Air Force general supports change in retirement age, 3-year term for Chief of Staff

From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 3, 2020): Air Force general supports change in retirement age, 3-year term for Chief of Staff (By Mario Casayuran)

Air Force Major General Rene S. Diaz has expressed his support for a Senate bill seeking to increase the retirement age in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) from the current mandatory retirement age of 56 to a higher age and adopting a three-year tenure for an AFP chief of staff.

Senator Franklin Drilon (Senate of the Philippines / MANILA BULLETIN)

Senate Minority Leader Franklin M, Drilon said the aim of the bill was to ensure stability and continuity of the AFP programs, and stanch the flow of allocations for retirement benefits of the uniformed services of the AFP which has now breached the P5 trillion level, way above the proposed 2021 P4.5 trillion national budget.

The bill, according to Drilon, is now at the technical working group (TWG) level in the Senate legislative process.

Responding to Drilon’s queries during a recent public hearing by the national defense committee of the Commission on Appointments (CA), Diaz said that aside from ensuring stability in the AFP programs, the AFP Chief of Staff with a fixed three-year term could monitor the strategic directions of the AFP.

Another reason, according to Diaz, is that the AFP Chief of Staff would give his utmost dedication and focus on his job in view of the current AFP Modernization Program.

Drilon lamented that under the current retirement age of 56 and the revolving policy for AFP chiefs of staff who serve a month or more before retirement, the country is deprived of their talents and skills.

‘’This is not good for the organization,’’ he added.

Diaz’s appointment was later confirmed by the CA in last Wednesday’s plenary session presided by Senate President Vicente C. Sotto III, concurrent CA chairman.

Drilon explained that the AFP retirement pay is not funded but is allocated yearly in the General Appropriations Act (GAA or national budget).

Past Congresses had tried to grapple with the increasing financial burden of government in paying retirement benefits to the country’s armed services.

Diaz conceded that, at the mandatory retirement age of 56, a staff officer leaving the organization the AFP ‘’is (still) very young.’’

He thus welcomed the Senate’s initiative in extending the retirement age.

https://mb.com.ph/2020/10/03/air-force-general-supports-change-in-retirement-age-3-year-term-for-chief-of-staff/

[ANALYSIS] Old methods, new platforms: The Philippine military on social media

Posted to Rappler (Oct 2, 2020): [ANALYSIS] Old methods, new platforms: The Philippine military on social media (By JOSEPH FRANCO)

'Tough talk and swagger — pagiging ‘magan at siga — was never enough to shape the information space when the skirmishes between narratives unfolded in traditional media. It is even more out of place in today’s complex social media environment.'

On the day Facebook announced the removal of dozens of pages and accounts across its platforms, I received several private messages from contacts in the Philippine military. As I responded I stated a caveat that while I kept tabs on social media content policies, I do not work for a social media company. There were queries about which identification cards or documents Facebook accepts to validate a person’s identity. At some point in one conversation, I asked along the lines of, “Bok, naka-on ba ang 2FA (two-factor authentication) ng account mo? (Buddy, is 2FA activated in your account?).” I was answered by an earnest question: “Ano yung 2FA? (Whats 2FA?)”

Seizing the initiative in the information space is a longstanding mission in the Philippines, even before social media. Shaping public opinion falls within the broader mission of "civil-military operations" (CMO). For a country like the Philippines, beset by multiple internal conflicts, the information environment is a muddled mix of offline and online, analog and digital, new and traditional media. A cursory look at Facebook pages associated with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) highlight ad hoc fusions of effort. Aviators would share videos of leaflet drops; CMO officers posting clips of loudspeaker operations mounted on Army trucks; civil relations personnel livestreaming AM radio broadcasts. These examples suggest a military that is adaptive and adept to the changing information environment.

Western militaries, particularly NATO member-states and the United States have publicly accessible manuals and doctrine that state what is permitted behavior and content on social media. Details differ when it comes to preserving operational security, but most are premised on online non-partisanship. US DOD personnel are reminded of the Hatch Act of 1939. In the Philippines, there are only nebulous mentions of a purported 2016 AFP policy on social media dated sometime in 2016. Lack of transparency over the AFP’s activities on social media underscores the common and accepted practice of identity obfuscation. Proponents would argue that a degree of deception is necessary to protect military personnel from physical harm such as targeted assassinations. Obscuring one’s identity on social media is also considered a way to prevent opponents from gathering information that could be used for vexatious litigation.

Over the years, I would notice how military friends would use backwards-spelled versions or anagrams of their real names as FB profile names. There is also the common practice of using the first syllables of surnames affixed with an “s” — one permutation of an obscured name for myself would be "Jo Franks." Facebook’s September surprise did not mention it explicitly, but I suspect some of the suspended accounts did not comply with existing rules on the use of real names.

Lack of appreciation for current social media regulations can also be found on institutional accounts of the AFP. A couple of days after the September takedowns, I looked at the various FB pages used by the AFP. Nothing has changed. Only the main AFP page along with the 3 major service commands (the Army, Navy, and Air Force) had that blue tick mark — denoting a verified account for their accounts. All the AFP Unified Commands were unverified. Only the 1st Infantry Division (Team Tabak) was verified, while the 10 other infantry divisions lacked the blue tick and were haphazardly categorized as "government organization," "government building," or "government service."

MUST READ

PH intel chief shares fake information on Facebook

Personal FB accounts were misused, wilfully or not, as institutional pages. It is amusing to see special operations battalions, Air Force wings, or CMO from all the major services popping up on one’s list of "Mutual Friends" or as "People You May Know." But it is also evident that there is a lack of understanding how identities work on social media. The uneven presence of the AFP on social media seemed to underscore that the priority was to get into the space quickly by any means. Hearts and minds moved into Facebook and Instagram. Tactics reminiscent of the nineties and the early eighties such as "text brigades" and "SMS blasts" were appropriated for AFP social media campaigns. Overlaid are both overt and covert campaigns to get AFP personnel, along with their friends and families who were exhorted to like, share, and follow pages. The organization leveraged on its offline human networks in an attempt to replicate social connections online.

Obscured identities combined with the multiple efforts to increase online engagement, however, was not too far from previous episodes of coordinated inauthentic behavior documented by Facebook. Given the inherently controversial and politicized nature of content moderation, social media platforms have largely swerved towards moderating behavior. Taken together, it was probably very hard for the algorithms to distinguish those illicit networks from the AFP’s nascent attempts to build engagement.

It is unlikely that the current debacle would lead to an honest introspection in terms of how the military and its allies operate in social media. Open and inclusive conversations seem to have been already pre-empted. Among the current narratives being pushed by some commanders is the trope of communists “infiltrating” Facebook’s moderation teams. Or how alleged anti-government activists have somehow duped social media platforms, global organizations with users numbering in the billions. President Duterte has himself brandished the prospect of banning Facebook altogether – perhaps an improbable and counterproductive option, considering the resources Manila has sunk to build a network of influencers to push whatever is the government’s agenda-of-the-day.

Thinking beyond presidencies, the military should go beyond recasting old methods and modes of thinking. Tough talk and swagger — pagiging ‘magan at siga — was never enough to shape the information space when the skirmishes between narratives unfolded in traditional media. It is even more out of place in today’s complex social media environment. – Rappler.com

[Joseph Franco is Research Fellow at the Center of Excellence for National Security at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. He studies best practices in countering violent extremism and addressing the non-ideological roots of conflict.]

https://www.rappler.com/voices/imho/analysis-old-methods-new-platforms-philippine-military-social-media

Abu Sayyaf Killed Indonesian Hostage but not by Gunshot, Philippine General Says

From BenarNews (Oct 2, 2020): Abu Sayyaf Killed Indonesian Hostage but not by Gunshot, Philippine General Says

Members of the Joint Task Force Sulu secure an area after an encounter with Abu Sayyaf militants in Sulu province, southern Philippines, May 31, 2019.  Joint Task Force Sulu via AP

An Indonesian captive who was executed by Abu Sayyaf militants on southern Jolo Island was not killed by gunfire, the Philippine military said Friday, correcting its own report from a day earlier.

The body of victim La Baa bore a head wound but the cause of death was not determined during an autopsy, authorities said. The 32-year-old fisherman was among five Indonesian sailors kidnapped off eastern Malaysia’s Sabah state in January.

The man’s family identified his body on Thursday after Philippine authorities turned it over to Indonesian officials in Zamboanga city. Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, chief of the military’s Western Mindanao Command, said results of a post-mortem indicated that the victim had no bullet wounds.

“He was not shot as it turns out, but had sustained an injury to the head caused by a blunt object which could have possibly caused his death,” Vinluan told BenarNews. “What is still correct, however, is that he was executed as his Abu Sayyaf captors fought with the military.”

“The cause of death is yet to be determined,” Joint Task Force Sulu said in a statement.

On Thursday, military officials in Jolo said La Baa’s captors shot him as he tried to escape a firefight in a remote village in Patikul municipality earlier in the week.

Troops from the 45th Infantry Battalion recovered La Baa’s remains hours after engaging in a firefight on Monday with 40 Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) members and killing its sub-leader Arsibar Sawadjaan, a bomb maker and cousin of Mundi Sawadjaan, officials said. Authorities identified Mundi Sawadjaan as mastermind of twin suicide bombings that killed 15 people on Jolo on Aug. 24 and were carried out by female bombers.

La Baa and his four fellow Indonesian fishermen were abducted at sea off an island in Sabah, a state in nearby Malaysian Borneo, on Jan. 16 and taken to the nearby Sulu Islands in the southern Philippines.

The four other Indonesians are believed to be held by ASG, an Islamic State-linked group based in the southern Philippines and notorious for carrying out kidnappings.

Meanwhile, the military said that troops in Jolo were on the trail of a group led by Mundi Sawadjaan, who was believed to be traveling with two Indonesians being groomed as suicide bombers.

Mundi is the nephew of Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan, the head of the Philippine branch of the Islamic State (IS). Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan took over the IS affiliate following the death of Isnilon Hapilon in October 2017. Hapilon was killed by security forces toward the end of a five-month battle between government forces and IS-linked militants who had seized the southern city of Marawi in May of that year.

“In as much as we want to finish the ASG the soonest possible time, the safety of the kidnap victims during operations is our equally significant concern,” said Brig. Gen. William Gonzales, the leader of government forces in Sulu.

“We abide by rules of engagement during armed encounters to safely rescue the KVs (kidnap victims) and destroy the ASG,” he said.

https://www.benarnews.org/english/news/philippine/death-update-10022020153611.html

Lanzones saves abducted Zamboanga farmer from hunger

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 3, 2020): Lanzones saves abducted Zamboanga farmer from hunger (By: Julie S. Alipala)

Farmer Rex Triplitt is brought to a hospital for checkup following his rescue last Sept. 30 in Sirawai town. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army’s Joint Task Force Zampelan)

The tropical fruit lanzones or longkong saved 64-year-old Rex Susulan Triplitt from hunger throughout his 14-day captivity in the hands of local bandits suspected to have links to the Abu Sayyaf Group.

“At first, we still had rice for food. But when the man who was bringing supplies to where I was held, was arrested, we don’t have food anymore,” said Triplitt, a farmer from Piacan village of Sirawai, Zamboanga del Norte.


It was no by some stroke of luck the fruit was in season in that part of the vast Zamboanga Peninsula.

“Lanzones was like rice and viand for us,” he told the local Emedia radio.

The ordeal

Triplitt was snatched on September 16 in Tapayanan village in Sirawai.

He, his wife and their child were on a motorcycle going home when flagged down by five armed men.

His wife and child managed to escape and reported the incident to authorities.

Triplitt said he lost his shoes when dragged by his abductors hence the long walk through the mountains was punishing.

‘Treated like an animal’

In a video posted online by Emedia radio, Triplitt showed his bruises, cuts and wounds on his legs, and on the soles of his feet.

“When exhausted, I stop due to gnawing pain on my feet, but they kick me, forcing me to walk. They treated me like an animal,” he recalled.

Triplitt said he was first kept in an area near a waterfall. Amid the pursuit operation by the Army and police, they have to walk even during the night to flee.

The military has sealed off sea routes in Sirawai to prevent his transfer to the Abu Sayyaf hideaways in Basilan or Sulu.

On Wednesday, Sept. 30, government forces, through information forwarded by local residents, located them in Pisa Itom village, also in Sirawai town, said Major General Generoso Ponio, commander of the Army’s 1st Infantry Division.

Triplitt said he escaped amid a fierce gunfight.

“Kano’ng hilaw”

Triplitt said he earns a living painting houses after he already made plans to sell his farm for P1.2 million.

He said that while in captivity, he offered it for only P1 million to his abductors in exchange for his release, as if the P200,000 markdown was for ransom. The offer was rejected.

Triplitt, who speaks Chavacano, clarified that he is a pure Filipino, although his great grandfather is an American. His mother is a native of Sulu.

“My neighbors know me and they always call me kano’ng hilaw (half-baked American),” he joked.

Authorities thought that the kidnappers had mistaken Triplitt as a wealthy man capable of shelling out a fat ransom.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1343119/lanzones-saves-abducted-zamboanga-farmer-from-hunger

Philippine Military: Abu Sayyaf Executed Indonesian Hostage

From BenarNews (Oct 1, 2020): Philippine Military: Abu Sayyaf Executed Indonesian Hostage

Philippine soldiers carry the bodies of suspected members of the Abu Sayyaf militant group after a gunfight in Jolo, Sulu province, Sept. 7, 2017.  AFP

Abu Sayyaf militants killed an Indonesian hostage as soldiers closed in amid a shootout on Jolo Island earlier this week, the top military commander in the southern Philippines told BenarNews on Thursday, citing evidence of an execution.

Meanwhile a 64-year-old Filipino-American man was rescued from the custody of suspected Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) members on Wednesday following a gunfight in another southern province, two weeks after he was abducted while traveling home, according to a statement from the military and local reports.

In the wake of the clash on Monday in Patikul, a town on Jolo, the body of 32-year-old Indonesian national La Baa was found sprawled on the ground, bearing gunshot wounds consistent with someone who was intentionally put to death, Western Mindanao Command chief Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan said.

“The Indonesian hostage was executed by the ASG and was not slain in the encounter,” Vinluan told BenarNews, adding that the body was found some 300 meters (984 feet) away from the actual clash site in a remote village in Pakitul.

Based on an investigation at the scene, the Indonesian captive could have tried to escape in the thick of the fighting Wednesday, but was caught and gunned down by his captors, Vinluan said.

One Abu Sayyaf fighter was also killed in the firefight, he said.

La Baa was one of five Indonesian fishermen who were abducted at sea off an island in Sabah, a state in nearby Malaysian Borneo, in mid-January. The four other Indonesians are believed to be in the custody of Abu Sayyaf, an Islamic State-linked group based in the southern Philippines and notorious for carrying out kidnappings.

La Baa [photo courtesy of Sulu Provincial Police Office]

La Baa’s body will be repatriated to Indonesia as soon as possible, the military said.

La Baa’s fellow nationals were identified as boat captain Arsyad Dahlan (41) and fishermen Arizal Kastamiran (29), Riswanto Hayano (27), and Edi Lawalopo (53), who were all working aboard a fishing vessel were seized from their boat by gunmen near Tambisan Island and taken to Jolo, an island in the Sulu chain near Malaysia’s sea border with the Philippines, officials said.

Troops on Thursday pressed on with a manhunt for the militants and their other captives, Vinluan said.

“There has been a continued focused military operation for the safe recovery of the victims,” Vinluan added.

Captive freed

In other developments, the military announced that army troops rescued a man who had been kidnapped by suspected Abu Sayyaf gunmen in Zamboanga del Norte province on Sept. 16.

“We are happy to inform the public that our operating troops successfully rescued abducted farmer, Rex Triplitt at 10:30 in the morning today [Wednesday],” Vinluan, the head of the military’s Western Mindanao Command, said in a statement.

Triplitt was rescued after a gunbattle between troops from the 42nd Infantry Battalion and five Abu Sayyaf suspects in the hinterlands of Sirawai, a town in Zamboanga del Norte, according to a report by the state-run Philippine News Agency.

“Based on the initial report from the ground, the five are members of the Sulu-based Daesh Inspired-Abu Sayyaf/kidnap for ransom group under Injam Yadah, a.k.a. Injam,” Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, commander of the 102nd Infantry Brigade, said in a statement posted on Facebook by the Western Mindanao Command on Wednesday.

https://www.benarnews.org/english/news/philippine/Abu-Sayyaf-hostage-10012020145411.html

Identity of Indonesian hostage found dead by soldiers confirmed

From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 3, 2020): Identity of Indonesian hostage found dead by soldiers confirmed

Authorities have confirmed the identity of the Indonesian fisherman killed by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits while trying to escape amid a firefight in the hinterlands of Sulu.

In a statement Friday, the Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu identified the slain Indonesian fisherman as La Baa, 32, whose identity was confirmed Thursday by Indonesian authorities and the victim’s family.

Baa’s cause of death has yet to be determined since there were no signs of gunshot wounds except for bruises seen on the head of the victim, JTF-Sulu said.

Earlier, Lt. Col. Ruben Guinolbay, commander of the Army’s 45th Infantry Battalion, said the troops recovered the body of Baa following a clash with the ASG bandits Tuesday afternoon in Barangay Maligay, Patikul, Sulu.

Guinolbay said the troops were scouring the enemy’s withdrawal route about 300 meters from the encounter site when they recovered the remains of Baa.

Guinolbay said that an ASG member, Arsibar Sawadjaan, was killed during the clash with government forces.

Baa and four other Indonesians were seized by the ASG bandits while they were fishing January 16 this year in the waters between Tambisan and Kuala Meruap, Lahad Datu, Sabah, close to the Philippine sea border.

Baa’s companions were identified as Arsyad Dahlan, 41, the fishing boat skipper; Arizal Kastamiran, 29; Riswanto Hayano, 27; and Edi Lawalopo, 53.

Meanwhile, Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), has ordered the JTF-Sulu to continue to hunt down the groups of ASG leaders Mundi Sawadjaan and Radulan Sahiron.

https://mb.com.ph/2020/10/03/identity-of-indonesian-hostage-found-dead-by-soldiers-confirmed/

2 NPA rebels slain in encounter with gov’t forces in North Cotabato

From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 3, 2020): 2 NPA rebels slain in encounter with gov’t forces in North Cotabato

Two Communist guerillas were killed in an encounter with government forces in the hinterlands of Magpet, North Cotabato on Friday.

The clashes occurred in Purok 3, Barangay Malire, Antipas town, according to Lt. Col. Rey Alvarado, commander of the Army’s 72nd Infantry Battalion (72IB).

Alvarado said residents have repeatedly told soldiers about the presence of some 30 heavily armed fighters of the New People’s Army (NPA) in the village, apparently waiting for food supplies from the locals.

Following a 30-minute firefight, the guerillas withdrew deep into the forest, and left two dead comrades.

Found beside the slain rebels were an M14 rifle, three M14 magazines with ammunition, one bandolier, an anti-personnel mine, an improvised explosive device switch detonator, subversive documents, medical supplies, and personal belongings of their fleeing comrades.

“The identities of the slain NPA (rebels) remain unknown,” Alvarado said.

Antipas Mayor Egidio Cadungon Jr. lauded the 72IB troopers for the successful operation that liberated the village of Malire from the clutches of the communist terrorists.

Cadungon assured that the local government of Antipas would always support the Army to eradicate the presence of the NPA in their communities.

Pursuit operations were ongoing, Alvarado said.

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

https://mb.com.ph/2020/10/03/2-npa-rebels-slain-in-encounter-with-govt-forces-in-north-cotabato/

Partner agencies intensify RCSP in Agusan del Norte

 From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 2, 2020) posted to Big News Network: Partner agencies intensify RCSP in Agusan del Norte

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 2 -- In support to the flagship program of the province of Agusan del Norte dubbed as "Agusan Up!," partner agencies have intensified the implementation of the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) in the province.

This, after residents of Brgy. Tagbongabong in the municipality of Remedios T. Romualdez (RTR), Agusan del Norte have underwent training on organic vegetable production.

TESDA-Agusan del Norte Provincial Director Rey M. Cueva said this is through the RCSP for which the primary aim of the training is to provide food security to households which is in line with the directives of TESDA Sec. Isidro S. Lapena.

Dir. Cueva said residents of Brgy. Tagbongabong will learn how to produce an organic vegetable through backyard gardening. "Right at their own backyard, they will be able to plant and harvest organic vegetables not only for their personal consumption but also as a source of livelihood. Later on, the community will establish a communal garden," Cueva added.

Dir. Cueva further said the launching which was held recently was made possible through the convergence of the following agencies: Office of the 2nd Congressional District of Agusan del Norte through Congresswoman Ma. Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba, LGU-Agusan del Norte with the leadership of Governor Dale B. Corvera, Philippine Army's 65th Infantry Battalion headed by Lt. Col. Benjamin Pajarito, Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) under its Center Director - Samuel L. Alonzo, Local Government Unit of RTR through Mayor Richard B. Daquipil, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Agusan del Norte Provincial Office.

The official likewise said ATI has provided trainers as well as the basic tools for gardening such as bolos as well as chicken dung, 31 sacks of vermicompost fertilizers, 90 pots, 30 seedling trays, 31 sweat shirts and assorted seeds.

The Philippine Army, on the other hand, has conducted clearing operations of the area and after having been declared cleared, the agencies came-in to provide basic services to the residents. "... and this undertaking is one of those basic services," Cueva said.

The RCSP was formulated in order to strengthen the community support program initiatives of the military and making the efforts of the LGUs driven. With the implementation of the RCSP, Local Chief Executives (LCEs) will be champions of the RCSP through their programs, projects and activities (PPAs) that are geared towards institutionalizing sustainable peace and development.

It is also an inclusive program that aims to address identified issues of the community by closing the governance and develop gaps through the provision of needed government PPAs while ensuring that development is sustained and peace is being promoted.

It was learned that Barangays Tagbongabong and San Antonio in RTR are among the areas in Agusan del Norte that are included in the RCSP. Last year, a total of 150 members of the New People's Army (NPA) and Militia ng Bayan (MBs) in Brgy. Tagbongabong have surrendered to the government troops. (Robert E. Roperos, TESDA Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://www.bignewsnetwork.com/news/266573424/partner-agencies-intensify-rcsp-in-agusan-del-norte

6 alleged NPA rebels surrender in Quezon

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 3, 2020): 6 alleged NPA rebels surrender in Quezon (By: Delfin T. Mallari Jr.)

At least six alleged New People’s Army (NPA) rebels surrendered with some of their firearms to the military in Mulanay town in Quezon province, an Army official said Saturday.

In a press statement, Captain Jayrald Ternio, public affairs office head of the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division, said the rebels turned themselves to the 85th Infantry Battalion based in Barangay (village) Cambuga on Thursday.

The alleged former rebels turned over one carbine rifle, one caliber .38 revolver, a bandolier, five magazines, and ammunition.

The identities of the rebels are being withheld for security reasons.

Major General Greg Almerol, commander of the Army’s 2nd ID, ordered the soldiers to provide the necessary assistance to the former rebels in their reintegration protocols under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip). E-Clip offers free medical treatments, education, housing, and legal aid to rebels who will surrender.

President Rodrigo Duterte created the National Task Force-ELCAC through Executive Order No. 70 on December 4, 2018.

Meanwhile, Army troopers recovered an M16 rifle with magazines and ammunition allegedly buried by rebel leader Jordan Mopon alias “Ka Atoy” in Infanta town in the northern part of the province.

Ternio said a former NPA rebel led soldiers to the location of the buried firearm.

“Burying firearms is an NPA tactic. They can easily secure weapons once they needed it in the area,” Ternio explained.

Ternio claimed that since the implementation of E-CLIP in 2016, a total of 685 former NPA rebels have surrendered and have turned over 118 assorted firearms to authorities.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1343139/6-alleged-npa-rebels-surrender-in-quezon

CPP/News: State forces massacre village officials, businessman in Masbate

Propaganda news article posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 3, 2020): State forces massacre village officials, businessman in Masbate

NEWS STORIES
OCTOBER 03, 2020

A businessman and two village officials in Masbate were abducted in separate places by the 2nd IB and the 1st Masbate Police Mobile Force Company on September 26 and brought to Barangay Alas, Mandaon where they were summarily killed two days later at around 5:30 a.m..

The victims were identified as businessman Jerry Regala of Barangay Dalipe, Cawayan who was abducted while on his way to Barangay Mactan to deliver rice supplies; and village councilors Judy Barruga and Joey Asne who were abucted at their houses in Barangay Cajonday, Baleno. The victims were reportedly brought to an undisclosed location before being killed.

The military falsely reported that the three were members of the New People’s Army (NPA) and killed in an encounter. Rifles and explosives were planted in their possession.

A few hours after the incident, the police illegally arrested a civilian motorist in Barangay Dayao in the same town. Ronald Azucena was stopped at a police checkpoint and was planted with a firearm and ammunitions. He was accused of NPA membership and is currently detained at the Mandaon police station.

Killed in the same manner

The massacre of civilians accused of having links with the NPA is the fifth to be perpetrated by the military and police in the province. In most cases, the victims were abducted and brought to another location to be killed. There are also similarities in the manner in which they were murdered.

On July 5, three barangay watchmen were picked up from their homes and brought to Mobo where they were killed. (link)

On April 23, four civilians from the towns of Monreal and San Jacinto were abducted by state forces and brought to Claveria where they were massacred. (link)

https://cpp.ph/2020/10/03/state-forces-massacre-village-officials-businessman-in-masbate/

CPP/NPA-Southeast Negros: On Gen. Baluyan’s hackneyed diatribe against revolutionary taxation

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 3, 2020): On Gen. Baluyan’s hackneyed diatribe against revolutionary taxation

ESTRELLA BANAGBANAG

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-SOUTHEAST NEGROS

RACHELLE MAE PALANG COMMAND)

NEGROS ISLAND REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND

APOLINARIO GATMAITAN COMMAND

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

OCTOBER 03, 2020

The fascist mercenaries of Negros RTF-ELCAC and AFP CentCom have once again stepped up their criminal, anti-people terrorist scheming in a vain attempt to thwart the revolutionary people’s democratic government (PDG) in Negros Oriental in exercising its right and fulfilling its duty of collecting revolutionary taxes.

Last September 29, 2020, 302nd Brigade Commander Brig. General Noel Baluyan met up with Negros Oriental owners and managers of MSMEs in Dumaguete City to dissuade them not to comply with their obligation of paying revolutionary tax.

He prattled about NPA “extortion” through revolutionary taxation and that it’s a crime to defray for such. He further babbled that it is tantamount to supporting the armed struggle, and financing terrorism.

Behind the general’s ostensibly pleading words to businessmen is a thinly-veiled threat that their non-compliance will result in severe consequences, legal or otherwise.

In the words of Negros Oriental Provincial Prosecutor Eugene Salon: “The one who provides the material aid can be prosecuted or considered also as principal to the commission of the crime of the Anti-Terror Law. In the process of prosecuting the person who gives material aid, while in the prosecution stage, the government, law enforcement can already initiate action against his bank account. He can also be subjected to search and seizure. His property can be forfeited or seized if he is found guilty of the crime and his finances will be frozen.”

The anti-people ATA is here employed to intimidate the proprietors of MSMEs in Negros Oriental in the vain hope of deterring the entrepreneurs and tradesmen from providing any kind of material or financial support to the people’s democratic government.

The Rachelle Mae Palang Command – Southeast Negros strongly condemns the enemy’s aforementioned vile trickeries orchestrated by Negros RTF-ELCAC and AFP CentCom, issuing threats of prosecution and seizure of property, and sowing fear among entrepreneurs of Negros Oriental.

The RMPC reminds General Baluyan that as a legitimate belligerent power in the five decade civil war, the people’s democratic government, one of the two existing governments in the Philippines, possesses inherent right to collect taxes.

Hopelessly labelling the PDG as terrorist and criminal, exploiting the deplorable Anti-Terror Act, and bullying the petty and middle bourgeois of Negros Oriental clearly exposes how desperate and futile are the GRP’s attempts at gaining an upper hand in the civil war.

There is nothing unusual or anomalous about revolutionary taxes. It’s the normal function of the people’s democratic government. The respective commands of the NPA are tasked to act as tax enforcement and collection agency.

Revolutionary taxes are levied on business enterprises operating within the jurisdiction of people’s organs of political power and areas of operation of the NPA. It’s a duty imposed for their privilege to do business in the people’s democratic government territory. Also, to ensure that such businesses comply with social and environmental regulations and will not be detrimental to the people.

Thus, payment of revolutionary taxes is not equivalent to supporting the armed struggle, as imagined by Baluyan, but rather the compliance of tax obligations incurred. Moreover, penalizing hard working, honest business people with criminal prosecution and seizure of properties is blatant violation of human rights and is a criminal and terrorist act against the Filipino people. ###

https://cpp.ph/statements/on-gen-baluyans-hackneyed-diatribe-against-revolutionary-taxation/

Kalinaw News: Army Initiate Security Forum for Mining Companies

 Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 3, 2020): Army Initiate Security Forum for Mining Companies

Amidst the emerging threats, the 30th Infantry (Fight On) Battalion under the operational control of 901st Infantry (Fight ‘Em) Brigade, initiated a Security Forum held in Adlay Gymnasium, Barangay Adlay, Carrascal, Surigao del Sur, Thursday, October 1.

The activity was purposely conducted to reach out and educate the business sector particularly the mining companies on the menace and scheme of the Communist Terrorist Group.

A total of 51 participants coming from Carrascal Nickel Corporation; VTP Mining Company; Marcventures Mining and Development Corporation; and CTP Construction & Mining Company, including their respective mining contractors and sub-contractors, were in attendance. Representatives coming National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) Region 10 also partake in the said event by sharing the internal security situation within CARAGA.

In his message, Col. George L Banzon, Commander of 901Bde, expressed his gratitude to the participants for recognizing the importance of the activity specifically that this have something to do with the preservation of peace and security relative to their business interest.

“This forum is a humble invitation from the security sector but let me clarify that the military has no business infringing to the business affairs of the mining industry, for that is solely under the Caraga Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB Regional Office No. XIII),” he said

He added, “This may not constitute a single centavo income to anyone and may even lost a day’s income or profit but this will allow us to deeply understand the nature of the CTG’s threat and the mechanism on how we are going to address it responsively.”

Col. Banzon reiterated that the sole purpose of the forum is to inform them, being in the mining business, that more than half of the NPA extorted amount nationwide emanated from the mining industry. As per record, Caraga’s mining industry contributed 32% or P85.9M to the total nationwide NPA extortion collection.

“If the mining industry will not shift from seemingly practicing profit-first policy to security-first policy, NPA extortion will never ceased, and NPA will continue to thrive and continue to extort from the mining industry. They must cease to give-in to NPA’s demand – either monetary, in-kind or services, as the case may be”, he explained.

The Brigade Commander also emphasized that they must be cognizant that security is a shared responsibility. He also gave assurance that the military will be of help should they opted to avail authorized security assistance like the activation of CAA-II to boost the in-house security of each mining company.

“We encourage all to freely reach out the military and police for any information relating to NPA extortion such as identity (in whatever form) of those demanding or collecting extortion, mode of remittance and how much is being extorted, including the frequency, if possible”, he added.

Towards the end of the forum, the participants were very appreciative and thankful of the said initiative. They were capacitated with a better understanding about the current internal security situation particularly the exploitation and extortion schemes being done by the communist NPA terrorists. Along this line, the activity served as venue for the unit to lay down possible courses of action that the corporate organizations may implement to be more resilient and thrive profitably. Further, said companies even pledged to support and espouse activities to strengthen security measures in their respective areas.

[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/army-initiate-security-forum-for-mining-companies/

Kalinaw News: Army’s 91IB and DTI-Aurora distributes 3 piglets and 3rd round of broiler chicks to former rebels

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 3, 2020): Army’s 91IB and DTI-Aurora distributes 3 piglets and 3rd round of broiler chicks to former rebels

BALER, Aurora — In partnership with the 91st Infantry (Sinagtala) Battalion, Philippine Army, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) provincial office distributes COVID-19 livelihood packages under the Pangkabuhayan para sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa (PPG) program to former rebels (FRs) on Monday (September 28, 2020) at 91st IB Headquarters, Barangay Calabauanan, here.

LTC REANDREW P RUBIO, (GSC) PA, commanding officer of 91st IB said the livelihood kit consists of Php10,000-worth of 3 piglets to Ka Bert of Komiteng Larangang Sierra Madre (KLG-SM) of the New Peoples Army (NPA) operating in this province while the other FRs received another 3rd round of 60 pieces of broiler chicks to help them propel their economic activities.

DTI supports the End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) initiative of the government through capacity building programs and orientation on the services of the agency to help beneficiaries return to the mainstream of society.

The livelihood kits were given to FRs covered under the government’s ELCAC program.

LTC RUBIO said that the livelihood assistance from DTI and other agencies would surely contribute to elevate the living condition of our FRs and capacitating them to become productive citizens. It also signifies the good working collaboration and partnership among the government agencies towards ending the local Communist armed conflict.

“We thanked the DTI and other agencies for working passionately in providing support to our FRs who have the willingness to thrive, our government is here for you. The 91st IB is always here ready to assist and to support the government’s program that leads to the peace and development in our area of responsibilities (AOR),” LTC RUBIO said.

One of the former rebels (Ka Bert) said in deep appreciation, “Nagpapasalamat po ako sa 91st IB at DTI, sa tatlong biik na naibigay sa akin. Malaking tulong po ito sa akin sa paghahanap buhay at pagbabagong buhay. Maraming salamat po.”
DTI-Aurora Provincial Director Edna D. Dizon said that her office is happy to partner with the 91st Infantry Batallion in the implementation of the DTI-PPG, a program convergence of the government on the provision of livelihood assistance to those affected by fire incidents and other calamities, including armed conflicts, to address the need for continued economic activities in the affected areas.

She added that the awarding of livelihood starter kits in various forms to around twenty-six (26) Former Rebel Returnees (FRs) is a clear manifestation of government’s unending desire to bring back these FRs into the economic limelight, thereby allowing them to greatly contribute to nation-building.

The livelihood package of assistances provided to these FRs will help achieve DTI’s goal of creating more entrepreneurs who are able to generate employment and economic opportunities.

“We wanted to see these FRs in our pool of MSMEs to be assisted in the near future.” Dizon said.

Before the distribution, profiling of beneficiaries was done to determine what livelihood projects they needed.

[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/armys-91ib-and-dti-aurora-distributes-3-piglets-and-3rd-round-of-broiler-chicks-to-former-rebels/

Kalinaw News: Two Communist NPA Terrorists Arrested in Surigao del Norte

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 3, 2020): Two Communist NPA Terrorists Arrested in Surigao del Norte

PLACER, Surigao del Norte — Two active members of the Communist Terrorist Group fell in hands of the authorities following their arrest in Purok 1, Barangay Marayag, Mainit, Surigao del Norte, Saturday morning, October 3.

Based on the report, the arrested communist NPA terrorists were identified as Regil D Dano aka Pluto, 37 years old, active member of SYP21C, Guerilla Front 21and his brother, Erwin D Dano aka Benz, 23 yrs old, active member of SDG21, Guerilla Front 21.

Regil Dano, listed as top 3 most wanted in Police Regional Office 13, was apprehended by virtue of warrant of arrest for the crime of murder issued by Judge Marigel S Dagani-Hugo of Branch 3, Butuan City Regional Trial Court dated July 22, 2020 while Erwin Dano was arrested for violation of Republic Act 9516 or Illegal Possession of Explosive. Both personalities are residents in Sitio Dugyaman, Brgy Anticala, Butuan City.

Lt. Col.Isagani O Criste, Battalion Commander of 29th Infantry(Matatag) Battalion, said that the operation was conducted by combined elements of 29IB and PNP in response to the information received about the presence of the wanted persons in the said barangay.

Meanwhile, Col. George L Banzon, Commander of 901st Infantry (Fight’Em) Battalion, commended the soldiers and police for the successful joint operation made possible by the cooperation of the concerned individuals who provided the reliable information.

“It is a clear manifestation that the people of Caraga are tired already of NPA terrorists’ wrongdoings specifically, their involvement in the criminal activities such as extortion, arson, murder, kidnaping and other related crimes as well as victimizing innocent civilians by luring them to join senseless armed struggle,” he said.

He further said that joint operations with other law enforcement agencies will be intensified against the communist terrorist group to further speed up the imminent defeat of the insurgents so that peace and security will be ensured.

“We in the security sector are merging our efforts to materialize our mandates in this whole-of-the-nation approach to eradicate CTGs. In line with this, we are urging the public to continue your support so that we can sustain what we have started here in Caraga”, he added.

At present, the arrested personalities are now under the Police custody for proper disposition.

[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/two-communist-npa-terrorists-arrested-in-surigao-del-norte/

Kalinaw News: Four PAMANA members withdraw support, took oath of allegiance with government

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 3, 2020): Four PAMANA members withdraw support, took oath of allegiance with government

BALER, Aurora – Four members withdrew their membership from the group of “Panlalawigang Alyansang Magbubukid ng Aurora (PAMANA) and voluntary surrendered to 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion, Philippine Army on Wednesday (September 30, 2020).

LTC REANDREW P RUBIO, (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer of 91st IB said that Pamana in this province is one of the Sectoral Front Organizations (SFOs) of the CPP-NPA-NDF.

He added that 1LT CARLO OMAYON (SC) PA, Charlie Company Commander of 91st IB, Aurora Police provincial office, Maria Aurora Police Station and other security forces in this province facilitated the surrender of the four.

Linda Gutierrez of Barangay Dianawan, Maria Aurora, Aurora led the voluntarily surrender and withdrew their support and membership from PAMANA and other SFOs to the government troops.

“Minsan na akong naging miyembro ng PAMANA sa pagaakalang ako ay matutulungan sa aking problema sa usaping lupa subalit sa maikling panahon na umaasa ako sa tulong na pinangako ay wala naman kaya ang ginawa ko ay lumayo at humiwalay na sa samahan dahil wala naman pala akong maasahan na tulong kaya hindi na ako nagpupunta sa mga patawag nila na pulong o meeting,” Gutierrez said.

Back to LTC RUBIO, he said they vowed allegiance to the government and denounced the deceptive scheme and evil tactics of the Communist Terrorist Group. They also realized that they were just used for the benefit of the communist organization.

The Battalion Commander added that the withdrawal of support of another Pamana members manifests that the said organization is now weakened and losing its mass supporters due to influx of withdrawal of support and membership of their leaders, members and supporters.

The surrender of the four was materialized through intelligence buildup and civil military operation (CMO) conducted by the government troops.

The surrenderers are now undergoing initial interview at the 91st IB Headquarter for documentation and proper disposition.

[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/four-pamana-members-withdraw-support-took-oath-of-allegiance-with-government/

Kalinaw News: Six NPA Terrorists Surrender Firearms in Quezon

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 3, 2020): Six NPA Terrorists Surrender Firearms in Quezon

CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal – The Army’s 2nd Infantry Division has recorded another breakthrough following the surrender of six NPA rebels with firearms in Quezon on Thursday, October 1.

The former rebels turned over one carbine rifle, one Cal. 38, bandolier, five magazines, and ammunition to personnel of 85th Infantry Battalion in Brgy Cambuga, Mulanay, Quezon.

Brigadier General Norwyn Romeo Tolentino, Commander of the 201st Brigade mentioned that the unprecedented number of surrenders is due to the rebel groups’ failure to regard their combatants’ lives and support their families as promised.

“As per testimony of the former rebels, all of them are active members and allies of the NPA, thus, we are expecting them to share valuable information that will help us deal with the few remaining terrorist that will push them toward their eventual defeat in this part of the country,” added Tolentino.

The military upholds the former rebels’ safety protocols by keeping their true identities in private to avoid NPA retaliatory acts to those who call for peace.

For his part, Major General Greg Almerol, Commander of Army’s 2nd Infantry Division lauded the former rebels for choosing the path of peace over violence.

Almerol ordered his soldiers to provide necessary assistance to the former rebels while they undergo the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP enrollment process that entails DSWD assessment, profiling, and counseling together with health experts in preparation for their reintegration to the mainstream society.

“I am calling for unity in ending this battle against terrorism amidst the horrors our nation is currently facing. Together, we can help build a better country without turning to armed struggle,” appealed Almerol.

Since the implementation of E-CLIP in 2016, the 2nd Infantry Division has facilitated a total of 685 former rebels and 118 firearms as a result of continued localized peace negotiations across Southern Tagalog.

[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/six-npa-terrorists-surrender-firearms-in-quezon/

NPA fighter surrenders

From Palawan News (Oct 2, 2020): NPA fighter surrenders (By Aira Genesa Magdayao)

Rebillo, a 29-year-old resident of Barangay Saraza, Brooke’s Point town said he was a member of the rebel group Iskwad Katawan in 2017 operating in norther Palawan. He said he had served as a supply officer (P4) of Kilusang Larangang Gerilya (KLG) – North.


Image from MBLT3

Roy Relia Rebillo, alias Ka Elmer, a former rebel who said he was abandoned by his colleagues in the New People’s Army (NPA) while suffering from severe illness in the mountain, surrendered to the Roxas Municipal Task Force Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF ELCAC) on September 16.

Rebillo, a 29-year-old resident of Barangay Saraza, Brooke’s Point town said he was a member of the rebel group Iskwad Katawan in 2017 operating in norther Palawan. He said he had served as a supply officer (P4) of Kilusang Larangang Gerilya (KLG) – North.

He narrated that he reached the community in Sitio Candelaria, Barangay Tagumpay in Roxas from a two-day hardship in walking from Barangay Caruray in San Vicente in March this year.

He said he reached Sitio Candelaria and stayed there for almost six months. The community helped him to coordinate with the Community Support Program (CSP) Team of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-3 (MBLT-3) and Joint Task Group North.

“Naglalakad kami ng walang ilaw. Hirap, gutom, pagod, puyat, tapos kapag magkasakit ka, pabayaan ka lang, hindi ka rin bibigyan ng gamot. Sabi nila nagdadahilan lang at sagabal lang ‘yan,” he said.

“Sa mga lakaran, gabing gabi na ay hindi pa kami kumakain, nagtitiyaga sa ubod, at minsan hindi makaluto sa takot na makita kami ng mga nagpapatrolyang marines,” Rebillo added.

Lt. Col. Charlie Domingo, commanding officer of MBLT-3, assured the security of the returnee while in their custody.

“Nasa custody siya ng Joint Task Group North o MBLT-3, sa amin. Sinisiguro naman po natin ang seguridad niya at kung kailangan niyang lumabas kung may aasikasuhin siya ay may mga kasama sya. Ligtas po sya,” Domingo said.

Roxas town Mayor Dennis Sabando said that the presence of the law enforcers should be visible in the ground and in far-flung areas to prevent entry of the rebel group.

He also assured the cooperation of the municipal government to address problem in terrorism.

“Kung may dadating man na ibang tao ay dapat maireport agad kasi hindi dapat ito pinapabayaan dahil mahalaga ang seguridad natin lalo na sa ganitong pagkakataon. Sa mga liblib hindi maiwasan na may nagtatago kaya dapat ang mga sundalo ay laging nandyan, laging nandyan ang presence nila,” he said.

Municipal government of Roxas also handed financial and food support to Rebillo while government’s support programs are on process such as the Enhanced Comprehensive Livelihood Integration Program (E-CLIP) and Local Social Integration Program (LSIP).

https://palawan-news.com/npa-fighter-surrenders/

Army sending medical teams to help in Bacolod’s COVID fight

From Panay News (Oct 3, 2020): Army sending medical teams to help in Bacolod’s COVID fight (By Mae Singuay)

BACOLOD City – The Philippine Army is deploying three more medical teams here to augment healthcare workers attending coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients in various hospitals.

According to Mayor Evelio Leonardia, the impending arrival of this additional manpower was confirmed by Lieutenant General Roberto Ancan, commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Central Command based in Cebu City.

“The teams will augment our local hospitals’ health care manpower complement,” Leonardia added.

Each team will have one doctor, four nurses and a still-unspecified number of aide personnel.

These three teams would replace the two teams deployed to the city in the last week of August once the latter’s tour of duty ends.

The initial two teams, with six members each, were assigned to two private hospitals in the city.

Each team was composed of one doctor, two nurses, and three aide men.

One was dispatched to the Dr. Pablo O. Torre Memorial Hospital (Riverside Medical Center) while the other was deployed to the Bacolod Queen of Mercy Hospital.

The deployment of augmentation healthcare personnel to Bacolod came as part of the response to Leonardia’s appeal for assistance from President Rodrigo Duterte in August.

Last month, the Department of Health 7 deployed 15 nurses to Bacolod through the assistance of the Office of the Presidential Assistant for the Visayas headed by Secretary Michael Lloyd Dino, which is part of the Cebu team assisting Bacolod in its battle against COVID-19.

Leonardia had also asked the National Task Force Against COVID-19 to deploy more nurses to hospitals in Bacolod as the city government continues to strengthen efforts to reduce local cases of COVID-19.

http://www.panaynews.net/army-sending-medical-teams-to-help-in-bacolods-covid-fight/

Andanar vows to promote PH collective security as new Navy Reserve Commissioned Commander

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 3, 2020): Andanar vows to promote PH collective security as new Navy Reserve Commissioned Commander (By Jerome Carlo R. Paunan) 

CALOOCAN CITY, Oct. 3 (PIA) -- Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar vowed to help promote the collective security of the country as he took oath as new commissioned commander of the Philippine Navy Reserve Force under the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

“Serving as a civilian in our Armed Forces’ Reserve Force is truly one of the highest forms of national service, and, indeed, a staunch display of patriotism to our beloved country,” he said during the Donning of Ranks and Oath-taking Ceremony at the Philippine Navy Headquarters on Friday.

The PCOO chief is now part of the Reserve Force of the Philippine Navy as commissioned commander pursuant to the National Defense Act, which grants military officership rank to Presidential appointees, as recommended by the Chief of Staff.

“Now, as a commander in the Reserve Force of the Philippine Navy, my determination to further serve and to contribute to the preservation of peace and harmony for Filipinos and for our nation is amplified,” he said.

“I am also at the ready to help promote our collective security against those who continue to undermine our national integrity and interests,” he added.

“May the Armed Forces' collective and dedicated patriotic service to our country and our countrymen continue to be fruitful towards the attainment of the true change, lasting peace, and inclusive progress that our whole nation is working towards to achieve,” he said, as he also expressed his appreciation to the AFP.

Andanar’s commission order was released on May 25, 2020. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1054998

2 rebels slain in clash with Army in NoCot

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 3, 2020): 2 rebels slain in clash with Army in NoCot (By Edwin Fernandez)

SEIZED GUERILLA ITEMS. Valuable rebel supplies landed in the hands of government forces following a clash in North Cotabato on Friday (Oct. 2, 2020) that led to the death of two New People’s Army (NPA) guerillas. Recovered from the slain rebels were an M14 rifle and anti-personnel mine. (Photo courtesy of 72IB)

Two communist guerillas were killed during an encounter with government forces in the hinterlands of Magpet, North Cotabato on Friday.

The clashes occurred in Purok 3, Barangay Malire, Antipas town, reported Lt. Col. Rey Alvarado, commander of the Army’s 72nd Infantry Battalion (72IB).

Alvarado said residents have repeatedly told soldiers about the presence of some 30 heavily armed fighters of the New People’s Army (NPA) in the village, apparently waiting for food supplies from the locals.

Following a 30-minute firefight, the guerillas withdrew deep into the forest and left two dead comrades.

Found beside the slain rebels were an M14 rifle, three M14 magazines with ammunition, one bandolier, an anti-personnel mine, an improvised explosive device switch detonator, subversive documents, medical supplies, and personal belongings of their fleeing comrades.

“The identities of the slain NPA (rebels) remain unknown,” Alvarado said.

Antipas Mayor Egidio Cadungon Jr. lauded the 72IB troopers for the successful operation that liberated the village of Malire from the clutches of the communist terrorists.

Cadungon assured that the local government of Antipas would always support the Army to eradicate the presence of the NPA in their communities.

Pursuit operations were ongoing, Alvarado said.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117399

122 paramilitary troopers help secure Tacurong City

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 3, 2020): 122 paramilitary troopers help secure Tacurong City (By Edwin Fernandez)

SECURITY FORCE MULTIPLIERS. Tacurong City honors 122 residents who are now bona fide members of paramilitary troops who will help secure the city from security threats, at the City Hall grounds on Friday (Oct. 2, 2020). The new batch of force multipliers (inset) underwent a rigid 45-day basic military training course at the training camp of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division in Maguindanao before their graduation and deployment to strategic sections in the city. (Photo courtesy of Tacurong LGU)

A total of 122 residents of Tacurong who completed paramilitary training are helping the police maintain law and order in the city of more than 100,000 inhabitants.

The 122 recruits have undergone a 45-day rigid training and completed the requirements to become full-fledged members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (Cafgu) Active Auxiliaries (CAA).

They were presented to Mayor Angelo Montilla and other officials at the City Hall grounds during a program on Friday.

“They have graduated at the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID) CAA Training Base in Barangay Taviran, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao,” Montilla said.

He said he was proud the Army training team also recognized the top three completers of the basic military training course.

Kim Hachuela topped his class while Reymond Huinda and Gilbert Amondong Jr. came in second and third, respectively.

Tacurong City and the 6ID earlier signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to form a company-size CAA to be deployed to various parts of the city.

As a bourgeoning city in Region 12 (Soccsksargen), Tacurong has become vulnerable to security threats.

Montilla said the activation of CAAs would not only complement the efforts of regular AFP troops but also empower residents to have direct participation in the maintenance of peace and development in the locality.

Under the MOA, the Army provides the CAA aspirants with the basic military training, as well as firearms during the training up to their actual deployment.

The local government unit (LGU), meanwhile, took charge of funding for the subsistence allowances of the CAAs, including their fatigue uniforms and other provisions.

The city LGU has earlier earmarked PHP9 million for the training and deployment of the new force multipliers.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117403

Army discovers BIFF lair in Maguindanao, IEDs recovered

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 3, 2020): Army discovers BIFF lair in Maguindanao, IEDs recovered (By Noel Punzalan)

SEIZED. The terror items recovered by Army troopers from a hideout of the Islamic State-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Ampatuan, Maguindanao on Friday (Oct. 2, 2020). The BIFF items included three homemade bombs aimed at killing and slowing down pursuing military troopers against them in the interiors of the province. (Photo courtesy of 2MIB)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Government troops discovered a hideout of the Daesh-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Ampatuan town on Friday afternoon.

In a report, Lt. Col. Omar Orozco, commander of the Army’s 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion (MIB), said the BIFF lair was discovered by patrolling soldiers in Sitio Talpok, Barangay Salman, Ampatuan.

“The camp can accommodate some 50 persons,” he said.

Found in the camp were three improvised explosive devices (IEDs) with accessories, assorted ammunition, a handheld radio, and a bag with personal belongings.

“Military bomb disposal experts immediately deactivated the IEDs and took it to safety,” he said.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, commander of the Army's 6th Infantry Division where the 2MIB belong, lauded the troops for a job well done.

He vowed to sustain the focused military operation against the BIFF terror group operating in the province.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117414

New Army Reserve commander assumes post

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 3, 2020): New Army Reserve commander assumes post (By Jason De Asis)

NEW ARMY RESERVE COMMANDER. Maj. Edward Pineda delivers his message as he assumed his new post as the new battalion commander of the Army's 307th Community Defense Center, the Aurora Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion (ARRIBn) on Saturday (Oct. 3, 2020). Pineda is the former deputy administrator of the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone (Apeco). (Photo by Jason de Asis)

BALER, Aurora – Maj. Edward Pineda, the deputy administrator of the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone (Apeco) in the province, is now the new battalion commander of the Army's 307th Community Defense Center, the Aurora Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion (ARRIBn).

Pineda officially assumed his new post, replacing Maj. Eleanor Prado, in a change-of-command ceremony on Saturday presided by Col. Roberto Sarmiento, group commander of the 3rd Regional Community Defense Group (3RCDG), Army Reserve Command based at the Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom) in Tarlac.

“I promised that starting today, I will do my best to the fullest level as your new battalion commander of Army’s 307th ARRIBn, I will make sure that our battalion will be known in this province and other places as part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” Pineda said.

He also vowed to continue the plans started by his predecessor.

“We will do our best, we will work as a team, let us work hand-in-hand with the command to intensify recruitment of reservists and to ensure that the plans and programs for the province would be carried out,” he said.

Prado, in her message, thanked the Philippine Army for making her dream come true to be a soldier and for considering her request to step down because of her health condition.

Lt. Col. Reandrew Rubio, commander of 91st IB, thanked Prado for the support and services extended to the 91IB.

“We would like to congratulate Major Pineda, the newly-installed battalion commander of 307RRIBn. Rest assured that the 91IB will continue to support our reservists regardless of branch of service as we are part of the Team AFP,” Rubio said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117432

Outgoing Ambassador Kim hailed as 'best' US envoy

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 3, 2020): Outgoing Ambassador Kim hailed as 'best' US envoy (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

‘BEST US ENVOY’. Outgoing US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim (left) was praised by Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. on Friday (Oct. 2, 2020) as one of the best American envoys for his way of boosting the two nations' relations in the past four years. Kim, who assumed his position in 2016, is ending his tour of duty this year. (File photo)

Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. on Friday described outgoing US Ambassador to Manila Sung Kim as one of the best American envoys, as he praised his way of boosting the two nations' relations in the past four years.

"Flat out the best US ambassador, including the Long Peace of the Cold War. Holding firm to American principles and key interests, he understood us, especially this President with whom he worked fabulously well even in tempestuous circumstances, like old friends pulling in opposite directions," Locsin said in a tweet.

At the State Department, Kim was hailed for his "outstanding managerial skills, open interpersonal style, and demonstrated ability to engage productively on sensitive and complex policy issues and priorities."

Kim, who assumed his position as the United States' ambassador to the Philippines in 2016, is ending his tour of duty this year.

For four years, he oversaw various engagements between Manila and Washington, from its partnership to end the Marawi Siege to the historic return of the Balangiga bells to fighting the pandemic.

"Time and time again, I was amazed at what Americans and Filipinos could achieve together. When I depart, I will take with me many indelible memories," Kim said in a letter dated October 1.

Recalling his visits to different regions in the past four years, he said he saw firsthand the "positive impact" US companies are making by investing in their Filipino workforce.

"In the face of the pandemic, US companies stood by their Philippine partners, providing medical supplies, IT support, and food for front-liners. The US government has provided more than PHP1 billion to support Philippine government Covid-19 efforts, including the recent donation of state-of-the-art ventilators manufactured in the United States," Kim said.

He also praised the alumni of several American education programs, pinning his hopes on the Filipino youth to continue advancing the US-Philippines alliance.

"Whether watching college basketball, meeting Filipino youth, or traveling to stunning destinations, I’ve been inspired and energized by the promise of this dynamic country and the depth of our special partnership. The next time I wear a barong, enjoy lechon, crispy tilapia, or buko pandan with my wife and daughters, we will remember with fondness the wonderful friendships we made here," Kim said.

"It has been an honor and a privilege to serve in the Philippines these past four years. With profound gratitude, I bid the Philippines and my Filipino friends farewell and say maraming, maraming salamat, and until next time – hanggang sa muli."

Ambassador Kim has more than three decades of East Asia regional experience, including serving as ambassador to Korea from 2011 to 2014. He also served as the Special Envoy for the Six-Party Talks with the rank of Ambassador.

Last year, Kim was nominated to serve as the next US ambassador to Indonesia.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117392

PCOO chief, OCD exec commissioned in Navy reserves

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 3, 2020): PCOO chief, OCD exec commissioned in Navy reserves (By Priam Nepomuceno)

NEW NAVY RESERVISTS. PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar (2nd from left) and Office of Civil Defense Operations Service Director Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro (2nd from right) pose after donning their reservist ranks of commander and lieutenant commander, respectively, in a ceremony at the Philippine Navy headquarters on Friday (Oct. 2, 2020). In his speech, Andanar committed to further serving and contributing to the preservation of peace and harmony for Filipinos and the country. (Photo courtesy of the Naval Public Affairs Office)

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Jose Ruperto Martin Andanar and Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Director Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro were formally commissioned as Philippine Navy (PN) reservist officers on Friday.

In a statement forwarded to reporters, PN public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, said the commissioning and donning of ranks ceremony took place at the Navy headquarters in Naval Station Jose Andrada, Roxas Boulevard, Manila.

Roxas said PN Chief, Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, led the donning of ranks for Andanar and Alejandro, who were commissioned in the Navy reserves as commander and lieutenant commander, respectively.

Commander Andanar is also a TV news anchor, radio commentator, podcaster, video and audio blogger, and a voice-over artist.

As head of the PCOO, his initiatives include the Freedom of Information, Presidential Task Force on Media Security, the Mindanao Media Hub, and Government Strategic Communications Academy.

In his speech, Andanar said as a commander in the Navy reserve force, he is determined “to further serve and to contribute to the preservation of peace and harmony for Filipinos and for our nation.”

He also said he is ready “to help promote our collective security against those who continue to undermine our national integrity and interests.”

Meanwhile, Lt. Commander Alejandro is a career executive service officer and director of the Operations Service of the OCD, working as a public servant for more than two decades.

He was former director of the Administrative and Financial Management Service and Policy Development and Planning Service of the office, having been appointed as Director III by President Rodrigo Duterte in 2016.

Alejandro recounted that during his stint as director of OCD 5 (Bicol), he witnessed “the dedication and professionalism of the gallant sailors and marines of the PN.”

“They always place their duty first among others. Thus, I am proud, a witness of the heroism of the Navy. Now I stand with you together, as a member of the Philippine Navy Reserve Force,” he said.

Meanwhile, Bacordo described the two government officials and now Navy reservists as "individuals who are ready to take on responsibilities.”

“Your present roles in the government are instrumental in keeping the integrity of our institutions,” he said. “You are already civil servants on your own but still chose to add another commitment (on) your list."

Bacordo noted that joining the Philippine Navy as a reserve force entails a deep understanding of their role in the accomplishment of the AFP’s over-all mission.

“We are indeed deeply grateful for choosing to work and nurture important Navy objectives with us," he said.

PN reservists play an important role as force multipliers as they are engaged in medical and civic action programs, as well as humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117400

PH reaffirms commitment vs. nuclear weapons

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 3, 2020): PH reaffirms commitment vs. nuclear weapons (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to ratify a United Nations treaty against nuclear weapons during the observance of the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons on October 2.

"In his address before the General Assembly, my President committed to the ratification of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. The Philippines was among the first to sign the Treaty and we will adhere to its universalization of global norms against nuclear weapons," Locsin said in a statement posted on the DFA page on Saturday.

The official underscored the need for the total elimination of nuclear weapons as it continues to threaten human extinction.

"We face a pandemic that has millions dying and whose end is nowhere in sight. And there is still the looming existential threat of a nuclear war promising human extinction in toto or in very large swaths. The two are not that different: they both threaten the existence of humanity and civilization such as it is—not much but better than the alternative," he said.

He said the difference is not small but "hugely significant" as the pandemic is "not of our doing".

"Nuclear annihilation might happen accidentally; but that it happened will be entirely our fault. Like leaving several loaded revolvers in a kids’ playroom," he said.

The Philippine government in 2017 signed the UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons that outlawed nuclear weapons.

The landmark agreement fortifies the nuclear disarmament architecture and represents the universalization of the Philippines' hope for the elimination of nuclear weapons.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117433