PH's 2nd missile frigate formally launched

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 8, 2019): PH's 2nd missile frigate formally launched



BRP ANTONIO LUNA. Defense and military officials from the Philippines witness the launching of the BRP Antonio Luna, the Philippine Navy's second multi-dimensional and missile-armed frigate, in Ulsan, South Korea on Friday (Nov. 8, 2019). Named after one of the Filipino revolutionary generals who fought and died during the Philippine-American War, BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) completes the PN's two-unit Frigate Acquisition Project. (Photo courtesy of Naval Public Affairs Office)

The second multi-dimensional and missile-armed frigate of the Philippine Navy (PN) was formally launched at the Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) shipyard in Bangeojinsunhwan-doro, Ulsan, South Korea on Friday morning.

Named after one of the Filipino revolutionary generals who fought and died during the Philippine-American War, BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) completes the two-unit Frigate Acquisition Project of the PN.

The first ship, BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), was launched last May and currently undergoing harbor trials and could be completed by the first quarter of 2020, said Navy public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas.

The delivery of BRP Jose Rizal is at the earliest April or May 2020 and BRP Antonio Luna in September or October 2020.

Philippine officials who witnessed the event were headed by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, together with Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief-of-Staff, Gen. Noel Clement, and Navy Flag -Officer- In Command (FOIC), Vice Adm. Robert Empedrad.

They were joined by former FOIC, retired Vice Adm. Ferdinand Golez; Commander of Naval Sea Systems Command, Rear Adm. Rommel Jason Galang; Naval Inspector General, Commodore Sean Anthony Villa; Philippine Fleet deputy Commander, Commodore Wilfredo Burgonio Jr.; and Offshore Combat Force commander, Captain Karl Decapia.

Also in attendance was the Korean representative from Minister of Defense Acquisition Wang Jung-Hong from the Defense Acquisition Program Administration, Republic of Korea (ROK).

Both ships are capable of engaging in the four dimensions of modern warfare, namely: Anti-Air Warfare (AAW), Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW), Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Electronic Warfare (EW), and are fully equipped with Surface-to-Surface Missiles (SSM), Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM), and Torpedoes.

The primary gun is 76mm Super Rapid Gun while the secondary platform is a 30mm gun. It is also equipped with chaff dispensers and decoys as a defense against incoming missiles.

Roxas said the acquisition of these missile frigates will strengthen the Navy’s capability to safeguard our maritime nation and territorial limits.

The two missile-capable frigates are tangible manifestations and benchmarks of the PN's vision of becoming a strong and credible naval force by 2020.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1085475

JTF head new 3rd ID commander

From the Visayan Daily Star (Nov 8, 2019): JTF head new 3rd ID commander

Joint Task Force Negros chief Brig. Gen. Eric Vinoya is the new commander of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division.

Vinuya will replace Maj. Gen. Dinoh Dolina, who is retiring from the military service on Nov. 14, after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56.

Army chief Lt. Gen. Macairog Alberto is officiating over the 3ID change of command from Dolina to Vinoya on Nov. 12 at Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz.

The change of command leadership will be preceded by a testimonial parade and retirement ceremony, in honor for Dolina.

Before his new position, Vinoya, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class 1987, also served as Assistant Division Commander of 3ID and concurrent JTF-Negros chief.

As the incoming 3ID commander, Vinoya will supervise three Army infantry brigades stationed in Panay, Negros and Bohol.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/November/08/topstory9.htm

Fact-finding team finds irregularities in Negros mass arrests

From Rappler (Nov 8, 2019): Fact-finding team finds irregularities in Negros mass arrests

Bayan Muna spokesperson Teddy Casiño says the raiding team claimed the 'firearms and grenades' were recovered in plain sight – in tables, cabinets and the kitchen sink



SOLIDARITY. The members of the fact-finding which went to Bacolod City. Photo by Marchel Espina/Rappler

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines – The fact-finding team organized by progressive groups found irregularities in the simultaneous raids conducted by government authorities in Negros Occidental that led to the arrest of 57 individuals, including 13 minors.

In a press conference at the Negros Press Club office here Thursday, November 7, Teddy Casiño, a part of the fact-finding team and the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan spokesperson said they found out that there was forcible entry of the venues raided during the operations, and that the occupants were escorted out of the offices, “meaning anything can happen.”

He said authorities planted the firearms and the grenades to implicate the arrested individuals – 55 in Bacolod and two in Escalante City. He added the evidence supposedly recovered from the activists was casually visible in the offices.

“The firearms and grenades were recovered in the tables, cabinets, and the sink,” he added.

Aside from Casiño, the other members of the "solidarity mission" were Makabayan chair Neri Colmenares, Bayan Muna party-list Representative Carlos Zarate, Gabriela party-list Representative Arlene Brosas, and former Agrarian Reform secretary Rafael Mariano, who is also the chair of Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas.

The group demanded that the government stop the attacks and the vilification of cause-oriented groups and the people’s organizations.

Of the 55 arrested persons in Bacolod, 31 were released from detention on Wednesday, November 6, while the 13 minors were already turned over to their parents and guardians early this week.

This was because there was no probable cause to indict the 31 individuals. These were the 21 terminated workers of a bus company and the 10 young members of grassroots cultural group Teatro Obrero.

Meanwhile, the remaining 11 activists were still in detention after charges for illegal possession of firearms and explosives were filed against them.

Casiño also said the warrants used by the authorities came from a “search warrant factory” in Quezon City. He questioned the jurisdiction of Quezon City Regional Trial Court Judge Cecilyn Burgos-Villavert for issuing the said warrants.

“The judge has no idea what is going on in Bacolod. It’s prone to abuse and misinformation,” he added.

He also said, “we were able to piece together, and that judge issued 11 search warrants in one day. Four were served in Bacolod, three in Escalante, and two in Manila. We still have two unaccounted warrants,” he said.

He said leftist organizations in Manila have opened its offices to Commission on Human Rights and the barangay to preempt any attempt from the government to attack their offices and plant evidence.

He added they are bracing for a “full-scale national crackdown” from the government, which could lead to more raids and arrests of activists and dissenters, as two more warrants have yet to be served.

He said they would continue their engagement in Negros to ensure that the crackdown would stop here so the rights of activists, people’s organizations, dissenters, and critics would not be trampled upon.

He said what happened in Negros Occidental is a cause of concern since this is the first time after martial law that there was a mass arrest of people’s organizations. “The only time there were mass arrests was during demonstrations and rallies,” he said.

“But this is different. Apparently, Negros is a laboratory for the national crackdown... the situation is very urgent,” Casiño, a former Bayan Muna party-list representative, stressed.

For her part, Brosas said the minors were now suffering from trauma, anxiety, paranoia and appetite loss following the raids. She added the minors have initially undergone psycho-social intervention.

“We recommended there should be a series of counseling to process their experience,” she said.

Meanwhile, Colmenares said they would file countercharges against those responsible for the raids as they blatantly violated the rule of law.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/244433-fact-finding-team-finds-irregularities-in-negros-mass-arrests

IDP Protection Assessment Report - Forced displacement in Midsayap, Cotabato (IDPPAR no. 17, Issue no. 01, 2019)

Posted to the Relief Web (Oct 31, 2019): IDP Protection Assessment Report - Forced Displacement in Midsayap, Cotabato (IDPPAR No. 17, Issue No. 01, 2019)

REPORT from UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Protection Cluster
Published on 31 Oct 2019 —View Original

Download PDF (886.3 KB)

Incident Background

On 23 October 2019 a joint military and police operation was carried out against an alleged sub-commander of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Midsayap, Cotabato province.

The incident resulted in displacement of 293 families, most of whom had been previously affected by a clan feud in April 2019 in the same area.

Seven (7) youths were reportedly killed in the course of the manhunt. They were initially tagged as being associated with the armed group, but their relatives claimed that they were only conducting farming activities and were also part of the IDP population who were displaced in April.

Current Situation

As of this report, the 293 displaced families are currently staying in the barangay hall, covered court, and along the streets of Purok Mahogany (near the barangay hall) in Barangay Tumbras.

The Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) of Midsayap conducted a Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) session for the families and relatives of the casualties.

IDPs were provided with immediate food assistance from the LGU. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region 12 has also conducted an assessment, following a request for food packs, non-food items and financial assistance for the victims families.

https://reliefweb.int/report/philippines/idp-protection-assessment-report-forced-displacement-midsayap-cotabato-idppar-no

US official: military aid to PHL still priority

From the Business Mirror (Nov 8, 2019): US official: military aid to PHL still priority

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Washington is increasing its defense aid to the country despite the Duterte administration’s apparent move to keep some distance from a tight American military embrace, as the security alliance between the Philippines and United States remains “stronger and robust.”

Despite previous diplomatic irritants, Filipino and American diplomats said the relationship is steadfast, having been nurtured through the 70-year-old treaty alliance, and anchored on a shared history and adherence to common values, such as rule of law and democracy.

“Our current relationship with this country is probably one of the best,” Philippine Ambassador to Wanshington, Jose Manuel Romualdez, told Filipino journalists on Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila).

While President Duterte sought friendly ties with China, asking help to find its various infrastructure projects, the Asian giant continues to pursue its expansionist agenda in a huge part of the South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

The Duterte administration has said it will not abandon the UN arbitral tribunal’s favorable ruling that struck down China’s “excessive” claims in the WPS, despite Beijing’s refusal to recognize the 2016 decision.

In recent years, China has asserted what it views as its territorial rights by reclaiming reefs and militarizing some of them. Its fishing fleets have used those assertions to move into areas claimed by other countries, including the Philippines.

Still, Romualdez said the US sees the Philippines as a key regional partner by conducting increased joint military exercises even as the Duterte administration has increased engagement with nontraditional allies like China and Russia.

Duterte had declared early in his administration an independent foreign policy and previously said he wants to scale down the US military presence in the country.

However, following Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s visit to Manila in April, Philippine-US cooperation has intensified and a series of joint naval drills followed, sparking Chinese concern.

Pompeo said then his government would come to the Philippines’s aid if it comes under attack by a foreign power in the disputed South China Sea, as he pledged a revitalized commitment to honor a 68-year-old defense treaty that binds America to defend its Asian ally from aggression.

“The relationship is better in my view because we can now express ourselves more freely and we try to explain to them that while we value our relationship with them, we also would like to expand our relationship with other countries,” Romualdez said. “Washington is beginning to see that we are also trying to be on our own.”
Largest recipient

Mark Clark, director for Office of Maritime Southeast Asia at the State Department, said the Philippines is by far the largest recipient of defense aid in the region, providing support to the Armed Forces of the Philippines’s modernization program.

Since 2016, Clark said Washington has provided the Philippines almost $550 million in defense assistance, a move that demonstrates the US’s commitment to its alliance with Manila. It is the largest aid recently provided by the US to the Philippines.

“We’ve provided significant military equipment through transfer and direct sales,” Clark said, citing “robust and growing” ties with the Philippines..

Minister Rosanna Villamor-Voogel of the Philippine Embassy in Washington said the increase in American defense assistance “is indicative of the continued interest of the US government to find ways and means to help and complement the priority of President Duterte.”

Since fiscal year 2016, the Philippines has received $554.55 million in defense assistance from the US Department of State and Department of Defense, Villamor-Voogel said.

Of this amount, $267.75 million came from foreign military financing, $73 million in fiscal year 2018 assistance, another $278.8 million in US Department of Defense Security Assistance and over $8 million in international military education and training funds. “As you know more than us—because you hear it everyday—the priority of our current government is really to ensure that defense modernization continues and in a way make up for lost time,” she said.

“And we are happy to continue to partner with the US to ensure that our friends in the Philippines receive the much-needed capability in all arms services to the extent possible.”

On the other hand, Clark said “Our nations have a bright future together. We remain dedicated to working with the Philippine government and the Filipino people to advance our shared goals of security and prosperity.”

https://businessmirror.com.ph/2019/11/08/us-official-military-aid-to-phl-still-priority/

PH resumes stamping on Chinese passports with nine-dash line map

From UNTV News & Rescue (Nov 8, 2019): PH resumes stamping on Chinese passports with nine-dash line map

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Wednesday (November 6) announced that it will resume stamping of Philippine visa on Chinese regular e-passports.

“We support this policy update of the DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs),” BI Commissioner Jaime H. Morente said in a statement.

The BI stopped stamping visas directly on Chinese passports in 2012 under the administration of former President Benigno Aquino III in protest to the map of China imprinted on it which shows China’s aggressive claims over the South China Sea using the undefined demarcation line referred to as the “nine-dash line” that encompasses the contested territories such as the Spratly Islands and the Scarborough Shoal.

This claim was invalidated in 2016 by the Permanent Court of Arbitration saying it has no legal basis.

But China has never accepted the international court’s ruling in favor of the Philippines but instead, carried on with its reclamation activities in the disputed territories.

The practice of using a separate sheet for Chinese travelers came after a month-long standoff between Chinese and Philippine vessels in the Scarborough Shoal in that same year.

In a memorandum issued by Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente, immigration officers are instructed to affix their stamps adjacent to the Philippine visa of a regular e-passport presented by a Chinese passenger in compliance with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) foreign service circular.

This change in policy, Morente said, will address security concerns associated with stamping Philippine visas on a separate paper.

“We support this policy update of the DFA,” said Morente.

“In the past, we have also expressed security concerns over the old practice because sheets of papers can easily be lost,” he added.

https://www.untvweb.com/news/ph-resumes-stamping-on-chinese-passports-with-nine-dash-line-map/

Troops capture Sayyaf terrorist, recover 16 pipe bombs (Graphic Photos)

From the Mindanao Examiner (Nov 7, 2019): Troops capture Sayyaf terrorist, recover 16 pipe bombs (Contains graphic photos)

SULU – Security forces captured an Abu Sayyaf fighter and led soldiers to a terrorist hideout in the southern Philippine province of Sulu where they recovered over a dozen pipe bombs which are potential weapons for suicide bombers.

Lt. Col Gerald Monfort, a spokesman for the anti-terror Joint Task Force Sulu, said the militant, who has been identified only by his alias ‘Mang,’ led troops November 5 to their hideout in Paligue village in the town of Indanan where soldiers killed three suicide bombers, two of them foreigners, in a firefight earlier that day.

He said troops seized 16 pipe bombs similar to the explosives recovered from the slain suicide bombers’ vests. “The 16 unrigged pipe bombs captured by government forces were completely identical to the captured improvised explosives recovered from the killed suicide bombers in Indanan,” he said.

Military photos released to The Zamboanga Post show the slain suicide bombers – 2 foreigners and a Filipino – in Indanan town in Sulu province. And the explosive belts and pipe bombs recovered from them.

Monfort was referring to the trio who was intercepted by soldiers late Tuesday afternoon in the village of Kan Islam after receiving intelligence of the planned attacks in the capital town of Jolo.

He said the bombers opened fire on soldiers and sparking a firefight that killed all three of them. The foreigners, he said, were believed to be the husband and son of another suicide bomber who blew herself up near a military base in Indanan town on September 8. The other bomber, a Filipino, was an Abu Sayyaf fighter.

Monfort said soldiers recovered a pair of explosive belts from the slain bombers, including a fragmentation grenade and an automatic pistol.

The military has imposed high security alert in the restive region against possible retaliatory attacks by pro-Islamic State terror groups following killing of IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in a recent U.S. raid in Syria.

Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, said that at least 7 foreign terrorists who were affiliated with the IS are trying to embed in the local existing terror organizations in southern Philippines. He said the Abu Sayyaf is coddling the terrorists in Basilan and Sulu, and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Maguindanao province.

President Rodrigo Duterte has repeatedly said in public that ISIS is the biggest security threat in the country. Authorities have tagged the Abu Sayyaf, the BIFF and the Maute Group as terrorist groups with alleged links to the ISIS. Foreign ISIS militants and a local recruit had killed themselves in suicide attacks in Basilan and Sulu. (Zamboanga Post)

https://mindanaoexaminer.com/troops-capture-sayyaf-terrorist-recover-16-pipe-bombs-contains-graphic-photos/

Unauthorized MNLF forums under watch

From the Mindanao Examiner (Nov 8, 2019): Unauthorized MNLF forums under watch

THE DUTERTE GOVERNMENT has warned the public against people organizing “unauthorized” MNLF (Moro National Liberation Front) peace and federalism forum following a failed meeting in Zamboanga City.

Carlito Galvez, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, said the foiled meeting was not authorized either by the national government or Nur Misuari, the MNLF chairman. “To set the record straight, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) has not authorized any of these personalities or their organizations to carry out such an activity. The people behind this so-called peace forum in Zamboanga City are clearly misrepresenting the Philippine Government, the OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation) and the MNLF, as stated in their letter request addressed to the City Government of Zamboanga,” Galvez said.

Mayor Beng Climaco has stood firm in disallowing any MNLF activities here, especially the faction of Nur Misuari, whose loyal forces attacked the city in two separate occasions in the last 2 decades.

The letter purportedly signed by Mukisin Taguid-id and Jubail Kamlian, who claimed to be from the MNLF, asked the local government for a permit to allow about 500 of its members and supporters to gather here for the peace and federalism forum, and even invited Climaco to be one of their honored guests.

Climaco rejected the MNLF request and did not issue any permit to Taguid-id and Kamlian following the recommendation of the police and military authorities. “Upon recommendation by the security forces, the city government of Zamboanga has denied the request of the Moro National Liberation Front for a permit to conduct a forum on peace process and federalism,” she said. The forum was supposed to take place on October 30.

Capt. Edwin Duco, a police spokesman, said they have recommended to the local government not to issue any permit that would allow the forum, citing, security and public concerns. “We recommended to the City Government to deny and disapprove the request for a permit,” he said.

Charge Them

Now, Climaco wants organizers of that forum charged after residents in several barangays had panicked and fled their homes, fearing the MNLF would launch attacks again in retaliation for the foiled forum.

Climaco, also the chairperson of the city and regional peace and order councils, said instructed the local police force headed by Colonel Thomas Joseph Martir to invite for questioning the organizers of the forum and to file whatever charges fit against them for causing undue chaos and panic among residents.

She said it appeared that there is a pattern by certain individuals who would use the name of the national government and even that of President Rodrigo Duterte to make profit out of fees to be collected from such forum. “The matter has to be blottered and investigated by the police to prevent repetition of the same in the future. Find out what charges to be filed against them, probably misrepresentation,” Climaco said.

Galvez said they are supporting Climaco’s order to the police and investigate the matter. “We therefore support the call of Zamboanga City Mayor Isabelle ‘Beng’ Climaco-Salazar for authorities to look on this matter and prevent further misrepresentation that can create misunderstanding, confusion and unnecessary public alarm,” he said.

Not Us

Misuari’s group has denied any participation in the failed forum organized by Taguid-id and Kamlian. “We have been informed that there are false rumors circulating through SMS and social media platforms about the MNLF. The Office of the Chairman (Nur Misuari) of the MNLF Central Committee reiterates that it has no involvement in a since-cancelled forum that was to be held in Zamboanga City on Wednesday, 30th of October.”

“In connection with this, some have spread misinformation of a threat of confrontation between the MNLF and local government forces if the request for the permit of the said event would be denied. These are unfounded accusations and are not true. Please be vigilant and help stop the spread of lies that are causing undue panic and fear,” it said.

Misuari was reported to have ordered all MNLF units, State and National Commands, including others to refrain from any provocative acts, saying, the MNLF now has engaged in peace process.

Peace Process

Galvez said the Duterte administration continues to engage with Misuari in the peace process. “In parallel, we would like to clarify issues over the engagements between the Government and the MNLF, particularly with the group of MNLF founding chairman Nur Misuari. Under the peace Agenda of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, the government shall continue to engage MNLF Founding Chair Nur Misuari to complete the remaining commitments under the 1996 Final Peace Agreement by virtue of the Tripartite Review Process and the Bangsamoro Coordinating Forum with the OIC.”

“In compliance with our peace agenda, OPAPP recently organized the GPH-MNLF Joint Peace Coordinating Committees in order to have continuous dialogue, coordination and collaboration with the MNLF in maintaining lasting and enduring peace in Mindanao, particularly in troubled Island of Sulu. We are advising some quarters, particularly those who are not privy in the dialogues, to refrain from issuing premature statements that will derail the current peace efforts of the Duterte administration,” Galvez said.

Climaco has previously rejected similar requests by the MNLF to hold its meetings here and told the former rebel group to be “sensitive and perceptive of the fact that the scars of the September 9, 2013 Zamboanga siege caused by the MNLF remain unhealed and fresh in the hearts and minds of Zamboanguenos.”

The mayor was referring to the attack by the MNLF here that resulted to the deaths of dozens of innocent civilians and the destruction it left, including the tens of thousands of families displaced by the violence.

Raids

Six years after deadly siege by hundreds of armed MNLF members, residents here are still crying for justice which remains elusive for the victims of the attack.

Climaco also set September 9 as a “Special Day of Remembrance” in honor of all those who perished in the siege that lasted for 3 weeks.

Supporters of Misuari, the MNLF chairman, attacked Zamboanga after declaring independence and their failed attempt to raise the Bangsamoro Republik flag at City Hall. The siege displaced over 100,000 people and affected the economies of Basilan and Sulu which are dependent on Zamboanga for their trades and goods. Misuari has publicly denied involvement in the siege of Zamboanga.

In 2016, Climaco – who stood firm against the MNLF during the entire period of the crisis – has banned any so-called peace rally or gathering of the MNLF members in Zamboanga City. She said such rallies will not be allowed in the as this might disturb Zamboanga anew. “I am giving you a categorical no; you must not disturb Zamboanga anymore. If you want to come up with your rally, make it in your area, Zamboanga will not welcome a rally by MNLF, not at this time because you still have to be accountable with the killings and devastation we are suffering from,” Climaco said in the past.

“The destruction wrought by the 2013 siege continues to linger, as internally displaced persons – both Muslims, Christians and Lumads, most of whom are those who eluded the conflicts in Sulu and Basilan – have suffered the brunt of the MNLF attack in Zamboanga,” she said.

Misuari signed a peace deal with Manila in September 1996 ending decades of bloody war. After the peace agreement was signed, Misuari became the governor of the Muslim autonomous region. But despite the peace accord, he said there was a widespread disillusionment with the weak autonomy they were granted.

Under the peace agreement, Manila would have to provide a mini-Marshal Plan to spur economic development in Muslim areas in the south and livelihood and housing assistance to tens of thousands of former rebels to uplift their poor living standards. Cabatangan It was the second attack by MNLF in the past decade.

In November 2001, hundreds of MNLF members occupied the Cabatangan Complex and held hostage dozens of civilians, including children; and another group also attacked a military base in Sulu province in an effort to stop the elections in the Muslim autonomous region after Misuari was ousted as governor.

More than 100 people were killed in the fighting and in the end, then Mayor Maria Clara Lobregat allowed the attackers to leave Zamboanga in exchange for the hostages. Misuari then escaped by boat to Malaysia, where he had been arrested and deported to the Philippines and was eventually pardoned and released by President Gloria Arroyo.

Now because of the peace process, Duterte ordered police and military not to arrest Misuari. (Zamboanga Post)

https://mindanaoexaminer.com/unauthorized-mnlf-forums-under-watch/

AFP-CRS: BRP Davao Del Sur now underway for HADR Mission

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Nov 8, 2019): BRP Davao Del Sur now underway for HADR Mission



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2817333204952052/?type=3&theater

BRP Davao Del Sur now underway for HADR Mission

South Harbor, Manila – The Philippine Navy deployed one of its biggest vessels, BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602), to Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao in Davao to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) to earthquake victims on Tuesday, November 5.

Read more: https://navy.mil.ph/pn_web_news.php?news_id=2015

#AFPyoucanTRUST

[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: Scholarship program eyed for decommissioned MILF combatants

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Nov 8, 2019): Scholarship program eyed for decommissioned MILF combatants



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2817338418284864/?type=3&theater

Scholarship program eyed for decommissioned MILF combatants

MANILA,Philippines — The government is planning to establish a special scholarship or capacity development program for decommissioned members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and their dependents.

The program was among key agreements provided in the memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

CHED Chairman J. Prospero de Vera III, OPAPP Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. and BARMM Minister for basic, higher and technical education Mohagher Mohammad Iqbal on Wednesday inked the MOU aimed at providing assistance and ensuring quality tertiary education in the Bangsamoro region.

Read more at https://www.philstar.com/other-sections/education-and-home/2019/11/07/1966746/scholarship-program-eyed-decommissioned-milf-combatants#OFpTc85SwVa58KZm.99

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: 4th ID Camp open to National Children’s Month activities

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Nov 8, 2019): 4th ID Camp open to National Children’s Month activities

4th ID Camp open to National Children’s Month activities

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Nov. 6 – In its aim of protecting and securing the future of the young generation, the 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division once again opened its doors to the different activities in connection with the National Children’s Month (NCM) celebration this November.

“We are happy to continue to open our doors to the public for we want to nurture, educate, empower and protect our children as well as the youth against unscrupulous organizations such as the New People’s Army (NPA), their recruitment and deception schemes,” said 4ID Commander MGen Franco Nemesio Gacal.

4ID through its “Peaceful War” campaign had long been conducting activities such as Youth Leadership Summit trainings, sports activities, camp tours, static displays and information and education campaigns among others.

Further, various schools from elementary, high school and colleges in Cagayan de Oro City and nearby provinces have also conducted their activities inside 4th ID headquarters and letter requests continue to pour in.

“As we continue with the implementation of the Executive Order 70 or the “Whole-of-Nation Approach” in Regions 10 and Caraga, we are nearing our goal of achieving sustainable peace and development. Children’s future is crucial, we must protect it by all means. Saving our children’s future is saving the future of our nation,” Gacal added.

This year, the NCM is anchored on the theme “Karapatan Pambata: Patuloy na Pahalagahan at Gampanan Tungo sa Magandang Kinabukasan."

[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: Sulu residents information helped neutralized 3 suicide bombers (Graphic Photos)

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Nov 8, 2019): Sulu residents information helped neutralized 3 suicide bombers



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2817342634951109/?type=3&theater

Sulu residents information helped neutralized 3 suicide bombers

#AFPyoucanTRUST

[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: Parents of minors filed human trafficking raps vs. arrested CPP-npa terrorist front members

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Nov 8, 2019): Parents of minors filed human trafficking raps vs. arrested CPP-npa terrorist front members

Parents of minors filed human trafficking raps vs. arrested CPP-npa terrorist front members

CAMP MONTELIBANO, Bacolod City – Parents and relatives of the rescued minors filed a qualified human trafficking case before the office of the Bacolod City Prosecutor’s Office against six of the arrested CPP-NPA Terrorist front members on Wednesday, November 06, 2019.

These front members were among the arrested individuals during the simultaneous search and seizure operation of joint elements of the Philippine Army and Philippine National Police in Bacolod City last October 31.

The parents accused them of recruiting their minor children to join illegal activities like armed struggle. They are complaining of the deceitful recruitment activities of the said individuals.

READ MORE: https://www.kalinawnews.com/parents-of-minors-filed-human…/…

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[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.]

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AFP-CRS: 53 NPA supporters renounce armed struggle

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Website (Nov 8, 2019): 53 NPA supporters renounce armed struggle



Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija – A total of 53 personalities coming from the different NPA organized supporters in Carranglan, Nueva Ecija renounced armed struggle and returned to the mainstream society thru the help of the 84th Infantry (Victorious) Battalion of the 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, Philippine Army on November 6, 2019.

In one of the biggest mass surrender to take place in Carranglan, the 53 NPA organized supporters gathered at the Barangay Hall of Capintalan, of said town where they formally surrendered to Barangay Captain Francisco Evasco of Capintalan and Lieutenant Colonel Honorato S. Pascual Jr, Commanding Officer of the 84IB.

“They are tired of fighting for a useless and pointless cause,” Lt. Col. Pascual said. “Gusto na nilang mabuhay ng payapa, at ang paraan lang para magawa nila iyon ay sumuko sila at makipagtulungan sa atin,” he added. (They want live in peace now, and the only way to do that is for them to cooperate with us.)

The mass surrender is a result of the joint efforts of the 84IB, the 7th Civil Military Operations (CMO) Battalion, the Barangay Peace & Order Council and Barangay Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (BTF-ELCAC) of Barangay Capintalan in Carrangalan.

Said surrenderees came from the following CPP-NPA underground affiliates: Sangay ng Partido sa Lokalidad; Yunit Milisyang Bayan; Pambansang Katipunan ng Magbubukid sa Pilipinas; Malayang Kilusan ng Bagong Kababaihan; Kabataang Makabayan of Sitios Lising and Pandayan, both of Brgy. Capintalan; and Sitio Malihdi, Brgy. Minuli, all of Carrangalan.

“It is apparent that the message of our united forces - the LGUs, LGAs, us in the Army, and the PNP – has finally come across in Carranglan, and the people understand that what we are offering is a win-win situation. Nothing but peace and development will result from the ‘whole-of-nation approach’, and I enjoin the rest of our brothers who are still undecided to leave the armed movement and work with us, instead, to bring real progress to our nation.” These were the words of Major General Lenard T. Agustin, Commander of the 7ID, on the successful mass surrender that took place in Carranglan.

The Kaugnay Division, along with all of its line units, has been very aggressive in the implementation of Task Force ELCAC, in line with President Rorigo Duterte’s Executive Order No. 70, as Major General Agustin firmly believes that “working together as a nation and accepting that peace is everybody’s responsibility” is the best way to end the communist armed conflict in the country.

The 84IB is currently conducting routine interviews on said former NPA supporters. Processing of available government benefits such as the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) for former rebels who are qualified will soon follow.

Source: 7ID, PA (7th Infantry Division, Philippine Army)

https://www.afpcrs.com/single-post/2019/11/08/53-NPA-supporters-renounce-armed-struggle?fbclid=IwAR1mT5K0yHDY4D0S2bSUKdLaA3RmDmLLI1u3AvAmiaAAj2VW7mjt6LwBA94

AFP-CRS: TOG 3 holds Campus Peace and Development Forum at TSU

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Nov 8, 2019): TOG 3 holds Campus Peace and Development Forum at TSU



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1st Civil Relations Group, Hilagang Luzon
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TOG 3 holds Campus Peace and Development Forum at TSU

The Tactical Operation Group 3 (TOG3) and Tactical Operations Wing Northern Luzon, (TOWNOL) PAF conducted Campus Peace and Development Forum at Tarlac State University on November 7, 2019 which was attended by more than 800 students.

The activity is a nationwide campus-based information drive that aims to arm the participants with informed knowledge as they participate in a national conversation on the prospects of peace and development in our country.

During the activity lectures on Role of the Youth in Nation Building and CTG's Campus Infiltration was conducted.

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[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.]

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AFP-CRS: Former NPA surrenders firearm to Army

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Website (Nov 8, 2019): Former NPA surrenders firearm to Army



Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija – After finally seeing the light and realizing that the only way to truly return to the mainstream society is to severe all connections to the NPA and turn-over everything that was entrusted to him by the rebels, an M16 rifle was voluntarily turned-over by alias Dangla to the Army’s 84th Infantry Battalion at Headquarters 84IB at Sitio Junior Campo, Sto. Niño II, San Jose City on November 6, 2019.

Alias Dangla is one of the 53 New People's Army supporters who surrendered to the 84IB on above mentioned date.

Upon interview, alias Dangla revealed that he has kept an M16 rifle in his house that was entrusted by an NPA member sometime in 2017. To show sincerity of his surrender, he yielded the said firearm along with one short magazine for M16, with seven live ammunitions.

Major General Lenard T. Agustin, Commander of the 7ID commended the unit for its accomplishment and said, “The army is working together with other government agencies for peace and development embodied in Executive Order 70 or the ‘whole-of-nation approach’. As a result, we are able to induce NPA members and mass supporters to go back to the folds of the law.”

Of the 53 surrenderees, Alias Dangla was the only one to surrender a firearm. The recovered items are now in the custody of the 84IB for proper safekeeping and proper disposition.

Under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, remuneration is given depending on the type and make of a surrendered firearm. As of this writing, policies is being checked if alias Dangla is qualified to received compensation under the E-CLIP program.

Source: 7ID, PA (7th Infantry Division, Philippine Army)

https://www.afpcrs.com/single-post/2019/11/08/Former-NPA-surrenders-firearm-to-Army?fbclid=IwAR2saEF2NsGR4msCqMpQs3Akom9PXoFc6moYXOSQcVUkrq6nptJwkBkCVp4

Former rebels in Samar undergo training on organic vegetable, organic fertilizer production

Posted to the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 8, 2019): Former rebels in Samar undergo training on organic vegetable, organic fertilizer production

CALBIGA, Samar, Nov. 7 (PIA) - Some 25 former rebels, Yunit Militia, Sangay sa Partido sa Lokalidad, Underground Mass Organization (UGMO) and their dependents from Conflict Affected Areas or Geographically Isolated Disadvantage Areas (GIDAs) in Calbiga, Samar underwent training on organic vegetable, organic fertilizer production, and entrepreneurship.

The training started on October 6, 2019 under the Poverty Reduction and Livelihood Employment Cluster (PRLE) of Samar Provincial Task force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) thru Technical Education Skills and Developemnt Authority 8 (TESDA).

Held at the Headquarters of the 46th Infantry Battalion of the 8th Infantry Battalion at Brgy. Polangi, Calbiga, Samar, the training aimed to enhance skills and knowledge of the trainees as their source of additional income in support to their daily needs. It also aimed to help the trainees become more productive individuals as they go back to the mainstream society.

It is part of the PTF-ELCAC Samar and MTF-ELCAC Calbiga efforts in providing the needed interventions of the constituents to prevent them from being exploited by the CTG.

This is also a way of showing to the people the genuine concern of the government in providing the needed services in the community.

Present during the launching program were Mrs. Delia Mabansag, CTEC/PESO; Dominador Cabornay, Brgy. Captain of Brgy. Polangi; Ms Eva Ranas, the MSWDO of Calbiga; Mr Alberto I Etac, SPTC Admin/Sr TESD Specialist of TESDA representing Engr. Enrico Banario, PD of TESDA Samar; and LTC Rhomel R. Langcauon, Commanding Officer of 46IB, 8ID,PA.

The activity was sponsored by LGU Calbiga, BPI Foundation, Bayan Academy, 46IB and TESDA 8. (PIA 8 with report from 46IB, 801IB, PA)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1029889

NPA member from Capiz surrenders to soldiers

Posted to the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 8, 2019): NPA member from Capiz surrenders to soldiers (By 61IB CMO-Philippine Army)

CAMP MONTECLARO, Miagao, Iloilo, Nov. 8 - A member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) Terrorist from the province of Capiz voluntarily surrendered to the Army’s 61st Infantry (Hunter) Battalion (61IB) on November 5, 2019.

Lieutenant Colonel Joel Benedict Batara, 61IB Commanding Officer, identified the surrenderree as alias Rudy, a member of Front 15, Eastern Front, Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay of the communist-terrorist group.

Batara said alias Rudy voluntarily surrendered himself without a firearm to 61IB in coordination with the Philippine National Police and barangay officials.

“False promises and unbearable hardships inside the armed group forced alias Rudy to surrender,” said Batara.

Aside from these reasons, the surrenderee admitted that after joining the group, he realized that armed revolution is not a solution to his problems.

Batara called on the remaining members of the communist-terrorist group to do the same for them to save their lives and future from the destructive armed struggle.

“Rudy is right in saying that armed revolution is not a solution to all of your problems. Armed struggle has claimed many innocent lives including those who pursue this terroristic activity. Don’t allow this misfortune to happen for you still have time to start a new and normal life,” he added.

With the surrender of alias Rudy, the 61IB has now a total of 12 rebel returnees for this year alone.

Alias Den-Den, a member of Southern Front, Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay from the 1st District of Iloilo, is one of the most recent surrenderees of the 61IB. He yielded with firearm last October 16. (JBG/1Lt. Hazel Joy M. Durotan/61B-CMO)

Source: 61st Infantry Battalion Civil Military Operations, Philippine Army

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1029903

Las Navas town in North Samar creates municipal task force ELCAC

Posted to the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 8, 2019): Las Navas town in North Samar creates municipal task force ELCAC

TACLOBAN CITY, Nov. 8 (PIA) -- The Las Navas, Samar Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF ELCAC) was officially organized on November 6, 2019.

The members of the Las Navas, Northern Samar Joint Municipal Peace & Order and Municipal Development Councils moved for the creation of the Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC).

The LGU's Outline in the creation of the MTF-ELCAC for Las Navas locally dubbed "Sumpayan Para ha Kamurayaw ngan Kauswagan," which will serve as guide for the MTF's core team and Punong Barangays, was also presented and adopted.

Moreover, the Mayor issued an Executive Order for the adoption of the Retooled Community Service Program and the formation of the Core Team.

Significantly, the MPOC and MDC made a Joint resolution also declaring the CPP/NPA/NDF Persona Non Grata.

The joint meeting was attended by 110 participants composed of LGU officials, department heads, community development officers, Punong Barangays, NGOs and civil society groups led by Municipal Mayor Arlito Tan.

About 41 Punong Barangays attended which included Punong Barangays of the five ELCAC priority Barangays, namely, Magsaysay, Quirino, San Antonio, Perez, and San Francisco.

Prior to the organization, the SAKM RTF8-ELCAC team presented a series of orientation briefing about EO70 and Call to Action. Northern Samar Provincial Director Danilo Laguitan discussed the Retooled Community Support Program while 20IB Battalion Commander LTC Juan Gullem discussed the present internal conflict in Las Navas and nearby towns. Municipal Chief of Police PCapt Fernandez presented the Peace and Order Situation.

Also present in the meeting were 803Bde Comdr Col. Zozimo Oliveros and MLGOO Melbert Gallano. (PIA 8 with report from NICA 8)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1029902

NPA supporters pledge support to Guihulngan local gov't

Posted to the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 8, 2019): NPA supporters pledge support to Guihulngan local gov't

Around 600 New People's Army (NPA) supporters from eight barangays of Guihulngan City pledging to support the city government of Guihulngan in a ceremony held recently at the city gymnasium. Leading them in the pledge is Guihulngan City Councilor Melbourne Bustamante. (loo/PIA7/Negros Oriental/Photo credits to Capt. Oliver Usog, CMO, 94th IB) 

DUMAGUETE CITY, Oct. 29 (PIA) -- Around 600 supporters of the New People’s Army (NPA) from the eight barangays in Guihulngan City recently pledged their support to the city government of Guihulngan in a ceremony held at the city gymnasium.

The NPA supporters were identified during the Community Support Program (CSP) conducted by the 94th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army based in La Libertad, Negros Oriental.

During the CSP, the team from 94th IB held a dialogue with residents in the barangay to discuss their needs and assured them of the government’s support and assistance.

The success of the Community Support Team was strengthened with the help of the Guihulngan City government and support from the local Philippine National Police.

During the ceremony, Guihulngan City Councilor Melbourne Bustamante and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) officer Maridel Gamo led the 600 NPA supporters in their oath of allegiance to the government followed by the burning of the NPA flag as a symbol of their withdrawal of support from the rebel group.

Guihulngan City Mayor Jorge Joan Reyes expressed his gratitude to the people who put their trust and believed in his leadership, assuring them that their needs will be given attention by concerned government agencies.

Reyes also encouraged the people to unite and support the government’s effort in fighting insurgency, emphasizing that progress cannot be attained if there is no peace.

“The war on insurgency cannot be won by the military alone but by everyone, the people, and the whole community, so let us help one another," said Reyes.

Barangay Sandayao chairman Richard Aba also thanked the soldiers of the 94th IB for keeping their barangay safe from threats of the CPP-NPA group.

The commanding officer of the 94th Infantry Brigade, Lt. Col. Randy Pagunuran, in return thanked the officials of Guihulngan and its residents for the trust in their capability in restoring the peace and order situation especially in the hinterland barangays. (lpp/PIA7/Negros Oriental with reports from Capt. Oliver Usog, CMO Officer, 94IB)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1029399

Lacson rallies Negrenses to support moves to end local insurgency

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 8, 2019): Lacson rallies Negrenses to support moves to end local insurgency

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Nov. 8 (PIA6)—Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson rallied Negrenses to unite behind the government as it exerts efforts to end the communist insurgency in the province.

“My call is for unity amongst us. We actually have a local battle still going on and hopefully we will be united behind our government to end local insurgency in the province,” he said during the 121st "Cinco de Noviembre" celebration program at the Capitol Lagoon, November 5.

The activity commemorates the surrender of Spanish army to local revolutionary heroes - Gen. Juan Araneta and Gen Aniceto Lacson who carved nipa stalks to look like rifles and rolled bamboo mats for cannons. It was a show of force that bluffed the enemy.

He said Negros Occidental is no longer at war with foreign invaders and everyone should move on and contribute for progress.

“I challenge every Negrense to be active especially in the community. No matter how little you have, you can still make a difference,” he said.

He further called on every citizen in the province to do his or her role in ending local communism.

Lacson threw his support to the military and police following recent raids on offices of progressive groups which yielded minors allegedly being recruited and indoctrinated.

Firearms were also seized and dozens of people held for inquiry.

The governor said the raids were not done at the spur of a moment, rather they acted based on intelligence reports and those arrested will be given due process.

“So it is now really a military and police operation. Of course those arrested will be given a chance to defend themselves,” the governor said.

He said he supports moves that will bring about lasting peace in the province. (JBG/LLJR-PIA6)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1029814

NegOr to build P5M halfway house for ex-rebels

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 8, 2019): NegOr to build P5M halfway house for ex-rebels

DILG-7 Regional Director Leocadio Trovela (seated) with (l-r, standing) Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo, Provincial Dir. PCol. Julian Entoma of PNP, and Col. Noel Baluyan of 302nd IB Philippine Army, signs their commitment of support to the setting up of a halfway house for rebel returnees during the Dagyawan sa Barangay of NOTF ELCAC on Nov. 4, 2019 at the Municipal Gym in Siaton. (PIA Negros Oriental)

SIATON, Negros Oriental, Nov. 6 (PIA) -- The Negros Oriental Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NOTF ELCAC) is set to construct a halfway house worth P5 million for former rebels in the province.

The province was picked as one of the pilot provinces in the region for the construction of a halfway house as it remains to be affected by communist groups among the four provinces in Central Visayas.

In a Dagyawan sa Barangay forum held in the municipality of Siaton, Regional Director Leocadio Trovela of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG-7) together with Gov. Roel Degamo, Provincial Director PCol. Julian Entoma of Negros Oriental Provinial Police Office (NOPPO), and Brigade Commander Col. Noel Baluyan of 302nd IB Philippine Army took turns in signing their commitment of support in the construction of a shelter conducive for the reintegration of former rebels into mainstream society.

This is to complement the efforts of the national government to build halfway houses that serve as transitional shelters where former rebels can undergo psychosocial interventions and stress debriefing while their Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) benefits are being processed.

Representatives of national government agencies as members of the Provincial Task Force ELCAC chaired by Gov. Roel Degamo (center) during the Dagyawan sa Barangay in Siaton, Negros Oriental. (PIA Negros Oriental)

Both the regional and provincial officials adhere to their commitment to provide efficient mechanism and structure for the implementation of the ‘Whole-of-Nation Approach’ to aid in the realization of the collective aspiration of the Filipino people to attain inclusive and sustainable peace.

“This is to recognize the importance of establishing stable and structured institution that would encourage former rebels to focus on relearning the necessary skills to reintegrate into society and better support themselves and their families," said Trovela.

The move also acknowledges the essence of sustainable peace and development when individuals can live a full life and productively participate as citizens of the community, added Trovela. (jct/PIA7 Negros Oriental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1029858

Tandag residents avail services from Serbisyo Caravan

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 8, 2019): Tandag residents avail services from Serbisyo Caravan

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 8 (PIA) - As government agencies take serious steps in reaching out to the locals to improve their quality of living, particularly those in conflict-affected areas in Caraga region, another Serbisyo Caravan was conducted, wherein issues and concerns of various communities were raised and discussed.

Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles, who serves as the cabinet officer for the Regional Development and Security (CORDS) personally attended the said caravan and answered all the queries and concerns of the residents.

CabSec. Nograles also revealed various projects and other development plans for the affected areas that would uplift their livelihood.

Benefitting residents from the serbisyo caravan were delighted to have learned that among the priority projects include the construction of access roads or farm to market roads.

According to Samuel Plasa Cedron, punong barangay of Maitum, it is a dream come true that their sentiments and concerns were addressed and resolved.

“This is an opportune time for us to raise our issues and concerns to the concerned agencies, so they could also help us address each and work together towards peace and development,” Cedron bared.

Tandag City Mayor Roxanne Pimentel emphasized that the local government is giving due attention to the needs of the residents and is regularly conducting consultations among different sectors in the city.

“We will continue reaching out to the grassroots and know what they need so they could live comfortably and peacefully in their area, especially those in the remotest areas,” said Pimentel.

During the caravan, beneficiaries have availed of the free medical and legal consultations, and a lot more of services from the concerned government agencies.

Locals hoped that this would sustain and would reach other remote areas. (JPG/NCM, PIA-Caraga)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1029919

Tagalog News: Bilang ng sumukong rebeldeng NPA, nadagdagan pa sa Surigao

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 8, 2019): Tagalog News: Bilang ng sumukong rebeldeng NPA, nadagdagan pa sa Surigao

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Nobyembre 8 (PIA) - Mahigit 40 dating miyembro ng New People's Army (NPA) ang nagsuko ng kanilang baril bilang bahagi ng kanilang pagbabalik-loob sa gobyerno.

Ito ay sa isinagawang 3rd Caraga Regional Task Force - Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) sa Tandag City na nasaksihan mismo ni Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles, kasama ng iba pang opisyal.

Nangako ang mga ito na susuportahan ang pamahalaan at mamumuhay nang maayos at payapa sa kani-kanilang komunidad.

Tumanggap sila ng financial assistance at firearms remuneration na aabot sa kabuuang P1.6-milyon.

Lubos naman ang kanilang pasasalamat sa tulong na ibinigay sa kanila ng gobyerno.

Pinasalamatan din ni CabSec. Nograles ang mga dating rebelde sa kanilang pagsuko, at binigyang-diin na seryoso ang gobyerno sa pagpapatupad ng Executive Order 70 ni President Rodrigo Duterte.

Samantala, pagtitiyak naman ni Surigao del Sur Governor Alexander Pimentel, na patuloy ang pagsasagawa ng Serbisyo Caravan at immersion sa mga lugar ng probinsya na apektado ng insurhensiya.

Ito ay upang mas maramdaman ng mamamayan ang sensirong pagtugon ng gobyerno sa kanilang pangangailangan. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1029922

Ifugao PPOC,PDAC declare NPAs persona non-grata

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 8, 2019): Ifugao PPOC,PDAC declare NPAs persona non-grata 

LAGAWE, Ifugao, Nov. 8 (PIA) - - The Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) and the Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC) passed a joint resolution declaring the Communist Party of the Philippines, New People’s Army, National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and other threat groups as persona non-grata.

Through Resolution No. 6, series of 2019, the two councils asserted that the presence and operation of the communist terrorists in the province affects its peace and order and security.

“Ifugaos’ peaceful living is affected and disturbed due to the turmoil, chaos and clashes between opposing forces from state forces and the CPP-NPA-NDF that lead to the loss of valued life and limbs specially the civilian,” the resolution stated.

The promotion of the Ifugaos’ rich cultures, customs and traditions and the value and unity inherited from the ancestors being passed from one generation to the future generation must be respected through its unperturbed security and protection. It continuously aims for the improvement of life through the maintenance of peaceful environment, free education, better health care services.

Hence, the PPOC and PADAC together with the people of Ifugao strongly forbid the re-entry, presence and operations of CPP-NPA-NDF in the whole territory of the province, the resolution added.

Said resolution is in support to the government’s goal of ending the long-running local communist armed conflict through the whole-of-nation approach. (JDP/MBL, PIA CAR, Ifugao)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1029948