Arrest of 2 NPA leaders ‘justice’ for slain police

From the Visayan Daily Star (Sep 23, 2020): Arrest of 2 NPA leaders ‘justice’ for slain police

The arrest of two alleged ranking leaders of the New People’s Army in central Negros has been described by the Philippine Army as “justice” for the families of the six policemen, who were killed in an ambush three years ago in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

Nabbed by virtue of arrest warrants issued by Guihulngan Regional Trial Court Judge Mario Trinidad for various crimes were rebel leaders identified by Lt. Col. Melvin Flores, 62nd Infantry Battalion commander, as Nona Espinosa, deputy secretary of Central Negros Front 1 (CNF1) of Komiteng Rehiyonal-Negros/Cebu/Bohol/Siquijor, and Adidas Acero, vice commanding officer of the Leonardo Panaligan Command.

Flores said Espinosa and Acero were among those who participated in the ambush of then Police Supt. Arnel Arpon, Guihulngan City police chief, and five of his men on July 21, 2017, while responding to a shooting incident in Brgy. Magsaysay in the city.

Judge Trinidad has denied bail to Espinosa and the other respondents, identified as Medaro Sayosa, Eutique Manait, Randy Saguran, Toto de Asis, Rogelio Posadas, Glemar Bacusmo, Marilou Villanueva, Misael de la Cruz, Domingo Compoc and Jonathan Lacadman, in the multiple murder cases, Maj. Cenon Pancito, spokesperson of the 3rd Infantry Division, said.

Seven companions of Espinosa and Acero were also apprehended. Their arrest yielded assorted guns and explosives, among other items, and subversive documents.

Col. Inocencio Pasaporte, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, said yesterday their arrest is another setback to the CPP-NPA operating in Negros Island, and a victory for the government’s anti-terrorism drive.

With their capture, Pasaporte said they expect demoralization and disarray among their ranks, especially the CNF1 that continues to suffer defeats from their troops.

The security operations of the 62nd, 94th and 11th infantry battalions in the hinterland of Guihulngan, Canlaon and Kabankalan, led to two encounters with groups of NPA rebels that also yielded 17 assorted firearms and explosives, from Sept. 17 to 19.

Maj. Gen. Eric Vinoya, 3ID commander, said in a statement that the series of positive operations against the CPP-NPA was part of their aggressive and intensified campaign against insurgency and wanted persons, in attaining a peaceful Negros Island.

“We are doubling our efforts and strategies to stop these communist-terrorists from staging more terror, Vinoya said, adding that they and the PNP will be conducting more joint law enforcement operations to permanently disable, not only their terroristic activities, but also their organization.

https://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/September/23/topstory8.htm

4 Red fighters surrender

From the Mindanao Times (Sep 23, 2020): 4 Red fighters surrender (By BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

FOUR communist guerrillas surrendered in Loreto, Agusan del Sur, and Laak, Davao de Oro over the weekend.

1Lt Amadeuz Vj Celestial, the civil-military operations officer of the 60th Infantry Battalion, said three of the rebel-returnees were from guerilla Front 3, Sub-regional Committee 4, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee. They also surrendered their firearms.

Alias Keno, who has been a member of NPA for over three years, says they have been waiting to surrender since February following the intensive conduct of combat operations in the boundary areas of Agusan del Sur and Bukidnon.

However, they couldn’t find any opportunity until now because their commanders have been strictly monitoring the fighters for any sign of disloyalty.

Alias Chico said that they were already cornered and were struggling to source supplies because of the pandemic.

“Most of our comrades were already low in spirit due to hunger, fatigue, and fear that the military’s operations will catch up on us anytime,” he said.

On the other hand, alias Noli said their decision to surrender was bolstered when they saw the development in the community in La Paz, Agusan del Sur. His son and other relatives also laid down their arms earlier.

The entire barangay already declared the CPP-NPA and all its legal fronts as persona non-grata since June this year.

Keno surrendered his .45 caliber pistol, Chico his .38 caliber revolver; and Noli his M1 Carbine rifle.

Meanwhile, alias Mar surrendered to the 60IB amid the ongoing pursuit operations against a splinter unit of GF 3 that recently attacked a local tribal defense group in Laak, Davao De Oro. Mar claimed that he was tired of the corruption and infighting in the organization.

Mar’s group abducted a local in Laak whom they forced to become a guide in going to their target area. But he heard their leader say that they would kill the resident after meeting their objective. This made him decide to run to save both himself and the abducted local.

Mar surrendered his M16 rifle.

Lt. Col. Ronaldo Sarmiento, commander of the 60IB, said that while the combat operations have been effective, the success of the government’s anti-insurgency efforts still hinges on the social impact of its communist support programs.

In the past few months, the Army has recorded 410 surrenderees who turned over 78 assorted firearms in identified communist strongholds in Agusan del Sur, Davao de Oro, and Davao del Norte.

“Couple this with the outpouring of government programs and projects in these same localities and we render the CPP-NPA and their deceitful propaganda useless and without effect,” he said.

As of this date, four barangays were beneficiaries of P30 million worth of projects in programs under the Whole-of-Nation initiatives being undertaken by 60IB with various government agencies, local government units, and people’s organizations. This excludes other infrastructure projects, such as the construction of farm-to-market roads, which will physically connect these vulnerable areas to town centers.

All the rebel-returnees will be endorsed to their respective LGUs of Loreto and La Paz in Agusan del Sur, and to Laak in Davao de Oro for immediate assistance. They will also be later enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) of the national government.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2020/09/23/4-red-fighters-surrender/

Soldiers seize guns, bomb making materials in 2 Maguindanao towns

 From MindaNews (Sep 22, 2020): Soldiers seize guns, bomb making materials in 2 Maguindanao towns (By MALU CADELINA-MANAR)

KIDAPAWAN CITY (MindaNews / 22 Sep) – Elements of the Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion of the Sixth Infantry Division (6ID) seized several components of anti-personnel mines during their continued military operations against terror groups in Barangay Sanlag in Ampatuan, Maguindanao, Tuesday morning.

Province of Maguindanao. Map courtesy of Google

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, 6ID commanding officer, said the troops recovered from the site during the 9 a.m. raid two one-liter bottles of battery solution, two bottles of 500 ml hydrogen peroxide, half a kilo of propellant charge, one pack baking soda weighing 227 grams, two Pyrex tubes (a 100 ml and a 1,000 ml), one thermometer, one 30ml bottle of hydrochloride, one box machinery with brand name Nagel, and one pack 200 grams of aluminum flash powder.

They also recovered a caliber .50 rifle, flag of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), and several subversive documents which contained marksmanship and guide to bomb-making.

Uy, in a press statement, commended their soldiers for their successful recovery of anti-personnel mines and other war materials.

In nearby Mamasapano, also in Maguindanao, elements of the 90th Infantry Battalion recovered three high-powered firearms during their continued patrol operations in Barangay Tukanalipao around 2:40 p.m. Thursday last week.

The military said soldiers recovered a caliber .50 Barret rifle, 7.62mm sniper rifle, and an M79 grenade launcher.

More than five years ago, the Barangay Tukanalipao became the site of the bloody encounter between elements of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and members of the Special Action Forces (SAF) of the Philippine National Police when the latter launched a covert operation against an international terrorist surnamed Marwan who sought refuge in the area. Marwan died in the operation but 44 SAF members became casualties in the process. (Malu Cadelina Manar / MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2020/09/soldiers-seize-guns-bomb-making-materials-in-2-maguindanao-towns/

PNP, AFP sign new joint directive to dismantle insurgency, terrorism in the country

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 23, 2020): PNP, AFP sign new joint directive to dismantle insurgency, terrorism in the country (By Susan G. De Leon) 

CALOOCAN CITY, Sept. 23 (PIA) The Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) signed today a new joint directive that aims to dismantle the communist insurgency and terrorism in the country.

PNP Chief, Police General Camilo Cascolan and AFP Chief of Staff, General Gilbert Gapay led the signing of Joint Letter Directive No. 03 series of 2020 or "Guidelines in Evaluating the Effectiveness of Internal Security Operations in Support to the National Thrust to End Local Communist Armed Conflict” during the National Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center (JPSCC) Meeting on Wednesday, September 23 in Camp Crame, Quezon City,

The PNP and AFP also signed a Joint Resolution that declares of communist guerilla fronts as weakened and dismantled groups at present times.

Present to witness the signing of the directive and resolution include Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, National Security Adviser, Secretary Hermogenes Esperon, and NICA Director General Alex Paul Monteagudo.

Cascolan expressed his sincerest gratitude and appreciation to General Gapay "for always being supportive of the efforts of the PNP in attaining peace and harmony not only with the terrorist conflict areas but in whole country".

"On behalf of the Philippine National Police, I express my unqualified support to the Armed Forces of the Philippines in your desire to eliminate communist insurgency in affected provinces," Cascolan said.

The PNP Chief also pointed out the essence of the JPSCC meeting to strengthen the rapport of the PNP and AFP as police force supports anti-insurgency and anti-terrorism operations, particularly, in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.

"While we must perform our primary responsibility to serve and protect our people, it is our duty to give our best to help the AFP in defending our country through giving the best assistance and support to your troops especially in part of Bangsamoro Autonomous Region," he said.

Aside from anti-insurgency and anti-terrorism efforts of the PNP, Cascolan emphasized that this new directive is aligned on his 9-point Strategic thrusts as part of the PNP P.A.T.R.O.L. Plan 2030, citing continuous campaign against loose firearms, illegal discharge of firearms, and campaign against criminal gangs, and drug suspects and peddlers.

"The signing of the Joint Letter Directive and Joint Resolution will collectively adopt all pursued cooperative efforts among the AFP and our organization to attain our goals with the end view of realizing the Filipino people’s aspirations for peace, security, stability and progress, and upholding their civil, political and human rights, under the rule of law," he said.

In 2017, the PNP and AFP also signed a Joint Resolution on the creation of the Inter-Agency Committee on Legal Action (IACOLA) during the 20th National JPSCC Meeting.

The accord has established stronger collaboration of ongoing and future efforts of the national government in addressing threat groups and local insurgency in the country.

Prior the event, all attendees underwent antigen testing to ensure health safety inside the venue. All participants' results are negative. (PNP PIO/PIA-NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1054079

AFP, PNP join forces to strengthen barangay peacekeepers

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 23, 2020): AFP, PNP join forces to strengthen barangay peacekeepers (By April M. Bravo) 

ILOCOS SUR, Sept. 23 (PIA) – Elements of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP), specifically from Charlie (CRUSADER) Company of the 81st Infantry (SPARTAN) Battalion and the police force in the municipalities of Nagbukel and Narvacan, facilitated recently the conduct of the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPATs) refresher seminar.

This seminar aims to strengthen and develop the barangays to be resilient from the intrusions and influence of the communist terrorists and other threat groups or individuals.

It should be noted that the BPATs are force multipliers in law enforcement especially in maintaining peace and order situations as well as crime prevention and anti-insurgency in the barangays.

Further, amidst the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the seminar was also intended to equip these BPATs with the knowledge to fight the unseen enemy and prevent its spread in their respective communities.

The training in Nagbukel town was participated in by 60 barangay tanods from four barangays namely: Taleb, Bandril, Casilagan and Poblacion East while 18 barangay tanods from Barangay Sucoc attended the seminar held in the municipality of Narvacan.

During the seminar, topics discussed include the duties and responsibilities of BPATs, basic principles of investigation, “Anti-Bastos” Law and sexual harassment, arresting techniques, Communist Party of the Philippines–New People's Army (CPP-NPA) terrorists infiltration and the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

In a message, Ronald Corpuz, barangay chairman of Sucoc, said “Nagpapasalamat ako sa mga kasundaluhan at kapulisan sa walang sawang pagsuporta at pagtulong sa amin, malaking tulong ito para madadagdagan ang kakayahan ng mga BPAT member sa aking barangay.”

Likewise, Lieutenant Colonel Rodrigo Mariñas Jr., commanding officer of the 81st IB, said, “We must not let our guards down as we faced the pandemic, instead, we must be more vigilant to fight this crisis and also to end the insurgency here in the province of Ilocos Sur.”

“I would also like to stress our appreciation and gratitude to the residents of the two municipalities for showing their concerns in maintaining peace and order in their barangay and for participating in this BPATs training. We, the Philippine Army, together with the PNP, vows to continue to work together to attain a peaceful community for our people," he added. (JCR/AMB/PIA Ilocos Sur with reports from 81IB)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1054077

Army partners with BulSU, reservists for skills training of troops

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 23, 2020): Army partners with BulSU, reservists for skills training of troops (By Vinson F. Concepcion) 

MALOLOS CITY, Sept.23 (PIA) -- Army 48th Infantry Battalion (48th IB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Bulacan State University (BulSU) and 304th Bulacan Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion (304th RRIBn) for the capacity building of soldiers.

48th IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Felix Emeterio Valdez said this aims to provide troops with additional knowledge on industrial technology particularly building wiring, automotive, video editing and welding.

“My appreciation and heartfelt gratitude to BulSU and 304th RRIBn for this opportunity given to us. This endeavor will pave the way to a world-class Army knowing that we have your support. Your Guardians Battalion will be forever grateful for this," Valdez furthered.

For her part, BulSU President Cecilia Gascon emphasized the importance of the partnership in the advancement of learning and continuing education.

She directed the College of Industrial Technology dean to supervise the training with respect to the existing rules and regulations stipulated in the MOU and the Interagency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases.

Under the MOU, 304th RRIBn will coordinate with BulSU for training tools and equipment; help provide qualified trainers; assist in supervising, monitoring and evaluation of the program since most of the reservists are instructors in Industrial Technology; and recommend measures to ensure success of the program. (CLJD/VFC-PIA 3)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1054090

Tagalog News: Kapabilidad ng PTF ELCAC StratCom cluster sa Palawan, hinasa

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 23, 2020): Tagalog News: Kapabilidad ng PTF ELCAC StratCom cluster sa Palawan, hinasa (By Leila B. Dagot)

PUERTO PRINCESA, Palawan, Setyembre 23 (PIA) -- Idinaos ng bumubuo ng Strategic Communications (StratCom) Cluster ng Palawan Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) sa Palawan ang isang capability enhancement conference at workshop kamakailan.

Dito ay nakiisa ang lahat ng kinatawan at information officer (IO) ng iba’t ibang ahensiya ng pamahalaan sa lalawigan na miyembro ng cluster.

Layunin ng gawain na mas mapalakas pa ang kasanayan ng mga itinalagang tagapagsalita ng mga ahensiya ng gobyerno upang maiparating at maipaunawa ng husto sa mga mamamayan ang nararapat na impormasyon hinggil sa mga proyekto at programang ipinatutupad nito.

Sa gawain, tinalakay ni Provincial Information Officer Winston Arzaga, chairman ng StratCom Cluster ang ‘fundamentals of information and messaging’.

Aniya, mahalaga ang papel ng mga IO ng isang ahensiya para sa mas mainaw na kamalayan ng publiko sa mga hangarin ng pamahalaan.

Binigyang diin naman ni Col. Louie Villanueva, pinuno ng U7 ng Western Command (WesCom) at focal person ng StratCom Cluster na ang tama at maayos na pagbibigay ng impormasyon sa publiko ay mabisang sandata upang hindi maligaw ng landas ang mga mamamayan lalo na ang mga nasa malalayong komunidad.

Kailangan din aniya ito upang hindi mahikayat ang pamayanan ng grupo ng New People’s Army (NPA).

Sa naturang workshop, siniguro naman na naipatupad ng maayos ang mga health protocols para sa proteksyon ng bawat isa sa gitna ng pandemya.

Ang StratCom Cluster ay isa lamang sa 12 clusters na bumubuo sa Provincial Task Force ELCAC na siyang inatasan para sa matagumpay na hangarin ng Executive Order No. 70 ni Pangulong Rodrigo R. Duterte. (LBD/PIAMIMAROPA)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1054074

Military, police operatives capture alleged top NPA leaders in Negros

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 23, 2020): Military, police operatives capture alleged top NPA leaders in Negros (By Jennifer C. Tilos)

NEGROS ORIENTAL, Sept. 22 (PIA) -- Joint military and police operatives arrested two alleged top leaders of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) and other seven personalities on Sunday at Brgy. Buenavista, Guihulngan City, this province.

Capt. Raymond Jamisal, civil military officer of the 62nd Infantry Battalion identified the suspect as Nona Espinosa, deputy secretary of Central Neros1 Front and Adidas Acero, vice-commander of Front Operational Command of NPA.

Both suspects have pending seven warrants of arrests for various crimes such as multiple murder, robbery, among others, said Jamisal.

“The arrested NPA leaders were also involved in the series of atrocities in Central Negros including the ambush of Police Supt. Arnel Arpon in Brgy. Magsaysay, Guihulngan City on July 21, 2017,” he added.

The military reports stated that other arrested individuals with their names and aliases were captured, and seized from their possession were firearms and explosives including one glock pistol, caliber 45 pistol, two hand grenades, and various subversive documents.

Lt. Col Melvin Flores, battalion commander of 62nd IB, lauded the effort of the joint operatives, Guihulngan City Task Force ELCAC, and residents of Brgy. Buenavista for their timely information on the presence of these NPA personalities.

“We assured everyone that these personalities will be treated fairly in accordance with the International Humanitarian Law and in adherence to Human Rights Law. I urged the rebels to surrender and avail of the government’s livelihood program Enhance Comprehensive Local Integration Program,” said Flores.

The military commander added “Certain Espinosa and Matusado, part of the suspected NPAs arrested, will be given immediate medical attention considering their pregnancy. And to the remaining NPAs, our government is always ready to help those who will peacefully surrender, but if you choose to push the armed struggle, we have no choice but to enforce the law. The Army and PNP will continue its mandated task to serve the people and find justice to your victims. We will not stop hunting you until we achieve the just and lasting peace here in Central Negros.”

Captured personalities are now under the custody of Guihulngan City Police Station for proper disposition and inquest proceedings, said Jamisal.

For his part, MGen. Eric Vinoya, commander of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division said the arrest of the ranking officials of CPP-NPA communist terrorists was part of 3ID’s aggressive and intensified campaign against insurgency and wanted persons in attaining a peaceful Negros Island.

“We are doubling our efforts and strategies to cease these communist-terrorists from staging more terror. Our troops together with the PNP will be conducting more joint law enforcement operations to permanently disable not only their terroristic activities but also their organization,” Vinoya said.

“The successful arrest of the high-ranking officials of the communist-terrorist group likewise shows that our government’s anti-terrorism drive is effective, a breakthrough in our anti-insurgency effort and a major setback to the anti-peace and anti-people activities of the CPP-NPA Terrorist in the island of Negros,” Vinoya stressed. (jct/PIA7 Negros Oriental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1053980

Borongan TF ELCAC sails to distant barangay to usher services through “Dul-ong Serbisyo“ caravan

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 23, 2020): Borongan TF ELCAC sails to distant barangay to usher services through “Dul-ong Serbisyo“ caravan (By Samuel D. Candido)

BORONGAN CITY, September 14, PIA – The Borongan City Task Force –End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF –ELCAC) sailed to the distant barangay Pinanag-an on a Sunday to bring a truckload of services through a “Dul-ong Serbisyo” caravan.

The activity was led by Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan C. Agda which also ushered a dialogue or pulong-pulong consultation.

According to Mayor Agda that the activity aims to bring the government closer to the people.

“This “Dul-ong Serbisyo” caravan is one of the program of the city government to deliver the basic services to the people in the far-flung barangays by bringing the city government to barangays and to hear the sentiments or the issues and concerns of a particular barangay,” Mayor Agda said.

He disclosed that the said activity conducted with free services like medical and dental consultation, mass wedding, haircut and circumsition.

In response to the mandate, other national government agencies attended the said activity such as DTI, DepEd, DENR-PENRO/CENRO, and TESDA who also brought various services of the government.

DTI brought information on business entrepreneurship, DepEd talked on free education and psychological first aid to the grade school pupils and relayed the mechanics of distant learning.

The DENR –PENRO-CENRO talked about the free land titling, while TESDA talked on livelihood training and the different TESDA NC-II courses.

Brgy. Pinanag-an is considered a hotspot where communist rebel movement and activities have been reported.

DILG Gemma Amit said that it is the mandate of the TF-ELCAC to go to the community and talked about how the rural folks can help the government end the protracted war on communism.

She said that this caravan is the answer to the implementation of Executive Order No. 70 “Institutionalizing the Whole of Nation approach in attaining Inclusive and Sustainable Peace, creating a National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC), and Directing the Adoption of a National Framework.

The LGU said that the City government will be bringing some more government interventions in the barangay. (nbq/SDC/PIA-E. Samar)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1053079

DTI hands livelihood starter kits to 39 ex-NPA rebels in Bukidnon

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 23, 2020): DTI hands livelihood starter kits to 39 ex-NPA rebels in Bukidnon (By Norven Jay Garcia, CMO, 88IB)

MARAMAG, Bukidnon, September 21—Thirty-nine Former Rebels (FRs) of the New People’s Army (NPA) received livelihood starter kits delivered by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in collaboration with 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion, Phillippine Army.

In a ceremony held at Headquarters 88IB, South Poblacion, Maramag, Bukidnon last September 4, DTI provincial director Eriberto A. Taban-ud Jr. said the project is part of the government’s assistance for FRs under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Each FR received a Sari-Sari Store Starter Kit consisting of wide-ranging assorted goods worth P8,000. All in all, DTI has distributed a total of 39 Starter Kits to the FRs amounting to P312,000.

“The department is very much honored to help the former rebels and be part of their new beginnings. As part of our department goals, we will do our best to offer and bring government services closer to them,” Taban-ud said.

He added that the said activity of DTI is being implemented through the “Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa,” a livelihood and entrepreneurship program of the department.

Datu Dado, one of the FRs, thanked the government for helping them rise again and live peacefully.

“Dako kayo akong pasalamat sa gobyerno. Sa tinood lang gikan gyud ko sa Partido sa CPP-NPA. Wala man silay nahatag nga ingon ani sa akoa. Karon kay nagsurender ko, dako kaayo akong pasalamat sa DTI ug 88IB nga napakita ug napabati gyud sa amoa ang tinood nga serbisyo. Dako kaayo ni nga tabang. Salamat kayo gikan sa akong kasingkasing. (I am very thankful to our government for providing us their services that we never experienced from the CPP-NPA. Now that I surrendered, I am now a beneficiary of any government programs. I am thankful to DTI and 88IB for bringing us the genuine government services. My heartfelt gratitude to all of you),” Datu Dado said.

Lieutenant Colonel Franklin F. Fabic, Commanding Officer of 88IB, thanked the DTI for helping the 88IB in its efforts to support the FRs while the government prepares them (FRs) for reintegration into the mainstream and live normal lives.

“Thank you for being our partner in winning the peace and bringing the government closer to the people especially to our FRs who became victims of the wrong ideology of communist terrorists. Your assistance will greatly contribute to their new endeavors of rejoining the mainstream society,” the 88IB commander said. (CMO, 88IB, 4ID, PA/PIA Bukidnon)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1053987

SurSur IP leaders: We won the fight on quality education for IPs

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 23, 2020): SurSur IP leaders: We won the fight on quality education for IPs

LIANGA, Surigao del Sur, Sept. 23 -- “We won the fight on having [access to] quality education.”

Lianga Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR) Hawudon Jumar Bucales and Lianga tribal chieftain Datu Constancio Duhac both said during the inauguration ceremony of the two Department of Education (DepEd) Schools of Living Traditions (SLT) on September 16, 2020.

The schools, located at Sitio Simowao, Diatagon village in Lianga town and Sitio Lucnodon, Brgy. Mahaba in Marihatag town, will replace the now-closed non-DepEd accredited schools Tribal Filipino Program in Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS) and Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural and Livelihood Development, Inc. (ALCADEV), which are allegedly linked with the communist-terrorist group, National Peoples’ Army (NPA).

Lianga town native and Makabayan bloc Bayan Muna representative Eufemia Cullamat has opposed the establishment of DepEd accredited IP schools, accusing the government, particularly the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), of depriving the education of the IPs upon the closure of both schools. Rep. Cullamat has also discredited the military’s Community Support Program (CSP) in the IP communities during the budget hearing in Congress.

Surigao Sur IP leaders, however, have been vocal in their support to the NTF-ELCAC, and have lambasted Cullamat and her cohorts and identified them as coddlers of NPAs.

“When the government addresses the root causes of insurgency and confronts the NPAs through combat operations, they oppose. But when it comes to NPA’s killings of innocent IP leaders and members, they have remained quiet. Cullamat and the Makabayan bloc simply [wants to] cover up the NPAs and discredit the government that is enforcing the laws against NPAs,” Datu Rico Maca, IPMR of San Miguel town said.

Surigao Sur IP leaders have sought the help of the Caraga Regional Task Force-ELCAC to abolish the said schools and replace them with DepEd IP schools, citing the TRIFPSS and ALCADEV train cadres of IP and non-IP residents in the area to become new members of the group.

Documents have also been recovered from previous encounters with the NPA, substantiating the links between the schools and the terrorist group in the province.

During the ceremony, BGen. Allan Hambala of the 401st Infantry Brigade said that the closure of the non-DepEd schools were in response to the resolutions of IP leaders, local government units (LGUs), and even the former rebels (FRs) who attended the said schools.

“The focus of our community support program in the communities is to identify the primary and secondary issues of the IPs so that the government will know how to help them. One of these is access to quality IP education, which is now being addressed by the RTF-ELCAC.”

Meanwhile, 3rd Special Forces “Arrowhead” Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Joey Baybayan on his message emphasized how to counter terrorism through education.

“The best weapon we can use to counter terrorism is to teach the children the genuine essence of peace. These DepEd IP schools will not only provide quality education but also the right values that can preserve and even develop the culture and tradition of our indigenous peoples,” said the army official.

The establishment of IP schools, spearheaded by DepEd Caraga, is a joint effort of the RTF-ELCAC, the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC), and the Regional Development Council (RDC), with the provincial government of Surigao del Sur. (Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1054003

60 ex-rebels in AgNor receive financial aid from government

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 23, 2020): 60 ex-rebels in AgNor receive financial aid from government (By Jennifer P. Gaitano) 

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 23 (PIA) -- Agusan del Norte Governor Dale Corvera, together with representative Maria Angelica Rosedelle Amante-Matba and chief of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Caraga, handed over the P20,000 financial aid to each of the 60 former rebels who surrendered to the government’s fold.

Governor Corvera expressed that despite limited funds given to the former rebels, this could already help them start a new journey as they intend to live a normal life in the mainstream society and start a livelihood for their family.

“Utilize this money properly, do not just spend it on unnecessary things. Make sure that your family would also benefit from the financial assistance given to you,” said Corvera.

In addition to the cash benefits, the FRs’ dependents would also be given scholarship slots. This is apart from the housing program which will also be provided to them.

“We have started purchasing the needed materials which will be used to construct your houses in Sitio Bulak,” Corvera bared.

Agusan del Norte board member Elizabeth Calo stressed the need to extend assistance to the former rebels who felt the real concern of the government and would no longer return to the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) movement.

Meanwhile, alias Louie, one of the FR-beneficiaries was thankful to have received the financial assistance. He said the government has been true to its promise and commitment to take care of them when they surrender.

“The government has not failed us. We may have failed in our dreams before, but now we did not fail in our intention to surrender to the government,” said alias Louie. (JPG/NCL/PIA-Caraga)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1054012

Tagalog News: 60 dating rebelde sa Agusan del Norte binigyan ng puhunan upang makapagsimula muli

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 23, 2020): Tagalog News: 60 dating rebelde sa Agusan del Norte binigyan ng puhunan upang makapagsimula muli (By Nora L. Molde) 

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Setyembre 23 (PIA) -- Sa pangunguna ni Gobernador Dale Corvera sa probinsya ng Agusan del Norte kasama si representante Maria Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba at ang hepe ng DSWD Caraga binigyan nila ng tig-20,000 bilang financial assistance ang bawat isa sa 60 na dating rebeldeng nagbalik sa gobyerno upang magsimulang mabuhay ng normal at tahimik kasama ang pamilya.

Aminado si Gob. Corvera na maliit lamang ang halagang kanilang natanggap ngunit kung gagamitin nila ito sa maayos, malaking tulong ito para sa kanilang pagbabagong buhay. Dagdag pa ni Corvera na kahit maliit lang ang halaga ng kanilang natanggap pero sigurado itong makakatulong sa kanilang pamilya.

Sa layuning magkaroon ng maaayos na pamumuhay ang mga dating rebelde, maliban sa financial assistance na natanggap ng mga dating rebelde, makaka-avail din sila ng scholarship program para sa kanilang mga anak, balik baril program at ang libreng pabahay kung saan sinimulan na ng probinsya ang pagpurchase ng mga materials na gagamitin para dito.

Ayon din ni Agusan del Norte board member Elizabeth Calo dapat nating silang tulungan na mabuhay ng normal dahil hindi naman sila permanenteng rebelled, nagbagong Buhay na sila at hindi na dapat tawaging dating rebelled upang tuluyang makapagbagong Buhay.

Malaki ang pasalamat ni Louie, isa sa mga nakatanggap ng assistance, dahil ayon sa kanya hindi tayo binigo ng gobyerno sa kanilang pangakong tulong upang makapag-bagong buhay tao. (NCLM/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1054068

Slain police official's firearm recovered from 'rebel' leader

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): Slain police official's firearm recovered from 'rebel' leader (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

RECOVERED. The Glock pistol issued to the late police chief of Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, Supt. Arnel D. Arpon, was recovered from a suspected New People's Army leader who was arrested during a joint military and police operation on Sunday (Sept. 20, 2020). Arpon and five of his men were killed in an ambush on July 21, 2017 in Barangay Magsaysay, Guihulngan City, allegedly by NPA members. (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Army)

The Glock pistol that was issued to the late police chief of Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, who was ambushed three years ago, was recovered from a suspected New People’s Army (NPA) leader who was arrested over the weekend in that locality.

A statement from the 303rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army on Tuesday evening said the firearm confiscated from the suspected NPA leader, Adidas Kadusale Acero, was indeed that of the late Supt. Arnel D. Arpon.

Arpon and five of his men were killed while three other policemen were wounded in an ambush allegedly perpetrated by the NPA on July 21, 2017 in Barangay Magsaysay, Guihulngan City. They were then divested of their service firearms and personal belongings.

Suspected high-ranking NPA leaders Acero, alias "Baldo BJ", vice commander, Front Operational Command, and Nona Espinosa, alias "Ava/Jelay", deputy front secretary of Central Negros 1 Front, Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros Cebu Bohol Siquijor, who have eight warrants of arrest for various crimes, were arrested in Barangay Buenavista, Guihulngan City during joint military and police operations last Sunday.

Other individuals also arrested were identified as Lea Canja Niles, Xian Flores Batiken, Rodrigo Himino Benlot, Felix Baquilta Policher, Analyn Matusada Flores, Crispin T. Diano, and Juravilla Eno Baloy.

During their arrest, the government troops recovered one 9mm Glock 17 pistol, three .45-caliber pistols, two hand grenades, one .357-caliber revolver with five ammunition; 81 rounds of ammunition, six magazines for caliber 9-mm and .45-caliber pistols, one set of dental instruments, subversive documents, and other items.

The Glock pistol, with markings “Made in USA”, “GLOCK INC” and serial number AAAN274 was verified by the Firearm Verification office of the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office last Monday, the Army statement said.

It said the Glock pistol was recovered from Acero during the serving of warrants for violation of Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition.

“With the identification of the firearm as legitimately owned by the late Police Supt. Arpon, it could aggravate and bolster the case against the NPA leaders Adidas Acero and Nona Espinosa, including their cohorts that they were part of the NPA group who ruthlessly murdered the policemen,” the statement said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116330

Gov’t forces seize BIFF lair, explosives in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): Gov’t forces seize BIFF lair, explosives in Maguindanao (By Edwin Fernandez)

ON ALERT. Government troopers check on vehicles entering and leaving Ampatuan, Maguindanao following the capture of a Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter lair in remote Barangay Saniag of the municipality on Tuesday (Sept. 22, 2020). An alert status has been raised in the area due to anticipated retaliatory attacks from the terror group after a number of its followers were killed in ongoing military operations in the province. (Photo courtesy of PNA Cotabato)

Government forces pursuing Daesh-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Maguindanao captured a hideout believed to be used by the lawless group as a staging area in Maguindanao, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (ID) here said Wednesday.

The 33rd Infantry Battalion, part of operating units under Joint Task Force Central (JTFC), discovered the abandoned lair Tuesday dawn at Barangay Saniag, Ampatuan town in Maguindanao, said Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, 6ID commander and head of JTFC.

“While scouring the area, ground troops found several anti-personnel mines intended to disrupt the movement of advancing military troops,” Uy said.

Seized at the abandoned lair were improvised bombs with the signature style of the BIFF, bomb-making components, electrical wires, cut nails and metal sheets as shrapnel, and personal belongings of the terrorists who presumably left hastily before government forces arrived.

Uy earlier ordered the pursuit operations against the BIFF who fled from engagement with military forces.

Recently, two BIFF members carrying improvised bombs were killed during focused military operations in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, and another two BIFF bombers were also slain in skirmishes in Surallah, South Cotabato.

Soldiers have been targeting the local terrorists in the hinterlands of the adjoining towns of Datu Hofer, Shariff Aguak, and Ampatuan in Maguindanao to prevent the group from bombing areas in Central Mindanao.

Over the weekend, a Marine trooper was killed and four of his companions were injured when the BIFF set off a roadside bomb along Barangay Limpongo in Datu Hoffer town.

Military officials see it as retaliatory attacks by the BIFF after it suffered heavy casualties in the ongoing military offensive.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116324

26 ex-rebels pledge allegiance to gov't in Masbate

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): 26 ex-rebels pledge allegiance to gov't in Masbate (By Connie Calipay)

BACK TO THE FOLD OF LAW. A total of 26 members of the communist terrorist group New People's Army are presented by the military after surrendering to the authorities in Masbate province on Tuesday (Sept. 22, 2020). The NPA and its political wing, the National Democratic Front, are listed as terrorist organizations by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines. (Photo courtesy of 9th Infantry Division, PA)

Twenty six members of the New People's Army (NPA) communist terrorist group (CTG) and a mass base supporter who recently surrendered after a series of negotiations were formally presented by military authorities in a ceremony in Masbate province on Tuesday.

Capt. John Paul Belleza, 9th Infantry Division spokesperson, said the surrenderers denounced terrorism and pledged allegiance to the government before the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) and the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) committee.

“Of the mass surrenderees, 15 were regular communist NPA terrorists (CNTs), nine were Militiang Bayan (MB), two were part of Sangay ng Partido sa Lokalidad (SPL) and one supporter,” Belleza said in a statement on Wednesday.

“Four high powered firearms and 28 low powered firearms were also surrendered by them,” he added.

Belleza said the E-CLIP committee can now fast-track the payment of firearms remuneration and the delivery of benefits intended for the now considered former rebels (FRs).

He said Jimmy, a regular CTG member who was captured in one of the armed encounters in Masbate, thanked God and the security forces for giving him another chance to live a much peaceful life.

“Ako po ay isang captured o huli ng mga militar. Pero doon ko po nakita ang pagpapahalaga sa bayan na hindi pala solusyon ang giyera kundi po sa isang magandang usapan (I was a captured by military during an encounter, and then I saw and realized the importance of our community and that war is not the solution but a peace talk),” Belleza quoted Jimmy as saying.

Masbate Gov. Antonio Kho, chairman of PTF-ELCAC, in his message during the ceremony, recognized the Army and the Philippine National Police (PNP) for their exemplary performance resulting in the continuous surrender of CTG members.

“So, we do our best so that there will be a continuance [of surrender] because this is the only catalyst or the ultimate solution for the everlasting peace not only in the province but in the entire country,” Kho said.

Maj. Gen. Henry Robinson Jr., commander of Joint Task Force (JTF) Bicolandia, in a statement congratulated the PTF-ELCAC for gathering a large number of surrenderers with their firearms, stressing that indeed, pure combat solutions will not solve the armed struggle.

“Sa mga kasama natin dito ngayon, nagpapasalamat ako at kayo ay nagbalik-loob na sa gobyerno at nagdesisyong itakwil ang maling ideolohiya na itinuro sa inyo. Ngayong andito na kayo, sa pamamagitan ng E-CLIP mabibigyan kayo ng iba’t-ibang tulong, kaalaman, at kasanayan na inyong magagamit sa pagbabagong buhay. Ito ay tulong ng pamahalaan hindi lamang sa inyo kundi pati na rin sa inyong pamilya at komunidad,” (For those who are here today, I thank you for returning to the fold of the government and deciding to denounce the wrong idealism that you were taught. Now that you are here, by E-CLIP you will be given different support, knowledge, and skills that will help to change your life)," Robinson said.

He added that the development is the result of decisive joint operations of the Army and PNP, effective implementation of the Modified Community Support Program as well as the intensified efforts of PTF-ELCAC coupled with the cooperation of the Masbateños in the anti-insurgency campaigns of the government.

Also present during the event were Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr., head of the Southern Luzon Command and Brig. Gen. Bartolome Bustamante, director of Police Regional Office 5 (PRO5).

Parlade said with consistent convergence of efforts, insurgency can be resolved in one year's time and highlighted how serious the government is in helping the former rebels live a better life.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116352

Troops capture ranking NPA leader at Zambo Sur hospital

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): Troops capture ranking NPA leader at Zambo Sur hospital (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

CAPTURED. Government troops capture Tuesday (Sept. 22, 2020) Rowel Monasque, a ranking leader of the communist New People's Army, inside the Zamboanga del Sur Medical Center in Pagadian City. Monasque is seeking treatment after being injured when the rebels clashed with government forces Monday in Barangay Marangan, Dumigag, Zamboanga del Sur. (Photo courtesy of the 53rd Infantry Battalion)

Government forces captured a wounded ranking leader of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) at a hospital in the Zamboanga del Sur city of Pagadian, the military said Wednesday.

The Army's 53rd Infantry Battalion and Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Police Office identified the NPA rebel as Rowel Monasque carries the aliases of Ka Jotham and Ka Henry, according to the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom).

Monasque is the leader of the NPA’s Main Regional Guerrilla Unit (MRGU) of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC) operating in the region, Westmincom said.

Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, the Army's 102nd Infantry Brigade commander, said Monasque was arrested around 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Zamboanga del Sur Medical Center in Pagadian City.

Monasque figured in an encounter with government forces on Monday in Barangay Marangan, Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur, Nicolas said.

“He (Monasque) is currently undergoing medication for the wounds sustained during the encounter,” Nicolas said.

Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera, commander of the Army's 53rd Infantry Battalion, said the capture of Monasque was a result of the pursuit operations they launched following Monday’s encounter.

During that clash, a rebel was killed while the troops recovered high-powered firearms, bomb-making components, and personal belongings.

A day before Monasque’s capture NPA rebels Jaymar Balaas Bellano and Gemma Donsalo Ayas--were arrested while fleeing from clash site in Barangay Marangan, Dumingag.

The two NPA rebels escaped from the encounter site bringing along with them assorted war materials, supplies, and garments.

“We thank all our stakeholders, people who played a vital role in our campaign to end local communist armed conflict in our area,” Herrera said.

Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, 1st Infantry Division command, assured that the captured NPA leader “will be taken care of, regardless of his position and leadership in the armed group.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116328

Gov’t troops recover IED in Mati City

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): Gov’t troops recover IED in Mati City (By Che Palicte)

RECOVERED. Government troops recover two improvised explosive devices in Barangay Sanghay, Mati City, Davao Oriental on Tuesday (Sept. 22, 2020) as well as an ignition switch and a rifle grenade. Authorities say two former supporters of the communist rebel movement helped them recover the bombs. (Photo courtesy of the Davao Oriental PIO)

Government forces recovered two Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Mati City, the Davao Oriental provincial government said on Wednesday.

A provincial government statement said military intelligence operatives and personnel of the 2nd Davao Oriental Provincial Mobile Force Company (DOPMFC) recovered the IEDs in Barangay Sanghay, Mati City through the help of two former supporters of the communist New People’s Army (NPA).

Authorities recovered two “mother cuptu” explosive devices, an ignition switch, and a rifle grenade, the provincial government said.

“The frequent use of landmines by the rebel group is a huge violation of the international law of war as it often hits the defenseless civilian communities who are often caught in the crossfire,” it said.

Rebels entrusted the IEDs to the two former NPA supporters in 2016, the provincial government said, adding the pair decided to inform authorities on the location of the bombs following their surrender earlier this month.

Vic, one of the surrenderers, said they could not bear in their conscience "if people get hurt once these powerful explosives were used."

He was quoted in the dialect as saying a “mother cuptu” is a powerful explosive that “can kill at least twelve people within the site of the explosion.”

Governor Nelson Dayanghirang thanked the two surrenderers for helping authorities recover the explosives, saying their decision has helped save lives.

“Thank you for responding to my constant call in public to surrender. This is our province and we should all strive to make it peaceful. At the end of the day, all of us are the ones who will benefit from it,” Dayanghirang said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116368

Newly-promoted Westmincom chief gets military honors

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): Newly-promoted Westmincom chief gets military honors (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

MILITARY HONORS. The officers and men of the Western Mindanao Command on Wednesday (Sept.23, 2020) accorded arrival honors to newly-promoted Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., Westmincom chief (left). Vinluan reminds the troops to remain steadfast in their mission. (Photo courtesy of Westmincom Public Information Office)

Newly-promoted Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), thanked President Rodrigo Duterte for the trust and confidence given him to lead the Westmincom and for the approval of his promotion.

Vinluan issued the statement following the arrival honors accorded to him on Wednesday at Camp Don Basilio Navarro here following his promotion to three-star rank general.

“I would like to express my sincerest gratitude to the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) leadership led by no less than our Commander-in-Chief, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, for placing your trust and confidence in my abilities to lead Westmincom and for this unexpected milestone in my military career,” Vinluan said.

President Duterte approved Vinluan's promotion on September 17 this year.

Gen. Gilbert Gapay, AFP chief-of-staff, donned Vinluan’s insignia in a ceremony Tuesday at Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

“This promotion comes with tremendous responsibility, but, with your continued support and commitment, I know everything would be possible,” Vinluan told the servicemen and civilian employees of Westmincom.

“We will continue to work hard in pursuing our mandate. Let us all stay steadfast amid the challenges that come our way especially in these trying times. May the attitude of service always be in us and the heart that wants to help other people,” he added.

Vinluan is the 12th commander of Westmincom. He earned his first star amid the raging battle in Marawi City and his second star during his stint as the commander of Joint Task Force Sulu.

The battle-tested general is a native of Pangasinan and a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Maringal” Class of 1988. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116375

Terror group ‘supporter’ slain in SoCot drug bust

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): Terror group ‘supporter’ slain in SoCot drug bust (By Richelyn Gubalani)

Map of Polomolok, South Cotabato.

A target-listed pusher who was tagged as a supporter of an Islamic State-inspired local terrorist group was killed in an operation on Wednesday in Polomolok town, South Cotabato province.

Lt. Col. Alex Joe Orcajada, Polomolok municipal police chief, said suspect Conrad Casabal was slain in an encounter with operatives around 11:15 a.m. along the national highway in Barangay Glamang.

Operatives of the Police Regional Office-12’s intelligence division and the South Cotabato police subjected Casabal to an entrapment and managed to purchase a sachet of suspected shabu worth PHP500, Orcajada said.

However, he said the suspect drew a handgun and fired at the operating team after sensing he was dealing with law enforcers, who were backed by soldiers from the Army’s 5th Special Forces Battalion.

Orcajada said the brief firefight that ensued resulted in the fatal wounding of the suspect, who was eventually declared dead upon arrival in a nearby hospital.

Recovered from the suspect were a sachet of suspected shabu, PHP500 marked bill and a homemade pistol, police said.

Casabal included in the inter-agency drug watchlist in the area was already arrested in 2017 for drug pushing, Orcajada said.

“According to intelligence reports, he had been supporting the Nilong group financially,” he said, referring to the Dawlah Islamiyah’s Nilong sub-group, which operates in Polomolok and the neighboring areas.

The group has been tagged as behind the series of criminal and terror activities in the area, including the bomb attack in front of a lying-in clinic here in September 2018 that left eight people wounded.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116364

PMA entrance exam opens in Caraga

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): PMA entrance exam opens in Caraga (By Alexander Lopez)

ENTRANCE EXAM. The entrance examination for the Philippine Military Academy opens in Caraga Region on Wednesday (Sept. 23, 2020) in Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur. The examination will run until Saturday (Sept. 26 2020). (Photo courtesy of 402Bde)

BUTUAN CITY – Strict quarantine protocols are being observed at the entrance examination to Philippine Military Academy (PMA) for Caraga Region that started Wednesday until Saturday in Bayugan City.

Maj. Francisco P. Garello, Jr., civil-military operations officer of the Army's 402 Infantry Brigade (402Bde), told Philippine News Agency Wednesday that the examination for the region is being conducted at the Lope Asis Memorial Gymnasium in Bayugan City, Agusan del Norte.

“The examination starts at 8 in the morning and expected to last from three to four hours,” Garello said, adding that examinees from various parts of the Caraga Region are fetched every morning on a free ride from here to Bayugan City.

“There were 556 examinees who registered online here in Caraga and we expect them all to take the examination until Saturday,” Garello said.

As of Wednesday morning, a total of 222 examinees showed up at the venue of the examination.

“Strict quarantine protocols will be observed during the duration of the entrance examination to protect the examinees from the threat of the pandemic,” Garello said.

Aside from the regular requirements, the examinees were also required to wear facemasks, face shields, and to bring disinfectants for their personal use while taking the examination.

Examinees are also asked to bring a medical certificate issued within 48 to 72 hours, Garello said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116383

IED blast hurts farmer in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): IED blast hurts farmer in Maguindanao (By Edwin Fernandez)

Google map of Gen. S. K. Pendatun, Maguindanao.

A farmer working in the field was wounded when an improvised explosive device (IED) blew up in General Salipada K. Pendatun (GSKP) town in Maguindanao early Wednesday.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, said the 5 a.m. blast in Sitio Gantong, Barangay Tonggol in GKSP critically wounded Mujahid Guialudin, a local resident.

A neighbor of the farmer found another IED at the blast site that was later disarmed by the military bomb disposal team, Uy said.

“The victim was working with his carabao in the field when the IED went off,” Uy said.

Responding troopers from the Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion rushed the victim to a hospital at adjacent Tacurong City in Sultan Kudarat province.

Army bomb experts conducted a probe and found out that the IED, fashioned from a 60-mm mortar round with a mobile phone as a triggering device, was left unattended about three meters from the dirt road.

The second IED was found only a few meters away from the blast site.

Uy said the bombing could be part of a “diversionary tactic” of suspected Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) to halt ongoing military operations against them in the province.

The incident came a day after government forces discovered an abandoned BIFF lair in Barangay Saniag, Ampatuan town situated about 30 kilometers from GSKP municipality.

“The ongoing operation of the JTFC targeting the BIFF aims to contain the terrorists who are plotting to launch bombing activities in Central Mindanao,” Uy said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116391

USAID hands over emergency learning kits to quake-hit schools

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): USAID hands over emergency learning kits to quake-hit schools

USAID ASSISTANCE. Department of Education officials, teachers, and parents in Magsaysay, Davao del Sur receive educational kits from United States Agency for International Development (USAID) during a turnover ceremony in Magsaysay, Davao del Sur on Sept. 22. (Contributed photo)

As part of its broad education assistance in the Philippines, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) donated 14,436 student’s kits and 400 teacher’s kits to earthquake-hit schools in Davao del Sur on Sept 22.

The kits were handed over virtually to the Department of Education (DepEd) officials in Manila and physically to DepEd officials, teachers, and parents in Magsaysay, Davao del Sur.

“The series of earthquakes that hit Davao del Sur in December last year damaged nearly 400 schools affecting 188,000 students. We reached out to our partners to help the teachers and students recover, and thankfully USAID responded,” said Ronilda Co, DepEd Director for Disaster Risk Reduction Management Service (DRRMS).

Each teacher’s kit contains basic teaching and learning supplies to help ensure the delivery of education services even in times of disasters. Teachers from Kinder to Grade 3 (K-3) will be able to use the contents of their kits to ensure their well-being and prepare for their lessons in their chosen learning delivery modalities.

“In the last few months, the regional and division office of Davao del Sur worked with USAID to pack and deliver the kits to a total of 89 elementary schools in the hardest-hit municipalities of Bansalan, Matanao, and Magsaysay,” said Dr. Evelyn Fetalvero, DepEd Region 11 Director.

Students from Kinder to Grade 3 will receive back-to-school starter kits, including a backpack, a water tumbler, an umbrella, a pad of paper, a writing notebook, crayons, pencils, and a plastic envelope.

“Whether students are learning from the classroom or from their homes, education resources are essential. Beginning from the first day of school, having needed classroom supplies at home boosts students’ confidence and fosters their love for learning. By ensuring children have access to education that is safe, relevant and promotes social well-being, USAID is helping young students gain the foundational skills they need to lead productive and healthy lives,” said Tom LeBlanc, Office of Education Director of USAID Philippines.

Around 969,501 learners in 1,608 schools in Regions 11 and 12 were affected by the series of earthquakes that struck Mindanao in October and December 2019. It was reported that DepEd would need at least PHP7 billion to cover the repair and reconstruction of damaged classrooms, school furniture, learning materials, and equipment.

“Despite the challenges that abound this year and the years to come, the DepEd and its committed and resilient teachers will deliver basic education with support from partners like the USAID,” DepEd Undersecretary for Administration Alain Del Pascua said. (

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116435

Duterte affirms arbitral ruling on SCS before UN General Assembly

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): Duterte affirms arbitral ruling on SCS before UN General Assembly (By Jelly Musico)

ARBITRAL RULING. President Rodrigo Duterte delivers his pre-recorded speech from Malacañang Palace during the 75th Session of the General Assembly in New York early Wednesday (Sept. 23, 2020). Duterte affirmed the UN-backed Arbitral ruling in favor of the Philippines’ arbitration case against China’s nine-dash line that covers nearly the entire South China Sea before the UN member states. (Screenshot)

President Rodrigo Duterte affirmed the Permanent Court of Arbitration’s (PCA) ruling in favor of the Philippines’ arbitration case against China’s expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea (SCS) before the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

In his pre-recorded speech delivered from Malacañang Palace, Duterte, during the 75th Session of the General Assembly in New York early Wednesday (Manila time), encouraged fellow UN member states to “remain mindful” of their obligations and commitment to the Charter of the United Nations and as amplified by the 1982 Manila Declaration on the Peaceful Settlement of International Disputes.

"The Philippines affirms that commitment in the South China Sea in accordance with UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea) and the 2016 Arbitral Award,” he said.

Duterte added that the PCA’s ruling “is now part of international law, beyond compromise and beyond the reach of passing governments to dilute, diminish or abandon.”

“We firmly reject attempts to undermine it,” he said.

The President also welcomed the increasing number of states that have come in support of the award “and what it stands for – the triumph of reason over rashness, of law over disorder, of amity over ambition. This – as it should – is the majesty of the law.”

Duterte was referring to the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, which last September 16 submitted a joint note verbale to the UN, challenging the legality of China’s so-called nine-dash line that covers nearly the entire South China Sea.

The three countries, which are all state parties to the UNCLOS, said China’s exercise of “historic rights” over the disputed South China Sea does not comply with international law and UNCLOS provisions.

They cited the UN-backed PCA’s ruling on July 12, 2016, in favor of the Philippines’ arbitration case filed in 2013.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116296

Duterte defends anti-terrorism law at UN

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): Duterte defends anti-terrorism law at UN (By Azer Parrocha)

Aftermath of the Marawi siege 

Saying "terrorism looms large", President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday defended the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 (Republic Act No. 11479) before the United Nations General Assembly, describing it as a “legal framework” to help curb terrorism in the country.

“The Marawi siege, where foreign terrorist fighters took part, taught us that an effective legal framework is crucial. Our 2020 Anti-Terrorism Act shores up the legal framework by focusing on both terrorism and the usual reckless response to it,” he said in a pre-recorded speech and aired early Wednesday (Manila time) at the High-Level Debate of the 75th UNGA.

The Philippines continues to experience terrorism, the most recent was the two successive bomb explosions in Jolo, Sulu in August that killed several soldiers and civilians and injured 40 others.

Aside from the Marawi siege in 2017, other terrorist attacks include the Jolo Cathedral attack in 2019, and the Davao City night market bombing in September 2016, among others.

Duterte said the anti-terrorism law, which he signed in July this year, adheres to UN resolutions related to fighting terrorism.

“Its enactment was done pursuant to our commitment, and the strict adherence to the relevant Security Council resolutions and the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy,” he said.

Duterte said his administration would do its best to protect Filipinos from threats to their safety.

“The Philippines will do everything and partner with anyone who would sincerely desire to protect the innocent from terrorism in all its manifestations,” he said.

Duterte also reiterated his commitment to rebuild stricken communities and address the root causes of terrorism and violent extremism in the country.

In the same speech, he committed to increase the Philippine footprint in UN peacekeeping operations with increased participation of women.

He also thanked Filipino peacekeepers for putting themselves in the frontlines against harmful threats.

“I express gratitude to the gallant peacekeepers, including our own, who advance the cause of peace in the most difficult situations,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116311

Military's social media accounts still up: AFP exec

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): Military's social media accounts still up: AFP exec (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP spokesperson Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo (File photo)

None of the Facebook accounts that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) maintain have been removed or shut down, an official of the Armed Forces of the Philippines said Wednesday.

AFP spokesperson, Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo issued the statement in reaction to a report that Facebook has shut down pages, accounts, groups, and Instagram profiles managed by people allegedly affiliated with the Philippine military and police, for "coordinated inauthentic behavior".

"We in the AFP are looking at that report by Facebook in removing certain accounts and posts in its platform," he said, noting that all of the military's social media accounts are "up and running".

He added that the AFP upholds "truth and accountability of network and social media account managers" as regards the content of posts on their websites, pages, and accounts.

The AFP would meet with Facebook Philippines’ policy head Wednesday afternoon -- an initiative of the social media giant -- but Arevalo clarified that it has no connection with the report.

"It’s been long arranged and has been postponed twice due to issues of schedule. Matutuloy this PM (It will proceed this afternoon). We will take the opportunity to ask for details about that report," Arevalo said.

Meanwhile, Philippine National Police spokesperson, Col. Ysmael Yu said the organization would continue to adhere to cyber etiquette and proper decorum in all public engagements, including social media platforms, chat groups, and private sites.

"We recognize social media as an effective tool that technology can offer, especially at this period of health emergency, to establish pro-active information and awareness activities as well as to build harmonious relationships with the community. As far as we are concerned, official Facebook pages of the PNP and those of our lower units remain compliant with standards and continue to serve its purpose along these objectives," he said.

All comments and opinions of individual personnel, associations, and sectoral groups on matters that are not related to the organization's activities are disowned by the PNP as unofficial and unauthorized, Yu said. (with Christopher Lloyd Caliwan/PNA)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116325

PNP, AFP sign accord on anti-insurgency, terrorism

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): PNP, AFP sign accord on anti-insurgency, terrorism (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

The police and military signed on Wednesday a joint letter directive aimed at cooperative efforts to quell threats by terrorism and communist insurgency in the country.

The signing collectively adopts efforts of both organizations on maintaining peace and security and upholding civil, political and human rights, under the rule of law.

The joint letter directive known as "Guidelines in Evaluating the Effectiveness of Internal Security Operations in Support to the National Thrust to End Local Communist Armed Conflict” was signed at the National Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center meeting at Camp Crame by Philippine National Police chief Gen. Camilo Cascolan and Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff Gen. Gilbert Gapay.

Cascolan said the meeting sought to strengthen the rapport between the PNP and AFP, as he expressed support to the AFP in its fight against communist insurgency and terrorism.

"While we must perform our primary responsibility to serve and protect our people, it is our duty to give our best to help the AFP in defending our country through giving the best assistance and support to your troops especially in part of Bangsamoro Autonomous Region," he said.

Aside from anti-insurgency and anti-terrorism efforts, Cascolan said the directive is aligned with the continuous campaign against loose firearms, illegal discharge of firearms, and campaign against criminal gangs, and drug suspects and peddlers.

In 2017, the PNP and AFP also signed a Joint Resolution on the creation of the Inter-Agency Committee on Legal Action during the 20th National JPSCC Meeting.

The accord has established stronger collaboration of ongoing and future efforts of the national government in addressing threat groups and insurgency.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116317

Palace hopes Facebook exercises prudence in removing accounts

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): Palace hopes Facebook exercises prudence in removing accounts (By Azer Parrocha)

Malacañang expressed hope that Facebook would exercise prudence in its actions, particularly in taking down accounts.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made the comment after Facebook announced its decision to remove over 100 fake accounts linked to police and military units for alleged involvement in “coordinated inauthentic behavior.”

“We hope the social media giant would exercise prudence in all its actions to remove any doubt of bias given its power, influence and reach,” Roque said in a statement on Wednesday.

Roque said the taking down of the fake accounts is a matter that the government leaves to the “sound judgement and discretion” of the popular global social networking firm.

“We are one in advocating the truth and dismissing disinformation, lies or hatred,” he said.

In an online press conference on Tuesday night, Facebook cybersecurity policy chief Nathaniel Gleicher said fake accounts allegedly managed by police and military agencies revolved around criticism of the opposition, activism, and communism.

Gleicher added that the accounts have been most active when talks about the Anti-Terrorist Act of 2020 started in 2019.

Both the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have disowned the fake accounts.

PNP Spokesperson Col. Ysmael Yu tagged as "unofficial and unauthorized" comments, opinions of individuals and groups not related to the agency's activities.

He also emphasized that official Facebook pages of PNP adhere with standards.

AFP spokesperson, Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, said all of the military's social media accounts are "up and running".

He added that the AFP upholds "truth and accountability of network and social media account managers" as regards the content of posts on their websites, pages, and accounts.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116381

Reds ‘on the decline’: Gapay

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): Reds ‘on the decline’: Gapay (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay (File photo)

With mounting surrenders, the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) and their allies are on the decline, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay said Wednesday.

He made this comment on the sidelines of the national Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center (JPSSC) meeting at the Philippine National Police (PNP) headquarters at Camp Crame, Quezon City.

"All figures are on the decline and in fact, many of them have surrendered. For this year alone, there are more than 1,000 (communist terrorists) who have surrendered with almost 800 firearms from the side of the CPP-NPA and many are still sending surrender feelers," Gapay said.

With these surrenders, Gapay said the NPA, armed component of the CPP, has "significantly degraded" giving the AFP time to focus on the non-military problems of the communist insurgency.

Gapay was referring to poverty and injustice used by the communist terrorists in furthering their propaganda and recruiting new members, especially among the Indigenous Peoples communities.

Resolving poverty and injustice requires a Whole-of-Nation Approach and one of the ways of accelerating the solutions to these problems is through the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC).

Gapay said the establishment of the NTF ELCAC, through Executive Order 70 in 2018, is really designed to address the root causes of insurgency.

Meanwhile, PNP chief Gen. Camilo Cascolan said the PNP and the AFP will be forging several partnerships to come up with core innovations that would result in zero insurgencies.

"We will be doing a lot of initiatives. We will be seeing us together with the AFP more often. We will be very visible together and soon enough, we will be able to come up with joint exercises like simulation exercises that we have to do even the legal and offensive stance," 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. (with Christopher Lloyd Caliwan/PNA)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116387

PH to rely on multilateralism after affirming arbitral win at UN

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): PH to rely on multilateralism after affirming arbitral win at UN (By Azer Parrocha)

After President Rodrigo Duterte affirmed the country’s arbitral victory against China over the South China Sea before the United Nations (UN), Malacañang on Wednesday said relying on a “multilateral” approach is the way to move forward.

Duterte, in his remarks before the UN General Assembly, said the arbitral ruling “is now part of international law, beyond compromise and beyond the reach of passing governments to dilute, diminish or abandon.”

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque described Duterte’s remarks “a perfect example” of making the international community recognize the validity of the arbitral ruling as part of international law.

However, he said a multilateral approach would be the best way to resolve the long-standing sea dispute.

“We can only rely on multilateralism right now, I don’t think we can even rely on unilateral use of force, not only it’s prohibited under international law, but we also have limited means by way of that option and that has been stated by the President time and again,” he said in an interview over CNN Philippines’ The Source.

Besides multilateralism, Roque said there was nothing more that could be done regarding the country’s arbitral victory since it is already forms part of international law.

“We don’t have to do anything, that’s the thing. It is a legal fact that forms part of international law. So the President only, as I said, restated an established legal fact already. Nothing else has to be done because precisely nothing that any other country that would like to undermine that award will ever have legal effect. They simply cannot erase that ruling,” he said.

Roque also reiterated that Duterte has always been consistent in his stand that no country can undermine the arbitral award.

“We have never changed our position on the arbitral ruling. I have said it over and over again that there is nothing that can undermine that decision, it is evidence of customary law,” he said.

Since the dispute cannot be resolved, Roque emphasized the need for the country to proceed with other aspects of Philippine-China bilateral relations.

“If we cannot resolve territorial issues, then we can put it temporarily on hold and we will proceed with matters that we can move forward, specifically trade and investment,” he said.

He said the sea row is not the sum total of Philippine bilateral relations with China.

“As I said, we will proceed on all other aspects of our relationship and we would probably accept the fact that there will be no resolution in the near future as far as the territorial dispute is concerned but let’s proceed on matters that we could move forward with such as investment and trade,” he said.

This was the first time that Duterte asserted the country’s sovereign rights before the UN and should Duterte have participated in the UN General Assembly much earlier, he may have also said the same, Roque said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116404

AFP, Facebook PH meet to counter online terrorism

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): AFP, Facebook PH meet to counter online terrorism (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, and Facebook Head of Public Policy in the Philippines, Claire Amador on Wednesday met virtually to discuss a possible partnership in preventing terrorists’ exploitation of the internet.

Amador and her team reached out to Gapay in August to set the virtual courtesy call and share Facebook’s global efforts to counter terrorism and deal with harmful content on the platform.

Facebook is a member of the Global Internet Forum to Counter Terrorism (GIFCT) which was established in 2017 and is now a consortium of companies dedicated to disrupting terrorist abuse of members’ digital platforms.

“We laud and express gratitude to the members of the GIFCT, including Facebook, for stepping up in its self-regulation initiatives that target the dissemination of extremist propaganda, including photos and videos of terrorist violence. We likewise in the security sector shall extend any assistance as needed and our lines of cooperation shall always be open,” Gapay said in a statement.

According to the AFP, there have been many documented cases of social media being used by terror groups as tools to advance their campaigns.

The war against the Daesh in the Middle East and the country’s own experience in fighting terrorists in Marawi City proved the potential of social networks as a conduit for the fast spread of violent extremism and terrorist propaganda, it added.

The Facebook team also shared about the nine-point plan being implemented by the GIFCT to prevent terrorist exploitation of the internet while respecting human rights and freedom of speech.

“We seek an open and above-board partnership with social networking sites to prevent and counter the spread of violent extremism, without curtailing the rights of users to free expression and information,” Gapay added.

Facebook Philippines currently has partnerships with other government agencies for its endeavors on child safety, education, human rights, elections, and law enforcement.

It recently met with representatives from the Department of National Defense and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency to discuss matters on counterterrorism.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116425

PRRD invoking arbitral award 'significant first step': Baja

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): PRRD invoking arbitral award 'significant first step': Baja (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

HAILED. President Rodrigo Duterte delivers his pre-recorded speech in the 75th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York early Wednesday (Sept. 23, 2020). Former Philippine Ambassador to the UN Lauro Baja Jr. hailed as a "significant first step" Duterte's invoking the 2016 arbitral award on the South China Sea before the UN General Assembly. (Screenshot)

Former Philippine Ambassador to the United Nations Lauro Baja Jr. hailed as a "significant first step" President Rodrigo Duterte's invoking of the 2016 arbitral award on the South China Sea before the UN General Assembly on Wednesday morning.

“He could have been more forceful in espousing our cause, in much the same vein that he was forceful in the question of drugs and human rights. But as a first step, it’s a significant first step,” he said in a CNN Philippines interview.

For the first time in history, the Philippines brought the issue of the West Philippine Sea to the UN years after the Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled that China's expansive claims in the region are illegal.

During the 75th Session of the General Assembly in New York early Wednesday, the chief executive underscored that the landmark decision “is now part of international law, beyond compromise and beyond the reach of passing governments to dilute, diminish or abandon”.

“We firmly reject attempts to undermine it,” he said.

READ: Duterte affirms arbitral ruling on SCS before UN General Assembly

With this development, Baja said it is now with the government agencies to double its efforts and make the subject a future UN agenda item.

"We must be prepared to take further steps to concretize what the President has just said and that will take a lot of preparations and negotiations with other delegations. (We must) ensure that the issue will become an agenda with the UN," he said.

Baja wished Duterte could have called out China “to adhere to a decision of a UN body, to respect the provisions of UNCLOS, to refrain from what they are doing now in the area and other concerns which we have been espousing".

"But as I have said, the fact that he mentioned this is a significant first step," he said.

Comprehensive, authentic

Overall, Baja noted that Duterte’s first address before the UN General Assembly was "comprehensive" and "authentic".

"For the first time, the Philippines brought the issue of the West Philippine Sea to the UN that's one, he talked about a comprehensive list of global concerns which particularly affects the Philippines, he even talked of UN reform to make it a more effective body which is a great transformation for President Rodrigo Duterte," he said.

"He talked about human rights, the Covid pandemic, migration, even our UN peacekeeping forces, and a whole lot of other global and regional issues-- it's a comprehensive and authentic and convincing statement. It was a pleasant surprise for us," he added.

Strong stand

Retired Supreme Court Justice Antonio Carpio on Wednesday also commended Duterte's "strong stand" that the arbitral award in the South China Sea is “beyond compromise".

"I fervently hope that this is the policy that the Duterte administration will implement across all levels – in the protection of our exclusive economic zone in the West Philippines Sea, in the negotiations for the Code of Conduct, and in gathering the support of the international community for the enforcement of the arbitral award," he said.

Heartened

Former Foreign Affairs Albert del Rosario likewise welcomed Duterte’s move to invoke the landmark decision.

"This is the first time that our President addressed the UNGA and we are heartened to know that he is not at all impervious but listens to the will of his countrymen," he said.

Del Rosario said the next step is for the government to "put in reality" the invocation of the landmark ruling and to "work earnestly" to get the support of more countries for the next UNGA.

"All Filipinos should now unite so that the world will help our country enforce the Arbitral Award against China. Let us not allow this opportunity to be put to waste," he said. "We deeply thank you, Mr. President, for defending what is ours."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116432

Palace thanks Carpio for praising PRRD arbitral win assertion

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 23, 2020): Palace thanks Carpio for praising PRRD arbitral win assertion (By Azer Parrocha)

Retired Supreme Court Justice Antonio Carpio (File photo)

Malacañang on Wednesday thanked retired Supreme Court Justice Antonio Carpio for praising President Rodrigo Duterte's assertion of the Hague-based arbitral ruling that invalidates China’s vast claims over the South China Sea before the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

“Nagpapasalamat po kami kay Justice Carpio. Sa wakas napuri ang Presidente ni Justice Carpio (We thank Justice Carpio. At last, the President was finally praised by Justice Carpio),” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in an interview over PTV-4.

Carpio is a staunch critic of Duterte's handling of the territorial dispute between Philippines and China.

Former Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario also commended Duterte’s invoking the country’s legal victory against China, but Roque shrugged him as “not a lawyer.”

“Kay Albert del Rosario, hindi kasi abogado (To Albert del Rosario, you’re not a lawyer),” Roque said.

Del Rosario was the country's top diplomat when the Philippines filed its arbitration case against China’s massive maritime claims. The Permanent Court Arbitration released its verdict in favor of the Philippines in July 2016.

He said the next step for Duterte is to "put into reality the invocation of the arbitral award."

"Our government should work more earnestly to get the support of more countries so that the arbitral award will be raised next year for the UNGA 2021,” Del Rosario said.

Roque, however, explained that Duterte has always been consistent in his stand that no country can undermine the arbitral award.

“Wala po talaga kasing police na pupuwede mag-enforce ng arbitral award na yan. Yan po ay naririyan na, nakaukit na po sa tadhana yan, nakaukit na po yan sa international law. Wala na po silang magagwa sa posisyon na yan (There is really no police that can enforce the arbitral award. It’s there and it’s set in destiny, it’s set in international law. They can’t do anything about it),” he said.

In his debut at the UNGA, Duterte asserted the UN-based Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling which invalidated China's nine-dash line map that covers nearly the entire South China Sea.

Duterte said the arbitral ruling “is now part of international law, beyond compromise and beyond the reach of passing governments to dilute, diminish or abandon.”

“We firmly reject attempts to undermine it,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116433

NDF: Report: An escalation of war against Filipino children (The Duterte Regime, July 2016 - June 2019)

 Posted to the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP or NDF) Website (Sep 22, 2020): Report: An escalation of war against Filipino children (The Duterte Regime, July 2016 - June 2019)

Coni K. Ledesma
Head, Special Office for the Protection of Children
Human Rights Committee, NDFP

One of the early pronouncements of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte as President in 2016 was that he was willing to talk peace with the revolutionary movement. The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) was optimistic and ever willing to propel the peace negotiations forward towards new comprehensive agreements such as the Comprehensive Agreement for Social and Economic Reforms (GASER).

It was a welcome initiative and the NDFP was eager to pursue the offer of peace negotiations by the President. Indeed, all his promises during the campaign and the initial months of his Presidency seemed to indicate that the country could take one step forward to addressing the roots of the armed conflict and achieving a just and lasting peace.

An escalation of war against Filipino childrenDownload

Fast forward to 2019, three years into the term of President Duterte and it is now indubitably clear that the only thing that Duterte has proven is his unbridled readiness to destroy democratic institutions and violate basic human rights in pursuit of his intent to establish a dictatorial regime. Many in the country and in the international community, including the United Nations, have strongly denounced the human rights violations being committed upon Duterte’s instigation by state forces against ordinary workers and peasants, women and children, whether they are waging armed resistance or not.

This publication of the Special office for the Protection of Children (SOPC), under the Human Rights Committee of the NDFP, is a summary report on how rampant human rights violations were committed against Filipino children in the first half of the Duterte regime. It leaves no room for doubt that the regime includes children as direct targets in its vicious drug war and counter-insurgency campaign.

“The NDFP regards the continuing gross and systematic violations of the human rights of the majority of Filipino children by the ruling system of big compradors and landlords as one of the compelling reasons for the revolutionary struggle of the Filipino people.”

https://ndfp.org/report-an-escalation-of-war-against-filipino-children/