Groups hold candle-lighting vigil vs. CPP-NPA atrocities

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 29, 2020): Groups hold candle-lighting vigil vs. CPP-NPA atrocities (By Jerome Carlo R. Paunan) 

CALOOCAN CITY, Oct. 29 (PIA) -- Various anti-communist groups and other non-government organizations on Wednesday held simultaneous candle-lighting vigils protesting the atrocities committed by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and its allies.

Members of the League of Parents in the Philippines (LPP), Liga Independencia Filipinas (LIF), League of Youth for Peace Advancement (LYPAD), Coalition for Peace (COPA), and Hands Off Our Children, alongside mothers of students who were reportedly recruited by various militant groups, offered prayers for the souls of individuals who were killed by communist terrorist groups.

"As we approach the day of the dead and commemorate our bereaved loved ones, also, we should never forget those lives of ordinary citizens who lay victims to the terrorist acts of the CPP-NPA-NDF," the groups said as they called for the end of armed conflict caused by the longstanding insurgency.

LPP chair Remy Rosadio said the groups chose three historical places in Manila City to hold their simultaneous candle-lighting ceremony -- Plaza Miranda, Mendiola Arc, and Nicanor Reyes Street formerly known as Morayta.

During the vigil, groups denounced the killing of innocent people during the Plaza Miranda bombing and Mendiola Massacre.

"We want to remind the public about the wickedness and terroristic acts brought by these communists. They are destroying our country and our people," Rosadio said.

Stop youth recruitment

Members of Hands Off Our Children and the parents of minors who reportedly joined the communist terrorist movement demanded the CPP-NPA-NDF and its legal-fronts to stop exploiting the youth for political interest, as they staged a protest along Morayta Street.

The anti-communist groups said they will always stand their ground and expose the recruitment schemes done by militant organizations.

Rosadio said communist groups and their alleged allied youth organizations have used the pandemic to brainwash minors and eventually recruit them to join their cause.

"It is hurtful for us parents to see our children engaged in pointless armed struggles. No parent would like to see their children holding firearms and taken away from cultivated communities going to the mountains and remote areas—we just want them to be properly educated and live a peaceful life," Rosadio said.

Rosadio said the communist terrorists did not relent in the middle of the health crisis but "continued to tell lies to explicitly recruit new members for the NPA."

Rosadio, however, noted that the youth and parents are now aware of the CPP-NPA-NDF and its allies' deceptive recruitment process.

Meanwhile, LPP Secretary-General Jose Goita said the symbolic candle-lighting is a "testament on how many Filipino families have fallen into the snare of the communist insurgency.

"Some of them have not only fallen but have been broken. They were killed. As we hope that the rest of the kids who are now with the rebels or are being recruited will survive, we cannot sit by and wait for the bad news about our kids," Goita said.

On the other hand, Rosadio assured the groups' simultaneous demonstrations strictly adhered to the government's health protocols to halt the spread of the Covid-19 infection.

"We strictly observe physical and social distancing while we expressed our sentiments about the atrocities caused by the CPP-NPA-NDF," she said.

The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines. (PIA NCR)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1057392

DSWD-12 assesses ex-MILF combatants for aid rollout

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): DSWD-12 assesses ex-MILF combatants for aid rollout (By Allen Estabillo)

Cezario Joel Espejo, Department of Social Welfare and Development-Region 12 director (Photo courtesy of DSWD-12)

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Region 12 (Soccsksargen) has started the assessment of members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) covered by the second phase of the decommissioning process in line with rollout of various government assistance.

Cezario Joel Espejo, DSWD-Region director, said they deployed their field personnel on Thursday to visit MILF camps and communities in parts of the region and its neighboring areas.

He said the move would ensure that all decommissioned combatants of the group will receive government assistance such as hospitalization, educational assistance, and livelihood grants.

“This is part of the continuing monitoring of the status of decommissioned combatants in the communities. Our social workers will revisit them to update their status,” Espejo said in a statement.

The official said the phased decommissioning of MILF forces, which was estimated at around 40,000 combatants, was part of peace agreement signed by the government and the group in 2014.

It aims to help former combatants transform into peaceful and productive citizens as provided for in the Annex on Normalization of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.

Last year, a total of 12,145 former MILF combatants were decommissioned under the second phase of the process.

Under Executive Order (EO) 79, decommissioned MILF combatants are entitled to PHP80,000 in assistance under the Bangsamoro Transitory Family Support Package (BTFSP) and PHP20,000 as livelihood settlement grant.

The EO 79, which was issued by President Rodrigo Duterte in April last year, aims to reintegrate decommissioned MILF combatants to mainstream society through the provision of livelihood and other appropriate programs and services.

Norhata Benito, DSWD-12 normalization program head, said the BTFSP is outright cash assistance that may be used by the beneficiaries for their basic needs.

She said this includes food, hygiene kits, sleeping materials, kitchen and shelter kits, as well as medical, educational, and transportation needs.

“The livelihood grants may be used as seed capital to start a micro-enterprise or to purchase starter kits for the re-establishment of damaged livelihood,” she said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120093

8 ex-rebels in Nueva Ecija receive livelihood kits from DTI

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): 8 ex-rebels in Nueva Ecija receive livelihood kits from DTI (By Jason De Asis)

HELP FOR EX-REBELS. One of eight former members of the New People's Army receives a livelihood kit worth PHP10,000 from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Barangay Tugatog, Bongabon, Nueva Ecija on Wednesday (Oct. 28, 2020). The grant is under the DTI’s “Pangkabuhayan para sa pagBangon at Ginhawa" program, in partnership with the 91st Infantry (Sinagtala) Battalion of the Philippine Army. (Photo courtesy of 91IB, Philippine Army)

Eight former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Nueva Ecija have received livelihood kits from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

This was under the DTI’s “Pangkabuhayan para sa pagBangon at Ginhawa” program, in partnership with the 91st Infantry (Sinagtala) Battalion (91IB) of the Philippine Army.

In an interview on Thursday, Lt. Col. Reandrew P. Rubio, 91IB commander, said the program is in support of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip), which aims to capacitate and support former rebels in going back to mainstream society and becoming productive citizens.

“This is also part of the process for them to effectively mainstream in the society and live peacefully with their families. I call on those active NPA bandits to lay down their arms and return to the fold of the law and avail (of) the E-Clip and other services from the government,” Rubio said.

He said the former rebels received livelihood kits, which consisted of goods for a small sari-sari store worth PHP10,000 each, during the awarding ceremony held in Barangay Tugatog, Bongabon town on Wednesday.

Under the DTI program, the beneficiaries may choose to avail of in-kind livelihood kits or cash vouchers.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120071

31 NPA rebels yield in Sarangani

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): 31 NPA rebels yield in Sarangani (By Richelyn Gubalani)

SURRENDER. Some of the high-powered firearms that 31 former communist rebels turned over to authorities as they surrender on Wednesday (Oct. 28, 2020) in Maasim town, Sarangani province. The surrenderers are previously under the New People's Army’s Guerilla Front 73-Far South Mindanao Region. (Photo courtesy of the Police Regional Office-12)

At least 31 New People’s Army (NPA) rebels surrendered on Wednesday to government authorities in Maasim town, Sarangani province.

Brig. Gen. Michael John Dubria, director of the Police Regional Office (PRO)-12, said Thursday the former rebels, including 15 unit leaders, decided to lay down their firearms following a series of negotiations with police and Army personnel in the area.

Dubria said the returnees were all members of the NPA’s Guerilla Front 73-Far South Mindanao Region, which operates in the hinterland areas of Maasim, Kiamba, and Maitum towns.

“Based on our validation, 15 of them held key or ranking positions in their former units,” he told reporters, adding the returnees include unit commanders, vice commanders, platoon leaders, and squad leaders.

Dubria said the returnees brought along at least 20 assorted high and low-powered firearms and various doctrinal documents.

He said Sarangani Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon has committed to provide the necessary assistance to the rebel returnees.

They will also receive additional support packages from Maasim Mayor Zyrex Pacquiao and Sarangani Rep. Rogelio Pacquiao, he added.

One of the surrenderers, only identified as “Joni,” said in an interview they decided to surrender because of the increasingly difficult situation in the mountains, compounded by the coronavirus pandemic.

“It’s a losing situation for us, we were given promises of certain benefits but they never materialized,” the former rebel said in the vernacular.

Dubria said they will endorse the surrenderers for inclusion into the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.

“We are always open and ready to assist other rebels who want to return to the government and their communities as well as reunite with their families,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120096

Ex-child warrior in Leyte files rape case vs. NPA leader

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): Ex-child warrior in Leyte files rape case vs. NPA leader (By Sarwell Meniano)

VICTIM OF ABUSE. 'Shane' (not her real name), 17, a former New People's Army child warrior, speaks to reporters during a press conference in Calubian, Leyte. The victim filed on Thursday (Oct. 29, 2020) a rape complaint against their former commander in the communist terrorist group before the prosecutor’s office. (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Army)

A former child warrior of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army CPP-(NPA) on Thursday filed a rape complaint against their former commander in the terrorist group.

Accompanied by lawyers and Army officials, "Shane" (not her real name), 17, filed the complaint before the prosecutor’s office in Calubian, Leyte against Paterno Opo alias "Dodong", commander of the NPA sub-regional committee operating in Leyte and Biliran provinces.

“I suffered in the hands of our supposed superior when I was only 15 years old in the mountains of Calubian, Leyte in July 2018. This incident continues to haunt me until today and I want to seek justice,” Shane said during a press conference at the Calubian town hall.

Shane and her older sister "Ruffa" voluntarily surrendered on June 12 to officials of the Army's 14th Infantry Battalion based in Kananga, Leyte.

Their parents are also NPA rebels, who reportedly disagreed with the sisters’ plan to yield to government troops out of fear. Two of their younger brothers are also rebels.

“We were so frightened to surrender because our commander threatened to rape, torture, or kill us, but we got the chance to escape when we were asked to collect food in a nearby community,” Ruffa, a former NPA finance officer, told reporters. "When we surrendered, I thought it was the end of our life, but the soldiers fed us and provided us shelter."

Shane’s family hails from Hilongos, Leyte but they operated with the CPP-NPA's Platoon 1, Sub Regional Committee Levox, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee in northwest Leyte.

Both Shane and Ruffa reportedly suffered abuse while with the communist group. The latter got pregnant and gave birth to a baby girl, now two years old.

Due to poor nutrition and lack of proper medical care, Ruffa was said to have suffered postpartum depression syndrome but instead of being given appropriate medical care, she was tied to a corner like a dog.

The two sisters’ parents allegedly did nothing to help Ruffa. On the order of the CPP-NPA leadership, her baby was left to the care of a childless farmer couple, who were mass members of the rebel group in a town in the northwest part of Leyte island.

The 802nd Infantry Brigade under Brig. Gen. Zosimo A. Oliveros is reportedly finding ways to fulfill Ruffa’s wish to reunite with her child.

Meanwhile, Shane’s lawyer, Ryan Balais, is confident that the local prosecutor’s office will find probable cause on the rape complaint.

Oliveros, on the other hand, condemned the NPA for recruiting minors and abusing female warriors.

"I am condemning in strongest terms the blatant disrespect to human dignity committed by the NPA commander. I am saddened by the fate of these victims due to the terrible sufferings and injustices that they experienced while they were in the hands of the NPA. Likewise, I admire the courage of Ka Shane in confessing her horrible experience, though it may degrade her reputation and dignity as a woman,” he said. With her revelation, she exposes the evils of joining the NPA."

He added that this confirms the blatant and persistent recruitment of minors within the communist terrorist organization.

Oliveros appealed to parents, youth, and all organizations advocating for women’s and children’s rights to unite and stop the deceptive recruitment of the youth by the communist terrorist group.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120179

Army execs laud surrender of more NPA fighters in Negros

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): Army execs laud surrender of more NPA fighters in Negros (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

SURRENDER. Lt. Col. Melvin Flores (left), commanding officer of the 62nd Infantry Battalion, receives the M-16 rifle turned over by New People’s Army fighter Jun "Mel” Vergara during the latter’s surrender at the battalion headquarters in Barangay Libas, Isabela, Negros Occidental on Tuesday (Oct. 27, 2020). Vergara was a member of Squad 2, Sangay ng Yunit Pampropaganda Platoon under the Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros/Cebu/Bohol/Siquijor. (Photo courtesy of 62nd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

Philippine Army officials have lauded the series of surrenders of combatants of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in Negros Island.

Maj. Gen. Eric Vinoya, commander of the Philippine Army's 3rd Infantry Division, said in a statement on Thursday that he was glad that those who returned to the fold of the law have realized the false and deceptive ideology of the communist-terrorist group.

“I know that you can see and feel the looming downfall of your senseless armed struggle. Hence, we, the legitimate armed forces of the people, are very much willing to accept you with open arms as you willingly embrace peace,” Vinoya said.

In the past two weeks, five former NPA fighters have surrendered to the 62nd Infantry Battalion (62IB) based in Barangay Libas, Isabela, Negros Occidental.

On October 27, Jun “Mel” Vergara, a member of Squad 2, Sangay ng Yunit Pampropaganda (SYP) Platoon under the Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros/Cebu/Bohol/Siquijor (KR-NCBS), turned himself in to government forces, bringing along an M-16 rifle and magazine loaded with 29 rounds of 5.56mm live ammunition.

Vergara’s surrender was coordinated by the Guihulngan City Police and City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict headed by Mayor Joan Jeorge Reyes.

Four members of the KR-NCBS, identified as Jone “Dim/Dem” Alfuerto; Deito “Mar” Ferolino; Snooky “Noky” Mejio; and Rodrigo Fat, also surrendered to the 62IB troops on October 16.

Vinoya said the series of surrenders strongly indicates not only weary and hopeless fighters but also a terrorist organization that is falling apart.

Lt. Col. Melvin Flores, commanding officer of 62IB, said he salutes “Ka Mel” for his bravery and courage in choosing his family instead of the NPA.

“I hope this would be the last time that you wear that (Leonardia Panaligan Command - NPA) uniform to symbolize that you have totally abandoned the armed struggle. You have made the best decision of becoming a productive and law-abiding citizen,” Flores told the surrenderer.

Both Army officials reiterated their call to the remaining members of the communist-terrorists still hiding in the mountains to lay down their arms and avail of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip).

The CPP-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/1120165

150 ex-NPA rebels, supporters join DavOr peace-building seminar

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): 150 ex-NPA rebels, supporters join DavOr peace-building seminar (By Che Palicte)

ALLEGIANCE. Some 150 former members and mass supporters of the communist New People’s Army gather in Montevista, Davao de Oro, Wednesday (Oct. 28,2020) to pledge allegiance to the government. They also joined the three-day peace-building seminar by local and military officials. (Photo courtesy of the Army's 1001st Infantry Brigade)

Some 150 former rebels and mass supporters of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) joined the three-day peace-building seminar at the Municipal Sports Complex, Montevista, Davao de Oro from October 26-28.

In a statement Thursday, the Army's 1001st Infantry Brigade said the participants consisted of former Milisyang Bayan (MB) and Sangay sa Partido sa Lokalidad (SPL) members, as well as NPA supporters from the town's six barangays.

According to the 1001Bde, the six barangays were formerly "infiltrated" by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), which managed to influence the villagers into organizing communist-allied groups.

“Today, the NPA is now weakened, and there are only a few of them left. Let us stop them from recruiting other victims and inform others of their lies and deceit. Let us unite and stop them from going back in the barangays,” said Col. Luis Rex Bergante, 1001st brigade commander.

Bergante said the peace-building seminar consisted of anti-radicalization lectures, as well as an information drive to raise awareness on the government's financial programs for rebel returnees.

“The government is willing and determined to support and deliver basic services to the people to finally end communist armed conflict,” Bergante added.

Montevista Mayor Eutropio Jayectin urged the participants to "unite and help one another to be vigilant to shield their loved ones from the lies and recruitment of the NPA."

“We ask for your commitment and support by helping the government in protecting your communities against terrorist groups. Let us convince them to surrender to the government so that we could attain lasting peace in the community,” Jayectin said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120148

2 foreign terrorists join ASG in Sulu: Westmincom

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): 2 foreign terrorists join ASG in Sulu: Westmincom (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

The Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) bared Thursday that two Indonesians are among the five foreign terrorists who have joined the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in Sulu province.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of Westmincom, said the presence of the two Indonesians was known through the materials the troops recovered following a 20-minute clash Wednesday with the followers of ASG leaders Radulan Sahiron and Mundi Sawadjaan in Barangay Adjid, Indanan, Sulu.

Vinluan said the firefight broke out around 4 p.m. Wednesday when the 5th Scout Ranger Battalion chanced upon 15 ASG bandits while conducting security operations in the area.

He said the ASG bandits fled to different directions, adding the troops recovered two M-14 rifles, three hammocks, two pairs of combat boots, two backpacks, and other personal belongings.

“Our troops also recovered documents including photocopies of passports owned by two Indonesian nationals whose identities are yet to be identified. The recovered documents of high intelligence value will undergo a thorough investigation to extract information that would strengthen our campaign in eliminating the local and foreign terrorists,” Vinluan said.

“The ASG also suffered undetermined casualties as evident on the bloodstains in the encounter site. I am happy to report that there is no casualty on the government side,” he added.

Earlier, Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Philippine Army, bared the presence of five foreign terrorists who are either with the ASG bandits in the province of Sulu, or in Maguindanao.

Sobejana said the nationalities of the five are Indonesians, an Egyptian, and a Singaporean.

Col. Antonio Bautista commander of the Army's 1101st Infantry Brigade, said government troops are tracking down the fleeing ASG bandits.

“We immediately deployed supplemental troops to establish blockades in the possible withdrawal route of the local terrorists,” Bautista said.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, commander of the 11th Infantry Division, acknowledged the "unwavering support of the local government units and the peace-loving people of Sulu."

“Our troops are currently pursuing these terrorists. We have the manpower, we have the war assets, and we have the people of Sulu rallying behind us. They give tip-offs, and they forbid ASG presence in their communities. The Tausugs are very confident, and they are not afraid as they themselves are volunteering to confront terrorists,” Gonzales added.

He also urged the ASG bandits to lay down their arms and to return to the fold of the law.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120113

Housing site for ex-NPAs to be built in Agusan Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): Housing site for ex-NPAs to be built in Agusan Norte (By Alexander Lopez)

HOUSING SITE FOR EX-REBELS. A 1.4-hectare land in Barangay Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte, donated by San Roque Metals, Inc., will be the site of the housing project for former combatants of the New People’s Army. The donated land was formally accepted by Governor Dale B. Corvera and 2nd District Rep. Maria Angelica Amante-Matba on Thursday (Oct. 29, 2020). (Photo grab from Agusan Up Facebook Page)

Agusan del Norte’s provincial government broke ground on Thursday a housing site for former combatants of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) in the area.

Governor Dale B. Corvera, Agusan del Norte 2nd District Rep. Maria Angelica Amante-Matba, and Cabadbaran City Mayor Judy C. Amante led the groundbreaking ceremony of the 1.4-hectare housing site in Barangay Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City that was donated by San Roque Metals, Inc. (SRMI).

Brig. Gen. Maurito L. Licudine, commander of the Army's 402nd Infantry Brigade who was present during the activity, lauded the National Housing Authority for giving priority to the housing needs of the former rebels.

Licudine said 91 former rebels under the brigade have already availed of the housing program, one of the benefits that former NPA combatants could avail of through the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip).

Butuan City Councilor Ryan Culima, who represented the SRMI, estimated that 100 families of former rebels would benefit from the housing project.

1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang, civil-military operations officer of the Army’s 23rd Infantry Battalion, told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Thursday that 83 former rebels under their unit have applied for the housing project.

“Except for those who opted to go back to their communities, some of our former rebels will benefit from the newly opened housing site in Cabadbaran City,” Maglalang said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120127

50 AFP senior officers get CA nod

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): 50 AFP senior officers get CA nod (By Priam Nepomuceno)

CONFIRMED. Senior officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) attend the confirmation hearing of the Commission of Appointments (CA) Committee on National Defense at the Senate on Wednesday (Oct. 28, 2020). The committee, presided by Rep. Luis “Jon-Jon” A. Ferrer IV, approved the confirmation of 49 ad interim appointments and one nomination of senior military officers. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

The Commission of Appointments (CA) Committee on National Defense has confirmed the ad interim appointments and nominations of 50 senior officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday.

In a statement forwarded to reporters late Wednesday, AFP chief-of-staff, Gen. Gilbert Gapay, said the committee, presided by Rep. Luis “Jon-Jon” A. Ferrer IV, gaveled the en banc confirmation of 49 ad interim appointments and one nomination of senior military officers.

“CA’s confirmation of the ad interim appointments and nomination of our senior officers validates our officer’s corps’ competence and diligence to better prepare them to take on greater responsibilities in the organization. Let this milestone empower your dedication to serve our nation even further for the benefit of every Filipino,” he added.

Among those confirmed was Major Gen. Juvymax R. Uy, the current commander of the 6th Infantry Division and the highest-ranking officer present.

The CA also confirmed the nomination of Brig. Gen. Vener Odilon D. Mariano to Major General. The CA found the following Army Colonels qualified for their ad interim appointments: Harold M. Cabunoc, Ramon P. Zagala II, William George S. Cordova, Danilo E. Estrañero, Ernest John C. Jadloc, Vincent Arnold O. Dy, Vicente Edgardo C. De Ocampo, Jessie R. Montoya, Cesar L. Portiz, Edgar O. Josue, Neil Alfonso R. Roldan, Ciriaco A. Lomas-e, Amadeo U. Cruz, Dennis C. Gutierrez, Samuel G. Yunque, Melencio W. Ragudo, Rico O. Amaro, Richard T. Servito, Dante T. Bermillo, Eliezer P. Valdez Jr., Camilo A. Saddam, Joel D. Aquino, Castor O. Bahin, Josue M. Caberto, Zane B. Fernandez, Nemesio A. Escleto, and Arturo E. Junco. Meanwhile, the six Air Force Colonels also confirmed were Francis Karem E. Neri, Rommel Allen P. Genete, Reynaldo Jose A. Montoya, Jerome Erwin S. Santiago, Melvin A. Banua, and Vicente F. Flora.

The CA likewise confirmed three Navy captains namely: Norman A. Mutia, Edwin F. Carpio, and Michael G. Barrion.

Three Marine colonels, Bladimer B. Caluya, Frederick G. Baradi, and Noel M. Tiu, also got the CA's nod.

Meanwhile, six other colonels from the Dental Service were also approved by the CA. These are Isidro Alex C. Urriquia, Ranulfo O. Espera, Sonny A. Ramos, Jonathan L. Dumlao, Maria Teresa P. Boto, and Ben Hur A. Cariño. Meanwhile, Col. Jose Rosel R. Reduble from the Medical Corps and Col. Ela Gemma J. Taguba from the Nurse Corps were also confirmed.

Col. Roy L. Onggao from the Chaplain Service also received the CA's approval.

Gapay said the confirmation of ad interim appointments and nomination of senior military officers by CA is a manifestation of professionalism and commitment to the highest ethical standards among the AFP’s ranks.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120064

PH, US affirm strong defense alliance in security engagement meet

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): PH, US affirm strong defense alliance in security engagement meet (By Priam Nepomuceno)

STRONGER ALLIANCE. Officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, led by Chief of Staff, Gen. Gilbert Gapay (center left), and the United States Indo-Pacific Command, led by Admiral Philip Davison (center right), convene the virtual Mutual Defense Board - Security Engagement Board Meeting on Thursday (Oct. 29, 2020). During the meeting, military leaders of the two countries discussed the impact of the pandemic on the activities and other international engagements slated for 2021, including the annual "Balikatan" exercises. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

The Philippines and the United States reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their defense alliance.

This came as Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff, Gen. Gilbert Gapay, and US Indo-Pacific Command commander, Admiral Philip Davison, on Thursday convened the Mutual Defense Board - Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) Meeting, which was held virtually for the first time due to the pandemic.

"We view the alliance as a strong and resilient partnership that needs to be responsive to the ever-changing security environment," Gapay said.

The MDB-SEB Meeting is being held annually between the AFP and the US Indo-Pacific Command to discuss security cooperation activities and a strategic vision for the alliance, anchored on the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty.

"The United States and the Philippines remain steadfast allies in our pursuit of regional peace and stability. Our close cooperation ensures our forces are interoperable and a formidable force for stability throughout the region while further strengthening the ties that make us such close friends, allies, and partners," Davidson said.

During the meeting, military leaders of both countries discussed the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) health crisis on the activities and other international engagements slated for 2021, including the annual "Balikatan" exercises.

Gapay said the AFP envisioned the alliance with the US to continue with mutually beneficial activities that would result in greater interoperability between the two militaries.

"Our alliance should continue to provide the mechanism to further enhance our already robust defense cooperation by pursuing capability building initiatives for our interoperability," he added.

Gapay also noted the importance of using Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement locations and other resources to ensure an effective response to different mission areas.

Also discussed was the possible use of mitigating actions to prevent the transmission of Covid-19, including the use of training bubbles and the scaling down of exercises.

However, he said events must conform to health and safety protocols, should the pandemic persist.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120145

Groups call on CPP-NPA to end attacks, recruitment of youth

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): Groups call on CPP-NPA to end attacks, recruitment of youth (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

'SAVE OUR YOUTH'. Anti-communist groups and other civil society organizations gather at the University of the Philippines Diliman on Thursday (Oct. 29) to hold candle-lighting vigils for the victims of the CPP-NPA-NDF. The groups also called for the end of the recruitment of minors by the communist armed movement. (PNA photo by Lade Kabagani)

Anti-communist groups and other civil society organizations on Thursday called on the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and its allies to end their atrocities and stop the recruitment of youth.

Members of the League of Parents in the Philippines (LPP), Liga Independencia Pilipinas (LIPI), and Hands Off Our Children, and mothers of students who were reportedly recruited by various militant groups, gathered at the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman and in Timog Circle in Quezon City, as they protested the attacks by communist terrorist groups.

LPP chair Remy Rosadio said communist rebels should be held liable for their lawlessness.

While these groups claim to be "pro-people and pro-marginalized", Rosadio said these groups and their allied organizations should not be emulated.

"They're are destroying our children, they are destroying our country, for them, no government is doing its job because they wanted to take the lead. Leading to what? To the insurgency, to killing innocents and recruiting youth to bring to the mountains," Rosadio said.

Rosadio urged the communist groups to stay away from engaging vulnerable youth to join their cause.

"Stop your propaganda. Stop deceptions. Stop the lies. Stop recruiting minors," she said, noting that each child deserves a peaceful life.

Recruitment of youth

LPP spokesperson Arlene Escalante said the recruitment of minors has continued despite the coronavirus outbreak.

"It may not be face-to-face recruitment, they have been very active in recruiting our youth through online, through social media. We have received some reports from various universities and places all over the country that they are still engaging our youth to join the front-organizations and their progressive movements," Escalante said.

"That's the reality, it may be during the pandemic or not, the CPP-NPA-NDF is very active in their recruitment," she added.



Escalante, meanwhile, defended members of advocacy group "Hands Off Our Children" who denounced the atrocities by the NPA via Facebook.

"They are not making up stories about their missing children who were reportedly recruited by the militant organizations," she said.

Escalante said members of the group are only expressing their thoughts and are not inventing stories to get attention.

"We, from the League of Parents of the Philippines, are helping the parents who are members of the Hand Off Our Children to express their sentiments, grievance and appeal to the government to help them fight for their missing children," Escalante said.

The Hands Off Our Children page was among those hit by Facebook's recent move to suspend and shut down several pages for violating its policy against coordinated inauthentic behavior (CIB).

"We hope Facebook brings back their page, as it is their only platform to express themselves and their call about their missing children," Escalante said.

Escalante appealed to the CPP-NPA and its allied organizations to stop exploiting minors.

Put a stop to insurgency

Meanwhile, LIPI secretary-general Jose Goita said the more than 50 years of communist armed conflict must end now.

"We must stand up and put a stop to this useless, pointless, deceptive, criminal and terroristic insurgency that has no purpose but to destroy our country by destroying our families," he said.

Goita appealed to lawmakers to craft a law protecting the youth against "insurgency recruitment."

"The youth are a special-protected class under the constitution. We have laws addressing delinquency and other abuses against children, but only a few, if there's any, are addressing situations of their recruitment into the insurgency," Goita said.



Goita said the CPP-NPA is no longer a revolutionary group, but employs "money-making" schemes, making them a "criminal enterprise."

"Because they murder, they illegally extort money through illegal means like revolutionary taxation," he said.

"They manipulate our children which is child abuse, their drug dealings, the kidnapping of government officials and civilians and even the documented raping of new recruits," Goita said.

The anti-communist groups have conducted simultaneous candle-lighting vigils since Wednesday.

The CPP-NPA-NDF 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/1120124

Activist’s mom urges Liza, Catriona to protect the youth

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): Activist’s mom urges Liza, Catriona to protect the youth (By Marita Moaje)

Actress Liza Soberano (left) and Ms. Universe 2018 Catriona Gray (right)

A mother whose daughter was taken away from her after being recruited by a leftist group wrote an open letter to actress Liza Soberano and Ms. Universe 2018 Catriona Gray.

Relissa Lucena, in her Facebook post on Oct. 25, said while she respects Soberano and Gray's advocacy to speak up about women and children’s rights, they also have an obligation to "lead the youth to the right path" as popular celebrities today.

She said while everyone is entitled to his or her own rights and privileges, these things also come with responsibilities.

“Bilang mamamayan ng bansa, meron kang karapatan bilang Filipino at bilang artista, ngunit sa bawat karapatan na iyong tinatamasa meron din itong kaakibat na responsibilidad na dalhin ang mga taong sumusunod at tumitingala sa'yo bilang idolo na dalhin sila sa tamang landas na walang bantang kapahamakan (As a citizen, you have rights as a Filipino and as an artist, but with every right that you enjoy, there is a corresponding responsibility to bring those who follow or idolize you to the right path),” Lucena said.

Lucena said her family was a victim of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and their front organizations.

“Ako po at ang aming pamilya ay isa sa mukha ng mga na biktima ng CPP-NPA-NDF at kabilang ang Gabriela sa itinuturing mapaminsalang organisasyon na sumisira ng kinabukasan ng aming mga anak ito ay ayon sa ahensya ng Pilipinas na nangangalaga ng inyong katiwasayan at kapayapaan mula sa terorismo at krimen (Me and my family are victims of the CPP-NPA-NDF and Gabriela is considered as a destructive organization that ruins the future of our children, and this is according to the agency that is responsible for the peace and order of the country against crimes and terrorism),” she said.

False advocacies

Like artists and celebrities, Lucena said it is also the obligation of military officials and the rest of uniformed personnel to assure the safety of Filipinos and inform them of false advocacies and destructive organizations.

Lucena also told Soberano and Gray about her daughter, Alicia Jasper or AJ, who was recruited by leftist groups when she was only 16 years old.

She said she tried to fight for AJ to have a complete family.

She said she hoped for a good future for AJ, and has sacrificed a lot to get her back while her family waits for her to come home.

Lucena also posted a photo of her daughter AJ taken in August last year together with the Makabayan bloc at the House of Representatives where she was presented to the media.

AJ was seated in the middle of Makabayan Bloc congressmen that include Gabriela Rep. Arlene Brosas, ACT Teachers Rep. France Castro, Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate, Kabataan Party-list Rep. Sarah Elago, and Alex Danday, spokesperson of the Anakbayan.

Relissa Lucena posts a picture of her daughter AJ together with the Makabayan Bloc on her Facebook page. She said the CPP-NPA-NDF destroyed her family when they took AJ away from them. (Photo courtesy of Relissa Lucena)

Lucena said this was the last time she saw AJ.

The congressmen in the photo, she said, are government officials who are paid by taxpayer's money.

“Ipinaglayo nila kaming mag-anak, bilang kinatawan ng gobyerno it's their duty na maging daan upang ayusin ang problemang pampamilya at hindi sirain, ngunit hindi ito nangyari (they separated our family, as government officials it is their duty to help families stay intact and not destroy them),” her post reads.

Lucena told Soberano and Gray that as popular celebrities, they have an obligation to research about the group they are affiliating themselves with.

“Bilang isang pampublikong pigura ng bayang itong meron kang obligasyon na alamin ang organisasyon kung tama ba na dalhin mo ang aming mga kabataan o iyong tagasunod sa organisasyon na maari silang mapahamak? (As a public figure, you have the obligation to know and identify organizations, and is it correct to bring our youth and children or your followers to an organization that may lead them to danger?),” Lucena said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120182