From the Mindanao Times (Dec 16, 2019): Farmer killed by stray bullet after NPA attack on soldiers (By Rhoda Grace Saron)
A civilian was killed when 20 members of the New People’s Army attacked government forces in Sitio Kailawan, Brgy Sto Nino, Talaingod, at 6:05 a.m. on Dec 13.
Capt. John Louie Demaala, the Civil-Military Operations officer of the 56th IB, said the NPA’s Guerilla Front 55, led by Ariane Ancheta Ramos alias Marikit, led the ambush during the pursuit operations against the rebels.
The victim, Manoling Salangani, resident of Sitio Kailawan, was it by stray bullets. Reportedly, he was tending to his farm located behind the location of the soldiers. After he was hit, he managed to walk to his house but died from the wound on the left side of his body.
Lt. Col. Norman E. Valdez, commander of 56th Infantry Battalion, expressed sympathy for the victim’s family.
“In this kind of tragedy, especially to the bereaved family and tribes of the late Salangani, we are calling your sympathy to support our troops and the government forces to end the local communist armed group for the sake of our community,” Valdez said.
Sunday, December 15, 2019
Sison afraid of E0 70: AFP exec
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 16, 2019): Sison afraid of E0 70: AFP exec (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)
Major General Antonio Parlade, Jr., Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Deputy Chief-of-Staff for Civil-Military Operations (PNA File photo)
Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founding chair Jose Maria "Joma" Sison virtually admitted his defeat when he said that Executive Order 70 or the "whole nation approach" in ending the local communist armed conflict is the "most comprehensive obstacle to peace".
Major General Antonio Parlade, Jr., Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Deputy Chief-of-Staff for Civil-Military Operations, in a statement to the Philippine News Agency Friday, said Sison’s statement, which was made during an interview with ABS-CBN on Dec. 12, showed that he is deathly afraid of Executive Order 70 and its creations which include the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.
"Keeping in mind the duplicity and ambiguity of these communists, we just have to deduce the reverse of most of what they utter. Sison is once again propagandizing, if not blatantly lying when he declares that EO (70) is an obstacle to peace talks. What this liar actually meant is that the EO is too comprehensive for them to even come up with an effective and acceptable counter-narrative. EO-70 is damn too precise that it hits all the CPP programs, including recruitment of cadres, International Solidarity Works, UN infiltration, foreign funding, AgRev (agrarian revolution), mass mobilization, and all," he added.
Add to this is the series of defeat being experienced by communist rebels and their allies in the countryside which the CPP-New People's Army (NPA) attributed to poor leadership and quality of their cadres, Parlade said.
"In the 'Limang Taong Programa ng Partido (2017-2021)' which was recovered in an encounter in Samar, an entry dated 15/01/2019 actually asks 'why there are so many who are going down the hills to surrender?' In their own assessment, they said it's the lack of leadership and poor quality of their cadres. This is very revealing as they have been suffering from tactical defeat after defeat, all over the country. Senior cadres getting killed, thousands of arms captured, 11,697 surrenders, and child recruits (aged 12-17) forced to replace them," he said.
With the Local Peace Engagements (LPEs) which was initiated and conducted by local government units, mass surrenders of NPA fighters and supporters have been the normal course of events in the past months, he added.
This initiative, he said, has been aided further by stakeholders genuinely interested in peace and accompanied by initiatives and programs for poverty reduction, livelihood and basic services, infrastructures, local government empowerment, law enforcement, and sectoral unification to mend "cultural wounds" inflicted as a result of tribal infiltration and in-fighting.
"All of these programs are being implemented without the presence of armed state forces. They are designed to catalyze development in environments of genuine peace. For the most part, they are being implemented by former soldiers in the cabinet who knew exactly what this insurgency is all about --- Good Governance. Sison is either too stupid or naive not to see the difference between the peace we are already achieving and the fake peace they are trying to offer again," he added.
All these efforts were highlighted last December 10 in the Zamboanga Peninsula where 51 NPA rebels surrendered to the government after successful LPEs.
Aireen Mentaloroc alias "Boni", former member of the Main Regional Guerilla Unit, Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee and the group's spokesperson said they all opted to surrender as they could no longer take the hardship in the mountains.
Also, they found it a pleasant surprise that the government gave them protection from the NPA rebels who are trying hard to prevent them from surrendering.
"Obviously she found out that there is just too much propaganda and lies in the party when they were told they will be hurt by the government if they surrender," he said.
Mentaloroc, he added, urged other NPAs to surrender peacefully so that they can all help in uplifting the misery of impoverished Filipinos in other non-violent ways, adding that armed violence or weapons are not always the means to achieve change,
"That is what genuine peace talks, localized at that, means Mr. Sison. To understand that, first drop that title of a professor because you are not. Second, lay down your cards and tell the people what is your end state in this peace talks. Is it about peace or is it about your political objective of seizing power and imposing your communist agenda? Will you dismantle your NPA or will you dismantle AFP? (Art 7 and Art 8 - CASER Agenda Bayan-Muna USA). You can also share to us what Luis Jalandoni has been saying all along about the peace talks: it is a means to an end- National Democratic Revolution. (https://youtu.be/WWK9OMISh0s)," Parlade added.
He said peace negotiations with communist rebels are an exercise in futility as their main tool to achieve their goal of affecting change is through armed struggle.
The said warning, he said, was given by the late Father Conrado Balweg, founder of the Cordillera People's Liberation Army.
"The late Father Conrado Balweg also warned us about talking peace again with communists, especially if brokered by another ‘communist’. (Https://m.youtube.com. In a very rare interview with Balweg). Decades of talks brought us nothing because to the CPP, the peace talks are merely a means subordinate to the main tool – armed struggle. It is only a ploy to effect the release of 'political terrorists' cum consultants. A perfect alibi to allow cornered NPAs, hanging by the ravine, injecting dextrose and fluids for sustenance, to gain some space and time to nourish themselves, after months of abandonment by their former mass bases," he said.
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.
"That's the reality on the ground, Mr. Sison, and you know it. That's the reason why you are employing a ruse through (Department of Labor and Employment) Secretary (Silvestre) Bello (III)," he said.
Sison's admission of defeat was further highlighted when he called President Rodrigo R. Duterte's initiative against the communist rebels as harsh and should stop this immediately.
"When Sison told ABS CBN that 'Duterte did the big harsh moves. He should back out from them as suavely as he can,' I already knew, in my personal opinion, that we have won and history will judge us if we vacillate now and fail once more," he added.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088804
Major General Antonio Parlade, Jr., Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Deputy Chief-of-Staff for Civil-Military Operations, in a statement to the Philippine News Agency Friday, said Sison’s statement, which was made during an interview with ABS-CBN on Dec. 12, showed that he is deathly afraid of Executive Order 70 and its creations which include the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.
"Keeping in mind the duplicity and ambiguity of these communists, we just have to deduce the reverse of most of what they utter. Sison is once again propagandizing, if not blatantly lying when he declares that EO (70) is an obstacle to peace talks. What this liar actually meant is that the EO is too comprehensive for them to even come up with an effective and acceptable counter-narrative. EO-70 is damn too precise that it hits all the CPP programs, including recruitment of cadres, International Solidarity Works, UN infiltration, foreign funding, AgRev (agrarian revolution), mass mobilization, and all," he added.
Add to this is the series of defeat being experienced by communist rebels and their allies in the countryside which the CPP-New People's Army (NPA) attributed to poor leadership and quality of their cadres, Parlade said.
"In the 'Limang Taong Programa ng Partido (2017-2021)' which was recovered in an encounter in Samar, an entry dated 15/01/2019 actually asks 'why there are so many who are going down the hills to surrender?' In their own assessment, they said it's the lack of leadership and poor quality of their cadres. This is very revealing as they have been suffering from tactical defeat after defeat, all over the country. Senior cadres getting killed, thousands of arms captured, 11,697 surrenders, and child recruits (aged 12-17) forced to replace them," he said.
With the Local Peace Engagements (LPEs) which was initiated and conducted by local government units, mass surrenders of NPA fighters and supporters have been the normal course of events in the past months, he added.
This initiative, he said, has been aided further by stakeholders genuinely interested in peace and accompanied by initiatives and programs for poverty reduction, livelihood and basic services, infrastructures, local government empowerment, law enforcement, and sectoral unification to mend "cultural wounds" inflicted as a result of tribal infiltration and in-fighting.
"All of these programs are being implemented without the presence of armed state forces. They are designed to catalyze development in environments of genuine peace. For the most part, they are being implemented by former soldiers in the cabinet who knew exactly what this insurgency is all about --- Good Governance. Sison is either too stupid or naive not to see the difference between the peace we are already achieving and the fake peace they are trying to offer again," he added.
All these efforts were highlighted last December 10 in the Zamboanga Peninsula where 51 NPA rebels surrendered to the government after successful LPEs.
Aireen Mentaloroc alias "Boni", former member of the Main Regional Guerilla Unit, Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee and the group's spokesperson said they all opted to surrender as they could no longer take the hardship in the mountains.
Also, they found it a pleasant surprise that the government gave them protection from the NPA rebels who are trying hard to prevent them from surrendering.
"Obviously she found out that there is just too much propaganda and lies in the party when they were told they will be hurt by the government if they surrender," he said.
Mentaloroc, he added, urged other NPAs to surrender peacefully so that they can all help in uplifting the misery of impoverished Filipinos in other non-violent ways, adding that armed violence or weapons are not always the means to achieve change,
"That is what genuine peace talks, localized at that, means Mr. Sison. To understand that, first drop that title of a professor because you are not. Second, lay down your cards and tell the people what is your end state in this peace talks. Is it about peace or is it about your political objective of seizing power and imposing your communist agenda? Will you dismantle your NPA or will you dismantle AFP? (Art 7 and Art 8 - CASER Agenda Bayan-Muna USA). You can also share to us what Luis Jalandoni has been saying all along about the peace talks: it is a means to an end- National Democratic Revolution. (https://youtu.be/WWK9OMISh0s)," Parlade added.
He said peace negotiations with communist rebels are an exercise in futility as their main tool to achieve their goal of affecting change is through armed struggle.
The said warning, he said, was given by the late Father Conrado Balweg, founder of the Cordillera People's Liberation Army.
"The late Father Conrado Balweg also warned us about talking peace again with communists, especially if brokered by another ‘communist’. (Https://m.youtube.com. In a very rare interview with Balweg). Decades of talks brought us nothing because to the CPP, the peace talks are merely a means subordinate to the main tool – armed struggle. It is only a ploy to effect the release of 'political terrorists' cum consultants. A perfect alibi to allow cornered NPAs, hanging by the ravine, injecting dextrose and fluids for sustenance, to gain some space and time to nourish themselves, after months of abandonment by their former mass bases," he said.
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.
"That's the reality on the ground, Mr. Sison, and you know it. That's the reason why you are employing a ruse through (Department of Labor and Employment) Secretary (Silvestre) Bello (III)," he said.
Sison's admission of defeat was further highlighted when he called President Rodrigo R. Duterte's initiative against the communist rebels as harsh and should stop this immediately.
"When Sison told ABS CBN that 'Duterte did the big harsh moves. He should back out from them as suavely as he can,' I already knew, in my personal opinion, that we have won and history will judge us if we vacillate now and fail once more," he added.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088804
Ops to curb Reds to continue: Lorenzana
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 16, 2019): Ops to curb Reds to continue: Lorenzana (By Priam Nepomuceno)
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. (File photo)
MANILA -- Despite the announcement of plans to revive peace talks with the communist rebels, the Department of National Defense on Sunday said efforts to whittle down their armed members, either by combat or peaceful means, will continue.
"Our efforts to bring them down to join the society for those who are willing (to reintegrate with mainstream society) will continue. So is our combat operations against their armed components will continue to wage war. No let-up even during peace talks," Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in a message to reporters.
He made this comment when asked whether the planned peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) will have a bearing on government efforts to eliminate the insurgency threat.
The DND chief also called the NPA ambush in Libuton, Borongan City, Eastern Samar, which killed a policeman and an elderly woman and wounded 16 others last December 13, as part of the efforts of communist rebels to project strength.
"That usually is what they do on the eve of peace talks to heighten their attacks to project their so-called strength," Lorenzana said.
Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, said the atrocity committed by the NPA against the police and innocent civilians only reaffirmed their decision not to recommend the declaration of a unilateral ceasefire with the communist rebels this Yuletide Season.
"The abominable crime that also killed a policeman shows what these terrorist members of the New People’s Army are capable of an evil of unconscionable degree and timing. It was done on a Christmas season when everyone’s longing is to be home to celebrate the holidays with family. Instead, the bereaved relatives will be mourning their dead," he said.
Arevalo said the AFP commiserates with the victims and will do its utmost to help them find justice.
"The CTG (communist terrorist group) did the gruesome killing as if to threaten government that the latter should yield to their desire for peace negotiation," he added.
Arevalo said the NPAs committed the attack despite the Commander-in-Chief’s order for Secretary Silvestre Bello III to discuss with CPP founding chair Jose Ma. Sison how peace negotiations can be resumed.
"In essence, the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army under Mr. Sison and his stewards merely confirmed who they really are—opportunists in advancing peace negotiations and transgressors of human rights masquerading to be pro-people," 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.
"We beseech our people to unite against these terrorists. They should never allow these malefactors in their communities. They should be wary of wolves in sheep’s clothing that lurks around them. Parents are forewarned of the beasts that have devoured the future of many unwitting minor children who were lured into joining the terrorist NPA," Arevalo said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088807
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. (File photo)
MANILA -- Despite the announcement of plans to revive peace talks with the communist rebels, the Department of National Defense on Sunday said efforts to whittle down their armed members, either by combat or peaceful means, will continue.
"Our efforts to bring them down to join the society for those who are willing (to reintegrate with mainstream society) will continue. So is our combat operations against their armed components will continue to wage war. No let-up even during peace talks," Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in a message to reporters.
He made this comment when asked whether the planned peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) will have a bearing on government efforts to eliminate the insurgency threat.
The DND chief also called the NPA ambush in Libuton, Borongan City, Eastern Samar, which killed a policeman and an elderly woman and wounded 16 others last December 13, as part of the efforts of communist rebels to project strength.
"That usually is what they do on the eve of peace talks to heighten their attacks to project their so-called strength," Lorenzana said.
Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, said the atrocity committed by the NPA against the police and innocent civilians only reaffirmed their decision not to recommend the declaration of a unilateral ceasefire with the communist rebels this Yuletide Season.
"The abominable crime that also killed a policeman shows what these terrorist members of the New People’s Army are capable of an evil of unconscionable degree and timing. It was done on a Christmas season when everyone’s longing is to be home to celebrate the holidays with family. Instead, the bereaved relatives will be mourning their dead," he said.
Arevalo said the AFP commiserates with the victims and will do its utmost to help them find justice.
"The CTG (communist terrorist group) did the gruesome killing as if to threaten government that the latter should yield to their desire for peace negotiation," he added.
Arevalo said the NPAs committed the attack despite the Commander-in-Chief’s order for Secretary Silvestre Bello III to discuss with CPP founding chair Jose Ma. Sison how peace negotiations can be resumed.
"In essence, the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army under Mr. Sison and his stewards merely confirmed who they really are—opportunists in advancing peace negotiations and transgressors of human rights masquerading to be pro-people," 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.
"We beseech our people to unite against these terrorists. They should never allow these malefactors in their communities. They should be wary of wolves in sheep’s clothing that lurks around them. Parents are forewarned of the beasts that have devoured the future of many unwitting minor children who were lured into joining the terrorist NPA," Arevalo said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088807
Navy to conduct relief missions in flood-hit Cagayan, Isabela
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 16, 2019): Navy to conduct relief missions in flood-hit Cagayan, Isabela (By Priam Nepomuceno)
The Philippine Navy, through its Naval Forces Northern Luzon, will deploy all of its available resources to aid thousands of families in Isabela and Cagayan displaced by massive flooding.
In a statement Sunday, PN public affairs office chief Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas said humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions will be conducted by NFNL units based in Naval Base Camilo Osias in San Vicente, Cagayan.
"Several areas in Isabela and Cagayan were put under a state of calamity because of the damages the flooding has brought to this part of the country. PN personnel and assets are now ready to be deployed to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster response in some of the areas affected by this calamity," she added.
The Navy official said this is a commitment of the PN to relieve the suffering of these disaster-stricken Filipino families.
And for those who would like to donate, Roxas said these groups or individuals can directly coordinate with the Naval Operation Center at (02) 524-4981 and 0917 8045092 and Civil-Military Operation Group, PN at (02) 524-2061 loc 6133 and 09053926359/ 09206860377 and NFNL, NF3- 09774596931/ NF7-09171230067.
Their donations will be transported by available logistic naval vessels, she added.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088811
In a statement Sunday, PN public affairs office chief Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas said humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions will be conducted by NFNL units based in Naval Base Camilo Osias in San Vicente, Cagayan.
"Several areas in Isabela and Cagayan were put under a state of calamity because of the damages the flooding has brought to this part of the country. PN personnel and assets are now ready to be deployed to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster response in some of the areas affected by this calamity," she added.
The Navy official said this is a commitment of the PN to relieve the suffering of these disaster-stricken Filipino families.
And for those who would like to donate, Roxas said these groups or individuals can directly coordinate with the Naval Operation Center at (02) 524-4981 and 0917 8045092 and Civil-Military Operation Group, PN at (02) 524-2061 loc 6133 and 09053926359/ 09206860377 and NFNL, NF3- 09774596931/ NF7-09171230067.
Their donations will be transported by available logistic naval vessels, she added.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088811
Galvez condemns NPA attack in Eastern Samar
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 16, 2019): Galvez condemns NPA attack in Eastern Samar
Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito G. Galvez Jr. (File photo)
MANILA -- Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito G. Galvez Jr. condemned the attack carried out by the New People's Army in Eastern Samar last December 13, killing a police officer and two civilians and wounded scores of others, including three children.
"We denounce in the strongest terms this treacherous attack perpetrated the New People's Army. This shows the inhumane methods being used by the rebels," Galvez said, referring to the improvised explosive device (IED) detonated by the NPA by the roadside in Borongan City.
He noted that the attack came in the heels of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s pronouncement regarding the possible resumption of peace talks between the Government of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front (NDF).
"This latest attack runs counter to the Duterte administration’s efforts to find a peaceful solution to the communist problem," Galvez said, adding: “As the government tries to address the roots of the insurgency, the rebels continue to mount attacks. This is deplorable.”
The presidential peace adviser vowed that justice will be served on the perpetrators of the attack who are now being pursued by authorities.
“Those who committed this crime will not escape the long arm of the law. They will have to pay for the atrocities they committed,” Galvez said.
Galvez joined the groundswell of condemnation among government officials and other stakeholders who did not mince words in denouncing the attack.
Communications Secretary Martin Andanar expressed Malacañang’s condemnation over the attack, as he extended the government’s condolences to the victims and their families while commending the police and emergency personnel for protecting the people.
“We vehemently condemn the NPA attack in Barangay Libuton which left two dead and wounded several individuals, including three children and policemen. The loss of life and the violence experienced by the victims are reprehensible,” Andanar said.
“We can only imagine the grief of their loved ones who would have spent the Christmas season with them in good health, had it not been for the senseless act of these terrorists. Our thoughts go out to all of you in this difficult time,” he added.
In the meantime, Eastern Samar Governor Ben Evardone condemned the ambush, as he declared: “The Provincial Government of Eastern Samar is appalled at the heinous acts of terror that occurred today, December 13, 2019, at Barangay Libuton, Borongan.”
“This attack only strengthens our resolve to bolster counter-terrorism efforts and achieve real and lasting peace in our province,” Evardone said.
Duterte canceled the peace negotiations with the NDF two years ago after the NPA continued to carry out ambushes against government forces while conducting extortion activities and attacks on private facilities even as the talks were ongoing.
This led to the issuance of Executive Order 70 in 2018, which institutionalized a whole-of-nation approach wherein there will be a greater synergy in the delivery of government programs and services in remote, conflict-affected areas in the country.
Under this approach, local government units will also spearhead localized peace engagements (LPEs), which aim to engage the rebels in peaceful dialogue, while encouraging them to lay down their arms and return to the folds of the law.
“EO 70 aims to empower LGUs and other peace stakeholders in the community to lead efforts in crushing the communist rebellion. Because they are closer to the ground, they understand the sentiments of the people and shall be able to respond accordingly,” Galvez explained.
And with the recent spate of NPA attacks, Galvez said LPEs will help the government’s quest for lasting peace, eradicate poverty, improve social conditions and achieve inclusive development.
“LPEs will not only give us an opportunity to engage all stakeholders in the peace process but more importantly, encourage the people to play a more active role in protecting their communities. They must realize they have the power in their hands to do so,” he said. (OPAPP PR)
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088819
Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito G. Galvez Jr. (File photo)
MANILA -- Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito G. Galvez Jr. condemned the attack carried out by the New People's Army in Eastern Samar last December 13, killing a police officer and two civilians and wounded scores of others, including three children.
"We denounce in the strongest terms this treacherous attack perpetrated the New People's Army. This shows the inhumane methods being used by the rebels," Galvez said, referring to the improvised explosive device (IED) detonated by the NPA by the roadside in Borongan City.
He noted that the attack came in the heels of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s pronouncement regarding the possible resumption of peace talks between the Government of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front (NDF).
"This latest attack runs counter to the Duterte administration’s efforts to find a peaceful solution to the communist problem," Galvez said, adding: “As the government tries to address the roots of the insurgency, the rebels continue to mount attacks. This is deplorable.”
The presidential peace adviser vowed that justice will be served on the perpetrators of the attack who are now being pursued by authorities.
“Those who committed this crime will not escape the long arm of the law. They will have to pay for the atrocities they committed,” Galvez said.
Galvez joined the groundswell of condemnation among government officials and other stakeholders who did not mince words in denouncing the attack.
Communications Secretary Martin Andanar expressed Malacañang’s condemnation over the attack, as he extended the government’s condolences to the victims and their families while commending the police and emergency personnel for protecting the people.
“We vehemently condemn the NPA attack in Barangay Libuton which left two dead and wounded several individuals, including three children and policemen. The loss of life and the violence experienced by the victims are reprehensible,” Andanar said.
“We can only imagine the grief of their loved ones who would have spent the Christmas season with them in good health, had it not been for the senseless act of these terrorists. Our thoughts go out to all of you in this difficult time,” he added.
In the meantime, Eastern Samar Governor Ben Evardone condemned the ambush, as he declared: “The Provincial Government of Eastern Samar is appalled at the heinous acts of terror that occurred today, December 13, 2019, at Barangay Libuton, Borongan.”
“This attack only strengthens our resolve to bolster counter-terrorism efforts and achieve real and lasting peace in our province,” Evardone said.
Duterte canceled the peace negotiations with the NDF two years ago after the NPA continued to carry out ambushes against government forces while conducting extortion activities and attacks on private facilities even as the talks were ongoing.
This led to the issuance of Executive Order 70 in 2018, which institutionalized a whole-of-nation approach wherein there will be a greater synergy in the delivery of government programs and services in remote, conflict-affected areas in the country.
Under this approach, local government units will also spearhead localized peace engagements (LPEs), which aim to engage the rebels in peaceful dialogue, while encouraging them to lay down their arms and return to the folds of the law.
“EO 70 aims to empower LGUs and other peace stakeholders in the community to lead efforts in crushing the communist rebellion. Because they are closer to the ground, they understand the sentiments of the people and shall be able to respond accordingly,” Galvez explained.
And with the recent spate of NPA attacks, Galvez said LPEs will help the government’s quest for lasting peace, eradicate poverty, improve social conditions and achieve inclusive development.
“LPEs will not only give us an opportunity to engage all stakeholders in the peace process but more importantly, encourage the people to play a more active role in protecting their communities. They must realize they have the power in their hands to do so,” he said. (OPAPP PR)
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088819
Army educates ROTC students on security awareness
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 15, 2019): Army educates ROTC students on security awareness (By Ma. Joreina Therese A. Blanco)
BATAC CITY, Dec. 15 (PIA) -- The Philippine Army holds an information drive on national security awareness for Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) students of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) at Teatro Ilocandia basement in Batac City on Dec. 7.
Participated in by almost 500 ROTC from the Batac and Laoag campuses of MMSU, this subject was presented during their Saturday class.
The infodrive aims to educate students on the deceptive recruitment of communist-armed groups in the Philippines since the young generation is the top target of the leftists.
BATAC CITY, Dec. 15 (PIA) -- The Philippine Army holds an information drive on national security awareness for Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) students of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) at Teatro Ilocandia basement in Batac City on Dec. 7.
Participated in by almost 500 ROTC from the Batac and Laoag campuses of MMSU, this subject was presented during their Saturday class.
The infodrive aims to educate students on the deceptive recruitment of communist-armed groups in the Philippines since the young generation is the top target of the leftists.
NATIONAL SECURITY AWARENESS. ROTC students listens intently to the lecture of the Philippine Army during their Saturday class on December 7 at the MMSU Teatro Ilocandia basement. (pia1/mjtab)
Part of the presentation is the awareness on the government’s effort to end local communist-armed conflict and discussion on the ideologies of these groups.
“Ang objective ng ating info awareness drive sa schools ay para ma-educate natin ang mga estudyante natin dahil sila po 'yung number one target ng mga Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) at New People’s Army (NPA) para sa recruitment,” Capt. Rogelio Dumbrique, 2nd Commanding Officer of the 7th Civil Military Operations, said.
According to Dumbrique, usual targets of these groups are young people who are student leaders and model students since they have a wider sphere of influence.
Dumbrique encouraged the ROTC students not to be swayed by the false ideologies of the leftist organizations as they will only be led not to progression but destruction.
“Sila kasi yung nakikita na magtutuloy ng mga ideolohiya ng mga NPA kaya po kailangang ma-educate sila sa deceptive recruitment o panlilinlang na ginagawa nila upang ang mga kabataan natin ay makapag-aral sila nang mabuti, makamit nila sa ambisyon sa buhay,” the commander added.
Moreover, Dumbrique told ROTC students the need to be educated of the five-decade old threat to national security.
“Kailangang ma-impart sa kanila yung threat to national security as part of their subject. Kailangan nilang malaman ang sitwasyon ng bansa. Marami na kasing nalilinlang na mga kabataan. Yung mga ROTC students, inaasahan din natin silang future leaders natin,” he added.
After the lecture, the Army instructed the students to write an open letter for NPAs and CPPs, pleading them to stop their operations.
One letter tells, “bumaba na po kayo diyan sa bundok. Mas maganda ang buhay dito. Tama na po ang giyera.”
“Ang objective ng ating info awareness drive sa schools ay para ma-educate natin ang mga estudyante natin dahil sila po 'yung number one target ng mga Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) at New People’s Army (NPA) para sa recruitment,” Capt. Rogelio Dumbrique, 2nd Commanding Officer of the 7th Civil Military Operations, said.
According to Dumbrique, usual targets of these groups are young people who are student leaders and model students since they have a wider sphere of influence.
Dumbrique encouraged the ROTC students not to be swayed by the false ideologies of the leftist organizations as they will only be led not to progression but destruction.
“Sila kasi yung nakikita na magtutuloy ng mga ideolohiya ng mga NPA kaya po kailangang ma-educate sila sa deceptive recruitment o panlilinlang na ginagawa nila upang ang mga kabataan natin ay makapag-aral sila nang mabuti, makamit nila sa ambisyon sa buhay,” the commander added.
Moreover, Dumbrique told ROTC students the need to be educated of the five-decade old threat to national security.
“Kailangang ma-impart sa kanila yung threat to national security as part of their subject. Kailangan nilang malaman ang sitwasyon ng bansa. Marami na kasing nalilinlang na mga kabataan. Yung mga ROTC students, inaasahan din natin silang future leaders natin,” he added.
After the lecture, the Army instructed the students to write an open letter for NPAs and CPPs, pleading them to stop their operations.
One letter tells, “bumaba na po kayo diyan sa bundok. Mas maganda ang buhay dito. Tama na po ang giyera.”
OPEN LETTER. ROTC students write an open letter for CPP-NPA as part of their lecture on national security awareness lectured by the Philippine Army. (pia1/mjtab)
“Bilang isang ROTC Advance Officer at bilang isang estudyante, nais ko munang tapusin ang pag-aaral ko para mas makatulong ako sa pag-unlad ng ating bansa,” ROTC Cadet Capt. Jarelle Sanchez, 2nd Class, said. (JCR/JNPD/MJTAB PIA1-ILOCOS NORTE)
Leyte soon to be declared insurgent-free
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 15, 2019): Leyte soon to be declared insurgent-free (By Consuelo B. Alarcon)
BURAUEN, Leyte, Dec. 14 (PIA) -- The Armed Forces of the Phillipines (AFP) will declare the Province of Leyte as insurgent-free next week.
This was announced by Major General Pio Q. Diñoso III, commander of the 8th Infantry Divion, Philippine Army, during the 30th Founding Anniversary of the 87th Infantry Batallion based in this municipality.
Diñoso lauded Leyte Governor Leopoldo Dominico L. Petilla for his leadership being a perfect example of good governance that paved the way for the eradication of insurgency in the province.
He likewise congratulated the military officers and men in the province for this achievement.
As of today, out of the 32 municipalities and cities under the jurisdiction of the 78IB, all have already activated their Task Forces to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC) except for one, La Paz, Leyte. (LDL/CBA/PIA-8)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031634
BURAUEN, Leyte, Dec. 14 (PIA) -- The Armed Forces of the Phillipines (AFP) will declare the Province of Leyte as insurgent-free next week.
This was announced by Major General Pio Q. Diñoso III, commander of the 8th Infantry Divion, Philippine Army, during the 30th Founding Anniversary of the 87th Infantry Batallion based in this municipality.
Diñoso lauded Leyte Governor Leopoldo Dominico L. Petilla for his leadership being a perfect example of good governance that paved the way for the eradication of insurgency in the province.
He likewise congratulated the military officers and men in the province for this achievement.
As of today, out of the 32 municipalities and cities under the jurisdiction of the 78IB, all have already activated their Task Forces to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC) except for one, La Paz, Leyte. (LDL/CBA/PIA-8)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031634
Borongan improvised bomb attack casualties now 3 dead, 15 hurt including 3 minors
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 15, 2019): Borongan improvised bomb attack casualties now 3 dead, 15 hurt including 3 minors (By PIA-8)
TACLOBAN CITY, Dec. 14 -- The latest report from the Police Regional Office 8 states that it has recorded three fatalities, and 15 hurt, including civilians and children on the treacherous attack of more or less 50 suspected Communists-Terrorists Group (NPAs) on December 13, 2019, in Brgy. Libuton, Borongan City, Eastern Samar.
The report said seven personnel of the 1st Eastern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company (ESPMFC) based in Brgy. Lunang, Dolores, Eastern Samar were waylaid by the armed rebels at around 3 p.m., while on their way to the provincial headquarters based in Borongan.
PRO 8 identified Pat Mark Jerome Rama y Sugalan as Killed-in-Police Operation (KIPO). It was learned that victim PO Rama is just newly married having celebrated his wedding only last Nov. 23, 2019.
Furthermore, Pat Angelito J Loterte of Hilongos, Leyte suffered from left leg injury; Pat Rick Capoquian Jr. y Esponilla, Northern Samar with right eye injury; Pat Rey Sobrepenia y Godes, Eastern Samar with head injury; Pat Kevin Operario y Jatulan, Eastern Samar, was seriously wounded; while Pat Christian Godino and Pat Michael Frank M Pajanustan were left unharmed.
Meanwhile, 11 civilians were injured, namely: Jacob Chicano, 35 years old, a resident of Brgy. 3 Taft, Eastern Samar; Marrian Esposa y Jebulan, 20 years old, a resident of Brgy. 2 Taft, Eastern Samar; Carlito Esposa y Baldos, 65 years old, a resident of Brgy. Bugas, Borongan City; Mark Balayanto Cantos y Adona, 18 years old, a resident of Brgy. Lunang, San Julian, Eastern Samar; Florence Traboco y Avilla, 39 years old, and a resident of Brgy. San Isidro San Julian, Eastern Samar; Mary Grace Rapada, 44 years old, a resident of San Isidro, San Julian Eastern Samar; Ma. Lilisania Obina, 34 years old, a resident of Campesao, Borongan City; Hector Lemer Obina, 35 years old, also a resident of Campesao, Borongan City; and three minors ages 1, 6 and 13 years old.
Agripena Traboco y Avilla, 69 years old, and a resident of Brgy. San Isidro, San Julian, Eastern Samar, and Anthony Balayanto Y Docena, 50 years old, and resident of Taft, Eastern Samar were declared dead on arrival (DOA) at the hospital by the attending physician.
The wounded PNP members and civilians were brought to the nearest hospital for immediate medical attention.
The crime scene was processed through the coordinated efforts of Borongan CDRRMO, ESPPO and Borongan CPS about 12:45 a.m. of December 14, 2019.
After which, the retrieval operation of the Patrol Car used by the 1st ESPMFC was conducted. Said vehicle is now at the custody of ESPPO Hqs for safekeeping.
“I am encouraging the public to be more vigilant and to continue in helping the authorities in condemning such treacherous attack to wreak havoc in the region and to stop unlawful killings of the civilians.” RD Ferdinand Divina said.
PRO 8 calls on anyone who have any information about the whereabouts of the fleeing CTG, to please contact the office through the following social media accounts: Facebook Account: Pulis Rehiyon VIII; or Facebook Page: Police Regional Office 8 or YouTube Channel: Pulis Otso (The Official YouTube Channel of PRO8). (PIA-8/PRO-8)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031635
TACLOBAN CITY, Dec. 14 -- The latest report from the Police Regional Office 8 states that it has recorded three fatalities, and 15 hurt, including civilians and children on the treacherous attack of more or less 50 suspected Communists-Terrorists Group (NPAs) on December 13, 2019, in Brgy. Libuton, Borongan City, Eastern Samar.
The report said seven personnel of the 1st Eastern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company (ESPMFC) based in Brgy. Lunang, Dolores, Eastern Samar were waylaid by the armed rebels at around 3 p.m., while on their way to the provincial headquarters based in Borongan.
PRO 8 identified Pat Mark Jerome Rama y Sugalan as Killed-in-Police Operation (KIPO). It was learned that victim PO Rama is just newly married having celebrated his wedding only last Nov. 23, 2019.
Furthermore, Pat Angelito J Loterte of Hilongos, Leyte suffered from left leg injury; Pat Rick Capoquian Jr. y Esponilla, Northern Samar with right eye injury; Pat Rey Sobrepenia y Godes, Eastern Samar with head injury; Pat Kevin Operario y Jatulan, Eastern Samar, was seriously wounded; while Pat Christian Godino and Pat Michael Frank M Pajanustan were left unharmed.
Meanwhile, 11 civilians were injured, namely: Jacob Chicano, 35 years old, a resident of Brgy. 3 Taft, Eastern Samar; Marrian Esposa y Jebulan, 20 years old, a resident of Brgy. 2 Taft, Eastern Samar; Carlito Esposa y Baldos, 65 years old, a resident of Brgy. Bugas, Borongan City; Mark Balayanto Cantos y Adona, 18 years old, a resident of Brgy. Lunang, San Julian, Eastern Samar; Florence Traboco y Avilla, 39 years old, and a resident of Brgy. San Isidro San Julian, Eastern Samar; Mary Grace Rapada, 44 years old, a resident of San Isidro, San Julian Eastern Samar; Ma. Lilisania Obina, 34 years old, a resident of Campesao, Borongan City; Hector Lemer Obina, 35 years old, also a resident of Campesao, Borongan City; and three minors ages 1, 6 and 13 years old.
Agripena Traboco y Avilla, 69 years old, and a resident of Brgy. San Isidro, San Julian, Eastern Samar, and Anthony Balayanto Y Docena, 50 years old, and resident of Taft, Eastern Samar were declared dead on arrival (DOA) at the hospital by the attending physician.
The wounded PNP members and civilians were brought to the nearest hospital for immediate medical attention.
The crime scene was processed through the coordinated efforts of Borongan CDRRMO, ESPPO and Borongan CPS about 12:45 a.m. of December 14, 2019.
After which, the retrieval operation of the Patrol Car used by the 1st ESPMFC was conducted. Said vehicle is now at the custody of ESPPO Hqs for safekeeping.
“I am encouraging the public to be more vigilant and to continue in helping the authorities in condemning such treacherous attack to wreak havoc in the region and to stop unlawful killings of the civilians.” RD Ferdinand Divina said.
PRO 8 calls on anyone who have any information about the whereabouts of the fleeing CTG, to please contact the office through the following social media accounts: Facebook Account: Pulis Rehiyon VIII; or Facebook Page: Police Regional Office 8 or YouTube Channel: Pulis Otso (The Official YouTube Channel of PRO8). (PIA-8/PRO-8)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031635
Enrollment of 61 Samar former rebels to E-CLIP now on process
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 15, 2019): Enrollment of 61 Samar former rebels to E-CLIP now on process (By PIA-8)
TACLOBAN CITY, Dec. 15 -- The Samar Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) Committee is currently fast-tracking the processing of the enrolment of former rebels so that they can avail of the benefits of the program.
During its latest meeting held at the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) - Samar Provincial Office, among the issues the Committee tackled was the update by the focal persons about the status of rebel returnees, the benefits they received and those still on process.
In Samar, there is now a total of 61 surrenderees broken down into 11 NPA regulars, 17 MBs and 33 mass supporters.
The committee discussed and resolved how the E-CLIP process and benefits can be fast-tracked in order to entice other would be surrenderees to avail of the program.
The Officer-in-Charge of National Housing Authority of Region 8, Mrs. Marilyn C. Lauzon was invited as resource person.
Mrs. Lauzon discussed about the Guidelines for the Provision of Housing Assistance to Former Rebels.
The last of the agenda that was lengthily discussed is the concept of ceremonial mass surrender and the preparations for the said activity.
The idea is to come up with an advocacy mileage keeping in mind that of protecting the identities of surrenderees, in order to attract more rebels to surrender.
Col. Camilo Z. Ligayo Inf (MNSA) PA, 801st Bde commander and co-chairman of the committee presided over the meeting that was attended by its members, Mrs. Alma Austero of PSWDO, Mr. Judy Batulan of DILG, PLtCol Rene Eguia of Samar PPO, Mrs. Anita Taran the Provincial Administrator, Mrs Alvina Valles as CSO representative and the E-CLIP focal persons of four infantry battalions under OPCON of the brigade. (PIA-8)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031644
TACLOBAN CITY, Dec. 15 -- The Samar Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) Committee is currently fast-tracking the processing of the enrolment of former rebels so that they can avail of the benefits of the program.
During its latest meeting held at the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) - Samar Provincial Office, among the issues the Committee tackled was the update by the focal persons about the status of rebel returnees, the benefits they received and those still on process.
In Samar, there is now a total of 61 surrenderees broken down into 11 NPA regulars, 17 MBs and 33 mass supporters.
The committee discussed and resolved how the E-CLIP process and benefits can be fast-tracked in order to entice other would be surrenderees to avail of the program.
The Officer-in-Charge of National Housing Authority of Region 8, Mrs. Marilyn C. Lauzon was invited as resource person.
Mrs. Lauzon discussed about the Guidelines for the Provision of Housing Assistance to Former Rebels.
The last of the agenda that was lengthily discussed is the concept of ceremonial mass surrender and the preparations for the said activity.
The idea is to come up with an advocacy mileage keeping in mind that of protecting the identities of surrenderees, in order to attract more rebels to surrender.
Col. Camilo Z. Ligayo Inf (MNSA) PA, 801st Bde commander and co-chairman of the committee presided over the meeting that was attended by its members, Mrs. Alma Austero of PSWDO, Mr. Judy Batulan of DILG, PLtCol Rene Eguia of Samar PPO, Mrs. Anita Taran the Provincial Administrator, Mrs Alvina Valles as CSO representative and the E-CLIP focal persons of four infantry battalions under OPCON of the brigade. (PIA-8)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031644
LGU turns over ex-rebels to Army in Bukidnon
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 15, 2019): LGU turns over ex-rebels to Army in Bukidnon (By 8th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)
IMPASUG-ONG, Bukidnon, Dec. 11 -- Five members of “Militia ng Bayan” (MB) were turned over by the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Impasugong to the 8th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army on December 10, 2019.
The former MBs identified with their aliases voluntarily surrendered to the Impasugong LGU on December 9. They claimed to have served the Sub-regional Committee (SRC) 2, North Central Mindanao Regional Command (NMRC) that was terrorizing the communities in Bukidnon.
“Militia ng Bayan” is the arm of the NPA who focuses on the operation inside the community. They were tasked to monitor the movement of government forces within the community and inform the New People's Army (NPA) regular members about it. They can also disrupt the soldiers if the situation permits. Their main task is to arrange the food, medical and other supplies coming from the sympathizers and going inside the NPA without being detected by the government.
Mayor Anthony Uy of Impasugong expressed his gratitude for the trust of the former rebels to the local government and committed to help them. He also explained why they will be turned over to the Army. "We swear to help and we need to turnover you to the Army for your interview and processing of ECLIP,” he said.
If proven by the Philippine Army and the committee on Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) that these personalities are members of the Militia ng Bayan through interviews, they will be qualified to be enrolled in the ECLIP and be entitled to benefits under the said program.
Lieutenant Colonel Ronald Illana, the commanding officer of the 8th Infantry Battalion appreciated the participation of the local officials in ending the local communist armed conflict in Impasugong.
He also reiterated his call to the remaining NPA members in the area to surrender. “We are again calling on the remaining members of the SRC2, NCMRC to go and seek for your trusted local officials and yield, they are willing to accept and help you live together with your family.”
Moreover, he reminded them that the unit's continuous military operation and Community Support Program immersion will continue despite the lifting of the Martial law by year-end. (8th IB, PA)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031645
IMPASUG-ONG, Bukidnon, Dec. 11 -- Five members of “Militia ng Bayan” (MB) were turned over by the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Impasugong to the 8th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army on December 10, 2019.
The former MBs identified with their aliases voluntarily surrendered to the Impasugong LGU on December 9. They claimed to have served the Sub-regional Committee (SRC) 2, North Central Mindanao Regional Command (NMRC) that was terrorizing the communities in Bukidnon.
“Militia ng Bayan” is the arm of the NPA who focuses on the operation inside the community. They were tasked to monitor the movement of government forces within the community and inform the New People's Army (NPA) regular members about it. They can also disrupt the soldiers if the situation permits. Their main task is to arrange the food, medical and other supplies coming from the sympathizers and going inside the NPA without being detected by the government.
Mayor Anthony Uy of Impasugong expressed his gratitude for the trust of the former rebels to the local government and committed to help them. He also explained why they will be turned over to the Army. "We swear to help and we need to turnover you to the Army for your interview and processing of ECLIP,” he said.
If proven by the Philippine Army and the committee on Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) that these personalities are members of the Militia ng Bayan through interviews, they will be qualified to be enrolled in the ECLIP and be entitled to benefits under the said program.
Lieutenant Colonel Ronald Illana, the commanding officer of the 8th Infantry Battalion appreciated the participation of the local officials in ending the local communist armed conflict in Impasugong.
He also reiterated his call to the remaining NPA members in the area to surrender. “We are again calling on the remaining members of the SRC2, NCMRC to go and seek for your trusted local officials and yield, they are willing to accept and help you live together with your family.”
Moreover, he reminded them that the unit's continuous military operation and Community Support Program immersion will continue despite the lifting of the Martial law by year-end. (8th IB, PA)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031645
234 new privates of 4ID vow to serve the people in NorMin, Caraga
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 15, 2019): 234 new privates of 4ID vow to serve the people in NorMin, Caraga (By 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army)
Some 234 strong youngsters who have undergone the rigid and vigorous Basic Military Training (BMT) and Jungle Warfare Mountain Operations Course (JWMOC) vow to serve the people following their graduation at 4th Division Training School, Camp Osito Bahian, Malaybalay City Bukidnon, Saturday, December 14. (4ID,PA)
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Dec. 15 -- A total of 234 strong youngsters who have undergone the rigid and vigorous Basic Military Training (BMT) and Jungle Warfare Mountain Operations Course (JWMOC) vowed to serve the people following their graduation at 4th Division Training School, Camp Osito Bahian, Malaybalay City Bukidnon, Saturday, December 14.
The graduates belong to the two batches of Candidate Soldier (CS) Course Class 608 and Class 609 of 2019 who have successfully undergone the 24 weeks training and passed the mandatory requirements for basic soldiery. Each class had a total of 117 members wherein 88 percent came from Regions 10 and Caraga while 12 percent came from Regions 1, 7, 8, 9, and 12.
Pvt Marvin T Banglid, 23yrs old, a Manobo from Brgy. Kasapa-1, Loreto, Agusan del Norte said, “It is a dream come true sir, I am a former CAFGU for five years and here I am now, a regular soldier in the Philippine Army. Despite all the hardships, I never gave up because I want to inspire the youth in our tribe. I am very much thankful to the government for their services to my tribe. I will repay it through my whole-hearted and dedicated military service to the Filipino people,"
Meanwhile, Datu Efren Empinado of Higaonon tribe from Brgy. Banglay, Lagonglog, Misamis Oriental also expressed his happiness and appreciation. “My family and my tribe are very proud that my son was able to graduate and became a soldier. The effort of the government in reaching out to the indigenous people is very important. We are very happy and we promise to help the government build a peaceful and progressive community," Empinado said.
The 4DTS under LtCol Allen Reymund C. Tomas had properly trained and transformed the candidate soldiers into competent and capable soldiers guided by the Army core values that embrace the warrior ethos ready to serve and protect the people and the state.
The graduates belong to the two batches of Candidate Soldier (CS) Course Class 608 and Class 609 of 2019 who have successfully undergone the 24 weeks training and passed the mandatory requirements for basic soldiery. Each class had a total of 117 members wherein 88 percent came from Regions 10 and Caraga while 12 percent came from Regions 1, 7, 8, 9, and 12.
Pvt Marvin T Banglid, 23yrs old, a Manobo from Brgy. Kasapa-1, Loreto, Agusan del Norte said, “It is a dream come true sir, I am a former CAFGU for five years and here I am now, a regular soldier in the Philippine Army. Despite all the hardships, I never gave up because I want to inspire the youth in our tribe. I am very much thankful to the government for their services to my tribe. I will repay it through my whole-hearted and dedicated military service to the Filipino people,"
Meanwhile, Datu Efren Empinado of Higaonon tribe from Brgy. Banglay, Lagonglog, Misamis Oriental also expressed his happiness and appreciation. “My family and my tribe are very proud that my son was able to graduate and became a soldier. The effort of the government in reaching out to the indigenous people is very important. We are very happy and we promise to help the government build a peaceful and progressive community," Empinado said.
The 4DTS under LtCol Allen Reymund C. Tomas had properly trained and transformed the candidate soldiers into competent and capable soldiers guided by the Army core values that embrace the warrior ethos ready to serve and protect the people and the state.
MGen Franco Nemesio M Gacal, 4th Infantry Division Commander, reminds the graduates to havethe courage and discipline to do what is right and just.
MGen Franco Nemesio M Gacal, Commander of 4th ID said, “I would like to congratulate you all on this memorable day, as it marks the start of your military career. I want you to be prepared to assume different roles such as builders, peacemakers, farmers, teachers and more because our modern role asks us to become reliable partners of the people in peace and development”.
“The government, Filipino people and your families expect a lot from you. Consider yourselves as an instrument of change for the betterment of the communities in the region, never fail the people who have invested their trust in you. Let this serve as a reminder for you to find the courage and discipline to do what is right and just," Gacal added.
The 4th ID has observed an increasing number of applicants who want to join the ranks of the noble profession of arms as evidenced by the numerous messages and inquiries in the 4th ID Facebook page regarding the schedules for the next batches of Armed Forces of the Philippines Service Aptitude Test (AFPSAT) here in Mindanao. (4ID,PA)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031646
MGen Franco Nemesio M Gacal, Commander of 4th ID said, “I would like to congratulate you all on this memorable day, as it marks the start of your military career. I want you to be prepared to assume different roles such as builders, peacemakers, farmers, teachers and more because our modern role asks us to become reliable partners of the people in peace and development”.
“The government, Filipino people and your families expect a lot from you. Consider yourselves as an instrument of change for the betterment of the communities in the region, never fail the people who have invested their trust in you. Let this serve as a reminder for you to find the courage and discipline to do what is right and just," Gacal added.
The 4th ID has observed an increasing number of applicants who want to join the ranks of the noble profession of arms as evidenced by the numerous messages and inquiries in the 4th ID Facebook page regarding the schedules for the next batches of Armed Forces of the Philippines Service Aptitude Test (AFPSAT) here in Mindanao. (4ID,PA)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031646
PNP Chief Gamboa bestows Medalya ng Kadakilaan on slain cop in E. Samar
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 15, 2019): PNP Chief Gamboa bestows Medalya ng Kadakilaan on slain cop in E. Samar (By Nimfa Iluminada B. Quirante)
BORONGAN CITY, Dec. 15 (PIA)—The Philippine National Police Chief Lt. Gen. Archie Francisco Gamboa awarded Pat. Mark Jerome Rama (posthumously) the Medalya ng Kadakilaan today at the Eastern Samar Police Provincial Office.
Rama's remains lay in wake at the Eastern Samar Police Provincial Office and will be transferred to his hometown, Brgy. San Eduardo, Oras. Eastern Samar.
The pregnant widow, Aileen, of the late patrolman Rama received the citation, while Gamboa placed the medal on top of the coffin of the slain policeman.
In a statement to the local media, Gamboa said that the police extended some financial help to the family.
"Nandito kami para tulungan, although hindi naman talaga mababayaran ang buhay ng pulis namin," said Gamboa.
He also asked the media to tell the people that what the NPAs are doing "hindi maganda." He called the NPAs terorista.
He also said that he is willing to help the widow.
He added that Josephine, mother of Rama requested that the two siblings of Rama be admitted to the police force.
"Nakita niyo naman kahit na may nangyari, they are still willing to serve." Gamboa said.
It will be remembered that on December 13, some NPAs ambushed the patrol car of the Dolores Mobile Force by using improvised explosive device in Barangay Libuton, Borongan City.
BORONGAN CITY, Dec. 15 (PIA)—The Philippine National Police Chief Lt. Gen. Archie Francisco Gamboa awarded Pat. Mark Jerome Rama (posthumously) the Medalya ng Kadakilaan today at the Eastern Samar Police Provincial Office.
Rama's remains lay in wake at the Eastern Samar Police Provincial Office and will be transferred to his hometown, Brgy. San Eduardo, Oras. Eastern Samar.
The pregnant widow, Aileen, of the late patrolman Rama received the citation, while Gamboa placed the medal on top of the coffin of the slain policeman.
In a statement to the local media, Gamboa said that the police extended some financial help to the family.
"Nandito kami para tulungan, although hindi naman talaga mababayaran ang buhay ng pulis namin," said Gamboa.
He also asked the media to tell the people that what the NPAs are doing "hindi maganda." He called the NPAs terorista.
He also said that he is willing to help the widow.
He added that Josephine, mother of Rama requested that the two siblings of Rama be admitted to the police force.
"Nakita niyo naman kahit na may nangyari, they are still willing to serve." Gamboa said.
It will be remembered that on December 13, some NPAs ambushed the patrol car of the Dolores Mobile Force by using improvised explosive device in Barangay Libuton, Borongan City.
Lt. Gen. Archie Francisco Gamboa also visited the two wounded cops in a Tacloban Hospital, where the PNP also extended financial assistance and citations for wounded cops in action. (photo by PRO 8)
The explosion instantly killed Rama and wounded five more policemen and some civilians on board a tricycle, that happened to pass the highway while the ambush was in progress.
Gamboa, accompanied by PNP PRO 8 Regional Director Ferdinand Divina, Provincial Director Carlito Abriz and Borongan Mayor Dayan Agda also visited the two wounded policemen in the hospital. (nbq/PIA 8-E. Samar)
The explosion instantly killed Rama and wounded five more policemen and some civilians on board a tricycle, that happened to pass the highway while the ambush was in progress.
Gamboa, accompanied by PNP PRO 8 Regional Director Ferdinand Divina, Provincial Director Carlito Abriz and Borongan Mayor Dayan Agda also visited the two wounded policemen in the hospital. (nbq/PIA 8-E. Samar)
AFP inaugurates new training facilities in Camp O’Donnell
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 15, 2019): AFP inaugurates new training facilities in Camp O’Donnell (By Trixie Joy B. Manalili)
CAPAS, Tarlac, Dec.15 (PIA) -- Armed Forces of the Philippines Peacekeeping Operations Center (AFPPKOC) and Joint United States Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG-Philippines) inaugurated Thursday two new training facilities in Camp O’Donnell.
These include the Central Training Complex (CTC) and Mess Hall of Peacekeepers.
“The facilities are expected to help promote the accessibility, sufficiency and professionalism in the training of future peacekeepers,” Major General Andres Centino, who represented AFP Vice Chief of Staff Vice Admiral Gaudencio C. Collado, stressed.
CTC was named as Bulwagang Romulo in honor Carlos P. Romulo who served as President of the United Nations General Assembly. It has an auditorium, classrooms, driving simulation room, language laboratory, officer and VIP lounge.
CAPAS, Tarlac, Dec.15 (PIA) -- Armed Forces of the Philippines Peacekeeping Operations Center (AFPPKOC) and Joint United States Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG-Philippines) inaugurated Thursday two new training facilities in Camp O’Donnell.
These include the Central Training Complex (CTC) and Mess Hall of Peacekeepers.
“The facilities are expected to help promote the accessibility, sufficiency and professionalism in the training of future peacekeepers,” Major General Andres Centino, who represented AFP Vice Chief of Staff Vice Admiral Gaudencio C. Collado, stressed.
CTC was named as Bulwagang Romulo in honor Carlos P. Romulo who served as President of the United Nations General Assembly. It has an auditorium, classrooms, driving simulation room, language laboratory, officer and VIP lounge.
Joint United States Military Assistance Group Philippines Chief and Senior Defense Official Colonel Stephen Ma (left) turns-over the symbolic key of the training facilities to Major General Andres Centino. (1st Civil Relations Group)
Mess Hall of the Peacekeepers, on the other hand, has a dining facility that can accommodate up to 400 students.
“The training facilities were funded by the United States government through the Global Peace Operations Initiative and JUSMAG-Philippines in support to AFPPKOC as a training institution for peacekeeping operations,” Centino disclosed.
AFPPKOC is the premier training institution of AFP for peacekeeping operations in support to its international commitments.
Currently, it is processing the training needs for deployment of 1 Force Headquarters Service Unit, 1 Aero-medical Team, 90 military observers/peacekeeping force staff officers and 1 demining unit. (CLJD/TJBM-PIA 3)
Mess Hall of the Peacekeepers, on the other hand, has a dining facility that can accommodate up to 400 students.
“The training facilities were funded by the United States government through the Global Peace Operations Initiative and JUSMAG-Philippines in support to AFPPKOC as a training institution for peacekeeping operations,” Centino disclosed.
AFPPKOC is the premier training institution of AFP for peacekeeping operations in support to its international commitments.
Currently, it is processing the training needs for deployment of 1 Force Headquarters Service Unit, 1 Aero-medical Team, 90 military observers/peacekeeping force staff officers and 1 demining unit. (CLJD/TJBM-PIA 3)
Armed Forces of the Philippines Peacekeeping Operations Center and the Joint United States Military Assistance Group inaugurate the Central Training Complex and the Mess Hall of Peacekeepers at Camp O’Donnell in Capas, Tarlac. (1st Civil Relations Group)
San Clemente declares CPP-NPA as 'persona non-grata'
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 15, 2019): San Clemente declares CPP-NPA as 'persona non-grata' (By Trixie Joy B. Manalili)
In a forum, Mayor Elma Macadamia discloses that the municipal government of San Clemente and its 12 barangays each passed a resolution declaring the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army as “Persona Non-Grata” or undesirable in the town. (3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion)
TARLAC CITY, December 13 (PIA) -- The local government of San Clemente declared the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) as “Persona Non-Grata” or undesirable in the town.
Mayor Elma Macadamia said the declaration is their contribution to the Whole-of-Nation approach in attaining sustainable peace.
“Our 12 barangays each passed a resolution condemning the atrocities of the CPP-NPA,” she disclosed in a forum.
For his part, 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion Commander Lieutenant Colonel Norberto Aromin Jr. lauded the efforts of San Clemente. He emphasized that the move of the local officials on standing against communist terrorists is a bold step to resolve insurgency and maintain the peace in the area.
“The declaration is a solid proof that down to the barangay, people are awakened by the truth that only in the convergence of effort we can attain lasting peace and development,” he emphasized.
Aromin furthered that this is a result of the continuous efforts of 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion in engaging the local executives and different stakeholders to finally put an end to the deceitful tactics of the communist terrorists down to the barangay level.
“We will continue our community support program with the concerted efforts of government agencies to prevent and deter any act of terrorism and insurgency in the province of Tarlac,” he added. (CLJD/TJBM-PIA 3)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031592
Mayor Elma Macadamia said the declaration is their contribution to the Whole-of-Nation approach in attaining sustainable peace.
“Our 12 barangays each passed a resolution condemning the atrocities of the CPP-NPA,” she disclosed in a forum.
For his part, 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion Commander Lieutenant Colonel Norberto Aromin Jr. lauded the efforts of San Clemente. He emphasized that the move of the local officials on standing against communist terrorists is a bold step to resolve insurgency and maintain the peace in the area.
“The declaration is a solid proof that down to the barangay, people are awakened by the truth that only in the convergence of effort we can attain lasting peace and development,” he emphasized.
Aromin furthered that this is a result of the continuous efforts of 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion in engaging the local executives and different stakeholders to finally put an end to the deceitful tactics of the communist terrorists down to the barangay level.
“We will continue our community support program with the concerted efforts of government agencies to prevent and deter any act of terrorism and insurgency in the province of Tarlac,” he added. (CLJD/TJBM-PIA 3)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031592
President Duterte honors injured soldiers, policemen in Sulu
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 16, 2019): President Duterte honors injured soldiers, policemen in Sulu (By PND)
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte talks to one of the wounded soldiers he visited at the Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital in Jolo, Sulu on December 14, 2019. RICHARD MADELO/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO
JOLO, Sulu, Dec. 16 -- President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Saturday conferred the Order of Lakandula, Rank of Kampilan, on 10 soldiers and three policemen injured in separate clashes with the Abu Sayyaf Group during his visit at the Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital here.
The soldiers and policemen were wounded during the December 4 ambush and December 7 encounter both in Patikul, Sulu.
The Order of Lapu-Lapu, Rank of Kampilan is bestowed upon individuals who were seriously wounded or suffered great loss of property as a result of their participation in activity pursuant to a campaign or advocacy of the President.
Those who received the award were 1Lt. Vergara D. Geronimo, Sgt. Vicente Calvin O. Belino Jr., Cpl. Ariel H. Gormonit, Cpl. Cornelio G. Olandag, Pfc. Albert C. Aras, Pfc. Jezzer S. Ea, Pfc. Jay-Arr D. Redula, Pfc. Francis M. Ybañez, Pfc. John Carlo C. Casintahan, Pfc. Glenn C. Acayan, PSMS Adil A. Salamat, PCMS Abdulmuidz S. Marajani and PCpl. Halkim A. Ibno.
The President also expressed his gratitude to the members of 11th Infantry Division stationed at Camp Teodulfo Bautista for their efforts and sacrifices to secure the country against the Islamist militants.
“To our brave soldiers who are with us today, you are here because you have answered the call to serve your nation by ensuring peaceful and safe communities for all,” President Duterte said.
“We thank you for risking your lives to protect us from elements that threaten the security of our country,” he added.
The President likewise praised the accomplishments of the Alakdan Division in its fight against the Abu Sayyaf Group in recent months, adding the campaign resulted in significant strides towards crushing the ASG.
Despite the risks, the division remained intact and had shown extraordinary determination to carry on with its mission, the President said, adding the division’s dedication and fighting spirit have been a source of inspiration.
“As your Commander-in-Chief, I move forward with you as we advance the common good and promote the security of our nation,” he noted.
The President said that with the 11th ID’s continued support and commitment, terrorists and all those plotting to bring the country down will not succeed. (PND)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031661
JOLO, Sulu, Dec. 16 -- President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Saturday conferred the Order of Lakandula, Rank of Kampilan, on 10 soldiers and three policemen injured in separate clashes with the Abu Sayyaf Group during his visit at the Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital here.
The soldiers and policemen were wounded during the December 4 ambush and December 7 encounter both in Patikul, Sulu.
The Order of Lapu-Lapu, Rank of Kampilan is bestowed upon individuals who were seriously wounded or suffered great loss of property as a result of their participation in activity pursuant to a campaign or advocacy of the President.
Those who received the award were 1Lt. Vergara D. Geronimo, Sgt. Vicente Calvin O. Belino Jr., Cpl. Ariel H. Gormonit, Cpl. Cornelio G. Olandag, Pfc. Albert C. Aras, Pfc. Jezzer S. Ea, Pfc. Jay-Arr D. Redula, Pfc. Francis M. Ybañez, Pfc. John Carlo C. Casintahan, Pfc. Glenn C. Acayan, PSMS Adil A. Salamat, PCMS Abdulmuidz S. Marajani and PCpl. Halkim A. Ibno.
The President also expressed his gratitude to the members of 11th Infantry Division stationed at Camp Teodulfo Bautista for their efforts and sacrifices to secure the country against the Islamist militants.
“To our brave soldiers who are with us today, you are here because you have answered the call to serve your nation by ensuring peaceful and safe communities for all,” President Duterte said.
“We thank you for risking your lives to protect us from elements that threaten the security of our country,” he added.
The President likewise praised the accomplishments of the Alakdan Division in its fight against the Abu Sayyaf Group in recent months, adding the campaign resulted in significant strides towards crushing the ASG.
Despite the risks, the division remained intact and had shown extraordinary determination to carry on with its mission, the President said, adding the division’s dedication and fighting spirit have been a source of inspiration.
“As your Commander-in-Chief, I move forward with you as we advance the common good and promote the security of our nation,” he noted.
The President said that with the 11th ID’s continued support and commitment, terrorists and all those plotting to bring the country down will not succeed. (PND)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031661
PNP chief bestows 'Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting' to cops wounded in Borongan CTG attack
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 16, 2019): chief bestows 'Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting' to cops wounded in Borongan CTG attack (By Consuelo B. Alarcon)
TACLOBAN CITY, 15 Dec. (PIA) -- Officer-in-Charge PLt General Archie Gamboa of the Phiippine National Police awarded the Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting to two policemen who were wounded in action during the ambush incident in Brgy. Libuton, Borongan City last Friday.
Gamboa gave the award and financial assistance to the families of the victims during his visit this morning (Sunday) at the Divine Word Hospital, Tacloban City.
Afterwards, he proceeded to Borongan City, Eastern Samar to visit the wake of the policeman who died and to visit other wounded policemen in a hospital in Borongan. (LDL/CBA/PIA-8)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031657
TACLOBAN CITY, 15 Dec. (PIA) -- Officer-in-Charge PLt General Archie Gamboa of the Phiippine National Police awarded the Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting to two policemen who were wounded in action during the ambush incident in Brgy. Libuton, Borongan City last Friday.
Gamboa gave the award and financial assistance to the families of the victims during his visit this morning (Sunday) at the Divine Word Hospital, Tacloban City.
Afterwards, he proceeded to Borongan City, Eastern Samar to visit the wake of the policeman who died and to visit other wounded policemen in a hospital in Borongan. (LDL/CBA/PIA-8)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1031657
Ex-rebels’ halfway house to rise in Zambo Sibugay
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 14, 2019): Ex-rebels’ halfway house to rise in Zambo Sibugay (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)
HALFWAY HOUSE. Zamboanga Sibugay Gov. Wilter Yap Palma and Col. Leonel Nicolas, Army's 102nd Infantry Brigade commander (holding shovels) on Friday (December 13) lead the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a PHP5-million halfway house in Ipil town, the province's capital. The halfway house will serve as a temporary shelter of former New People's Army rebels while undergoing the documentation process. (PNA photo by Dennis C. Baguio)
Zamboanga Sibugay Gov. Wilter Yap Palma has urged former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) to convince their remaining comrades to surrender.
Palma made the call as he led Friday the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a PHP5-million halfway house at the provincial capitol compound in Barangay Ipil Heights, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay.
Col. Leonel Nicolas, Army’s 102nd Infantry Brigade commander; Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo, Army’s 44th Infantry Battalion commander, and representatives of other government agencies joined Palma in the groundbreaking ceremony.
Palma said former NPA rebels will be prioritized to work in the construction of the halfway house to earn a living, even as he assured them of the provincial government's support to make their transition easier.
He said halfway house will serve as a temporary shelter of the former NPA rebels while they undergo the documentation process, adding the center will also be used for livelihood training.
Nicolas said around 75 former NPA rebels are now in the custody of the 44th Infantry Battalion, 21 of whom are included in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) of the government.
The remaining 54 former NPA rebels are still being processed to avail the government’s ECLIP.
The PHP5-million fund to construct the halfway house was sourced from the E-CLIP, one of the flagship programs of the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte that seeks to address social healing and national unity toward the higher objective of having just and lasting peace.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088762
Palma made the call as he led Friday the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a PHP5-million halfway house at the provincial capitol compound in Barangay Ipil Heights, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay.
Col. Leonel Nicolas, Army’s 102nd Infantry Brigade commander; Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo, Army’s 44th Infantry Battalion commander, and representatives of other government agencies joined Palma in the groundbreaking ceremony.
Palma said former NPA rebels will be prioritized to work in the construction of the halfway house to earn a living, even as he assured them of the provincial government's support to make their transition easier.
He said halfway house will serve as a temporary shelter of the former NPA rebels while they undergo the documentation process, adding the center will also be used for livelihood training.
Nicolas said around 75 former NPA rebels are now in the custody of the 44th Infantry Battalion, 21 of whom are included in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) of the government.
The remaining 54 former NPA rebels are still being processed to avail the government’s ECLIP.
The PHP5-million fund to construct the halfway house was sourced from the E-CLIP, one of the flagship programs of the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte that seeks to address social healing and national unity toward the higher objective of having just and lasting peace.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088762
Army in Caraga vows support for PRRD’s decision on peace talks
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15, 2019): Army in Caraga vows support for PRRD’s decision on peace talks (By Alexander Lopez)
CHAIN OF COMMAND. Brig. Gen. Maurito L. Licudine, commander of 402nd Infantry Brigade in Caraga Region speaks at a press conference on Saturday (December 14) in Butuan City. He assure the public that the Army in the area will follow the decision of President Rodrigo R. Duterte on the peace negotiations with the CPP-NPA and on the non-extension of martial law. (PNA Photo by Alexander Lopez)
CHAIN OF COMMAND. Brig. Gen. Maurito L. Licudine, commander of 402nd Infantry Brigade in Caraga Region speaks at a press conference on Saturday (December 14) in Butuan City. He assure the public that the Army in the area will follow the decision of President Rodrigo R. Duterte on the peace negotiations with the CPP-NPA and on the non-extension of martial law. (PNA Photo by Alexander Lopez)
Top officials of the Philippine Army in Caraga Region assured the public that they will follow whatever the decision of President Rodrigo R. Duterte on the peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA).
In a press conference on Saturday (December 14) at the headquarters of the 402nd Infantry Brigade (402Bde), Brig. Gen. Maurito L. Licudine said the army will also “toe the line whatever is the decision made”--including the non-extension of martial law when it lapses on December 31.
Licudine said the decision to enter again into a peace process with the CPP-NPA is a political decision.
"Like good soldiers, the Army will respect and follow the decision," the Army official said, adding the insurgency problem in the country cannot be solved entirely through a military solution.
Col. Allan Hambala, commander of the 401st Infantry Brigade (401Bde), who also attended the press conference along with the commanders of the various Army battalions, echoed Licudine's statement.
“For now, we have a job to do and a mission to accomplish. We will do our job since the peace talk has not yet started,” Hambala said, referring to the ongoing military operations against the NPA in Caraga.
Licudine hopes that during the peace negotiations, the government "must also have the upper hand, otherwise, the negotiations will only be used as a tool by the CPP-NPA to move their revolution."
Both brigade commanders also assured the military will follow if the President decides to end the implementation of martial law in Mindanao.
Winning vs. NPA
The military officials also said the government is winning against the CPP-NPA in Caraga through the implementation of Executive Order No. 70 issued by President Duterte.
EO 70 is the "whole-of-nation" approach in ending the local communist conflicts in communities in the country.
Licudine said all the task force at the regional and provincial levels, as mandated by EO 70, is actively functioning in Caraga.
“We are now working in the municipal and barangay levels,” he said.
There are 80 barangays in the region that are considered conflict-affected, disadvantaged, and isolated and considered priorities for direct development interventions of the government, he added.
He said the Peace, Law Enforcement, and Security (PLES) Cluster consisting of the Army and the Philippine National Police (PNP) is also working in barangays identified within the guerrilla zones of the CPP-NPA.
He said these areas include the Zapanta Valley and the Nasicam Complex in Agusan del Norte, the Mainit—Malimono areas in Surigao del Norte, the Sibagat-Bayugan Complex in Agusan del Sur, the Andap Valley Complex in Surigao del Sur, the La Paz-San Luis Complex in Agusan del Norte, and the Bislig-Rosario Complex in Surigao del Sur.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088773
In a press conference on Saturday (December 14) at the headquarters of the 402nd Infantry Brigade (402Bde), Brig. Gen. Maurito L. Licudine said the army will also “toe the line whatever is the decision made”--including the non-extension of martial law when it lapses on December 31.
Licudine said the decision to enter again into a peace process with the CPP-NPA is a political decision.
"Like good soldiers, the Army will respect and follow the decision," the Army official said, adding the insurgency problem in the country cannot be solved entirely through a military solution.
Col. Allan Hambala, commander of the 401st Infantry Brigade (401Bde), who also attended the press conference along with the commanders of the various Army battalions, echoed Licudine's statement.
“For now, we have a job to do and a mission to accomplish. We will do our job since the peace talk has not yet started,” Hambala said, referring to the ongoing military operations against the NPA in Caraga.
Licudine hopes that during the peace negotiations, the government "must also have the upper hand, otherwise, the negotiations will only be used as a tool by the CPP-NPA to move their revolution."
Both brigade commanders also assured the military will follow if the President decides to end the implementation of martial law in Mindanao.
Winning vs. NPA
The military officials also said the government is winning against the CPP-NPA in Caraga through the implementation of Executive Order No. 70 issued by President Duterte.
EO 70 is the "whole-of-nation" approach in ending the local communist conflicts in communities in the country.
Licudine said all the task force at the regional and provincial levels, as mandated by EO 70, is actively functioning in Caraga.
“We are now working in the municipal and barangay levels,” he said.
There are 80 barangays in the region that are considered conflict-affected, disadvantaged, and isolated and considered priorities for direct development interventions of the government, he added.
He said the Peace, Law Enforcement, and Security (PLES) Cluster consisting of the Army and the Philippine National Police (PNP) is also working in barangays identified within the guerrilla zones of the CPP-NPA.
He said these areas include the Zapanta Valley and the Nasicam Complex in Agusan del Norte, the Mainit—Malimono areas in Surigao del Norte, the Sibagat-Bayugan Complex in Agusan del Sur, the Andap Valley Complex in Surigao del Sur, the La Paz-San Luis Complex in Agusan del Norte, and the Bislig-Rosario Complex in Surigao del Sur.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088773
AFP gains upper hand in war vs. NPA in Caraga in 2019
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15, 2019): AFP gains upper hand in war vs. NPA in Caraga in 2019 (By Alexander Lopez)
WINNING THE WAR. The Philippine Army in Caraga Region reports its achievements in 2019, including significant decline on the New People’s Army’s controlled areas in the region, in a press conference at the 402nd Infantry Brigade headquarters in Butuan City on Saturday (Dec. 14, 2019). Present are (from left) Lt. Col. Isagani O. Criste, commander of 29IB; Lt. Col. Jezreel J. Diagmel, commander of 36IB; Col. Allan D. Hambala, commander of 401 IBde; Brig. Gen. Maurito L. Licudine, commander of 402 IBde, Col. Cerilo C. Balaoro, deputy commander of 402 IBde, Lt. Col. Jeffry O. Villarosa, commander of 30IB. (PNA photo by Alexander Lopez)
WINNING THE WAR. The Philippine Army in Caraga Region reports its achievements in 2019, including significant decline on the New People’s Army’s controlled areas in the region, in a press conference at the 402nd Infantry Brigade headquarters in Butuan City on Saturday (Dec. 14, 2019). Present are (from left) Lt. Col. Isagani O. Criste, commander of 29IB; Lt. Col. Jezreel J. Diagmel, commander of 36IB; Col. Allan D. Hambala, commander of 401 IBde; Brig. Gen. Maurito L. Licudine, commander of 402 IBde, Col. Cerilo C. Balaoro, deputy commander of 402 IBde, Lt. Col. Jeffry O. Villarosa, commander of 30IB. (PNA photo by Alexander Lopez)
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), particularly the Philippine Army, has gained upper hand in its campaign against the New People’s Army (NPA) in Caraga Region in 2019.
In an accomplishment report presented in a press conference at the 402nd Infantry Brigade (402 IBde) headquarters here on Saturday, the Army conducted 166 combat operations in 2019 that resulted in 122 engagements with the NPA.
Brig. Gen. Maurito L. Licudine and Col. Allan D. Hambala, 402 and 401 Infantry Brigades commanders respectively, presented the report. They were joined by 402 IBde’s deputy commander Col. Cerilo C. Balaoro; 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) commander Lt. Col. Jeffry O. Villarosa; 29th IB commander Lt. Col. Isagani O. Criste; and 36th IB commander Lt. Col. Jezreel J. Diagmel.
The Army said the intensified military operations in the region have resulted in the killing of 32 NPA members, capture of 16, and the surrender of 3,425 members in 2019.
The total number of NPA who surrendered during the year include 268 regulars, 528 Militia ng Bayan, 184 members of armed propaganda teams, and 2,445 members of mass organizations in barangays.
The Army also reported that of the total number of regular, Militia ng Bayan, and armed propagandists who surrendered this year, 525 have already availed support from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government.
The government forces have also recovered 378 firearms during the year, 97 of which were discovered in various hideouts of the NPA, an armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
In the 97 discovered NPA hideouts, 64 anti-personnel mines were also seized and disabled, the accomplishment report said.
The Army said the number of the NPA in the region has declined in 2019 after the killing, capture, and surrender of some of its officers and members.
At present, the North Eastern Mindanao Revolutionary Committee (NEMRC), headed by Myrna Sularte alias “Emang”, has an estimated 316 manpower with 308 firearms while the North Central Mindanao Revolutionary Committee (NCMRC), under Dionesio Micabalo alias “Muling”, has 379 people with 369 firearms, the report said.
The non-violent activities of the NPA in the region also decreased considerably due to their constricted situation in limited spaces and areas as a result of the effective community interventions and the conduct of intensified military operations.
From 673 non-violent activities of the NPA in the first quarter, the number reduced to 436 the following quarter, 379 in the third quarter, and 326 in the fourth quarter this year.
The Army said the NPA’s non-violent actions include consolidation, extortion, mass works, meetings, visitations, recruitment, and training.
On the other hand, the communists’ violent activities in Caraga slightly increased from the first to the fourth quarter but the Army clarified that such activities were mostly aimed at unarmed members of Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGUs).
Two violent activities of the NPA were recorded during the first quarter, seven in the second quarter, three in the third quarter, and nine during the fourth quarter this year.
Violent activities include arson, harassment, murder, and attempted murder, ambush, and disarming, according to the report.
The Army also reported that two provinces, 16 municipalities, 169 barangays, nine Indigenous People (IP) communities, and one league of barangays have already declared the NPA as persona-non-grata this year.
Support for law enforcement
The Army in the region also conducted activities in support of law enforcement headed by the Philippine National Police (PNP).
In anti-illegal logging drives, the Army, together with the personnel of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in the area (DENR-13) and the PNP confiscated PHP592,424 worth of 43,210.14 board feet of illegal logs.
A total of 25 law enforcement operations in support of the PNP were also conducted during the year that resulted in the arrest of 29 individuals and the confiscation of 36 firearms.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088778
In an accomplishment report presented in a press conference at the 402nd Infantry Brigade (402 IBde) headquarters here on Saturday, the Army conducted 166 combat operations in 2019 that resulted in 122 engagements with the NPA.
Brig. Gen. Maurito L. Licudine and Col. Allan D. Hambala, 402 and 401 Infantry Brigades commanders respectively, presented the report. They were joined by 402 IBde’s deputy commander Col. Cerilo C. Balaoro; 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) commander Lt. Col. Jeffry O. Villarosa; 29th IB commander Lt. Col. Isagani O. Criste; and 36th IB commander Lt. Col. Jezreel J. Diagmel.
The Army said the intensified military operations in the region have resulted in the killing of 32 NPA members, capture of 16, and the surrender of 3,425 members in 2019.
The total number of NPA who surrendered during the year include 268 regulars, 528 Militia ng Bayan, 184 members of armed propaganda teams, and 2,445 members of mass organizations in barangays.
The Army also reported that of the total number of regular, Militia ng Bayan, and armed propagandists who surrendered this year, 525 have already availed support from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government.
The government forces have also recovered 378 firearms during the year, 97 of which were discovered in various hideouts of the NPA, an armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
In the 97 discovered NPA hideouts, 64 anti-personnel mines were also seized and disabled, the accomplishment report said.
The Army said the number of the NPA in the region has declined in 2019 after the killing, capture, and surrender of some of its officers and members.
At present, the North Eastern Mindanao Revolutionary Committee (NEMRC), headed by Myrna Sularte alias “Emang”, has an estimated 316 manpower with 308 firearms while the North Central Mindanao Revolutionary Committee (NCMRC), under Dionesio Micabalo alias “Muling”, has 379 people with 369 firearms, the report said.
The non-violent activities of the NPA in the region also decreased considerably due to their constricted situation in limited spaces and areas as a result of the effective community interventions and the conduct of intensified military operations.
From 673 non-violent activities of the NPA in the first quarter, the number reduced to 436 the following quarter, 379 in the third quarter, and 326 in the fourth quarter this year.
The Army said the NPA’s non-violent actions include consolidation, extortion, mass works, meetings, visitations, recruitment, and training.
On the other hand, the communists’ violent activities in Caraga slightly increased from the first to the fourth quarter but the Army clarified that such activities were mostly aimed at unarmed members of Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGUs).
Two violent activities of the NPA were recorded during the first quarter, seven in the second quarter, three in the third quarter, and nine during the fourth quarter this year.
Violent activities include arson, harassment, murder, and attempted murder, ambush, and disarming, according to the report.
The Army also reported that two provinces, 16 municipalities, 169 barangays, nine Indigenous People (IP) communities, and one league of barangays have already declared the NPA as persona-non-grata this year.
Support for law enforcement
The Army in the region also conducted activities in support of law enforcement headed by the Philippine National Police (PNP).
In anti-illegal logging drives, the Army, together with the personnel of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in the area (DENR-13) and the PNP confiscated PHP592,424 worth of 43,210.14 board feet of illegal logs.
A total of 25 law enforcement operations in support of the PNP were also conducted during the year that resulted in the arrest of 29 individuals and the confiscation of 36 firearms.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088778
234 new soldiers to serve in NorMin, Caraga
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15, 2019): 234 new soldiers to serve in NorMin, Caraga (By Nef Luczon)
CONGRATULATORY KISS. A newly inducted Army soldier is kissed and embraced by his significant other during the graduation ceremony for the Basic Military Training and Jungle Warfare Mountain Operations Course Saturday (Dec. 14, 2019). A total of 234 new soldiers participated in the ceremony held inside Camp Osito Bahian, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. (Photo courtesy of 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army)
CONGRATULATORY KISS. A newly inducted Army soldier is kissed and embraced by his significant other during the graduation ceremony for the Basic Military Training and Jungle Warfare Mountain Operations Course Saturday (Dec. 14, 2019). A total of 234 new soldiers participated in the ceremony held inside Camp Osito Bahian, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. (Photo courtesy of 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army)
A total of 234 recruits who have undergone the rigid Basic Military Training (BMT) and Jungle Warfare Mountain Operations Course (JWMOC) joined a joint graduation ceremony held at the 4th Division Training School (4DTS) in Camp Osito Bahian, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon Saturday.
The new government troops belong to the Candidate Soldier Course Class 608 and Class 609 of 2019 who have successfully undergone the 24-week training and passed the mandatory requirements for basic soldiery.
They will now serve the people and the government in the Northern Mindanao and Caraga Regions.
Each class had a total of 117 members, 88 percent of whom came from Northern Mindanao and Caraga while 12 percent came from the Ilocos, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, and Soccsksargen Regions.
One of the graduates was newly-minted Army Private Marvin T. Banglid, 23, who belongs to the Manobo indigenous peoples (IPs) group. Prior to graduating as a full-fledged soldier, he was a member of the Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) in his hometown of Loreto in Agusan del Norte.
“It is a dream come true, sir, I am a former CAFGU for five years and here I am now, a regular soldier in the Philippine Army. Despite all the hardships, I never gave up because I want to inspire the youth in our tribe," he told the Philippine News Agency.
"I am very much thankful to the government for their services to my tribe. I will repay it through my wholehearted and dedicated military service to the Filipino people," he said.
Meanwhile, Datu Efren Empinado, a tribal leader of the Higaonon IPs group from Barangay Banglay, Lagonglog town, Misamis Oriental, witnessed his son's graduation.
“My family and my tribe are very proud that my son was able to graduate and become a soldier. The effort of the government in reaching out to the indigenous people is very important," he said in the vernacular.
"We are very happy and we promise to help the government build a peaceful and progressive community," Empinado added.
Maj. Gen. Franco Nemesio M. Gacal, commander of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID), congratulated the graduates, saying that this will be the start of their military career.
“I want you to be prepared to assume different roles such as builders, peacemaker, farmer, teacher and more, because our modern role asks us to become reliable partners of the people in peace and development," he told the new soldiers.
“The government, Filipino people and your families expect a lot from you. Consider yourselves as instrument of change for the betterment of the communities in the region. Never fail the people who have invested their trust in you. Let this serve as a reminder for you to find the courage and discipline to do what is right and just," Gacal said.
The 4ID has observed that an increasing number of applicants showed interest in joining the Army by asking regarding the schedules for the next Armed Forces of the Philippines Service Aptitude Test (AFPSAT) in Mindanao.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088789
The new government troops belong to the Candidate Soldier Course Class 608 and Class 609 of 2019 who have successfully undergone the 24-week training and passed the mandatory requirements for basic soldiery.
They will now serve the people and the government in the Northern Mindanao and Caraga Regions.
Each class had a total of 117 members, 88 percent of whom came from Northern Mindanao and Caraga while 12 percent came from the Ilocos, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, and Soccsksargen Regions.
One of the graduates was newly-minted Army Private Marvin T. Banglid, 23, who belongs to the Manobo indigenous peoples (IPs) group. Prior to graduating as a full-fledged soldier, he was a member of the Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) in his hometown of Loreto in Agusan del Norte.
“It is a dream come true, sir, I am a former CAFGU for five years and here I am now, a regular soldier in the Philippine Army. Despite all the hardships, I never gave up because I want to inspire the youth in our tribe," he told the Philippine News Agency.
"I am very much thankful to the government for their services to my tribe. I will repay it through my wholehearted and dedicated military service to the Filipino people," he said.
Meanwhile, Datu Efren Empinado, a tribal leader of the Higaonon IPs group from Barangay Banglay, Lagonglog town, Misamis Oriental, witnessed his son's graduation.
“My family and my tribe are very proud that my son was able to graduate and become a soldier. The effort of the government in reaching out to the indigenous people is very important," he said in the vernacular.
"We are very happy and we promise to help the government build a peaceful and progressive community," Empinado added.
Maj. Gen. Franco Nemesio M. Gacal, commander of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID), congratulated the graduates, saying that this will be the start of their military career.
“I want you to be prepared to assume different roles such as builders, peacemaker, farmer, teacher and more, because our modern role asks us to become reliable partners of the people in peace and development," he told the new soldiers.
“The government, Filipino people and your families expect a lot from you. Consider yourselves as instrument of change for the betterment of the communities in the region. Never fail the people who have invested their trust in you. Let this serve as a reminder for you to find the courage and discipline to do what is right and just," Gacal said.
The 4ID has observed that an increasing number of applicants showed interest in joining the Army by asking regarding the schedules for the next Armed Forces of the Philippines Service Aptitude Test (AFPSAT) in Mindanao.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088789
Kin of victim in E. Samar NPA bomb attack cry for justice
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15, 2019): Kin of victim in E. Samar NPA bomb attack cry for justice (By Gerico Sabalza)
BOMBING VICTIMS. Passersby rescue tricycle passengers who are seriously wounded by an explosion perpetrated by the New People's Army in Libuton village in Borongan City, Eastern Samar Friday afternoon (Dec. 13, 2019). A junior police officer and an old woman were killed while four policemen and 12 civilians, including three minors, were injured in the incident. (Photo courtesy of Alexis Genelex Deloria)
BOMBING VICTIMS. Passersby rescue tricycle passengers who are seriously wounded by an explosion perpetrated by the New People's Army in Libuton village in Borongan City, Eastern Samar Friday afternoon (Dec. 13, 2019). A junior police officer and an old woman were killed while four policemen and 12 civilians, including three minors, were injured in the incident. (Photo courtesy of Alexis Genelex Deloria)
Family members of one of the victims of the New People’s Army’s (NPA) bomb attack in Eastern Samar last Friday are seeking for justice as they ask the government to put an end to decades-old insurgency in the country.
Dario Rapada, 44, told the Philippine News Agency on Saturday that the rebel group should stop conducting treacherous attacks that have killed and wounded civilians, including the elderly and children.
The father of three is the husband of Mary Grace Rapada, 39, who suffered head fractures when NPA rebels detonated an improvised explosive device along a section of the primary highway in Libuton village, Borongan City at about 3 p.m.
Mary Grace was heading home to San Julian town from the city onboard a tricycle when rebels detonated the explosive intended for a passing police patrol car. She is one of the civilians wounded in the attack and is now confined at the Eastern Visayas Medical Center in Tacloban City.
“We don’t really understand what they’re fighting for, but we are suffering from their attack against the government,” said Dario, a gasoline station cashier in Borongan City, the capital of Eastern Samar province.
He initially heard the news about the explosion but it was already 5 p.m. when he learned that his wife was one of those injured and rushed to the provincial hospital.
The mother of Mary Grace, Myrna Salameda, 64, also appealed to the government to help all those who were killed and injured to attain justice.
“What do they want from us? We are innocent yet we suffered!” Salameda said.
A junior police officer and an old woman were killed while four other policemen and 12 civilians, including three minors, were injured during the attack.
The policemen, who were from the 1st Eastern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company based in Dolores town, were on board a patrol car heading to Borongan City while the civilians were riding a van and two tricycles.
Killed were Patrolman Mark Jerome Rama and Agripena Traboco, 69, a resident of San Julian town. Injured were Patrolmen Angelito Loterte, Rick Capoquian Jr., Rey Sobrepenia, and Kevin Operario.
Some of the other wounded civilians were identified as Jacob Chicano, 35; Marrian Esposa, 20; Carlito Esposa, 65; Mark Balayanto Cantos, 18; Florence Traboco, 39; Ma. Lilisania Obina 34; and Hector Lemer Obina, 35.
Three hurt minors are aged one, six, and 13 years old.
The military has repeatedly condemned the NPA for using explosives in their attacks, showing disrespect for basic human rights.
The communist group also disregards the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law.
The NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088779
Dario Rapada, 44, told the Philippine News Agency on Saturday that the rebel group should stop conducting treacherous attacks that have killed and wounded civilians, including the elderly and children.
The father of three is the husband of Mary Grace Rapada, 39, who suffered head fractures when NPA rebels detonated an improvised explosive device along a section of the primary highway in Libuton village, Borongan City at about 3 p.m.
Mary Grace was heading home to San Julian town from the city onboard a tricycle when rebels detonated the explosive intended for a passing police patrol car. She is one of the civilians wounded in the attack and is now confined at the Eastern Visayas Medical Center in Tacloban City.
“We don’t really understand what they’re fighting for, but we are suffering from their attack against the government,” said Dario, a gasoline station cashier in Borongan City, the capital of Eastern Samar province.
He initially heard the news about the explosion but it was already 5 p.m. when he learned that his wife was one of those injured and rushed to the provincial hospital.
The mother of Mary Grace, Myrna Salameda, 64, also appealed to the government to help all those who were killed and injured to attain justice.
“What do they want from us? We are innocent yet we suffered!” Salameda said.
A junior police officer and an old woman were killed while four other policemen and 12 civilians, including three minors, were injured during the attack.
The policemen, who were from the 1st Eastern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company based in Dolores town, were on board a patrol car heading to Borongan City while the civilians were riding a van and two tricycles.
Killed were Patrolman Mark Jerome Rama and Agripena Traboco, 69, a resident of San Julian town. Injured were Patrolmen Angelito Loterte, Rick Capoquian Jr., Rey Sobrepenia, and Kevin Operario.
Some of the other wounded civilians were identified as Jacob Chicano, 35; Marrian Esposa, 20; Carlito Esposa, 65; Mark Balayanto Cantos, 18; Florence Traboco, 39; Ma. Lilisania Obina 34; and Hector Lemer Obina, 35.
Three hurt minors are aged one, six, and 13 years old.
The military has repeatedly condemned the NPA for using explosives in their attacks, showing disrespect for basic human rights.
The communist group also disregards the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law.
The NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088779
Soldier killed, 2 hurt in clash with NPA rebels in Isabela
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15, 2019): Soldier killed, 2 hurt in clash with NPA rebels in Isabela (Villamor Visaya, Jr.)
CAMP MELCHOR DELA CRUZ, Gamu, Isabela -- An Army corporal was killed and two of his comrades were hurt when they engaged a group of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in a firefight in the mountainous barangay of Villa Rey, Echague town, Isabela province on Saturday afternoon.
Maj. Noriel Tayaban, Army’s 5th Infantry Division spokesperson, identified the fatality as Cpl. Adonis Galera of Pinukpuk, Kalinga while those injured were Cpl. Harold Ganagan of Tinglayan, Kalinga and Cpl. Fajardo Manuel of Paracelis, Mountain Province.
Tayaban said soldiers belonging to the 86th Infantry Battalion reportedly received information from villagers that suspected communist rebels were allegedly trying to extort for the underground movement’s anniversary on December 26.
As the troops were approaching the area, the rebels fired at the soldiers, hitting Galera who managed to fire back and consumed his two magazines, apparently hitting some rebels.
Galera also fought during the Marawi siege and was a Gold Cross awardee while under the Army's Scout Ranger prior to his stint with the 86th Infantry Battalion in Isabela.
Meanwhile, Ganagan and Manuel are still receiving treatment at a private hospital in Santiago City.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088795
Maj. Noriel Tayaban, Army’s 5th Infantry Division spokesperson, identified the fatality as Cpl. Adonis Galera of Pinukpuk, Kalinga while those injured were Cpl. Harold Ganagan of Tinglayan, Kalinga and Cpl. Fajardo Manuel of Paracelis, Mountain Province.
Tayaban said soldiers belonging to the 86th Infantry Battalion reportedly received information from villagers that suspected communist rebels were allegedly trying to extort for the underground movement’s anniversary on December 26.
As the troops were approaching the area, the rebels fired at the soldiers, hitting Galera who managed to fire back and consumed his two magazines, apparently hitting some rebels.
Galera also fought during the Marawi siege and was a Gold Cross awardee while under the Army's Scout Ranger prior to his stint with the 86th Infantry Battalion in Isabela.
Meanwhile, Ganagan and Manuel are still receiving treatment at a private hospital in Santiago City.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088795
Village chief, companion gunned down in Bayawan City
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15, 2019): Village chief, companion gunned down in Bayawan City (By Mary Judaline Partlow)
The village chief of Kalamtukan in Bayawan City, Negros Oriental and one of his companions were shot dead by suspects believed known to them in that Saturday night.
A report from the Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office (NOPPO) on Sunday identified the slain victims as barangay chairman Johnny Semillano Condez, 47, and Danny Marata Jr.
Condez, Marata Jr., and the latter's father, Danny Sr. were on board a rescue vehicle with two others riding their motorcycles and headed towards Sitio Candollon in Barangay Kalamtukan in search of a wireless network signal at around 7:30 p.m. Saturday when they were shot at, the NOPPO report said.
Initial police investigation revealed that upon reaching the place that had a strong cellular network signal, the barangay chairman disembarked from the vehicle.
Witnesses said they then heard bursts of gunfire that hit Condez and Maratas.
Marata Sr. and Edilito S. Magbanua, one of their other companions, fled towards a nearby sugarcane field for their safety.
Alexis Condez, the son of the barangay captain, arrived later in the area and brought the dead body of his father and that of Marata Jr. to the house of his uncle, Nono Condez in Sitio Tower in Barangay Kalamtukan.
Police Chief M/Sgt. Archer Birjes of the Bayawan City Police Station found out that the victims also sustained hack wounds.
Police recovered from the crime scene 15 fired cartridge cases of 5.56 caliber firearm, two misfired rounds for a 12-gauge shotgun, one fired cartridge case for a 12-gauge shotgun, four fired cartridge cases for .45-caliber handgun, three fired cartridge cases for a 9mm Luger firearm, one magazine for an M16 rifle with 30 rounds of live ammunition, and one misfired round of caliber .45.
The motive for the killings has not yet been determined even as provincial police director, Col. Julian Entoma appealed to the people in Bayawan City to cooperate with the police investigation as he warned that whoever were responsible for the crime shall face the full force of the law.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088799
A report from the Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office (NOPPO) on Sunday identified the slain victims as barangay chairman Johnny Semillano Condez, 47, and Danny Marata Jr.
Condez, Marata Jr., and the latter's father, Danny Sr. were on board a rescue vehicle with two others riding their motorcycles and headed towards Sitio Candollon in Barangay Kalamtukan in search of a wireless network signal at around 7:30 p.m. Saturday when they were shot at, the NOPPO report said.
Initial police investigation revealed that upon reaching the place that had a strong cellular network signal, the barangay chairman disembarked from the vehicle.
Witnesses said they then heard bursts of gunfire that hit Condez and Maratas.
Marata Sr. and Edilito S. Magbanua, one of their other companions, fled towards a nearby sugarcane field for their safety.
Alexis Condez, the son of the barangay captain, arrived later in the area and brought the dead body of his father and that of Marata Jr. to the house of his uncle, Nono Condez in Sitio Tower in Barangay Kalamtukan.
Police Chief M/Sgt. Archer Birjes of the Bayawan City Police Station found out that the victims also sustained hack wounds.
Police recovered from the crime scene 15 fired cartridge cases of 5.56 caliber firearm, two misfired rounds for a 12-gauge shotgun, one fired cartridge case for a 12-gauge shotgun, four fired cartridge cases for .45-caliber handgun, three fired cartridge cases for a 9mm Luger firearm, one magazine for an M16 rifle with 30 rounds of live ammunition, and one misfired round of caliber .45.
The motive for the killings has not yet been determined even as provincial police director, Col. Julian Entoma appealed to the people in Bayawan City to cooperate with the police investigation as he warned that whoever were responsible for the crime shall face the full force of the law.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088799
Andanar denounces NPA attack in Eastern Samar
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15, 2019): Andanar denounces NPA attack in Eastern Samar (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)
MANILA -- Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar on Saturday denounced the treacherous attack allegedly staged by members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Borongan City, Eastern Samar that killed two people and wounded several others.
The PCOO chief was saddened that the “senseless” act of the NPA rebels came during the Yuletide season.
“We vehemently condemn the NPA attack in Barangay Libuton, which left two dead and wounded several individuals, including three children and policemen,” Andanar said in a statement.
“The loss of life and the violence experienced by the victims are reprehensible. We can only imagine the grief of their loved ones who would have spent the Christmas season with them in good health, had it not been for the senseless act of these terrorists. Our thoughts go out to all of you in this difficult time.”
A police report said suspected communist insurgents on Friday afternoon detonated an improvised explosive device on the roadside in Libutan village in Borongan City, Eastern Samar, hitting a police patrol car passing the area.
Reports said a police officer and a 69-year-old woman were killed, while five other policemen and 12 civilians, including three minors, were hurt. Police have yet to release the identities of the victims.
Andanar, nevertheless, lauded those who showed selfless acts to help those who sustained injuries during the explosion. “We commend the police, the emergency personnel, and the civilians who helped and protected those that they could. Their courage and selflessness are admirable,” he said.
The attack came just four days after President Rodrigo Duterte admitted that he is considering communist rebels as his “friends.”
On December 7, the President announced that Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, former state chief peace negotiator, would hold a dialogue with self-exiled communist founder Jose Maria Sison in The Netherlands for the possible revival of peace talks between the national government and the Communist Party of the Philippines’ (CPP) political arm, the National Democratic Front (NDF).
The peace negotiations were formally scrapped through the issuance of Proclamation 360 on Nov. 23, 2017, due to ceaseless attacks launched by NPA rebels against government troops and civilians.
On Dec. 5, 2017, the President signed Proclamation 375, branding the CPP and its armed wing, the NPA, as terror groups because of their supposed actions “against the Filipino people, against humanity, and against the law of nations.”
Apart from the Philippines, the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand have listed the CPP-NPA as a terror organization.
Andanar, who concurrently serves as communication chief of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), vowed to convey the government’s resolve to end the armed struggle by communicating and engaging with local officials and civil society groups.
“Rest assured, this administration will continue its fight against terrorism and insurgency for the safety and security of all Filipinos, and in order to achieve true and lasting peace for the country,” he said.
The NTF-ELCAC, created through Executive Order 70 signed by Duterte on Dec. 4, 2018, is mandated to implement the whole-of-nation approach that seeks to attain “inclusive and sustainable peace.”
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088747
MANILA -- Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar on Saturday denounced the treacherous attack allegedly staged by members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Borongan City, Eastern Samar that killed two people and wounded several others.
The PCOO chief was saddened that the “senseless” act of the NPA rebels came during the Yuletide season.
“We vehemently condemn the NPA attack in Barangay Libuton, which left two dead and wounded several individuals, including three children and policemen,” Andanar said in a statement.
“The loss of life and the violence experienced by the victims are reprehensible. We can only imagine the grief of their loved ones who would have spent the Christmas season with them in good health, had it not been for the senseless act of these terrorists. Our thoughts go out to all of you in this difficult time.”
A police report said suspected communist insurgents on Friday afternoon detonated an improvised explosive device on the roadside in Libutan village in Borongan City, Eastern Samar, hitting a police patrol car passing the area.
Reports said a police officer and a 69-year-old woman were killed, while five other policemen and 12 civilians, including three minors, were hurt. Police have yet to release the identities of the victims.
Andanar, nevertheless, lauded those who showed selfless acts to help those who sustained injuries during the explosion. “We commend the police, the emergency personnel, and the civilians who helped and protected those that they could. Their courage and selflessness are admirable,” he said.
The attack came just four days after President Rodrigo Duterte admitted that he is considering communist rebels as his “friends.”
On December 7, the President announced that Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, former state chief peace negotiator, would hold a dialogue with self-exiled communist founder Jose Maria Sison in The Netherlands for the possible revival of peace talks between the national government and the Communist Party of the Philippines’ (CPP) political arm, the National Democratic Front (NDF).
The peace negotiations were formally scrapped through the issuance of Proclamation 360 on Nov. 23, 2017, due to ceaseless attacks launched by NPA rebels against government troops and civilians.
On Dec. 5, 2017, the President signed Proclamation 375, branding the CPP and its armed wing, the NPA, as terror groups because of their supposed actions “against the Filipino people, against humanity, and against the law of nations.”
Apart from the Philippines, the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand have listed the CPP-NPA as a terror organization.
Andanar, who concurrently serves as communication chief of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), vowed to convey the government’s resolve to end the armed struggle by communicating and engaging with local officials and civil society groups.
“Rest assured, this administration will continue its fight against terrorism and insurgency for the safety and security of all Filipinos, and in order to achieve true and lasting peace for the country,” he said.
The NTF-ELCAC, created through Executive Order 70 signed by Duterte on Dec. 4, 2018, is mandated to implement the whole-of-nation approach that seeks to attain “inclusive and sustainable peace.”
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088747
Gov't to ‘win game’ vs. communism: Andanar
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15, 2019): Gov't to ‘win game’ vs. communism: Andanar
(By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)
PEACE AND ORDER. Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar, during a 4th quarterly meeting in Misamis Oriental, held on Friday (Dec. 13), calls on Northern Mindanao Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict to help the government fight communism. Andanar believes that the national government is close to its objective to maintain peace and order in the country. (Photo from PCOO)
(By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)
PEACE AND ORDER. Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar, during a 4th quarterly meeting in Misamis Oriental, held on Friday (Dec. 13), calls on Northern Mindanao Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict to help the government fight communism. Andanar believes that the national government is close to its objective to maintain peace and order in the country. (Photo from PCOO)
Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar has expressed confidence that President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration will “win the game” in addressing the decades-long communism in the country.
During the 4th quarterly meeting of the Northern Mindanao Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) in Misamis Oriental on Friday, Andanar said the Duterte government has made significant strides since the signing of Executive Order (EO) 70 that institutionalizes the whole-of-nation approach to attain “inclusive and sustainable peace” nationwide.
EO 70, signed by Duterte on Dec. 4, 2018, creates the National Task Force (NTF) ELCAC and directs local peace bodies to hold negotiations with communist rebels in their respective areas.
“We have come a long way since the issuance of EO 70 in December of last year. We continue to work together on how best this can operationalize,” said Andanar, who also leads the NTF-ELCAC’s communications team.
“I know this is not an easy task but together as one, through our convergent action and in partnership with the communities, I believe that we can win this game,” he added.
The NTF-ELCAC has so far organized 17 regional task forces led by the Cabinet Officers for Regional Development Security (CORDS), while the local chief executives have led the provincial, municipal or city, and village task forces, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said in November.
Serving as CORDS in Northern Mindanao, Andanar lauded the RTF-ELCAC in the area for their helping the national government in putting an end to communism in the country.
“It is with great pride go lead a very proactive and committed regional and local stakeholders in addressing the issues and challenges in attaining sustainable peace and inclusive development,” he said.
Maj. Gen. Franco Nemesio Gacal, Northern Mindanao RTF-ELCAC technical working group chairperson and 4th Infantry Division commanding officer, noted that the implementation of programs and projects would transform conflict-affected areas to “conflict resilient communities.”
Andanar hoped that stakeholders would participate in the government’s resolve to maintain peace and order all throughout the country.
"I enjoin all the regional and local partners that as we move forward, let us remain steadfast in pushing forward the peace and development priorities of Northern Mindanao,” he said.
The anti-insurgency group continues to pursue efforts to accomplish target goals for this year while gearing up the implementation of more programs and projects for peace and development in 2020.
Earlier this month, Duterte expressed willingness to resume the national government’s stalled peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).
Despite this, suspected members of the CPP’s armed component, the New People’s Army (NPA) allegedly detonated an improvised explosive device in Borongan City, Eastern Samar on Friday afternoon, killing a police officer and a 69-year-old woman and wounding several others.
The CPP-NPA is tagged as a terror group by the Philippines, the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088758
During the 4th quarterly meeting of the Northern Mindanao Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) in Misamis Oriental on Friday, Andanar said the Duterte government has made significant strides since the signing of Executive Order (EO) 70 that institutionalizes the whole-of-nation approach to attain “inclusive and sustainable peace” nationwide.
EO 70, signed by Duterte on Dec. 4, 2018, creates the National Task Force (NTF) ELCAC and directs local peace bodies to hold negotiations with communist rebels in their respective areas.
“We have come a long way since the issuance of EO 70 in December of last year. We continue to work together on how best this can operationalize,” said Andanar, who also leads the NTF-ELCAC’s communications team.
“I know this is not an easy task but together as one, through our convergent action and in partnership with the communities, I believe that we can win this game,” he added.
The NTF-ELCAC has so far organized 17 regional task forces led by the Cabinet Officers for Regional Development Security (CORDS), while the local chief executives have led the provincial, municipal or city, and village task forces, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said in November.
Serving as CORDS in Northern Mindanao, Andanar lauded the RTF-ELCAC in the area for their helping the national government in putting an end to communism in the country.
“It is with great pride go lead a very proactive and committed regional and local stakeholders in addressing the issues and challenges in attaining sustainable peace and inclusive development,” he said.
Maj. Gen. Franco Nemesio Gacal, Northern Mindanao RTF-ELCAC technical working group chairperson and 4th Infantry Division commanding officer, noted that the implementation of programs and projects would transform conflict-affected areas to “conflict resilient communities.”
Andanar hoped that stakeholders would participate in the government’s resolve to maintain peace and order all throughout the country.
"I enjoin all the regional and local partners that as we move forward, let us remain steadfast in pushing forward the peace and development priorities of Northern Mindanao,” he said.
The anti-insurgency group continues to pursue efforts to accomplish target goals for this year while gearing up the implementation of more programs and projects for peace and development in 2020.
Earlier this month, Duterte expressed willingness to resume the national government’s stalled peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).
Despite this, suspected members of the CPP’s armed component, the New People’s Army (NPA) allegedly detonated an improvised explosive device in Borongan City, Eastern Samar on Friday afternoon, killing a police officer and a 69-year-old woman and wounding several others.
The CPP-NPA is tagged as a terror group by the Philippines, the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088758
Misuari named special economic envoy to Islamic body
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15, 2019): Misuari named special economic envoy to Islamic body (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)
Moro National Liberation Front founding chair Nur Misuari
Moro National Liberation Front founding chair Nur Misuari
President Rodrigo Duterte has tapped Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chair Nur Misuari as the country’s special economic envoy to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), a 57-man inter-government organization that serves as the collective voice of the Muslim communities in the world.
Misuari’s appointment was announced when Duterte presided over the first meeting of the newly-established government-MNLF Peace Coordinating Committee at the Matina Enclaves in Davao City, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP) said in a statement.
“In order to accelerate the implementation of the peace agreements and to develop further the support of the Islamic countries, President Duterte announced the appointment of Misuari as Special Economic Envoy on Islamic Affairs to the OIC,” the OPAPP said.
Duterte and Misuari have met several times this year to improve the partnership between the national government and the MNLF in achieving sustainable peace in Mindanao.
During a meeting at Malacañan on Nov. 11, Duterte and Misuari both agreed to create a peace coordinating committee between the two parties which will serve as a platform to strengthen the peace process in the besieged region.
Duterte, as quoted by the OPAPP, believed in Misuari’s competence to bolster the Philippines’ relations with other Islamic nations.
“Brother Nur has occupied several positions in the past. Considered it as an honor for me to delegate you as a special envoy of the government so that you can foster further lasting relationships with the leaders of the Islamic countries,” the President told Misuari during the meeting in Davao City on Friday.
“Most of the leaders of the OIC are friends of Nur. It’s good that Allah has given you a longer life to see these things because I do not think that there is other Moro personality that could command the respect and trust of the OIC but only you. You are the only one who can bring the case to the OIC and get the results,” he added.
Misuari, in turn, thanked the President for his new appointment.
Following his appointment, The MNLF leader is poised to attend the annual meeting of the Parliamentary Union of the OIC member-states in Burkina Faso in Western Africa from Jan. 21 to 23 next year, the OPAPP announced.
“This developed as the leadership of the OIC is set to visit the Philippines in February 2020,” it said.
“The involvement of the influential OIC will play a crucial role in pushing forward the implementation of the peace agreements between the government and the Moro fronts. For years, the OIC has been actively involved in the Bangsamoro Coordinating Forum to harmonize all the Moro fronts in the Philippines and integrate all the development plans to foster long-lasting and enduring peace in Mindanao,” it added.
Full implementation of the tripartite review process sought
The President has repeatedly promised that all the Bangsamoro people will receive “fair” treatment from him, as he wants to ensure that “no one will be left behind in the peace process.”
He has also pledged to implement all the signed peace agreement with the Moro fronts under his watch.
During the first meeting of the government-MNLF peace coordinating panel, the two parties agreed to pursue the implementation of the remaining commitments contained in the Tripartite Review Process (TRP) of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement.
“At least before I step down, I want to see an enduring peace in Mindanao,” the President told the members of the peace coordinating committee.
Apart from Misuari, the meeting was attended by members of the MNLF peace coordinating panel, including lawyers Joel Obar, Yaser Lumbos, Mohammad Ali Guro, Alongan Dimacaling, and Dr. Udtog Kawit. Lawyer Ma. Victoria P. Lim-Florido was represented by lawyer Arthur Lim.
Also present at the meeting were government peace coordinating committee chair, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr., and coordinating committee members Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, Defense Undersecretary Cesar Yano, Presidential Adviser on Military Affairs Undersecretary Arthur Tabaquero, Bangsamoro Transition Authority member Nabil Tan, and retired Brigadier General Buenaventura Pascual.
Other Philippine officials who joined the conference were Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr., Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año, Solicitor General Jose Calida, Undersecretary Ernesto Abella, and Prosecutor Rassendell Rex Gingoyon.
Former executive secretaries Eduardo Ermita and Ruben Torres, who played a major role during the crafting of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement were also at the meeting to serve as advisers to the government’s coordinating committee. The team was also joined by Senator Christopher Lawrence Go.
The TRP, which was jointly carried out by the PIC, the Philippine Government, and MNLF, was concluded in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia in January 2016.
The results of the TRP of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement showed that two commitments have yet to be implemented.
These are the establishment of the Bangsamoro Development Assistance Fund and the and the creation of the Tripartite Implementation Monitoring Committee, the OPAPP said.
Federal gov’t still eyed
The OPAPP noted that both parties have also agreed to realize their vision of the government’s shift to a federal set-up.
“Both President Duterte and Misuari have vowed to work closely to change the current structure of the government into federal,” it said.
Duterte assured Misuari and the MNLF leaders that he is not abandoning his promise to push for a federal state.
He also asked for Misuari’s help to convince Congress to pass a measure that will change the current unitary form to a federal type of government.
“Help me also convince the Moro members of Congress to work on it fast vis-à-vis the effort on the federal set up,” the President said as he sought Misuari’s help.
“Our allies in Congress have assured me that they will work on it because that is part of my program. In the [presidential] campaign, I said drugs, corruption, and the federal system. I have to comply,” he added.
MNLF to help gov’t stop terrorism
Misuari said he and his group would help the government in its efforts to rid Mindanao of threats from terror groups, including the Abu Sayyaf Group that is actively operating in Sulu, the MNLF leader’s bailiwick.
“There is no place for them to go…We can assure the President that the MNLF will fully support the resolution of this problem. Try us on how effective we are,” Misuari vowed.
In recent years, the government has been seeking Misuari’s help to free kidnapped victims that are being brought to Sulu.
Galvez said the military and the police can establish a “close coordination” with MNLF forces on the ground, in a bid to catch the terror groups.
“There will be security coordination with MNLF forces to persuade the Abu-Sayyaf members to return to the mainstream society and to eradicate the problem of terrorism and kidnapping incidents, particularly in Sulu,” he said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088760
Misuari’s appointment was announced when Duterte presided over the first meeting of the newly-established government-MNLF Peace Coordinating Committee at the Matina Enclaves in Davao City, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP) said in a statement.
“In order to accelerate the implementation of the peace agreements and to develop further the support of the Islamic countries, President Duterte announced the appointment of Misuari as Special Economic Envoy on Islamic Affairs to the OIC,” the OPAPP said.
Duterte and Misuari have met several times this year to improve the partnership between the national government and the MNLF in achieving sustainable peace in Mindanao.
During a meeting at Malacañan on Nov. 11, Duterte and Misuari both agreed to create a peace coordinating committee between the two parties which will serve as a platform to strengthen the peace process in the besieged region.
Duterte, as quoted by the OPAPP, believed in Misuari’s competence to bolster the Philippines’ relations with other Islamic nations.
“Brother Nur has occupied several positions in the past. Considered it as an honor for me to delegate you as a special envoy of the government so that you can foster further lasting relationships with the leaders of the Islamic countries,” the President told Misuari during the meeting in Davao City on Friday.
“Most of the leaders of the OIC are friends of Nur. It’s good that Allah has given you a longer life to see these things because I do not think that there is other Moro personality that could command the respect and trust of the OIC but only you. You are the only one who can bring the case to the OIC and get the results,” he added.
Misuari, in turn, thanked the President for his new appointment.
Following his appointment, The MNLF leader is poised to attend the annual meeting of the Parliamentary Union of the OIC member-states in Burkina Faso in Western Africa from Jan. 21 to 23 next year, the OPAPP announced.
“This developed as the leadership of the OIC is set to visit the Philippines in February 2020,” it said.
“The involvement of the influential OIC will play a crucial role in pushing forward the implementation of the peace agreements between the government and the Moro fronts. For years, the OIC has been actively involved in the Bangsamoro Coordinating Forum to harmonize all the Moro fronts in the Philippines and integrate all the development plans to foster long-lasting and enduring peace in Mindanao,” it added.
Full implementation of the tripartite review process sought
The President has repeatedly promised that all the Bangsamoro people will receive “fair” treatment from him, as he wants to ensure that “no one will be left behind in the peace process.”
He has also pledged to implement all the signed peace agreement with the Moro fronts under his watch.
During the first meeting of the government-MNLF peace coordinating panel, the two parties agreed to pursue the implementation of the remaining commitments contained in the Tripartite Review Process (TRP) of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement.
“At least before I step down, I want to see an enduring peace in Mindanao,” the President told the members of the peace coordinating committee.
Apart from Misuari, the meeting was attended by members of the MNLF peace coordinating panel, including lawyers Joel Obar, Yaser Lumbos, Mohammad Ali Guro, Alongan Dimacaling, and Dr. Udtog Kawit. Lawyer Ma. Victoria P. Lim-Florido was represented by lawyer Arthur Lim.
Also present at the meeting were government peace coordinating committee chair, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr., and coordinating committee members Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, Defense Undersecretary Cesar Yano, Presidential Adviser on Military Affairs Undersecretary Arthur Tabaquero, Bangsamoro Transition Authority member Nabil Tan, and retired Brigadier General Buenaventura Pascual.
Other Philippine officials who joined the conference were Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr., Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año, Solicitor General Jose Calida, Undersecretary Ernesto Abella, and Prosecutor Rassendell Rex Gingoyon.
Former executive secretaries Eduardo Ermita and Ruben Torres, who played a major role during the crafting of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement were also at the meeting to serve as advisers to the government’s coordinating committee. The team was also joined by Senator Christopher Lawrence Go.
The TRP, which was jointly carried out by the PIC, the Philippine Government, and MNLF, was concluded in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia in January 2016.
The results of the TRP of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement showed that two commitments have yet to be implemented.
These are the establishment of the Bangsamoro Development Assistance Fund and the and the creation of the Tripartite Implementation Monitoring Committee, the OPAPP said.
Federal gov’t still eyed
The OPAPP noted that both parties have also agreed to realize their vision of the government’s shift to a federal set-up.
“Both President Duterte and Misuari have vowed to work closely to change the current structure of the government into federal,” it said.
Duterte assured Misuari and the MNLF leaders that he is not abandoning his promise to push for a federal state.
He also asked for Misuari’s help to convince Congress to pass a measure that will change the current unitary form to a federal type of government.
“Help me also convince the Moro members of Congress to work on it fast vis-à-vis the effort on the federal set up,” the President said as he sought Misuari’s help.
“Our allies in Congress have assured me that they will work on it because that is part of my program. In the [presidential] campaign, I said drugs, corruption, and the federal system. I have to comply,” he added.
MNLF to help gov’t stop terrorism
Misuari said he and his group would help the government in its efforts to rid Mindanao of threats from terror groups, including the Abu Sayyaf Group that is actively operating in Sulu, the MNLF leader’s bailiwick.
“There is no place for them to go…We can assure the President that the MNLF will fully support the resolution of this problem. Try us on how effective we are,” Misuari vowed.
In recent years, the government has been seeking Misuari’s help to free kidnapped victims that are being brought to Sulu.
Galvez said the military and the police can establish a “close coordination” with MNLF forces on the ground, in a bid to catch the terror groups.
“There will be security coordination with MNLF forces to persuade the Abu-Sayyaf members to return to the mainstream society and to eradicate the problem of terrorism and kidnapping incidents, particularly in Sulu,” he said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088760
Duterte hails PH troops bravery in fight vs. Abu Sayyaf
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15, 2019) :Duterte hails PH troops bravery in fight vs. Abu Sayyaf (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)
WOUNDED TROOPS HAILED. President Rodrigo Duterte salutes one of the wounded soldiers he visited at the Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital in Jolo, Sulu Saturday (Dec. 14, 2019). Duterte hailed the wounded soldiers and policemen for their bravery to fight the lawless Abu Sayyaf Group bandits. (Presidential photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.)
WOUNDED TROOPS HAILED. President Rodrigo Duterte salutes one of the wounded soldiers he visited at the Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital in Jolo, Sulu Saturday (Dec. 14, 2019). Duterte hailed the wounded soldiers and policemen for their bravery to fight the lawless Abu Sayyaf Group bandits. (Presidential photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.)
President Rodrigo Duterte has commended the wounded soldiers and policemen for their bravery to secure the country against the lawless acts perpetrated by Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), Malacañang said on Sunday.
Duterte honored the 10 military personnel and three police officers who recently sustained injuries in separate clashes with Abu Sayyaf bandits in Patikul Sulu by bestowing the Kampilan medal on them, the Palace said in a press statement.
The award was given to the recuperating troops during the President’s visit to Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital in Jolo, Sulu on Saturday.
“As your Commander-in-Chief, I move forward with you as we advance the common good and promote the security of our nation,” the President was quoted as saying.
“We thank you for risking your lives to protect us from elements that threaten the security of our country,” he added.
Duterte honored the 10 military personnel and three police officers who recently sustained injuries in separate clashes with Abu Sayyaf bandits in Patikul Sulu by bestowing the Kampilan medal on them, the Palace said in a press statement.
The award was given to the recuperating troops during the President’s visit to Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital in Jolo, Sulu on Saturday.
“As your Commander-in-Chief, I move forward with you as we advance the common good and promote the security of our nation,” the President was quoted as saying.
“We thank you for risking your lives to protect us from elements that threaten the security of our country,” he added.
President Rodrigo Duterte gives his jacket to one of the wounded soldiers he visited at the Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital in Jolo, Sulu Saturday (Dec. 14, 2019). (Presidential photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.)
Recipients of Kampilan medal are 1Lt. Vergara Geronimo, Sgt. Vicente Calvin Belino Jr., Corporals Ariel Gormonit and Cornelio Olandag; Privates First Class Albert Aras, Jezzer Ea, Jay-Arr Redula, Francis Ybañez, John Carlo Casintahan, and Glenn Acayan; Police Senior M/Sgt. Adil Salamat; Police Chief M/Sgt. Abdulmuidz Marajani; and Police Cpl. Halkim Ibno.
The Order of Lapu-Lapu, Rank of Kampilan, is awarded to an individual, who was seriously wounded or suffered great loss of property, as a result of his participation in activity pursuant to a campaign or advocacy of the President.
The soldiers and policemen were wounded during the December 4 and 7 armed encounters with members of Abu Sayyaf group in Patikul, Sulu.
Salamat, Marajani, Ibno, and a militiaman were wounded in an ambush staged by the ASG rebels in the Buhanginan village in Patikul, Sulu on December 4.
On Dec. 7, or just three days after the incident, the 10 soldiers were injured during a 30-minute clash with Abu Sayyaf members at Sitio Tambang in Kabbon Takas village of Patikul town.
Malacañang said the Commander-in-Chief thanked the members of 11th Infantry Division (11ID) stationed at Camp Teodulfo Bautista for their efforts and sacrifices to serve and protect the country against the Islamist militants.
“To our brave soldiers who are with us today, you are here because you have answered the call to serve your nation by ensuring peaceful and safe communities for all,” Duterte said.
The President likewise praised the accomplishments of the Alakdan Division in its fight against the ASG rebels in recent months, the Palace said.
Duterte acknowledged the division’s “extraordinary” determination, as well as its “fighting spirit,” to carry on with its mission which eventually led to its success in crushing the militant group.
The President believed that terrorists and all those who are considered threats to the country’s security will get defeated, considering the 11ID’s continued support and commitment.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088786
Recipients of Kampilan medal are 1Lt. Vergara Geronimo, Sgt. Vicente Calvin Belino Jr., Corporals Ariel Gormonit and Cornelio Olandag; Privates First Class Albert Aras, Jezzer Ea, Jay-Arr Redula, Francis Ybañez, John Carlo Casintahan, and Glenn Acayan; Police Senior M/Sgt. Adil Salamat; Police Chief M/Sgt. Abdulmuidz Marajani; and Police Cpl. Halkim Ibno.
The Order of Lapu-Lapu, Rank of Kampilan, is awarded to an individual, who was seriously wounded or suffered great loss of property, as a result of his participation in activity pursuant to a campaign or advocacy of the President.
The soldiers and policemen were wounded during the December 4 and 7 armed encounters with members of Abu Sayyaf group in Patikul, Sulu.
Salamat, Marajani, Ibno, and a militiaman were wounded in an ambush staged by the ASG rebels in the Buhanginan village in Patikul, Sulu on December 4.
On Dec. 7, or just three days after the incident, the 10 soldiers were injured during a 30-minute clash with Abu Sayyaf members at Sitio Tambang in Kabbon Takas village of Patikul town.
Malacañang said the Commander-in-Chief thanked the members of 11th Infantry Division (11ID) stationed at Camp Teodulfo Bautista for their efforts and sacrifices to serve and protect the country against the Islamist militants.
“To our brave soldiers who are with us today, you are here because you have answered the call to serve your nation by ensuring peaceful and safe communities for all,” Duterte said.
The President likewise praised the accomplishments of the Alakdan Division in its fight against the ASG rebels in recent months, the Palace said.
Duterte acknowledged the division’s “extraordinary” determination, as well as its “fighting spirit,” to carry on with its mission which eventually led to its success in crushing the militant group.
The President believed that terrorists and all those who are considered threats to the country’s security will get defeated, considering the 11ID’s continued support and commitment.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088786
SAF prepared to go after drug lords
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15, 2019): SAF prepared to go after drug lords (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)
The Special Action Force (SAF) on Sunday welcomed a proposal to tap the elite unit of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to go after the high-value traffickers in the country.
SAF spokesperson, Capt. Jonalyn Malnat made the reaction after Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, PNP chief of directorial staff, proposed that SAF should be included in anti-drug campaign particularly against big-time drug lords.
“We belong to the PNP, we are one family so we are ready to help,” Malnat said in a media interview on Sunday.
Malnat said the kind of discipline and integrity that each SAF commando is known for is indeed a big advantage in the campaign against illegal drugs.
She said though SAF commandos have been tapped in anti-illegal drug operations in the past, their assistance was merely an on-call basis.
The spokesperson said there is no existing protocol that SAF is embedded to the PNP-Drug Enforcement Group, the main anti-illegal drugs unit of the police organization.
She said being embedded in a police unit is doable since a company of SAF commandos, for instance, has been helping the Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group (IMEG) in running after rogue cops.
“If there is an order for the SAF to actively help in the campaign against illegal drug lords, then we will do it because ending the illegal drugs operations in the country is what President Duterte wants (to achieve),” Malnat said.
Eleazar earlier said since SAF is known for excellent tactical offensives, it could be involved in planning the raids and implementation of search warrants on known lairs of drug lords.
“Drug lords will certainly fight it out because what they are protecting is a multibillion industry, this is where SAF would play a key role in showing them that SAF is not something that they could mess with,” Eleazar said in
He said the discipline and warrior mentality of SAF members would make them a nightmare for drug lords.
The former chief of the National Capital Region Police Office admitted that the government's aggressive campaign against drugs has always been marred by the involvement of some policemen as protectors of drug syndicates.
Eleazar, however, said the decision whether to tap SAF commandos still remains with President Rodrigo Duterte.
Earlier, Duterte said he wanted the government’s anti-narcotics units to focus more on big-time drug lords.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088790
The Special Action Force (SAF) on Sunday welcomed a proposal to tap the elite unit of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to go after the high-value traffickers in the country.
SAF spokesperson, Capt. Jonalyn Malnat made the reaction after Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, PNP chief of directorial staff, proposed that SAF should be included in anti-drug campaign particularly against big-time drug lords.
“We belong to the PNP, we are one family so we are ready to help,” Malnat said in a media interview on Sunday.
Malnat said the kind of discipline and integrity that each SAF commando is known for is indeed a big advantage in the campaign against illegal drugs.
She said though SAF commandos have been tapped in anti-illegal drug operations in the past, their assistance was merely an on-call basis.
The spokesperson said there is no existing protocol that SAF is embedded to the PNP-Drug Enforcement Group, the main anti-illegal drugs unit of the police organization.
She said being embedded in a police unit is doable since a company of SAF commandos, for instance, has been helping the Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group (IMEG) in running after rogue cops.
“If there is an order for the SAF to actively help in the campaign against illegal drug lords, then we will do it because ending the illegal drugs operations in the country is what President Duterte wants (to achieve),” Malnat said.
Eleazar earlier said since SAF is known for excellent tactical offensives, it could be involved in planning the raids and implementation of search warrants on known lairs of drug lords.
“Drug lords will certainly fight it out because what they are protecting is a multibillion industry, this is where SAF would play a key role in showing them that SAF is not something that they could mess with,” Eleazar said in
He said the discipline and warrior mentality of SAF members would make them a nightmare for drug lords.
The former chief of the National Capital Region Police Office admitted that the government's aggressive campaign against drugs has always been marred by the involvement of some policemen as protectors of drug syndicates.
Eleazar, however, said the decision whether to tap SAF commandos still remains with President Rodrigo Duterte.
Earlier, Duterte said he wanted the government’s anti-narcotics units to focus more on big-time drug lords.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088790
ANTI-INSURGENCY DRIVE: Miag-ao, Igbaras, San Joaquin next ‘focus towns’
From Panay News (Dec 15, 2019): ANTI-INSURGENCY DRIVE: Miag-ao, Igbaras, San Joaquin next ‘focus towns’
Former rebels have revealed that the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army are recruiting new members from Miag-ao, Igbaras and San Joaquin, says Lieutenant Colonel Joel Benedict Batara, commander of the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion.
ILOILO City – Three towns in Iloilo province will be the next focus of the campaign to end local communist armed conflict (ELCAC), according to the 61st Infantry Battalion (61IB) of the Philippine Army.
These are the towns of Miag-ao, San Joaquin and Igbaras, all from the 1st District, said Lieutenant Colonel Joel Benedict Batara, 61IB commander.
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 Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Iloilo to create their respective Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) by the end of November.
“It is already programmed 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 battalion commander said skirmishes and encounters transpired in the towns of Igbaras and Miag-ao in the past months.
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 insurgency affectation in these towns is really observed because there are still some who believe that armed rebellion is the solution to the problems,” said Batara.
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 constructed roads. They really have a goal to end the insurgency. The communist rebels do not like road networks because they would become 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.panaynews.net/anti-insurgency-drive-miag-ao-igbaras-san-joaquin-next-focus-towns/
ILOILO City – Three towns in Iloilo province will be the next focus of the campaign to end local communist armed conflict (ELCAC), according to the 61st Infantry Battalion (61IB) of the Philippine Army.
These are the towns of Miag-ao, San Joaquin and Igbaras, all from the 1st District, said Lieutenant Colonel Joel Benedict Batara, 61IB commander.
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 Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Iloilo to create their respective Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) by the end of November.
“It is already programmed 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 battalion commander said skirmishes and encounters transpired in the towns of Igbaras and Miag-ao in the past months.
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 insurgency affectation in these towns is really observed because there are still some who believe that armed rebellion is the solution to the problems,” said Batara.
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 constructed roads. They really have a goal to end the insurgency. The communist rebels do not like road networks because they would become 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.panaynews.net/anti-insurgency-drive-miag-ao-igbaras-san-joaquin-next-focus-towns/
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