandant of the Corps of Cadet, said Navarro's resignation will not affect his academic standing.

"As a future officer under training who will be graduating in a few months, this unilateral gesture by Cadet Navarro manifests how deeply he has imbibed, this early, the tenets of command responsibility. The PMA will continue to be an institution committed to character development," Arevalo added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1082891

Eleazar 'sad, elated' over promotion to PNP's 4th top post

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2019): Eleazar 'sad, elated' over promotion to PNP's 4th top post



PNP'S NO. 4 MAN. Outgoing NCRPO chief, Maj. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, reminds the 300 new members of Team NCRPO to live within their means and to maintain a virtuous life, during the symbolic distribution of PNP ID, PhilHealth and Landbank ATM Cards in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City on Friday (Oct. 11, 2019). Eleazar, who will assume his new post as the Chief of the PNP Directorial Staff on Saturday, will be replaced by outgoing PRO-7 director, Brig. Gen. Debold Sinas. (Photo courtesy of NCRPO PIO)

While stressing that it is part of career growth, outgoing National Capital Regional Police Office (NCRPO) chief Maj. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar on Friday said he has mixed emotions about his promotion.

“Mixed emotions. I am sad because, for 16 months, I have been used to my activities. I was shocked. I'm not thinking of it but I'm very thankful to the PNP leadership," Eleazar told reporters after gracing the symbolic distribution of PNP ID, PhilHealth and Landbank ATM cards to 300 police trainees held at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City.

"All of us want to get promoted in our own careers. Clearly from the regional director of the NCRPO with the rank of two-star, my appointment as Chief Directorial Staff with a commensurate three-star rank is a promotion for me,” Eleazar added.

At the same time, Eleazar reminded the 300 new members of Team NCRPO to live within their means and to maintain a virtuous life.

"Ang ATM cards ay simbolo ng pasasalamat ng pamahalaan sa ating pagseserbisyo. Gamitin ninyo ng maayos ang sweldo na dinoble dahil kahit gaano pa kalaki ang ibigay sa inyo, kung hindi nyo gagamitin ng maayos, kulang parin yan (ATM cards are a symbol of the government's gratitude for our service. Use your salary wisely. Even if it is double or no matter how big is it, if you will handle it wisely, it will still not suffice)," he stressed.

Eleazar also bade farewell to the new police recruits on his last day as NCRPO chief.

"I may not be the one to welcome you after your training but I expect all of you to be ready in your future duty of serving the nation," Eleazar stressed.

Replacing Eleazar is Brig. Gen. Debold Sinas, outgoing director of Police Regional Office 7.

Eleazar, a member of the PMA Hinirang Class of 1987, is among the possible successors to PNP chief Gen. Oscar Albayalde, who will retire on November 8.

Aside from Eleazar, other candidates for the post are Lt. Gen. Francisco Archie Gamboa, who was named new Deputy Chief for Administration and Lt. Gen. Camilo Pancratius Cascolan, who was named new Deputy Chief for Operations.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1082924

DILG chief to submit list of PNP chief bets to PRRD

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2019): DILG chief to submit list of PNP chief bets to PRRD



SEARCH FOR NEXT PNP CHIEF. Interior Secretary Eduardo Año on Friday (Oct. 11, 2019) says he will submit three to five names of police officials who he will recommend to President Rodrigo Duterte as candidates for the next Philippine National Police (PNP) chief. Among the possible contenders for the post are Deputy Chief for Administration Lt. Gen. Archie Francisco Gamboa: Deputy Chief for Operations, Lt. Gen. Camilo Cascolan; and Directorial Staff Chief, Maj. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar. (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon)

Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said on Friday he will submit three to five names of police officials whom he will recommend to President Rodrigo Duterte as candidates for the next Philippine National Police (PNP) chief.

“By tradition, the President asks the outgoing chief PNP for recommendations. I am also submitting my recommendation next week. Upon speaking with the President and Senator Bong Go, the qualifications are first, seniority; second, merit or reputation; third experiences on his performance previous assignment,” Año, who is also chair of National Police Commission, (Napolcom) told a media interview.

The DILG chief added that he will submit his recommendation letter on October 18.

PNP chief, Gen. Oscar Albayalde who will bow out of the service upon turning 56 on November 8, is under fire for his alleged interference in the case of 13 erring police officers who were involved in the reselling of seized illegal drugs from a raid in Mexico town in Pampanga in 2013.

Albayalde, who was Pampanga provincial police chief at the time of the assailed anti-drug raid, was relieved from his post due to command responsibility.

Asked if he already talked to Albayalde, Año said they only talked about the PNP's drive against scalawags and the smooth transition when the police official retires.

“Nagkita kami (We met) last Tuesday before the hearing of Senate. We didn't discuss anything about resignation. If he intends to resign, he should convey it to the President, not to me,” he said.

Albayalde earlier shrugged off calls for his resignation, noting that he still enjoys the trust and confidence of President Rodrigo Duterte despite allegations dragging him to the “ninja cops” issue.

Albayalde said it would be up to the President to decide his fate.

Duterte earlier said dismissing a top official should be done “for a good reason” and with “enough proof.”

The President assured that procedural due process would be followed and that he would be “fair”.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1082935