Alleged NPA-perpetrated IED explosion kills 2, hurt 15 cops, civilians including 3 children

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 14, 2019): Alleged NPA-perpetrated IED explosion kills 2, hurt 15 cops, civilians including 3 children (By PIA-8)



TACLOBAN CITY, Dec 13 (PIA) -- Two persons were killed, one a policeman and the other one a 69-year old woman while five other policemen and 12 civilians including 3 minors, were hurt Friday afternoon in Libutan village, Borongan City, Eastern Samar.

Initial reports reaching Police Regional Office 8 (PRO 8) disclosed that suspected members of the New People’s Army detonated an anti-personnel mine on the roadside hitting a police car passing the area around 2:53 p.m. on Friday.

The seven (7) personnel of the1st Eastern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company (ESPMFC) based in Brgy. Lunang, Dolores, Eastern Samar, were on board a Hilux PNP marked vehicle in their way to the Provincial Police Office when the incident occurred.

One policeman was killed, four other policemen were wounded and rushed to a nearby hospital while the remaining two others were unharmed.

Per information from PRO 8, confirmed one (1) Killed-in-Police Operation (KIPO) Pat Mark Jerome Rama, four (4) Wounded-in-Police Operation (WIPOs) namely: Pat Ric Capoquian Jr., Pat Kevin Operario, Pat Angelito Luterte and Pat Rey Sobrepeña and two (2) unharmed on the government side Pat Christian Godino and Pat Michael Frank Pajanustan.

Said attack killed and wounded not only police personnel but also civilians, an NPA trademark, sparing no one in the pursuit of their terroristic deeds against government forces.

The civilians were riding a tricycle when the landmine exploded. They just came from a Christmas party. The civilians were from San Isidro, San Julian and Dolores.

An L300 van with three passengers was likewise affected. One passenger had a gunshot wound and the other two were injured with sharpnels.

The PNP in Region 8 condemned the treacherous attack by suspected NPAs.

Meanwhile, Eastern Samar Governor Ben Evardone condemned the ambush saying, “The Provincial Government of Eastern Samar is appalled at the heinous acts of terror that occurred today, December 13, 2019 at Brgy. Libuton, Borongan.”

“This attack only strengthens our resolve to bolster counter-terrorism efforts and achieve real and lasting peace in our province,” Evardone added. (PIA-8)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031620

AFP-CRS: Preconditions to Peace Talks, NDFP's Problem

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Dec 13, 2019): Preconditions to Peace Talks, NDFP's Problem



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2904610796224292/?type=3&theater

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

AFP-CRS: Checkpoints to Stay

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Dec 13, 2019): Checkpoints to Stay



Mindanao checkpoints to stay even with Martial Law lifted. The Armed Forces of the Philippines is not dismantling the checkpoints set up in Mindanao even after the lifting of martial law at the end of the year.

#AFPyoucanTRUST| www.afpcrs.com

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

AFP-CRS: AFP Supports PRDD's Decision to Resume Peace Talks with Communist Rebels

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Dec 13, 2019): AFP Supports PRDD's Decision to Resume Peace Talks with Communist Rebels



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2904603319558373/?type=3&theater

When asked about the opinion on the revival of peace talks with the communist rebels, the Armed Forces will continue their offensive against the rebels since they have not yet received a ceasefire order from the President.

#AFPyoucanTRUST| www.afpcrs.com

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

AFP-CRS: AFP Unlikely to Recommend Holiday Truce with CPP-NPA

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Dec 13, 2019): AFP Unlikely to Recommend Holiday Truce with CPP-NPA



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2904601799558525/?type=3&theater

HOLIDAY TRUCE. The Armed Forces of the Philippines is not inclined to recommend any Christmas truce with the remaining communist rebels, citing that the latter is using the season as an opportunity to regroup their forces.

#AFPyoucanTRUST| www.afpcrs.com

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

Kalinaw News: Two child-warriors, six NPAs surface in Quezon, give up firearms

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 13, 2019): Two child-warriors, six NPAs surface in Quezon, give up firearms (By 2nd Infantry Division)

CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal – Eight NPA Terrorists, two of them minors, surrendered to combined AFP and PNP elements at General Nakar, Quezon on Thursday.

After negotiations, the former rebels turned-over two shotguns as well as one Cal .45 and Cal .38 pistols to the security forces.

Col Alex Rillera, Commander of the 202nd Infantry Brigade which has operational jurisdiction over the area, said that one of the minors is a 13-year-old boy while the other is a 17-year-old who was forced to join the underground movement when he was still 15 years old.

Quoting the child-warriors, he added that “they were forced by the rebels to join their ranks and were forbidden to leave a terrorist camp under threat of severe repercussions to their families”.

According to Col Rillera, such is a deplorable practice within the terrorist organization that can never be justified.

Per the military’s records, the two minors are the fourth and fifth child-warriors to be rescued in less than two months.

Major General Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr, Acting Commander of the AFP’s Southern Luzon Command, attributed the influx of surrenders to the whole-of-nation approach strategy which the government has adapted to end local communist armed conflict.

He conveyed the military’s sympathies to the parents of the minors saying “no form of explanation will justify this dastardly act of putting Filipino minors in harm’s way” as he expressed outrage against the NPAs’ evil act of violating the Filipino children’s innocence saying that “there are written and unwritten rules in warfare that gives emphasis to the protection of women and children regardless whether you are pro or anti government.”

Saving the youth from deception and recruitment of the NPAs and other lawless elements has been the subject of a recent senate inquiry and has become one if the Duterte administration’s priorities.

It was discovered during the public hearing at the senate that several progressive party list groups have been acting as recruitment fronts of the terrorist group and have since been the subject of numerous parents’ pleas to return their children after their alleged “abduction.”

MGen Burgos ended his statement by committing “every soldier, airman, sailor and marines’ commitment and dedication to the entire government bureaucracy’s thrust to end local communist insurgency, including the NPA terrorists’ heinous act of recruiting and employing child-warriors.”

The child-warriors will be brought to the attention of DSWD for proper disposition and professional attention so that the victims may quickly recover from the physical and psychological trauma that they suffered after being forced to carry arms despite their innocence.

The former rebels will be processed for enrolment to the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP where they are expected to receive financial and other forms of assistance amounting to almost Php700,000 each to help them start a normal life.

Under E-CLIP, each former rebels is expected to receive the initial Php 65,000, representing the immediate and livelihood assistance from the government which are on top of the housing, employment, health care and scholarship benefits which they can avail after satisfying the requirements set forth by the program.

According to the military, they have assisted hundreds of former rebels who have signified their intention to put down their arms and return to mainstream society in order to enjoy peaceful lives with their families since the operationalization of RTF ELCAC 4A.

The names of the minors and the regular NPA fighters who surrendered are being withheld in accordance to existing laws of the land to protect not only their privacy but also to ensure their security against possible NPA aggressive actions following their surrender and turn over of firearms.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/two-child-warriors-six-npas-surface-in-quezon-give-up-firearms/

WESTMINCOM: 2 high-powered firearms handed over by 3 BIFF surrenderors

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Website (Dec 13, 2019): 2 high-powered firearms handed over by 3 BIFF surrenderors (By PIO Western Mindanao Command)



The intensified focused and intelligence operations of the 40th Infantry Battalion led to the yielding of 3 members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and handing over of their undocumented firearms at 10am of December 11, 2019.



Ustadz Yasser Saligan, a.k.a, Morsid, a BIFF member under Karialan Faction, together with Norudin Dalinding, and Omar Tatang, all residents of Sitio Balagon, Barangay Midpandacan, General Salipada K. Pendatun, Maguindanao, surrendered bringing along one M14 rifle with one magazine; one M1 Garand Rifle; and five rounds of 7.62mm, five rounds Caliber .30, and two rounds 81mm UXO ammunitions.



“Our sustained campaigns in ending terrorism in our area of operations compel more terrorists to surrender and return to the mainstream society,” said Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“I commend the troops of the Joint Task Force Central under Major General Carreon for their commitment and significant accomplishments during my incumbency as the commander of WestMinCom,” Lt. Gen. Sobejana added.

Said surrenderors and their firearms were brought to headquarters, 40IB in Barangay Tual, President Quirino, Sultan Kudarat for proper documentation.

http://www.westmincom.com/2-high-powered-firearms-handed-over-by-3-biff-surrenderors/

19 Lumad NPA members surrender

From MindaNews (Dec 13, 2019): 19 Lumad NPA members surrender

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (MindaNews / 13 December) — At least 19 more members of the New People’s Army (NPA) from three guerrilla fronts operating in parts of Region 12, all of them Lumads (Indigenous Peoples) surrendered this week to police units in South Cotabato province, Col. Jemuel Siason, South Cotabato police director, said on Friday.

Three of those who surrendered were women.

Siason said Friday the rebels decided to surrender following a series of negotiations with elements of the Police Regional Office-12’s intelligence unit (RIU) and the provincial police mobile force company.

He said 11 of them were previously under the Guerilla Front 53, seven under Front 73 and one under Front 56 of the NPA’s Far South Mindanao Region.

Front 73 operates in the boundaries of South Cotabato and Sarangani provinces while Fronts 53 and 56 are all based in North Cotabato area.

The rebels, who were formally received by South Cotabato Gov. Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. at the provincial capitol in Koronadal City on Friday morning, surrendered in batches in undisclosed locations in South Cotabato and North Cotabato on Dec. 10 and 12, he said.

“This is a joint effort of the RIU, South Cotabato police and the provincial government,” Siason said in a press conference.

The police official said two of the surrenderers were former vice commanders of Platoons Samsung and Brigol under Front 73 while one was a squad leader.

The others were NPA regular cadres, political organizers and members of the “Militia ng Bayan.”

He said the returnees gave up a fragmentation grenade and eight firearms composed of an M16 Armalite rifle with 20 ammunition, a Carbine rifle with a magazine loaded with 12 live bullets, two homemade shotguns with magazines and five live bullets, a 9mm pistol, a caliber .22 homemade pistol and two caliber .38 homemade pistols.

Siason said the rebels decided to surrender due to their difficult situation in the mountains and the uncertainty of their cause.

He said some of them were forced to join the NPA after allegedly being duped by their recruiters and promised various benefits that were never realized.

Siason said the returnees, majority of whom were residents of North Cotabato, were also encouraged with the improved situation in their communities and the changes in the system of governance in South Cotabato.

“They saw how the provincial government assisted the previous returnees so they chose to also surrender here,” he said.

In an interview with reporters, alias “Edgar,” a former vice commander of Platoon Brigol, said there’s no reason for them anymore to continue fighting the government.

He surrendered along with his wife, who reportedly served as community organizer and recuiter for the NPA.

“Our situation was very difficult as we were always on the run and we can no longer stand fighting against our fellow Filipinos,” he said in Filipino.

Tamayo, who is on his first term as governor, said a total of 55 NPA members have surrendered in the province under his administration and more are expected to follow in the coming weeks.

Thirteen rebels surrendered last July and was followed by 19 last November and four early this month.

He said most of them have received initial financial assistance and underwent skills trainings in preparation for the upcoming release of livelihood grants under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP.

“We will make sure that these surrenderers will receive all the benefits due to them under the E-CLIP,” Tamayo said.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/12/19-lumad-npa-members-surrender/

U.S. and Philippine Partners Inaugurate Philippine National Police Patrol Boat Facility

Posted to the US Embassy Manila Website (Dec 6, 2019): U.S. and Philippine Partners Inaugurate Philippine National Police Patrol Boat Facility

PNP-MG Director, Police Brigadier General R’win Pagkalinawan and Deputy Director, Joint Interagency Task Force West, U.S. Indo-Pacom sign documents turning over a patrol boat facility from the U.S. to the Philippines.

Manila, December 6, 2019 — Representatives from the U.S. Joint Interagency Task Force West (JIATF West), the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command’s counternarcotics task force in the Indo-Pacific region, and officials from the Philippine National Police – Maritime Group (PNP-MG) presided over a ribbon cutting ceremony for a new PNP-MG patrol boat facility today in Lantawan, Basilan.

The nearly $2 million, PHP 100,000,000, facility includes a boat ramp, pier, armory, offices, barracks, and a lab. In recent years, JIATF West has partnered with the PNP-MG to open several such facilities throughout the southern Philippines.

According to Mr. Earl Hampton, JIATF West Deputy Director, the facility will improve the PNP-MG’s ability to conduct counternarcotics patrols and thwart the activity of transnational criminal organizations in the southwest Mindanao archipelago and Sulu Sea.

“This facility is emblematic of the value the U.S. places on our partnership with the PNP-MG,” said Mr. Hampton. “The PNP-MG boat facilities in Mindanao are examples of how our deep bilateral security ties have benefitted the Filipino people and advanced the PNP-MG’s maritime security efforts,” said Mr. Hampton.

The Basilan facility, along with the PNP-MG boat facilities built at Honda Bay, Balabac, Tawi-Tawi, and Taganac, enhance the operational reach of the PNP-MG throughout the southern Philippines.

Mr. Hampton also noted that U.S. forces have been providing support and assistance to the Philippines for many years, at the request of successive Philippine administrations.

“The United States has been steadfast in its commitment to assisting the Philippines In enhancing its ability to confront maritime criminal activity,” said Police Brigadier General R’win Pagkinawan, Director Philippine National Police – Maritime Group.

“As friends, partners, and allies of the Philippines, the U.S. is committed to bilateral collaboration in countering transnational crime to advance a free and open Indo-Pacific region,” stated Mr. Hampton.

https://ph.usembassy.gov/us-and-philippine-partners-inaugurate-philippine-national-police-patrol-boat-facility/

U.S. and Philippine Security Forces Provide Medical Care and Supplies to High School in Post-Earthquake Cotabato

Posted to the US Embassy Manila (Dec 10, 2019): U.S. and Philippine Security Forces Provide Medical Care and Supplies to High School in Post-Earthquake Cotabato

U.S. and Philippine service members provide medical care and supplies to students of Laureano Ramirez Sebastian High School in Cotabato City.

U.S. and Philippine service members provide medical care and supplies to students of Laureano Ramirez Sebastian High School in Cotabato City.

Manila, December 10, 2019 — U.S. and Philippine service members conducted medical outreach in Cotabato City, providing medical education and basic care to 228 students at Laureano Ramirez Sebastian High School on Saturday, November 30.

The medical civil action program (MEDCAP), was a collaboration between members of the Philippine 6th Infantry Division Hospital, Cotabato Regional Medical Center, the BARMM Ministry of Health, and U.S. military personnel. MEDCAP participants provided treatment to students with chronic ailments, and taught best practices on hygiene. A Ministry of Health dental truck provided dental examinations.

The United States also donated more than PHP 250,000 ($5,000 USD) in medical supplies provided by Spirit of America, a U.S. non-governmental organization.

“With our combined efforts – the free medical and dental checkups, plus the health kits and medicines donated by our American friends – we will hopefully inspire students and bolster teachers’ efforts to keep learners in school,” said Anges Ortega, Laureano Ramirez Sebastian High School’s principal.

Mrs. Karen Cortes, an elementary school teacher, praised the event, “The school is very grateful for the overwhelming support of the U.S. Marines and our very own Philippine Army 6th Infantry Division. The MEDCAP is an opportunity for our underprivileged students to access basic medical health and services.”

Of the MEDCAP, Capt Owen Cahill, a U.S. military participant said, “The medical outreach event was a chance for the Philippine 6th Infantry Division and U.S. forces to positively impact Cotabato’s underprivileged. These opportunities allow us to build mutual trust and respect and give back to the community.”

The United States, as a longstanding friend, partner, and ally of the Philippines, continues to provide support to Filipino communities with outreach events and medical assistance.

https://ph.usembassy.gov/us-and-philippine-security-forces-provide-medical-care-and-supplies-to-high-school-in-post-earthquake-cotabato/

U.S. and Philippine Armed Forces Inaugurate U.S.-Funded Peacekeeping Facility

Posted to the US Embassy Philippines (Dec 13, 2019): U.S. and Philippine Armed Forces Inaugurate U.S.-Funded Peacekeeping Facility

U.S. and Philippine military personnel inaugurated a U.S. funded peacekeeping operations training facility in Tarlac on Thursday, December 12. The center will provide training and administrative services to AFP personnel participating in peacekeeping operations, in support of the Philippines’ international commitments. (Photos courtesy of the Armed Forces of the Philippines)

Manila, December 13, 2019 — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) inaugurated a U.S.-funded peacekeeping operations training facility in Tarlac on December 12.

This facility was funded via the Global Peace Operations Initiative, a U.S. State Department-funded security assistance program focused on strengthening the international capacity and capabilities of partner nations to execute United Nations (UN) and regional peace operations.

During the inauguration, the AFP officially opened the Peacekeeping Operations Center and a dining facility. The center will provide training and administrative services to AFP personnel participating in peacekeeping operations, in support of the Philippines’ international commitments.

A barracks is also being built under the same initiative and is scheduled for completion in late 2020.

The inauguration, which was attended by Major General Andres C. Centino, Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, Armed Forces of the Philippines, included the ceremonial turning over of keys and the planting of a tree.

Since their signing of the UN charter in 1945, the Philippines has participated in a variety of peacekeeping operations around the world.

The United States, as a longstanding friend, partner, and ally of the Philippines, continues to provide support to the AFP through funding projects, equipment transfers and bilateral exercises.

https://ph.usembassy.gov/us-and-philippine-armed-forces-inaugurate-us-funded-peacekeeping-facility/

Dulag, Leyte activates Municipal Task Force-ELCAC

Posted to the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 13, 2019): Dulag, Leyte activates Municipal Task Force-ELCAC (By PIA-8)

TACLOBAN CITY, Dec 12 (PIA) - The Municipality of Dulag, Leyte formally organized its Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF ELCAC) on December 5 in a joint meeting of the Municipal Development Council and Municipal Peace and Order Council.

Attorney Mildred Joy Que, the Municipal Mayor of Dulag, Leyte together with the other members of the council and heads of offices were one and united in deciding to activate the Dulag MTF-ELCAC to prevent CNT infiltration so that the municipality will continue to prosper and progress.

Before the creation of the MTF-ELCAC, the members were briefed on Executive Order No. 70 by the representatives of the Situational Awareness Knowledge Management (SAKM) Cluster of RTF-ELCAC 8 led by Deputy Regional Director Eustacio Bacabac of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency 8 (NICA-8).

Other attendees during the said meeting were the following: First Lieutenant Edgardo B. Bernas, company commander of Alpha (Apache) Company and Second Lieutenant Joemar L. Ladislao, acting civil-military operations officer both of 78th Infantry (Warrior) Battalion, 8ID, PA and representatives from NICA 8, Ms. Thelma R. Espia, REM-MSH, Mbt. Insp. II; Hon. Roubel P. Dugos, Sangguniang Bayan member; Ms. Marivic M. De Luna, municipal social welfare and development officer; Ms. Ofelia Ortez, municipal local government operations officer; Mr. Franklin L. Dongzon, municipal agriculturist; Police Executive Master Sergeant Reynaldo P. Tan, deputy chief of police, Dulag Municipal Police Station; Ms. Leah C. Caminon, municipal disaster risk reduction management officer; Business and Farmer sector; and thirty-one (31) Punong Barangays from different villages of Dulag, Leyte.

On the same day, the Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support (PLEDS) Cluster, one of the several MTF-ELCAC clusters, was activated to sustain and enhance the inclusive peace and development in the municipality of Dulag.

This cluster is composed of 78th Infantry Battalion, MSWDO, MENRO, DILG-MLGOO and PNP Dulag. (PIA-8)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031572

President Duterte commends AFP Sergeant Majors in Palace thanksgiving

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 13, 2019): President Duterte commends AFP Sergeant Majors in Palace thanksgiving (By PND)

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte flashes his signature pose with officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Council of the Sergeants Major during the Thanksgiving gathering he hosted at the Malacañan Palace on December 10, 2019. SIMEON CELI JR./PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

MANILA, Dec. 13 -- President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Tuesday recognized the contributions to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Council of Sergeant Majors for the improvement of the country’s armed services.

During the thanksgiving gathering with the AFP Council of Sergeant Majors in Malacañang, President Duterte expressed his gratitude to the council for its dedication to boost the morale and ensuring the welfare of the enlisted personnel of the AFP.

The President highlighted the council’s vital role in steering the direction and performance of AFP’s enlisted personnel within their respective units.

He also acknowledged the significant contributions of the enlisted personnel of the AFP in securing the nation, upholding the rule of law, and defending the country’s democratic institutions.

The chief executive assured the members of the AFP that the administration will remain steadfast in protecting and advancing their welfare through modernization, capacity-enhancing initiatives, and provision of benefits for their families.

Responding to concerns raised by the soldiers, he vowed to expedite the release of the pension differentials of retired enlisted personnel.

The government has also launched the Comprehensive Social Benefits Package that will benefit departed police and military personnel who have been killed or maimed in the line of duty.

The Sergeant Majors of the AFP serve as the bridge of the AFP enlisted personnel and the Corps of Non-Commissioned Officers to the AFP Chief of Staff and to the Officer Corps.

They ensure that the concerns and welfare of the troops down to the lowest foot soldier are known to the AFP leadership and are addressed appropriately. (PND)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031596

President Duterte assures dependents of fallen soldiers, policemen of gov’t support

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 13, 2019): President Duterte assures dependents of fallen soldiers, policemen of gov’t support (By PND)

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte leads the ceremonial turnover of housing certificates and checks to the beneficiaries of the killed-in-action (KIA) soldiers and killed-in-police operation (KIPO) personnel under the Comprehensive Social Benefits Program during the Thanksgiving party at the Malacañan Palace on December 10, 2019. Assisting the President is National Housing Authority General Manager Marcelino Escalada Jr. RICHARD MADELO/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

MANILA, Dec. 13 -- President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Tuesday assured the dependents of killed-in-action soldiers and killed-in-police-operations officers (KIA-KIPO) of government assistance to attain comfortable lives.

Speaking before the dependents of the fallen soldiers and police personnel during a thanksgiving party in Malacañang, President Duterte said that through the Comprehensive Social Benefits Program (CSBP), they will receive the support they need.

Under the CSBP, the dependents of KIA soldiers and KIPO officers will receive financial, employment, livelihood, educational, housing and healthcare assistance.

And before his term ends, the chief executive vowed to institutionalize the program to cover personnel from the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

The President also thanked the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP) and other concerned agencies for ensuring that the CSBP is implemented properly.

Despite the challenges ahead, the President has expressed optimism that with the steadfast dedication and firm leadership that those organizations have displayed, the government will not waver on its promise of uplifting the welfare of the people, especially those who have sacrificed their lives in order to protect and serve the country.

The administration will continue to do its best to honor the KIA soldiers and KIPO officers’ memory by staying true to the commitment of upholding the country’s sovereignty, preventing lawless violence and protecting democratic institutions, the President said. (PND)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031598

East Samar governor condemns ambush on police, civilians in Borongan

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 13, 2019): East Samar governor condemns ambush on police, civilians in Borongan (By Ninfa B Quirante)

BORONGAN CITY, Dec. 13 (PIA)-- In a statement posted on his official Facebook page, regional peace and order council chairman and Eastern Samar governor Ben P. Evardone condemned an attack against members of the PNP in Borongan City on December 13, 2019.

According to Evardone, “the provincial government is appalled at the heinous acts of terror,” which claimed the lives of a policeman and a civilian.

Five other policemen and four civilians were taken to the Eastern Samar Provincial Hospital after sustaining wounds from the firefight which happened at 2:30 PM in barangay Libuton.

The civilians were onboard a public utility tricycle plying the Borongan-San Isidro, San Julian route.

“We send our thoughts and prayers to the victims and their families at this incredibly difficult time,” Evardone’s statement read.

The governor thanked the police and emergency personnel, “as well as the private individuals who put their own lives at risk to selflessly help and protect others.”

According to him, the attack strengthens the provincial government’s resolve to bolster counterterrorism efforts and achieve real and lasting peace in Eastern Samar. (PIA- E. Samar)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031619

Westmincom, TESDA to give livelihood training to ex-rebels

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 13, 2019): Westmincom, TESDA to give livelihood training to ex-rebels (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)



AID FOR EX-REBELS. Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Western Mindanao Command chief (right) and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority-Region 9 Director Dan Navarro meet Thursday (December 12) to formalize an agreement to offer livelihood training to former rebels. (Photo courtesy of the Westmincom Public Information Office)
ZAMBOANGA CITY -- The Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) have joined hands to provide livelihood training to former rebels here in the region.

The agreement was reached when Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Westmincom chief, and TESDA regional director Dan Navarro met Thursday in Camp Basilio Navarro, which houses the Westmincom headquarters here.

Navarro proposed the tie-up with the Westmincom as it plans to offer courses to assist former rebels and the unemployed.

“The program should not end with the training but with the employment to prevent radicalism and exploitation of the vulnerable,” Sobejana said during the meeting with Navarro.

Sobejana foresees collaboration between TESDA and Westmincom as a win-win solution to the perennial issue affecting security and stability here in Mindanao.

“We are confident that more of these peace initiatives will materialize for the cessation of armed conflicts and hostilities in this part of the country,” he added.

The TESDA will offer the courses while the Westmincom will identify the beneficiaries of the program geared to make the former rebels into a productive citizen.

Hundreds of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits have surrendered to the government since January this year.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088662

Army to unmask CPP-NPA’s money-making schemes in Negros

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 13, 2019): Army to unmask CPP-NPA’s money-making schemes in Negros (By Nanette Guadalquiver)



NEW COMMANDER. Army Col. Inocencio Pasaporte (right), who assumed as commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade based in Murcia, Negros Occidental on Thursday (Dec. 12, 2019) meets Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson after the change of command held at the brigade headquarters. Pasaporte succeeded Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo. (PNA photo by Nanette L. Guadalquiver)

MURCIA, Negros Occidental -- An official of the Philippine Army said aside from aggressively pursuing the armed movement of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA), they will also go after the group’s money-making schemes in Negros Island.

Col. Inocencio Pasaporte, who assumed as commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade (IB) here on Thursday, said the communist-terrorist group has been earning more than PHP20 million yearly from various funding sources since five years earlier.

“We will expose their schemes. They are earning a large amount of money in Negros. They call it ‘land cultivation area’,” Pasaporte said in an interview with reporters.

He added that the amount could be more, considering that some leaders of the rebel movement have been pocketing a portion of their earnings. “There’s corruption within their ranks,” he said.

The Army official said the communist-terrorist group has also put up several small businesses as part of their money-making schemes.

“They (CPP-NPA) have long been deceiving the people of Negros. They should no longer be allowed to do that,” he added.

In his speech, Pasaporte, who succeeded Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, said the 303IB troops will go after the CPP-NPA’s support elements and their united front organizations.

“Whether aboveground or underground, these organizations, they are continuously deceiving the people of Negros. I will also give focus on that aspect,” he added.

Pasaporte said during the stint of his predecessor, the 303IB has made substantial and significant accomplishments in the field of operations.

“Most importantly, we have gained the operational tempo in our favor, in Negros Occidental,” he added.

Pasaporte said he will lead the Brown Eagle Brigade in maintaining the operational measures to sustain peace and development in his area of responsibility.

“To be able to do this, we will double our efforts to reduce further the biggest criminal syndicate being run by the minions of Joma Sison here in Negros, in terms of their manpower and firearms through our intensified and focused of operations,” he added.

The 303IB covers the northern and central parts of the island, including the first to fifth districts of Negros Occidental and the first district of Negros Oriental.

The 79th Infantry Battalion in Sagay City and the 62IB in Isabela town in Negros Occidental are under the 303IB along with the 94IB based in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088678

W. Visayas’ RTF-ELCAC fully operational in 2020

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 13, 2019): W. Visayas’ RTF-ELCAC fully operational in 2020 (By Gail Momblan)



PEACE COUNCIL MEETING. The Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) in Western Visayas gather for a meeting at Casa Real de Iloilo on Thursday (Dec. 12, 2019). It was the council's first meeting attended by Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu as the Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security. (Photo courtesy of DENR Western Visayas)

ILOILO CITY -- The Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) in Western Visayas said the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) will be in full swing next year.
The newly-appointed RPOC members chaired by Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr. gathered for their first meeting on Thursday at Casa Real de Iloilo here.

The meeting was attended by Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu as the Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS).

Ariel Iglesia, Department of the Interior and Local Government in Western Visayas (DILG 6) regional director, said in a phone interview Friday that the RTF-ELCAC in the region will be fully operational in January 2020.

He said Cimatu stressed to the RPOC the current thrust of the government against the local armed conflict.

“The clusters (of the RTF-ELCAC) are already complete but not fully operational. The clusters are conducting efforts and hopefully next year, it will be in full swing,” Iglesia said.

The clusters include the local government empowerment, international engagement, legal cooperation, strategic communication, basic services, livelihood and poverty alleviation, and infrastructure and resources management.

The region has also put in place clusters such as peace and development, situational awareness and knowledge management, localized peace and engagement, Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, and sectoral unification capacity living and empowerment.

He said all the provinces in the region have organized their respective Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC).

“On the level of municipalities, it is still not complete but our efforts are ongoing,” he said.

Aside from the thrust against insurgency, Iglesia said the RPOC is also tasked to oversee the situation of illegal drugs and the overall peace and order situation in Western Visayas.

The RPOC has set its regular meeting every Wednesday of the last month of the quarter.

“We will meet in March for the updating of accomplishments and plans,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088720

Cop killed, five hurt in Eastern Samar ambush

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 13, 2019): Cop killed, five hurt in Eastern Samar ambush (By Sarwell Meniano)



SURPRISE ATTACK. A police car that swerved to a roadside after the New People's Army detonated an explosive in Borongan City, Eastern Samar. A police officer was killed and others were hurt in the ambush Friday afternoon (Dec. 13, 2019). (Contributed photo)

A police officer was killed and five others were hurt in an ambush Friday afternoon in Libutan village, Borongan City, Eastern Samar.

Initial report reaching Police Regional Office 8 (Eastern Visayas) disclosed that suspected members of the New People’s Army detonated an anti-personnel mine on the roadside hitting a police car passing the area around 2:53 p.m. on Friday.
Onboard the patrol car were seven policemen from public safety force based in Eastern Samar.

One was killed and others were rushed to the nearest hospital after suffering serious injuries. The police have not yet released the names of victims.

The police have yet to confirm reports on civilian casualties due to the explosion.

The report described the attack as a “large explosion followed by a burst of fire”.

The police regional office strongly condemned the treacherous attack launched by suspected NPA fighters.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088728

Army bares next focus towns on anti-insurgency campaign

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 13, 2019): Army bares next focus towns on anti-insurgency campaign (By Gail Momblan)



CAMPAIGN VS. ARMED CONFLICT. Lt. Col. Joel Benedict Batara, commander of the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion (61IB), says three towns in Iloilo will be the next focus of the campaign in ending local communist armed conflict, during an interview on Thursday (Dec. 12, 2019). Batara said efforts of the local chief executives of the three towns against insurgency are seen especially in the construction of road networks. (Photo courtesy of Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion)

ILOILO CITY -- The 61st Infantry Battalion (61IB) of the Philippine Army said three Iloilo towns will be the next focus of ending the local communist armed conflict (ELCAC)

These are the towns of Miagao, San Joaquin, and Igbaras, all from the first district of the province, said Lt. Col. Joel Benedict Batara, 61st IB commander, in an interview on Thursday.
The first batch identified as ELCAC areas were the towns of Alimodian, Calinog, Janiuay, Maasin, Lambunao, and Tubungan.

The six towns have all complied with their commitment to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Iloilo to create their respective Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) by end of November.

“It is already programmed on which areas to follow, and these are the towns of Miagao, San Joaquin, and Igbaras. In time, it will be the whole of Iloilo because we already have a task force that is focused against communists,” Batara said.

The Army commander said skirmishes and encounters transpired in the towns of Igbaras and Miagao in the past months.

He said former rebels revealed that these towns were also subject to the recruitment and other activities of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

“The affectation on insurgency in these towns is really observed because there are still some who believe that armed rebellion is the solution to the problem,” he said.

Like the towns of Alimodian, Calinog, Janiuay, Maasin, Lambunao, and Tubungan, the next three towns are also expected to organize their MTF-ELCAC.

Batara said the efforts of the local chief executives of the three towns against insurgency are already seen especially in its construction of road networks.

“These towns have the construction of roads. They really have a goal to end insurgency. The communist rebels do not like road networks because they can be more accessible to military troops. For us, we know roads are for development because, in due time, the delivery of services will be faster,” he said.

Meanwhile, he said the six towns currently hold orientation sessions of the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) or the frontline program in village immersions in bringing the basic services of the government to the public.

“All of them pledged that their MTF-ELCAC will be activated this year,” he said, noting that the Philippine Army is monitoring the activities of the task force.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088705

NPA rebel yields to North Cotabato guv

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 13, 2019): NPA rebel yields to North Cotabato guv (By Edwin Fernandez)



TIMELY SURRENDER. A soldier accompanies NPA rebel Paquito Mamites (in blue shirt) to a site where North Cotabato Governor Nancy Catamco waits for his surrender in Barangay Don Panaca, Magpet, North Cotabato on Thursday (Dec. 12, 2019). He says he surrendered to the government in his desire to be with his family this Christmas time. (Photo courtesy of North Cotabato PIO)

COTABATO CITY -- North Cotabato Governor Nancy Catamco on Thursday afternoon accepted the surrender of a 54-year-old communist rebel who decided to be with his family this Christmas.

Catamco welcomed Paquito Mamites during a surrender ceremony held at Barangay Don Panaca, Magpet, North Cotabato.

Col. Gabriel Viray, the Army’s 901st Infantry Brigade commander, who accompanied Catamco at the surrender site, said Mamites is a member of the New People's Army and he had been a resident of Barangay Balite, also in Magpet.

“A child will most likely join the communist movement if the parents have no time taking care of them, especially as they become adolescents and teenagers,” Catamco said.

She pointed out that if the parents take care of their children, the youngsters would be protected from rebel recruiters.

She said the objective of the provincial government's “Local Serbisyo Caravan” is to bring government services to the far-flung villages so that its constituents will have no reason to fight the government because of perceived negligence.

Mamites, who yielded with his M-16 rifle, received initial assistance of PHP20,000 through the local government unit of Magpet.

He will be qualified for additional support from the government, including education assistance through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

The national government has rejected offers for a bilateral Christmas truce by the communist rebels.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088666

19 more NPA rebels yield in South Cotabato

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 13, 2019): 19 more NPA rebels yield in South Cotabato (By Allen Estabillo)



SURRENDER. At least 19 New People’s Army (NPA) rebels from parts of South Cotabato and North Cotabato provinces surrender to police authorities following a series of negotiations. The surrenderers, who gave up at least eight firearms and a grenade, were formally presented on Friday morning to South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. at the provincial capitol in Koronadal City. (PNA photo by Allen V. Estabillo)

Nineteen more New People’s Army (NPA) rebels from three guerrilla fronts operating in parts of Region 12 (Soccsksargen) have surrendered this week to police units in South Cotabato province.

Col. Jemuel Siason, South Cotabato police director, said Friday the rebels decided to surrender following a series of negotiations with elements from the Police Regional Office-12’s intelligence unit (RIU) and the provincial police mobile force company.

Siason said 11 of them were previously under the Guerilla Front 53, seven under Front 73 and one under the Front 56 of the NPA’s Far South Mindanao Region.

Front 73 operates in the boundaries of South Cotabato and Sarangani provinces while Fronts 53 and 56 were all based in North Cotabato area.

The rebels, who were received by South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. at the provincial capitol in Koronadal City on Friday morning, surrendered in batches in undisclosed locations in South Cotabato and North Cotabato on Dec. 10 and 12, Siason said.

“This is a joint effort of the RIU, South Cotabato police and the provincial government,” he said in a press conference.

Siason said two of the surrenderers were former vice commanders of Platoons Samsung and Brigol under the Front 73 while one was a squad leader. The others were NPA regular cadres, political organizers and members of the “Militia ng Bayan”.

He said the returnees brought with them firearms of various caliber, a fragmentation grenade, and ammunition.

Siason said the rebels, all indigenous peoples, decided to surrender due to their difficult situation in the mountains and the uncertainty of their cause.

He said some of them were forced to join the NPA after allegedly being duped by their recruiters and promised with various benefits that were never realized.

In an interview with reporters, alias “Edgar,” a former vice commander of Platoon Brigol, said there’s no reason for them anymore to continue fighting the government.
He surrendered along with his wife, who reportedly served as a community organizer and recruiter for the NPA.

“Our situation was very difficult as we were always on the run and we can no longer stand fighting against our fellow Filipinos,” he said in Filipino.

Tamayo, who is on his first term as governor, said a total of 55 NPA rebels already surrendered in the province under his administration and more are expected to follow in the coming weeks.

Thirteen rebels surrendered in July and were followed by 19 last November and four early this month.

He said most of them have received initial financial assistance and underwent skills training in preparation for the upcoming release of livelihood grants under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or ECLIP.

“We will make sure that these surrenderers will receive all the benefits due to them under the ECLIP,” Tamayo said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088692

Army denies coercing Bukidnon villagers

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 13, 2019): Army denies coercing Bukidnon villagers (By Jigger Jerusalem)



CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The military on Friday denied intimidating members of an indigenous peoples (IP) community in Bukidnon into admitting that they are supporters of the New People’s Army (NPA).

Lt. Col. Franklin Fabic, commander of the Army’s 88th Infantry Battalion (88IB), said there was no coercion on the residents of Barangay Sta. Filomena but only to "plea with some of them to stop supporting the communist rebels".

“There is no truth to that,” Fabic said in a phone interview, referring to the allegation that elements of the 88IB went around Sta. Filomena--particularly in Sitio Dumasilag--and told them to return to the fold of the law.

Fabic issued the denial following the allegation made by Wilboy Lay-um, spokesperson of the leftist Movement Against Tyranny in Bukidnon.

Lay-um accused the military of intimidating Dumasilag residents and prompting them to flee to the neighboring Quezon town on December 2.

But Fabic insisted that “there is no pressure from us, but they have to be truthful to us that they will stop supporting the NPA”.

He said the military has received information that some villagers have been aiding the NPA fighters in the area.

“The information did not come from us. It came from the people there, from those who have already surrendered to the government,” he said.

Fabic said Dumasilag in Sta. Filomena has remained as the last bastion for NPA support in the area.

“That’s why they (NPA) don’t want to let go of it, or else they will lose their support network in the area,” Fabic added.

He also clarified that the presence of the 88IB, through its community support team, in Sta. Filomena was to help the communities which lack access to basic government services.

The villagers, who belong to the Manobo tribe, returned home on Monday (Dec. 9) after days of taking shelter at the Iglesia Filipino Independiente compound in Barangay Poblacion, Kitaotao, after staying for a few days in Quezon town.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088727

Reds using 'threaten me' tactics to prove relevance: Parlade

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 13, 2019): Reds using 'threaten me' tactics to prove relevance: Parlade (By Priam Nepomuceno)



Major General Antonio Parlade, Jr., Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Deputy Chief-of-Staff for Civil-Military Operations (PNA File photo)

In a bid to prove themselves relevant during the observation of International Human Rights Day, allies of the communist rebels are using the time-old adage of "threaten me", a ranking official of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC) said Friday.

Major General Antonio Parlade, Jr., in a statement forwarded to the Philippine News Agency, was reacting to claims of Karapatan Secretary General Cristina Palabay who said that she received a series of messages from an unidentified cellphone number on Dec. 10 threatening to have her raped before being thrown into the sea.

"You alleged to have received death threats by phone and through text messages from anonymous civilians. Are you willing to submit your phone for forensics for us to determine where those threats came from? We are very sure its another case of 'threaten me'. Your AFP has long been an advocate of human rights. The question is: Are you?" said Parlade, who is also Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Deputy Chief-of-Staff for Civil-Military Operations.

He added that he finds it odd that the alleged sender took the time to threaten Palabay during the commemoration of International Human Rights Day.

"Now on the celebration of IHR Day, you are suddenly on the center stage again. Suddenly you are again at the forefront of human rights defenders? Hypocrite," he said.

Such tactics, he said, smacks of cheap propaganda in a bid to get mileage from the International Human Rights Day.

If Karapatan is truly an organization for the protection of human rights, then Palabay and her allies would have roundly condemned the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) for recruiting minors and using them to fight in the front-lines, killing them needlessly in the process, he said.

"We asked you where you were when children were being recruited and getting killed by joining the NPA and you won't say a word. We waited for you to respond when CHR (Commission on Human Rights) condemned the NPA for recruiting 16-year old Litboy Binongcasan, resulting in his killing in Butuan City but we never heard from you. What about the NPA landmine? What about the very young children rescued in Bacolod City from the clutches of the NPA? No, they are not part of your mandate. That will reduce the funding you are getting from foreign NGOs," he 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.

"Your fascist CPP-NPA has been recruiting and killing our children. Your fascist group would not want us to be involved in your forum to answer issues against the government, but there you are on the streets again. What for? Cheap propaganda," he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088653

Army provides medical services, advice vs. Yuletide diseases

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 13, 2019): Army provides medical services, advice vs. Yuletide diseases (By Priam Nepomuceno)



FREE MEDICAL SERVICES. Army personnel avail of free medical services provided by the Office of the Army Chief Surgeon in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Thursday (Dec. 12, 2019). Among the free medical services offered during the activity were hypertension screening, diabetes screening, vaccination, pharmacy counseling, nutrition counseling, vision screening with eyeglass fitting, physical therapy, thyroid ultrasound, wart removal, consultation and anti-rabies vaccines for canine and felines, OB-Gyn consultation, pediatric consultations, mental illness, and burnout screening. (Photo courtesy of the Army Chief Public Affairs Office)

With the Christmas season fast approaching, the Philippine Army (PA), through the Office of the Army Chief Surgeon (OACS), on Thursday provided free medical services to Army personnel and their dependents aside from increasing their awareness on lifestyle diseases associated with the holidays.

These activities were conducted at the PA headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said.

The OACS-sponsored event has the theme “Have Yourself a Merry Healthy Christmas”, he added.

The OACS offered free medical services on hypertension screening, diabetes screening, vaccination, pharmacy counseling, nutrition counseling, vision screening with eyeglass fitting, physical therapy, thyroid ultrasound, wart removal, consultation and anti-rabies vaccines for canine and felines, OB-Gyn consultation, pediatric consultations, mental illness, and burnout screening.

During the activity, PA chief-of-staff Maj. Gen. Jesus Sarsagat highlighted the importance of prioritizing one’s health as it plays an integral part in enabling Army personnel to effectively perform their duties while taking care of their families.

Last July, the OACS also hosted the first Army Medical Service Day 2019 where it provided free health services in partnership with the Department of Health, the City Government of Taguig, and different pharmaceutical companies.

“With this kind of activity, we aim to support the health of every Filipino soldier and their dependents, as well as to advance our troops' over-all well-being, so they could better perform their duties and responsibilities, ” Zagala added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088644