Kalinaw News:Statement of GENERAL FELIMON T SANTOS JR Chief of Staff, AFP on Araw ng Kagitingan 2020

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 8, 2020): Statement of GENERAL FELIMON T SANTOS JR Chief of Staff, AFP on Araw ng Kagitingan 2020 (By Armed Forces of the Philippines Public Affairs Office)



The Armed Forces of the Philippines is one with the Filipino nation in celebrating the gallantry of our heroes on Araw ng Kagitingan.

It is very timely that the Day of Valor is being commemorated in a period where our country is at war against an unconventional enemy which is the deadly corona virus disease (COVID-19). Today, we shall reflect on how our forebears showed extraordinary heroism, ardent patriotism and selflessness, and seek to find within each of us the will to carry on in this modern warfare.

Every Soldier, Airman, Sailor, and Marine continues to draw strength from what our heroes have sacrificed in the past in order to achieve peace and security for our country. Our veterans bestowed to our generation the treasure of a peaceful life and it is up to us to continue fighting for it.

With courage and determination, our soldiers manifest the same resolve to win over all kinds of battle not only against the dreaded disease but also against the virus of the Communist Terrorist Group, Local Terrorist Group, and other enemies of the state.

For this, the AFP salutes our modern-day heroes who continue to fight as one in the name of patriotism and the undeniable love for humanity. Let us continue to work hand in hand, confident that we will emerge triumphant as one nation against any kind of crisis.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/statement-of-general-felimon-t-santos-jr-chief-of-staff-afp-on-araw-ng-kagitingan-2020/

Kalinaw News: Government troops, NPA clash amid COVID-19 pandemic in Davao de Oro

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 8, 2020): Government troops, NPA clash amid COVID-19 pandemic in Davao de Oro (By 7th Infantry Division)



Mawab, Davao de Oro–Communist Terrorist Group (CTGs) attacks Army and PNP conducting active defense patrol for COVID-19 early this morning in Pantukan, Davao de Oro.

The 71st Infantry KAIBIGAN Battalion (71IB) and Regional Mobile Force Company were conducting their usual active defense patrol in relation to the implementation of enhanced community quarantine but were fired upon by undetermined number of the Communist Terrorist Group resulting in an armed encounter.

Said encounter lasted for 15 minutes which resulted to the death of one (1) NPA member and caused the rest of them [CTG] to scamper in different directions and the recovery of one (1) Bushmaster MOD-XM15E2S loaded with 25 rounds of ammo, one (1) AK47 with three (3) magazines loaded with 77 rounds of ammo, 72 rounds of Garand rifle ammo, one (1) airgun rifle,one (1) upper air gun rifle, three (3) backpacks with personal belongings, subversive documents with high intelligence value, one (1) cellphone with severalsimcards, medical supplies and paraphernalia.No casualty on the government side.

It can be recalled that last March 29, the CPP-NPA-NDF declared reciprocal ceasefire in connection with the COVID 19 pandemicbut was violated by the NPA members on the ground.

“This tragic event disheartens me because of the loss of life which is not supposed to be.” Lieutenant Colonel Sonny Gonzales, Commanding Officer of 71IB said, “I call on everybody, even the remaining NPA, to lay down your arms and surrender, back to the folds of the law and focus all our efforts and prioritize helping our people especially in these trying times.

Sa hirapngsitwasyonngayon,lalongnagpahirapitongginagagwangmgateroristang. NPA. Nagsumbongangmgataonaniransaknaangkanilangmgabahay at tindahanng mg rebeldeng NPA dahilwalanasilangmakainsabundok.Pinipilitrinnilaangmgataonamagbigayngpagkain at yungiba ay inuutusannabumilingpagkain, tinatakotpag di sumunodsautos, Gonzales added.

We call on those remaining NPA members to surrender and avail the government’s ECLIP and live a normal life. Also, we appeal to the parents to be vigilant on the activities of their children as they are vulnerable in the deceptive recruitment of the CPP-NPA-NDF. The 71IB and the 10ID are willing to provide medical assistance to the wounded.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/government-troops-npa-clash-amid-covid-19-pandemic-in-davao-de-oro-2/

Kalinaw News: 1003rd Brigade launches loudspeaker operations in Davao City and Davao Del Norte

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 8, 2020): 1003rd Brigade launches loudspeaker operations in Davao City and Davao Del Norte (By 10th Infantry Division)



HEADQUARTERS, 1003RD Brigade, Davao City – – A loudspeaker operations to heighten the awareness of the public on combatting the COVID-19 pandemic is launched by the unit within its area of operations on Tuesday, April 7, 2020.

Along with its four sub-units, the 3rd, 16th, 89th and 56th Infantry Battalions used vehicles mounted with loudspeakers, visiting communities while playing important announcements on how people can help avoid the spread of COVID 19.

Through the operations conducted, the unit was able to simultaneously reach a wide expanse of people across Davao City and Davao Del Norte province.

A loudspeaker operation is an activity under the Civil Military Operations of the Philippine Army aimed to provide correct information to the people at the right time especially during disaster.

Colonel Nolasco A Mempin, Commander of the 1003rd Brigade said “We are enjoining our citizens to heed to the government’s call to unite against the threat of COVID 19. Let’s stay home, wear facial mask when going out and observe social distancing.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/1003rd-brigade-launches-loudspeaker-operations-in-davao-city-and-davao-del-norte/

Former Tipo-Tipo vice mayor shot dead

From Rappler (Apr 7, 2020): Former Tipo-Tipo vice mayor shot dead (By Richard Falcatan)

Police are investigating the killing of Musiddik Mande



ISABELA CITY, Philippines – A former vice mayor of Tipo-Tipo town in Basilan was shot dead Tuesday, April 7.

Musiddik Mande was killed by unidentified suspects on his way home at Barangay Sumagdang in Isabela City at 6 pm.

Police said that the former vice mayor sustained gunshot wounds in different parts of his body.

Authorities are still investigating the incident.

Mande ran for Tipo-Tipo mayor but lost in the 2019 midterm elections.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/257300-former-tipo-tipo-vice-mayor-shot-dead

Reds attack gov’t troops in Lambunao

From the Panay News (Apr 8, 2020): Reds attack gov’t troops in Lambunao (By Ruby Silubrico)

Police Colonel Paul Kenneth Lucas (left), director of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office, traces the treat path of rebels who attacked Philippine Army troops in Barangay Panuran, Lambunao, Iloilo on April 7, 2020. IAN PAUL CORDERO/PN

ILOILO City – New People’s Army (NPA) rebels attacked Philippine Army troops in the mountainous Sitio Aguilan, Barangay Panuran, Lambunao, Iloilo early morning on April 7.

The 5:45 a.m. encounter left a member of the 301st Infantry Brigade dead – Private First Class Mark Nemias of Madalag, Aklan.

According 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) spokesperson Army Captain Cenon Pancito III, the 301st Infantry Brigade was in Barangay Panuran for an information/education campaign on the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

“They were not in the area to fight,” he stressed.


The soldiers were attacked by some 20 rebels believed to be from the Baloy Platoon, Central Front Committee, Kilusang Rehiyon Panay of the NPA and led by Ka Kandoy.

The firefight lasted for some 20 minutes. The rebels withdrew toward Barangay Agcarope, Janiuay town.

Nemias was hit on the head, said Pancito.

Army soldiers recovered from the encounter site a rifle and bullets. They believed they were able to hurt or even kill some rebels, too, and this was bolstered by reports from village residents.

“People of the barangay reported have seen rebels carrying wounded or dead comrades,” said Police Colonel Paul Kenneth Lucas, director of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office.

The 301st Infantry Brigade commander, Colonel Marion Sison, condemned the NPA “terrorist attack.”

He said his men were on a “humanitarian mission” due to the COVID-19 public health emergency but the rebels disrespected the government’s unilateral ceasefire.

The 3ID commander, Major General Eric Vinoya, also condemned the “treacherous attack of the terrorists.”

“Instead of helping our people fight the COVID-19 pandemic, these communist-terrorists are taking advantage of the situation. They violated their own their ceasefire,” said Vinoya.

“The town Lambunao has a recorded a number of positive COVID-19 cases that’s why our troops in the area were doing everything to help contain the spread of the virus there through a community awareness drive. Sadly, here comes the terrorists destroying the anti-COVID-19 efforts of Lambunaonons,” said Vinoya.

https://www.panaynews.net/reds-attack-govt-troops-in-lambunao/

Soldiers help fund virus fight

From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 8, 2020): Soldiers help fund virus fight

Soldiers of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division in Western and Central Visayas are donating a percentage of their base pay to augment funds of the government to fight COVID-19, local Army spokesman Capt. Cenon Pancito yesterday said.

The percent deduction will be equitable to rank, with the AFP chief of staff to give the biggest contribution of P10,484, while the lowest ranking soldier, who is a Private, an Airman or an Apprentice Seaman, will be donating P100, AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said in a statement.

This was in response to the admission of President Rodrigo Duterte that the government will not have sufficient funds to deal completely with the massive impacts of COVID-19, following the extension in the implementation of Enhanced Community Quarantine in Luzon until April 30.

Considering the AFP’s present fill-up of personnel, except civilian employees, the amount expected to be raised will be around P16,953,490.04, according to Arevalo.

He added that the donation of each AFP personnel will be deducted from their respective base pay for the month of May.

The donated amount is up for use in the purchase of medical supplies and equipment.

Pancito said that the amount deducted will be from 0.05 percent to 7 percent, depending on the rank of AFP personnel.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/April/8/topstory4.htm

Army slams NPA attack

From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 8, 2020): Army slams NPA attack

Army infantry units in Negros Island were ordered to step up their defenses, following the New People’s Army attack against soldiers engaging in security patrol and COVID-19 information dissemination yesterday in Lambunao, Iloilo.

The Army’s 3rd Infantry Division condemned the rebel attack that claimed the life of PFC Mark Nemis, one of the Army soldiers on patrol.

What happened in Iloilo is a glaring example that the NPA terrorist group will take advantage of the current COVID-19 pandemic, Capt. Cenon Pancito, spokesman of the 3rd Infantry Division, said.

Pancito said that they received reports from civilians that NPA rebels went out of their lairs and engaged in recruitment and extortion, worse, conducted tactical offensives against government forces despite of their unilateral ceasefire declarations.

This we cannot allow as sabotaging our COVID-19 frontliners equates to non delivery of essential services to the people, he added.

In a statement issued by 3ID, Maj. Gen. Eric Vinoya also said yesterday that the CPP-NPA took advantage of the ceasefire by staging the attack against government forces.

Instead of helping our people fight the COVID-19 pandemic, these communist-terrorists are taking advantage of the situation to conduct atrocities distracting the efforts of our troops, Vinoya said.

“Despite our loss, we will remain resolute in serving our people, especially in a situation like this, where we are facing health crisis. As we strengthen our COVID-19 efforts, we will also be intensifying our defensive action to protect our people from the menace of these terrorists, the true viruses of the society,” he added.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/April/8/topstory3.htm

1 rebel killed when NPA ambushed soldiers, cops

From the Mindanao Times (Apr 9, 2020): 1 rebel killed when NPA ambushed soldiers, cops (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

Alleged New People’s Army rebels attacked soldiers and police officers conducting patrols under the enhanced community quarantine measure in Pantukan, Davao de Oro early Tuesday morning.

Meanwhile, an NPA member was killed in an encounter.

2Lt Kim Carlos, the civil-military operations officer of the 71st IB, said soldiers of 71st Infantry Battalion and Regional Mobile Force Company were conducting their usual active defense patrols when they were ambushed by an undetermined number of rebels.

They fought back and the clash lasted for 15 minutes, which resulted in the death of one rebel.

Soldiers also recovered one Bushmaster MOD-XM15 E2S loaded with 25 rounds of ammo, one AK-47 with three magazines loaded with 77 rounds of ammo, 72 rounds of Garand rifle ammo, one air gun rifle, one upper air gun rifle, three backpacks with personal belongings, subversive documents, one cellphone with several sim cards, medical supplies and paraphernalia.

Last March 29, the CPP-NDF-NPA declared a reciprocal ceasefire in connection with the COVID 19 pandemic.

“This tragic event disheartens me because of the loss of life,” Lt. Col. Sonny Gonzales, commanding Officer of the 71IB, said.

“We call on those remaining NPA members to surrender and avail of the government’s E-Clip (Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program) and live a normal life. Also, we appeal to the parents to be vigilant of the activities of their children as they are vulnerable to the deceptive recruitment of the CPP-NDF-NPA,” he further said.

NPA surrenders

Meanwhile, a vice political guide of the NPA surrendered to the soldiers of the 67th Infantry Battalion in Sitio Casunugan, Baganga, Davao Oriental on Monday morning.

2Lt Jerwin Cambangay, the civil-military operations officer of the 67th IB, only identified him as alias Ron Ron, 20, a member of the Mandaya tribe in Davao Oriental, and a leader of Squad Primera, Front North, Sub-Regional Command of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC).

He also surrendered brought along his M16A1 rifle.

Based on the initial interview, he joined the underground movement (UGM) of the Guerilla Front 20 in Sitio Africa, Barangay Sta Maria, Trento, Agusan Del Sur sometime in January 2019. He escaped from the group on April 5 at the vicinity of Sitio Casunugan, Barangay Mahan-ub, Baganga.

“I surrendered due to hunger, hardship, and fear for myself and my family,” he said.

In his statement, Lt. Col. Louie Dema-ala, the 67th IB commander, said: “The implementation of the Executive Order No. 70 and the sincerity of all local chief executives of Davao Oriental to achieve a long and lasting peace through Good Governance paved the way for NPA members to surrender.”

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2020/04/09/1-rebel-killed-when-npa-ambushed-soldiers-cops/

Army helps raise awareness in far-flung villages on COVID-19

From the Mindanao Times (Apr 9, 2020): Army helps raise awareness in far-flung villages on COVID-19 (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

The 1003rd Infantry Brigade is helping stem the rise of COVID-19 cases by raising awareness on the best practices to prevent the spread of the virus.

Along with its four subunits, the 3rd, 16th, 89th and 56th Infantry Battalions used vehicles mounted with loudspeakers starting on April 7. They visited communities while playing important announcements on how people can help avoid the spread of COVID 19.

Capt. Erick Wynmer Calulot, the civil-military operations officer of the 1003rd IB, said the unit was able to simultaneously reach communities in Davao City and Davao Del Norte.

A loudspeaker operation is an activity under the Civil-Military Operations of the Philippine Army aimed at providing correct information to the people at the right time, especially during the pandemic.

Col. Nolasco A. Mempin, commander of the 1003rd IB, said “We are enjoining our citizens to heed to the government’s call to unite against the threat of COVID 19.

“Let’s stay home, wear a facial mask when going out, and observe social distancing,” Mempin said.

Lt Col. Joel Salaguinto, commander of the 16th Infantry Battalion, also said that they are conducting their own loudspeaker operation, particularly in the far-flung areas of Panabo City and Davao City.

Soldiers onboard military vehicles go around the communities to broadcast reminders on the need for sanitation, social distancing, prevention, and cooperation during these uncertain times.

The purpose of this operation is to enlighten the people to pay attention to the government’s call to stay at home and follow guidelines of the executive order,” the battalion commander said.

Also, the 16IB troops were tasked to render support operation to the local government units and other security forces in manning the checkpoints to manage the people’s movement in Panabo and Davao.

“We hoped that through these kinds of efforts, we are able to help the city government of Davao in conveying essential guidelines and reminders that will make the people aware, prepared, and cooperative in dealing with this crisis,” Salaguinto said.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2020/04/09/army-helps-raise-awareness-in-far-flung-villages-on-covid-19/

Army hits NPA over extortion in Northern Samar amid crisis

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Apr 8, 2020): Army hits NPA over extortion in Northern Samar amid crisis

THE PHILIPPINE Army has condemned the New People’s Army (NPA) for their extortion activities in poverty-stricken communities of Northern Samar despite the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) crisis.

The Philippine Army’s 20th Infantry Battalion reported that 15 members of the communist terrorist group forcefully collected food from residents of Lakandula village in Las Navas, Northern Samar on Tuesday.

Acting on reports from civilians, soldiers conducted a patrol operation to stop the NPA’s extortion activities, ensuing a brief gun battle around 2:50 p.m.

The encounter resulted in the wounding of one soldier while the NPA rebels are believed to have suffered casualties as evidenced by bloodstains found in the enemy's escape route, the Philippine Army said.

"While the entire nation is battling the contagion, the NPAs are taking advantage of the ceasefire by regrouping and arming themselves to orchestrate an attack against our government forces,” said Maj. Gen. Pio Diñoso III, commander of the Army’s 8th Infantry Division in a statement issued on Wednesday.

“The enemies are intimidating the populace who are already experiencing fear and uncertainty due to the community quarantine by forcibly extracting food causing thereby scarcity of resources in the far-flung communities,” he added.

To recall, President Rodrigo Duterte declared on March 19, 2020, a unilateral ceasefire with the communist terrorist group as the nation grapples with the coronavirus disease pandemic. After a week, communist leaders ordered a similar ceasefire.

"This deliberate violation of the ceasefire by the NPA will not hamper the delivery of the urgently needed medical, health and economic assistance as well as the movement of the people. Your Army assures the public that we will not drop our guard in securing the people and to work with the government to bring back normalcy in our lives that are derailed by the dreaded virus,” Diñoso said.

The NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines. (By Sarwell Meniano)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2020/04/army-hits-npa-over-extortion-in.html

46IB foils CPP-NPA ambush of COVID-19 frontliners in Calbiga, Samar

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 8, 2020): 46IB foils CPP-NPA ambush of COVID-19 frontliners in Calbiga, Samar (By PIA8 and 8ID)



TACLOBAN CITY, Apr 7 (PIA) -- The elements of the 46th Infantry (Peacemakers) Battalion (46IB) of the 8th Infantry Division (8ID), Philippine Army foiled the attempt of the CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) to conduct an ambush against the government forces in the vicinity of Brgy. Hubasan, Calbiga, Samar on April 6, 2020.

Report coming from the 8th Infantry Division revealed that an information was obtained from a concerned civilian that the CNTs are planning to conduct an ambush using IEDs targeting the troops of 46IB who are serving as frontliners in battling COVID-19 pandemic.

The elements of the 46IB uncovered four improvised explosive devices placed along the only trail connecting barangays Hubasan and Binanggaran of same municipality.



The residents expressed their utmost gratitude to 46IB as the troops prevented the IEDs from exploding which could have wounded, or worst, could have taken their lives just like what happened in Borongan, Eastern Samar.

Lieutenant Colonel Rhomel R. Langcauon, Commanding Officer of the 46IB said, “We are thankful that a concerned citizen alerted our troops about the IEDs planted by the NPA. This is evidently laid to victimize frontliners as all our troops are conducting COVID-19 prevention efforts. This could have harmed or killed the civilians passing by the said trail.”

Colonel Camilo Z. Ligayo, Commander of 801st Infantry Brigade said, "We will continue to protect the people of Samar from the terroristic acts of the NPA such as the planting of IED during this Covid 19 crisis. We thank the people for their help and we call on them to unite against all forms of terrorism."

Major General Pio Q. Diñoso III, commander of 8ID, stated, “We condemn, in the strongest terms possible, that despite the existing unilateral ceasefire and global COVID-19 pandemic crisis, the planting of IEDs here in Samar and recent attacks against uniformed personnel in Luzon and tribal leaders in Mindanao; the CNTs are consistently displaying barbaric acts, violating human rights and disregarding the safety of the civilians who might turn victims just like what they did in Borongan a few months ago.”

To recall, four individuals were killed in an IED exploded by NPA in Borongan, Eastern Samar on December 13 last year. The fatalities were three civilians including an elderly woman, a van driver and another woman who expired in the hospital while the fourth fatality is a policeman. Wounded were 14 others including an infant and two other children. (PIA8/8ID)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1038382

CPP-NPA aggravates COVID-19 crisis situation in Northern Samar

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 8, 2020): CPP-NPA aggravates COVID-19 crisis situation in Northern Samar (By PIA-8 and 8ID, PA)

TACLOBAN CITY, April 8 (PIA) -- One soldier was wounded while an undetermined number of casualties on the enemies’ side was reported, in an encounter between the government troops and the NPAs at Barangay Lakandula, Las Navas, Northern Samar around 2:50 p.m. on April 7, 2020.

A report coming from the 8th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army disclosed that the 20th Infantry Battalion of the 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army received a report from a concerned civilian pertaining the presence of an armed group believed to be Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) harassing the locals of Brgy. Lakandula.

The CNTs were forcefully collecting foods and other basic commodities while the village is on General Community Quarantine (GCQ) due to COVID-19.

This prompted the military to conduct Community Protection Patrol and engaged in a firefight with more or less fifteen (15) CNTs.

The encounter resulted to the wounding of one soldier while there is an undetermined number of casualties on the enemies side as evidenced by bloodstains found in the enemy's escape route.

To recall, on March 19, 2020, President Rodrigo R. Duterte declared a unilateral ceasefire with the CPP-NPA to which the CPP ordered the NPA on March 26, 2020 a similar ceasefire with the government as the nation grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic.

"While the entire nation is battling the contagion, the CNTs are taking advantage of the ceasefire by regrouping and arming themselves to orchestrate an attack against our government forces. The enemies are intimidating the populace who are already experiencing fear and uncertainty due to the GCQ by forcibly extracting food causing thereby scarcity of resources in the far-flung communities,” Major General Pio Q. Diñoso III, Commander of 8ID, said.

"This deliberate violation of the ceasefire by the NPA will not hamper the delivery of the urgently needed medical, health and economic assistance as well as the movement of the people. Your Army assures the public that we will not drop our guard in securing the people and to work with the government to bring back normalcy in our lives that are derailed by the dreaded virus,” Diñoso added. (PIA8/8ID)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1038392

DND honors sacrifices of Covid-19 front-liners

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 8, 2020): DND honors sacrifices of Covid-19 front-liners (By Priam Nepomuceno)



Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. (File photo)

As the nation observes Holy Week, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Wednesday said it is only fitting to honor all medical and health care personnel and other front-liners for their sacrifices in helping contain the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

"As we ponder on the true meaning of the Lenten Season, we honor our medical and health care professionals, the members of the academe, our researchers and scientists, our service industry workers, hardworking public servants, security forces, private enterprises and civil society organizations, and every Filipino who heeded the call to unite as we work to heal as one," Lorenzana said in a statement forwarded to reporters Wednesday.

He added that every effort, great or small, to help those in dire need amid this crisis is a testament to the resilience and generosity of Filipinos.

"Every household is crucial in combatting the spread of the virus. Let us all do everything we can to stop Covid-19 from entering our homes and spreading in our communities. Our government is treating this pandemic with the utmost priority and urgency," Lorenzana said.

He also said the DND would continue to support the efforts of the national government to effectively address the health emergency.

Lorenzana noted that while the current situation faced by the country is challenging, the Covid-19 outbreak has also brought to the forefront the power of the Filipinos' "Bayanihan" spirit, which is greatly contributing to the developments in the fight against the disease.

"Working together as one nation, this is a fight that we will surely win. I have no doubt that we will overcome this pandemic," he said.

Lorenzana added that this Lenten Season is also a time to reflect on the Christian faith and values.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1099188

AFP gets 2 buses from transport firm for Covid-19 duties

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 8, 2020): AFP gets 2 buses from transport firm for Covid-19 duties (By Priam Nepomuceno)



BUS DONATION. Military officials receive two refurbished buses from representatives of the transport firm Victory Liner in a ceremony in Camp Aguinaldo on Tuesday (April 7, 2020). The buses will be used as shuttles for medical and support personnel going to and from patient care centers in Metro Manila. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday received two refurbished buses from a transportation company that will be used to transport medical and support personnel to the various patient care centers (PCCs) in Metro Manila.

Naval Capt. Jonathan Zata, military public affairs office chief, said the two buses were formally received by AFP deputy chief-of-staff for civil-military operations, Maj. Gen. Edgardo de Leon, along with deputy chief-of-staff for logistics, Rear Admiral Alberto Carlos, and General Headquarters and Headquarters Service Command chief, Brig. Gen. Rodolfo Lavadia Jr., from Victory Liner Inc. representative Dominic Hernandez.

The vehicles were formally accepted for AFP service in a short ceremony in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Zata said the buses would be used as shuttles for medical and support personnel going to and from PCCs at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum, Philippine International Convention Center, and World Trade Center.

He added that the donation was made possible through Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat.

"It’s through these efforts from the different stakeholders and active members of society that will enable the nation to win over this pandemic. Malasakit at Bayanihan for the nation to heal as one," Zata said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1099190

Troops' vigilance vs. NPA truce violations lauded

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 8, 2020): Troops' vigilance vs. NPA truce violations lauded (By Priam Nepomuceno)



AFP chief-of-staff, Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. (File photo)

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Felimon T. Santos Jr. on Tuesday commended military and police personnel for foiling three treacherous attempts of the New People's Army (NPA) to commit atrocities despite the ceasefire in wake of the health crisis.

"I commend our soldiers for prevailing in three instances of treachery committed by the NPA since yesterday, April 6, despite their ceasefire declaration amid the threat of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic," he said in a statement forwarded to reporters.
Santos was referring to the successful efforts of the 46th Infantry Battalion which foiled an attempted ambush by NPAs who placed landmines along a trail that connect Barangays Hubasan and Binanggaran in Calbiga, Samar.

"If not prevented, the mines could have endangered the lives of civilians who frequent the narrow footpath," he added.

Another incident is the case of the 1st Infantry Battalion who intercepted two suspected NPA rebels over curfew violation in Barangay Llavac, Real, Quezon.

He said the suspects fled and left behind two anti-personnel mines and four blasting caps that could have been used to ambush military personnel and hurt civilians in the area.

The NPA earlier declared a truce beginning March 26 to April 15 reciprocating President Rodrigo R. Duterte's declaration of unilateral ceasefire beginning March 19 to April 15 to allow government and military to maximize efforts in containing the Covid-19 threat.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) also foiled NPA atrocities in Barangay Tangdanua, Pantukan, Davao De Oro on April 7.

Elements of the PNP Regional Mobile Force Company were fired upon by the NPA rebels that resulted in a firefight leaving one enemy dead. One AK-47 rifle was also confiscated on the site of the encounter.

Santos said these incidents manifest that the NPA cannot be trusted to keep their word and their ceasefire declaration as they continue to threaten civilians and disrupt peace in countryside communities.

"Unfortunately for them, the AFP and the PNP know better than to let these slide without a fight. We have more than enough manpower to deal with the pandemic and the treachery of the NPA rebels. Our proactive defense posture remains in place and we will not waver in our commitment to protect our people from the NPA," he added.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1099194

Comprehensive social benefits program for AFP, PNP established

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 8, 2020): Comprehensive social benefits program for AFP, PNP established (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)



SOCIAL BENEFITS. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte gives his jacket to one of the wounded soldiers he visited at Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital in Jolo, Sulu on December 14, 2019. Duterte on Wednesday (April 8, 2020) signed an executive order institutionalizing a comprehensive social benefit program for police and military. (Presidential photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.)

President Rodrigo Duterte has signed an executive order (EO) institutionalizing a comprehensive social benefits program (CSBP) that grants a “speedy, sustainable and rationalized” social benefits and assistance to the police and the military.

Under EO 110 signed by Duterte on April 7, the CSBP provides for different types of benefits and assistance, such as “special financial assistance, scholarship, special welfare assistance, health and medical care assistance, shelter assistance, and employment assistance”.

Those who are eligible to avail of the assistance are wounded military and police personnel, as well as the qualified beneficiaries of killed soldiers and policemen.

Uniformed personnel of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), as well as members of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) or CAFGU Active Auxiliary Units (CAA) will also benefit from CSBP.

EO 110 highlights the need to give “rightful and reasonable” benefits to the police and the military, as well as their support units, and they continue to defend and secure the country.

“There is a need to enhance and rationalize existing assistance and benefits given to police, military and their support units through a comprehensive social benefits program in recognition of their invaluable contribution to the pursuit of just and lasting peace,” the order read.

According to the EO, the special financial assistance will be given to slain police and military personnel, and wounded military and personnel with either total permanent physical disability or major and minor injuries.

Qualified beneficiaries can also avail of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) modified cash transfer or a monthly rice subsidy of 20 kilos under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program.

They can also ask for a housing unit in existing AFP or PNP housing sites, or for the construction of a housing unit in the land they own.

Under CSBP, beneficiaries can also seek the payment of Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) premiums and medical assistance for hospitalization and provision of maintenance medicines from the Department of Health (DOH).

Educational assistance will also be granted to a maximum of two children or other qualified beneficiaries of slain government troops or those wounded with total permanent physical disability, as long as they are not covered by existing scholarship programs.

The EO also allows the employment of the beneficiaries of the dead or permanently disabled police and military personnel.

“The above benefits and assistance provided through the CSBP may be adjusted, modified or removed, based on the availability of funds, or upon the instruction of the President, as may be recommended by government agencies implementing the CSBP,” EO 110 stressed.

Other forms of assistance that will be provided by other government agencies include welfare subsidy, skills training on financial literacy and entrepreneurship, and livelihood and employment programs, “subject to compliance with existing laws, rules and regulations.”

“The grant of the component benefits and assistance under the CSBP shall be uniform and equal in each type and application and shall ensure the most reasonable and rightful amount each type of assistance,” the order said.

EO 110 tasks the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Department of National Defense (DND) to jointly lead in the implementation of CSBP.

The DILG and DND are directed to ensure that prompt action is taken to efficiently and expeditiously deliver the package of assistance to covered personnel and their qualified beneficiaries.

The EO also creates regional working groups in each administrative region to assist the national government agencies in implementing the CSBP through the “effective and efficient” delivery of the benefits to the beneficiaries at the local level.

The regional working group in each region should be composed of the regional directors of the DILG, DSWD, DOH, PhilHealth, Philippine National Police, National Police Commission, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, National Housing Authority, Department of Education, Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Public Works and Highways, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.

The personnel officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and commanders of the military’s major services, unified commands, and other major ground units are also part of the regional working group.

The funding for the implementation of EO 110 would be sourced from existing appropriations of the implementing agencies of the component benefits under the CSBP and other sources that may be identified by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

Funding requirements for the succeeding years would be included in the respective budgets of government agencies implementing the CSBP.

All concerned agencies are required to submit biannual implementation and budget utilization reports on the status of the CSBP to the DILG and DND, with a copy to be furnished the Presidential Management Staff and the DBM.

“The DILG and the DND shall ensure that the benefits and assistance under the CSBP reach the intended beneficiaries, monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of program implementation, and submit to the Office of the President, through the Office of the Executive Secretary, an annual report on the implementation of this Order,” the order said.

EO 110, a copy of which was released by Palace on Wednesday, takes effect immediately.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1099306

Military accuses NPA rebs of violating ceasefire in 3 provinces

From GMA News Online (Apr 8, 2020): Military accuses NPA rebs of violating ceasefire in 3 provinces (April 8, 2020)

The military has accused communist New People's Army (NPA) rebels of violating the ceasefire declared in connection with the COVID-19 health crisis by staging attacks on security forces in at least three instances.

In one such attack, in Pantukan, Davao de Oro on April 7, a suspected rebel was killed, according to Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief General Felimon Santos Jr.

The rebel was killed, Santos said, when they attacked the Philippine National Police Regional Mobile Force Company in Barangay Tangdanua. An AK-47 rifle was recovered at the site.

Meanwhile, some landmines that were planted along a trail between Barangays Hubasan and Binanggaran in Samar's Calbiga town were discovered by the 46th Infantry Battalion.
The explosives were believed to have been placed there for a planned ambush and could have endangered the lives of residents who were also using the path.

Two other suspected NPA rebels were also intercepted at Barangay Llavac in Real, Quezon for violating the curfew in the area. Two anti-personnel mines and four blasting caps have been left behind when they fled from the 1st Infantry Battalion.

"I commend our soldiers for prevailing in three instances of treachery committed by the New People's Army since April 6 despite their ceasefire declaration amid the threat of COVID-19 pandemic," Santos said.

He assured the public that state security forces are equipped to respond to both the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) health emergency and the rebels attacks.

"Our proactive defense posture remains in place and we will not waver in our commitment to protect our people from the NPAs," he said.

Last month, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) declared a nationwide ceasefire from March 26 until April 15 "to ensure and facilitate necessary, unhampered and immediate medical, health and economic assistance, support and movement of the people" amid the COVID-19 situation.

It has vowed to continue observing the truce despite a firefight that transpired between its armed wing NPA and government forces in Rodriguez, Rizal.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/733124/military-accuses-npa-rebs-of-violating-ceasefire-in-3-provinces/story/

3 Abu sayyaf dead, 2 soldiers wounded in Sulu clash

From the Manila Times (Apr 8, 2020): 3 Abu sayyaf dead, 2 soldiers wounded in Sulu clash (By Dempsey Reyes)

Three Abu Sayyaf terrorists died while two soldiers were wounded in a recent clash in Patikul, Sulu, according to the military’s Joint Task Force Sulu. 

Security forces under the 11th Infantry Division (11ID), the task force said, encountered around 30 bandits who were confirmed to be under Hajan Sawadjaan, who was named by United States authorities as the new Islamic State “emir” for Southeast Asia. 

It added that the encounter at Sitio Gabang in Barangay Kaunayan in Patikul took place on Saturday, but this information was only disclosed to the media on Monday. 

The gun battle, where an undetermined number of terrorists were killed, lasted around 35 minutes.

On the government’s side, it two soldiers got wounded with one of them injured on the left leg while the other one on his right hand.

The Sawadjaan group has been known for its notorious acts in Sulu, especially in Patikul and Jolo, the provincial capital. 

Last year, its members were tagged as perpetrators of the deadly bombing of the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral in Jolo where more than 20 people died and dozens injured. 

Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, commander of the 11ID, assured that the command would push through with its operations while the military is confronting the coronavirus pandemic.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2020/04/08/news/regions/3-abu-sayyaf-dead-2-soldiers-wounded-in-sulu-clash/711187/