Capiznon soldier killed in clash with Reds

From Panay News (Nov 10, 2020): Capiznon soldier killed in clash with Reds (By Glenda Tayona)

Corporal Arjun Guillermo of Mambusao, Capiz died of a gunshot on the chest during an encounter with some 10 armed men in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

A soldier from this town was killed in action in Barangay Sandayao, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental Wednesday last week.

Corporal Arjun Guillermo was a resident of Barangay Pangpang Sur here. A member of the Philippine Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion (IB), he was assigned to Negros Oriental.

He died of a gunshot on the chest during an encounter with some 10 armed men.

The men were believed to be members of the New People’s Army.

There were two clashes that day in Guihulngan – one started at 5 p.m. and the other just two hours after the first.

Guillermo was hit in the second encounter. Because of the bad weather condition, it was already dark when government troops pulled Guillermo’s body out of the encounter site.

http://www.panaynews.net/capiznon-soldier-killed-in-clash-with-reds/

Two NPA insurgents in Iloilo, Negros surrender

From Panay News (Nov 10, 2020): Two NPA insurgents in Iloilo, Negros surrender (By Ruby Silubrico)

The 29-year-old communist rebel Jun turns over his firearms to an official of the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion.

Two members of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered separately to the Philippine Army in the provinces of Iloilo and Negros Occidental.

On Nov. 4, a young Negrense woman, who became a Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) rebel when she was only 18, turned herself in to 15th Infantry Battalion (15IB) in Barangay Sangke in Hinoba-an, Negros Occidental.

Now 22, Jenny de la Cruz, also known as “Kim”, “Sweet”, “Ken” and “Kian”, also yielded a .357-caliber revolver and six live bullets – some six months after three of her former comrades, the ones who recruited her, surrendered also to the 15IB based in Cauayan, Negros Occidental.

Lieutenant Colonel Erwin Cariño (right), commanding officer of the Philippine Army’s 15th Infantry Battalion, with 22-year-old Jenny Montaño de la Cruz or alias “Kim”, who recently surrendered at their headquarters in Barangay Tiling, Cauayan, Negros Occidental. PHILIPPINE ARMY’S 15TH INFANTRY BATTALION

According to the 15IB, de la Cruz, who joined the communist-terrorist group in 2016, was a former leader of Squad 2, Sentro de Grabidad of CPP-NPA’s South West Front.

The group operates in the areas of Hinoba-an, part of towns of Ilog and Candoni in Negros Occidental as well as Basay town and part of Bayawan City in Negros Oriental.

Colonel Leonardo Peña, commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade, which supervises the 15IB, commended the troops for assisting de la Cruz in her surrender and for their commitment in deradicalizing the NPA-influenced far-flung communities in Negros.

On Nov. 7, a 29-year-old communist insurgent who was only identified as a certain “Jun” also surrendered to the 61st Infantry Battalion in Miag-ao, Iloilo.

He was a member of the NPA’s Igabon Platoon, Central Front, Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay.

June told the Army troops that he decided to leave the communist armed movement because he can no longer endure the extreme hunger and hardship inside the armed group.

Jun also surrendered his firearms with ammunition and magazines.

Lieutenant Colonel Joel Benedict Batara, commanding officer, 61IB was thankful that Jun returned to the folds of the law.

“We are winning and gaining peace in our area of responsibility. We thank Jun for going back to the folds of the law and eventually decided to be our partner for peace and development,” Batara said.

He also called on the remaining NPA members in the mountains live a normal life with their families, friends and be a productive member of the community.

According to Batara, Jun will be granted benefits under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.

http://www.panaynews.net/two-npa-insurgents-in-iloilo-negros-surrender/

More NPA rebels surrender in central Negros

From Panay News (Nov 10, 2020): More NPA rebels surrender in central Negros (By BY DOMINIQUE GABRIEL BAÑAGA)

These eight New People's Army (NPA) rebels surrendered to authorities in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental on Nov. 8. They also turned over their firearms and ammunitions. 2ND IB, PHILIPPINE ARMY

Eight New People’s Army (NPA) rebels surrendered to government forces in Barangay Poblacion, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental over the weekend.

The group consisted of a regular NPA member and seven belonging to the rebel movement’s “Yunit Militia.”

They were “Ka RR”, Squad 1 member, Sentro de Grabidad (SDG) Platoon, Central Negros 1 operating under the Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, Cebu, Bohol, and Siquijor of the Leonardo Panaligan Command-NPA; and Yunit Militia members Romeo Barbaquil alias “Ka Sammy”, Allan Alpas Estrada, Marlou E. Estrada, Reynaldo B. Delantes, Mariano Libaton alias “Ka Moloy”, Arlita Jabalde, and Bernaldo Besario, alias “Ka Bobby”.

According to the Philippine Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion (62IB), the rebels surrendered on Sunday to the Guihulngan City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC).

They also turned over their firearms – two .38-caliber revolvers, two .357-caliber gun and assorted ammunition.

Mayor Carlo Jorge Joan Reyes of Guihulngan City said that since August 42 NPAs have surrendered.

Of the total number, eight were regular NPA members, nine belonging to the Yunit Militia and 25 supporters. At least seven firearms were also surrendered to the authorities.
Army officials believed the mass surrenders in Negros was due to the hardships encountered by the insurgents in the mountains brought by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Lieutenant Colonel Melvin Flores, 62IB acting commanding officer, said this was the outcome of proper information provided to the people and the collaboration among Guihulngan TF-ELCAC members.

http://www.panaynews.net/more-npa-rebels-surrender-in-central-negros/

27 TFD personnel trained on DQR

From the Mindanao Times (Nov 8, 2020): 27 TFD personnel trained on DQR (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

The Human Resource Management Office of the city government facilitated the training of 27 personnel of the Task Force Davao (TFD) who will be deployed for the enforcement of the Safe Davao Quick Response (DQR) code.

Done through teleconferencing on November 3 at the headquarters of the unit at Sta. Ana Wharf, the training was focused on how they could effectively monitor the movement of residents through the DQR, an electronic contact tracing and travel pass platform that the city government is creating to help eliminate the threat of coronavirus.

The city government has also issued to the military unit three sets of computer desktop with printer and 34 cellular phones that would be used to scan DQR codes at the checkpoints in Lasang, Lacson, and Sirawan, Davao Overland Transport Terminal, Sta. Ana Wharf, Sasa Wharf, Davao-Samal port and its headquarters.

The military unit will also set up a point where vehicles with passengers that do not have DQR codes would be made to leave the city.

TF Davao Commander, Col Consolito P Yecla urged the travelers to comply with the DQR requirement to avoid the hassle when entering the city as it will deny entry to those without DQR, unless there is an emergency situation, to avoid traffic congestion at the checkpoints.

“Stringent security inspections and support to anti-illegal drug operations will still be performed by TF personnel after scanning the individual DQR,” Yecla said.

Last week, the city government has announced that it is moving the start of the implementation of the system to November 23 after the website where applications are being filed, bugged down due to the influx of applications. Its implementation was initially scheduled on November 7.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2020/11/08/27-tfd-personnel-trained-on-dqr/

Army seizes arms cache in North Cotabato

From MindaNews (Nov 9, 2020): Army seizes arms cache in North Cotabato (By MALU CADELINA-MANAR)

KIDAPAWAN CITY (MindaNews / 9 November) — Troops recently seized six high-powered firearms during a raid at a remote village in Matalam, North Cotabato allegedly influenced by the New People’s Army (NPA), the military said Sunday.

A report from the 6th Infantry Division’s (ID) Public Affairs Office (PAO) said the weapons were confiscated last Wednesday, November 4, after troops from the 90th Infantry Battalion conducted a military operation in the area.

Seized were two Garand rifles with six clips of ammunition; an M-16 assault rifle with long magazine loaded with 28 ammunition; two Caliber .45 pistols with four magazines loaded with 31 ammunition; and, one Carbine rifle with two magazines loaded with 22 serviceable ammunition.

The PAO also reported that two backpacks and a few personal belongings were recovered from the raid.

Major General Juviemax Uy, 6th ID commanding officer, assured residents that the Philippine Army will continue to secure them from the terror groups operating in the area.

Remote areas in Matalam town, especially those situated in the mountain ranges of Mount Apo and Bukidnon, are believed influenced by the communist NPA rebels.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2020/11/army-seizes-arms-cache-in-north-cotabato/

Army cites FRs' role in govt’s anti-insurgency campaign

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 9, 2020): Army cites FRs' role in govt’s anti-insurgency campaign (By Gideon C. Corgue) 

GUIPOS, Zamboanga del Sur, 9 Nov (PIA) - The Philippine Army wholeheartedly thanked the former rebels for their significant contribution to the government's anti-insurgency campaign.

This was revealed by Brigadier General Leonel Nicolas, commander of the 102nd Brigade, Philippine Army in front of the army and former rebels during the 47th anniversary of the founding anniversary of the brigade held by the 53rd Infantry Battalion, Camp David Sabido in Guipos town recently.

Nicolas said that the implementation of the anti-insurgency campaign by the Philippine Army on August 19, 2019 has already shown good results because the number and strength of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) in Western Mindanao has decreased.

He also said that with the serious implementation of President Rodrigo Duterte's Executive Order No. 70 or “whole of the nation-approach”, the army conducted focused military operations in the mountains resulting in a decrease in its number where, of the 198 CPP-NPA members operating in the mountains, only 93 remained.

Nicolas also reported that of the 168 firearms owned by the CPP-NPAs in the mountains, only 82 are now left with 86 firearms already handed over by the FRs to the government as they avail of Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).



"We are very grateful to you FRs for helping the soldiers in contacting your brothers and relatives who want to get down and back into the folds of the law, and you also informed us of their location in the mountains," Nicolas said.

He said half of the CPP-NPA members have returned to the government and have already received assistance from the national and provincial governments and most of them have undergone training.

He added that in the past, it was reported that 35 barangays were controlled by the CPP-NPA, but now there are no barangays controlled by the group because it has been cleared by the troops.

He also thanked the 53rd IB led by LtCol. Jo-ar Herrera for the dedication of their work saying that a number of rebels have already surrendered to the government and it is expected that all rebels in the government will surrender before the end of the year 2022.

Meanwhile, Herrera informed the brigade commander that the battalion is boosting the morale and welfare of their men and women by giving recognition to deserving troops and improving facilities around headquarters including the construction of a circumferencial road, half-way house, multi-purpose covered court, and conducting trainings.

He also said that the men and women of the unit are being cared for and that they are continuing to develop the warfighting skills of the troops.

“We continue to develop the warfighting skills of the troops as part of their opportunity to build, train and motivate because I believe that a well motivated and trained soldier is the best weapon to defeat the enemy,” Herrera concluded.

The event was highlighted with giving of awards to deserving personnel and distribution of food packs to FRs. (RVC/GCC/PIA-Zamboanga del Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1058402

Top officials in NegOr push to end armed conflict to achieve peace, development

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 9, 2020): Top officials in NegOr push to end armed conflict to achieve peace, development (By Jennifer C. Tilos) 

Rep. Josy Limkaichong (2nd from right) of the 1st district expressing her support to end local communist armed conflict (ELCAC), saying that the government is serious in putting an end to armed conflict by allocating budget for ELCAC activities. (PIA Negros Oriental)

CANLAON CITY, Negros Oriental, Nov. 8 (PIA) -- “Kon walay kalinaw, walay kalambuan, kon walay kaugmaran, walay kalinaw (If there’s no peace, there’s no development, and vice versa)," emphasized Gov. Roel Degamo in his message for residents of insurgency-affected Brgy. Budlasan in a Dagyawan sa Barangay held Thursday in Canlaon City.

Degamo's message was through Provincial Information Officer Bimbo Miraflor who represented the governor during the Dagyawan.

The governor pledged to provide projects and livelihood assistance to Brgy. Budlasan with the support of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

“While we are confronted by the faceless enemy that is COVID 19 for the past eight months, moving forward, we should not forget that we have a very enterprising enemy for more than 50 years now under the name of the CPP- NPA-NDF,” stated Degamo in his message as read by Miraflor.

The governor also emphasized that governance is a shared responsibility as peace is a community effort.

For her part, Cong. Josy Limkaichong of the 1st district expressed her support to end local communist armed conflict (ELCAC), saying that the government is serious in putting an end to armed conflict by allocating budget for ELCAC activities.

Limkaichong said with the support of Congress, a total of P16. 5-B for ELCAC has been approved for 2021.

“That is a big leap if we talk about helping the conflict affected areas. This is a general commitment of government and I hope the people of Budlasan will help spread the word na seryoso kaayo atong gobyerno sa pagtabang ug supporta sa atong gi tawag ug end of conflict (the government is serious in giving support to ending armed conflict),” said Limkaichong.

Provincial Director Johnjoan Mende of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) also shared that achieving peace and development is is the time to listen, talk, and cooperate or “pagtinabangay unsa man ang mga panginahanglan sa kumonidad, unsaon natu pagtabang ang matag usa (to help whatever are the needs in the community, and how we can assist each other)."

Mende urged the national and local government agencies to consider the concerns of Brgy. Budlasan for planning and budgeting.

The top officials concurred that development cannot happen without peace, and likewise there will be no peace without development.

Canlaon City Mayor Jose Cardenas expressed their commitment to help the affected barangays to provide programs and projects for the benefit of the people regardless of their political affiliation.

“We will compete for the betterment of our nation, we will compete for the betterment of our LGU, we will compete for the betterment of our ELCAC barangays,” said Cardenas. (jct/PIA7 Negros Oriental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1058439

Extreme hunger pushes NPA member to surrender

 From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 7, 2020): Extreme hunger pushes NPA member to surrender (By Jemin B. Guillermo)

ILOILO CITY, Nov. 7 (PIA) – One member of the Communist New People's Army Terrorist surrendered to the government, November 7, after experiencing extreme hunger and hardship in the armed group.

Alias “Jun,” a member of Igabon Platoon, Central Front, Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay, said he decided to leave the communist armed movement because he can no longer endure the extreme hunger and hardship inside the armed group.

“He also realized that he is fighting for a meaningless armed struggle that only had given fear and horror to his life. His conscience has bothered him because of their terroristic activities against the government forces and innocent civilians,” a media release from 61st Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army said.

Alias Jun surrendered his one US Carbine, Cal .30 M2, ammunition, and magazines.

Meanwhile, 61IB Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Joel Benedict G Batara said "as we strengthen our campaign, we are winning and gaining peace in our area of responsibility.”

Batara thanked Alias Jun for returning back to the folds of the law and eventually decided to be the Army’s partner for peace and development.

"We are still calling on the remaining NPA members in the mountains to come down, live a normal life with your families and friends, and be a productive member of the community," he added.

Alias Jun, who already embraced peace, is now in the government's good hands and will be granted all the benefits under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). (PIA6/With report from1Lt Gil T. Gamay/CMO-61IB)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1058372

NPA mass base in Northern, Central Luzon continues to weaken—NOLCOM

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 6, 2020): NPA mass base in Northern, Central Luzon continues to weaken—NOLCOM (By Trixie Joy B. Manalili)

TARLAC CITY, Nov. 6 (PIA) -- New People’s Army (NPA) mass base in Northern and Central Luzon continues to weaken as its members and supporters have surrendered to the government.

According to Armed Forces of the Philippines Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) records, a total of 301 NPA members returned back to the government from January to October this year.

In terms of weapons, about 93 assorted firearms were recovered and turned-over to the government’s security forces during the series of mass surrenders.

“These unprecedented figures that we have recorded in our counter-insurgency efforts are tangible proofs that, indeed, it is just a matter of time before NPA terrorism is totally eradicated in this part of the country which will pave the way for the much coveted peace prosperity and development that every Filipino truly deserves,” NOLCOM Commander Major General Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr. stressed.

Burgos disclosed that a 17-year-old minor and two other members of Cagayan Valley Regional Party Committee in Isabela recently surrendered and turned-over a rifle and a pistol after a series of localized peace engagements.

Meanwhile, soldiers of the Army 5th Infantry Division recovered a firearm with magazine and ammunition during their focused military operations in Echague, Isabela. 

Armed Forces of the Philippines Northern Luzon Command Commander Major General Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr (left) and Army 7th Infantry Division Commander Major General Alfredo V Rosario Jr. (right) inspect the firearms surrendered by former rebels and their supporters. (NOLCOM CIO)

In Ilocos Sur, a total of 12 members of the Communist Party of the Philippines Underground Mass Organization have formally withdrawn their support to the insurgency group during a ceremony presided by Burgos town Mayor Nathaniel Escobar.

With this, the commander reassured the steadfast commitment of NOLCOM as defenders of the north, guardians of sovereignty and protectors of the Filipino people.

“We will be unrelenting in our quest to liberate our people from the clutches of communist terrorism despite the additional challenges brought about by COVID-19 and the series of natural calamities we are facing,” Burgos noted.

“Your soldiers are closely working hand in hand with the different local government units and government agencies to better serve our people under the banner of good governance,” he furthered.

Meanwhile, Burgos mentioned that a total of 735 former rebels have benefited from more than PhP24 million worth of government assistance since 2016 under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

“About 388 of these former rebels were NPA regulars while the remaining 48 percent were local militias who were coerced to support the underground movement by threatening their safety as well as that of their families,” he explained.

Under E-CLIP, qualified former rebels can avail up to PhP700,000 worth of government grants as a start up in living peaceful lives after turning away from the underground movement. (CLJD/TJBM-PIA 3)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1058280

'Project PAGSIBOL' to benefit residents of former NPA lair in Isabela

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 9, 2020): 'Project PAGSIBOL' to benefit residents of former NPA lair in Isabela (By Merlito G. Edale)

CITY OF ILAGAN, Isabela, Nov. 9 (PIA) - The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Provincial Office here will be implementing its “Project PAGSIBOL” or Partnership Among Government Agencies for Skills Training Intervention and Better Opportunities for Livelihood” worth Php1.3 million.

TESDA Isabela head Dr. Demetrio Anduyan Jr. said the project will benefit the residents of barangay Dibuluan in San Mariano, Isabela, an interior former NPA-controlled village in the town.

He said the amount will be used in the conduct of a training on organic agriculture production NC II to benefit the farmers, Indigenous Peoples, special clients, out of school youth and OFWs who are residing at the said barangay.

“We want to provide skills and knowledge on organic agricultural production to the people in the barangay, create income generation opportunities, alleviate poverty, and provide assistance to threatened and influenced members of the society and encourage them to become productive,” Anduyan said.

Anduyan said the training will be conducted in three batches with 25 persons per batch until all will finish the trainings.

He said health and safety protocols will be properly observed to ensure that no one among the trainers and the trainees will be infected with COVID -19.

The TESDA Isabela official said the project will be launched within this month at barangay Dibuluan as he urged all government agencies to join during the launching hoping that TESDA Director General Isidro Lapeña. (MDCT/MGE/PIA 2-Isabela)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1058437

33 former rebels receive livelihood grant from DSWD-2

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 9, 2020): 33 former rebels receive livelihood grant from DSWD-2 (By Merlito G. Edale and 5th Infantry Battalion)

The Sustainable Livelihood Program FO2 led the awarding of Livelihood Settlement Grant (LSG) to 33 Former Rebels (FRs) from Isabela province through its Assistant Regional Director for Operations (ARDO) Lucia S. Alan, Promotive Services Division Chief Pasencia T. Ancheta and Regional Program Coordinator Noel T. Domingo.

CITY OF ILAGAN, Isabela, Nov. 9 (PIA) - At least 33 Former Rebels from Isabela received Livelihood Settlement Grant (LSG) through the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) amounting to P660,000.

The awarding of financial assistance was held at the Capitol Amphitheater attended by DSWD - 2 Assistant Regional Director for Operations Lucia Alan and representatives from the Department of the Interior and local Government (DILG), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Provincial Government of Isabela and 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army.

Alan said the DSWD and other government agencies converged to give the necessary benefits to former rebels and those still active in the member who wish to surrender and return to the folds of law.

“Sa ating mga kababayang napili na benepisyaryo ng proyektong ito, nawa’y pagyamanin ninyo at payabungin ang munting tulong na ibinahagi ng gobyerno. Sa pamamagitan ng dasal at positibong pananaw sa buhay, makakamit din nating lahat ang kaunlaran at kapayapaan na matagal na nating inaasam-asam”, she said.

Each former rebel received P20,000 under the Sustainable Livelihood Program of DSWD and relief packs from the Provincial Government of Isabela.

Of the 33 FRs, 26 came from the municipality of San Mariano, three from the municipality of Jones, three from the municipality of Echague, and one from the City of Ilagan.

Alan said the other six former rebels will be scheduled for pay-out to complete the 39 recipients of LSG in the province.

Alyas Jimboy, one of the beneficiaries expressed his gratitude to the government for the livelihood assistance.

“Malayong-malayo ang sitwasyon ko ngayong nagbalik-loob na ako sa pamahalaan kumpara noong nasa loob pa ako ng kilusan. Hirap at gutom lang ang naranasan ko sa teroristang grupo kumpara sa tinatamasa ko ngayong matahimik at maayos na pamumuhay. Labis ang aking pasasalamat sa gobyerno dahil sa walang tigil na pagkalinga sa aming mga nagbalik-loob,” he said.

Baby Jane Morales, another beneficiary, thanked the government upon receiving the financial aid. She then urged the remaining members of the New People’s Army to surrender to the government.

“Walang katapusan ang aking pasasalamat sa ating pamahalaan dahil sa pagtupad sa inyong pangako na mapabuti ang aming kalagayan. Sa mga natitira pang mga miyembro at sumusuporta sa rebeldeng NPA, hinihikayat ko kayo na ibaba na ang inyong mga armas at magbalik loob sa pamahalaan,” Alias Baby Jane said.

For his part, BGen Laurence E Mina PA, commander of 5ID said that the Command will work hand in hand with other government agencies to help facilitate the benefits intended for the former rebels thru the E-CLIP.

“The assistance of the government to the former rebels will give more reasons for the remaining NPAs to surrender not soon, but now. I thank the different government agencies and the provincial and local government units for doing a great job in ending the insurgency in the region,”he added.

Meanwhile, Provincial Administrator Atty. Noel Manuel Lopez said the P20,000 financial assistance from DSWD and DILG is just the first of the many benefits the former rebels will be receiving from the government as other benefits are already in the pipe line.

He said the Provincial Government through the BRO Programs will give additional aid to the former rebels and the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office’s livelihood program for former rebels are already prepared and soon will the distributed to them. (MDCT/MGE/PIA 2-Isabela)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1058444

TESDA Isabela head: Pour projects, services in GIDA, armed conflict-affected areas

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 9, 2020): TESDA Isabela head: Pour projects, services in GIDA, armed conflict-affected areas By Merlito G. Edale

Dr. Demetrio Anduyan Jr, director of TESDA Isabela, presides the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment (PRLEC) cluster meeting recently where he urged members to fuse resources in order to implement development projects in geographically isolated and areas affected by armed conflicts.

CITY OF ILAGAN, Isabela, Nov. 9 (PIA) - The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) - Isabela, being the co-chair of the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment (PRLEC) cluster of the NTF-ELCAC, has urged all government agencies under the cluster to pour programs, projects and services in a former NPA-controlled village in San Mariano town and other geographically isolated and areas affected by armed conflicts in the province.

The call was made by TESDA Isabela head Dr. Demetrio Anduyan Jr, who presided the PRLEC meeting held at the TESDA - ISAT in this city.

Anduyan said barangay Dibuluan was once the lair of New People’s Army (NPA) and now that the area is cleared from insurgency, programs, projects and services must be rendered in order that the people in the area will benefit from it.

He said TESDA has allocated P1.3 million for its “Project PAGSIBOL”tor the Partnership Among Government Agencies for Skills Training Intervention and Better Opportunities for Livelihood.

The project fuses the resources of various government agencies in order to implement development projects in geographically isolated and areas affected by armed conflicts and hopes to alleviate poverty in the countryside in order to improve the quality of life of the people.

“We want that all government agencies will converge and render the necessary intervention to make the people in the place be productive,” Anduyan said.

Meanwhile, the 95th Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Col. Gladius Calilan under the 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, assured that security in the area in place as troops are already deployed in three strategic locations. (MDCT/MGE/PIA 2-Isabela)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1058450

46 newly-surrendered UGMO members to receive aid from the government

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 9, 2020): 46 newly-surrendered UGMO members to receive aid from the government (By Freddie G. Lazaro) 

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Nov. 9 (PIA) - - Forty-six newly-surrendered members of the Underground Mass Organizations (UGMO) in Ilocos provinces will receive livelihood assistance from the different government agencies.

According to the army’s 702nd Infantry Brigade spokesperson Major Rogelio Dumbrigue, all government agencies involved in the National Task Force to End the Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) had readied the assistance for distribution to the surrendered UGMO members through a series of “serbisyo caravan.”

These benefits include cash assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), livelihood and skills training from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), packages of livelihood assistance from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), farm equipment from the Department of Agriculture (DA), and many more.

The UGMO members are reportedly supporters of the New People’s Army (NPA) in a particular community all over the country.

Of the 46 surrendered UGMO members, 12 are residents of Burgos; 30 from Narvacan; two from Quirino; all from the provinces of Ilocos Sur and two from Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte.

The 12 surrendered UGMO in Burgos, Ilocos Sur have formally taken their oath of allegiance to the government on November 5, 2020, with the presence of the members of the Municipal Task Force-ELCAC of Burgos town headed by Mayor Nathaniel D. Escobar.

The 30 surrendered NPA supporters in Narvacan, Ilocos Sur have taken their allegiance to the government on November 6, 2020.

Meanwhile, the two NPA supporters in Quirino, Ilocos Sur have surrendered to the authorities on November 4, 2020. They were identified as Romeo Valdez Mangay-ayam aka “Bawang”, 62, and Benigno Ig-an Diyan Sr., 64, both residents of Barangay Patungcaleo, Quirino, Ilocos Sur. The two surrendered NPA supporters were recruiters/founders/officers of the Save Quirino Movement under the umbrella of Cordillera People’s Alliance.

Dumbrigue said these 44 UGMO members surrendered to the operatives of the army’s 81st Infantry Battalion with the assistance of the local task force of ELCAC.

Earlier, Alexander Pagdilao Sr, 60, and his wife, Flordeliza Pagdilao @ AKA Liza, 53, have surrendered to the joint operatives of the army’s 24th Infantry Battalion and the police in Ilocos Norte. Both were listed as supporters and members of the Komiteng Larangang Guerilya- Southern Ilocos Sur (KLG-SIS) of the NPA.

Dumbrigue said the couple is now under the custody of the army for inquiry. (JCR/FGL, PIA 1)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1058497

AFP chief assures all-out effort against terrorism in social media

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 7, 2020): AFP chief assures all-out effort against terrorism in social media (By Nonette N. Castilio)

CALOOCAN CITY, Nov. 7 (PIA) -- The Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) General Gilbert Gapay on Friday assured the public of the military’s all-out effort to curb terrorist activities and propaganda in social media.

“The AFP shall ensure that terrorists will not be able to use social media as means to advance the ends of terrorism, recruit new members, and generate financial support,” said Gapay.

His statement came following the first in a series of virtual trainings conducted by the military with social media giant Facebook, on Friday. There were over 60 participants that included social media managers and information personnel from various AFP units and offices nationwide. They were trained about Facebook’s community standards and law enforcement policies.

The speakers in the two-hour webinar were Mr. Jan Edward Lim, Content Policy Manager and Mr. Rob Abrams, Law Enforcement Outreach Manager. Also present were Ms. Clare Amador, Head of Public Policy; Mr. Chris Kuzhuppilly, Public Policy Manager; and Bhume Bhumiratana, Cybersecurity Policy Manager. Leading the participants from the AFP was Navy Captain Jonathan Zata, the Chief of the AFP Public Affairs Office.

Lim who discussed the social network’s community standards said the core of developing their policy are anchored on authenticity, voice, safety, privacy, and dignity. These are the same concepts being advocated by the military through its AFP Social Media Use and Policy published in November 2016. This letter directive sets the general and specific policies for both the institutional as well as the personal utilization of social media platforms by the AFP and its personnel.

Also discussed in the webinar was Facebook’s thrust towards preventing the presence of violent extremists on Facebook. While there remains propaganda, terrorism support, recruitment, and attack planning, Facebook which is part of the Global Internet Forum to Counter Terrorism said it has already taken down 8.7 million posts related to such activities.

“The AFP views Facebook along with other social networking sites as platforms to disseminate accurate information that would empower our people to see through the lies, and reject terrorist organizations masquerading as pro-people,” Gapay said.

He added that Facebook could be the medium that will help consolidate the peoples’ support to the AFP whose mandate is to protect and defend the state against various threats to peace and security.

“The AFP looks forward to conducting more training with Facebook to better equip its personnel in honing the strengths of social media as a platform to push forward the government’s national development campaigns,” said the AFP Chief. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1058339

NTF-WPS continues to push safeguards for PH sea waters

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 9, 2020): NTF-WPS continues to push safeguards for PH sea waters (By Jerome Carlo R. Paunan)

CALOOCAN CITY, Nov. 9 (PIA) -- The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) continues to advocate for the strengthening of the country’s capabilities to safeguard the maritime domain and the marine wealth of the country’s sea waters.

This, as the Philippines observes this month’s environmental awareness promotion as prescribed under the Republic Act No. 9512.

"It is my advocacy to push the Philippines to continue to modernize the land, sea, air, space, and cyber capabilities towards an enhanced surveillance, enforcement, and development capabilities in safeguarding our vast maritime domain and marine wealth, initially valued at P75.02 trillion pesos," said NTF-WPS Chair and Director-General of the National Security Council (NSC) Secretary Hermogenes C. Esperon, Jr.

During ‘The Virtual Presser’ hosted by the Presidential Communications Operations Office, through the Office of the Global Media and Public Affairs and the Office of Legal Affairs, Esperon traced back the initiatives of the Philippines in gaining recognition of its maritime domains under relevant international laws. Secretary Esperon noted that the Philippines has acquired the international recognition of an archipelago under the Archipelagic Doctrine.

The concept, which regards an archipelago as a single unit and started with efforts to codify the law of the sea during the First Geneva Conference on the Law of the Sea in 1958, was eventually embodied by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in 1982.

The Philippine 1987 Constitution and several national laws have rules pertaining to the country's maritime domain, which is also in accordance with UNCLOS.

Esperon also relayed the directives of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to strengthen maritime law enforcement; to upgrade all the facilities in the country's occupied maritime areas; to provide welfare for the municipality of Kalayaan, Palawan, and the Island-communities along the Northern Seaboard; and to combat illegal fishing.

According to Esperon, the President's directives further include the continuation of a robust marine scientific research for the upholding of marine environment protection, conservation, and sustainable development of the country's marine resources.

This likewise includes policy directives on the promotion of oil and gas development, and the security and development of the country's islands in the waters of the northern and eastern seaboards of the West Philippine Sea.

PH initiatives on safeguarding marine resources

The NTF-WPS consists of 16 member-agencies, which receive guidance from Duterte, through the Cabinet and its clusters, for security, justice, and peace. It was established with the goal of promoting Philippine interests in the West Philippine Sea.

The NTF-WPS chair detailed further the President’s directives on the importance of conducting Marine Scientific Research.

"It is important that we have our own MSR [Marine Scientific Research], we already have three. This is the way to go, we should know what we have and exploit them [natural resources] with care, if necessary in partnership with the whole world. We are looking at a robust blue economy," said Esperon.

Proclamation No. 489 established a Philippine Rise Marine Resource Reserve, which consisted of two zones. First, the strict protection zone with an area of 49,684 hectares limited to scientific studies.

In addition to this is the Special Fisheries Management area with an area of 302,706 hectares for the sustainable development and regulated utilization of the country's natural resources. An inter-agency group led by the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA), is continuously collecting technical and scientific data.

"The all-Filipino MSR to the Philippine Rise in May 2018 became the Coordinated National MSR Initiatives and Related Activities in Philippine Waters’ milestone activity, where the Philippine Rise was declared by the President as a Marine Resource Reserve," said NAMRIA Deputy Administrator Efren P. Carandang.

Following marine researches conducted on the amount of resources within the Philippines’ territory, particularly within the WPS, Carandang imparted the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR)’s report in which the WPS serves as fishing grounds for a total of 294,730 fisherfolk in Regions I, III, NCR, IV-A, and MIMAROPA, accounting for 323,684 metric tons of the total fish production in the country.

The Department of Energy (DOE) has estimated that the WPS potentially holds a deposit of about 6,048 million barrels of undiscovered oil and 7,108 billion cubic feet of undiscovered gas.

However, with the continuing illegal activities conducted in the area, Carandang relayed that, “Thousands of Filipino fishermen and coastal communities in the neighboring areas of Palawan, are threatened by illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.”

With this in consideration and in addition to Esperon’s advocacy towards capability modernization, Carandang said, “The government is coordinating the efforts of different agencies, upgrading its marine research fleet, supporting local fisherfolk and marine scientists, and employing all possible means to protect this vital part of the national patrimony while ensuring the safety of its citizens.”

It is within the mandate of the Duterte administration, and that of the NTF-WPS, to uphold the Philippines’ territorial integrity, and utilize and protect natural and marine resources and wealth within its Archipelagic Waters, Territorial Sea, and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) as enshrined in the 1987 Constitution.

To recall, the Virtual Presser, launched by the Office of the Global Media and Public Affairs (OGMPA) in April 2019, is PCOO’s interactive online video platform to engage with the international and local media, including foreign audiences.

The OGMPA is tasked to connect government policymakers with the media and promote the Philippine government’s priority policy messages through engagements with foreign and domestic audiences. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1058419

Lorenzana: DND fulfills strategic priorities despite pandemic

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 9, 2020): Lorenzana: DND fulfills strategic priorities despite pandemic (By Nonette N. Castillo)

CALOOCAN CITY, Nov. 9 (PIA) -- Secretary of National Defense Delfin N. Lorenzana today said despite the ongoing pandemic brought about by COVID-19, the Department of National Defense (DND) has fulfilled its strategic priorities in 2020.

In the first-ever DND online flag-raising ceremony for the department’s 81st Anniversary, Secretary Lorenzana highlighted the DND’s accomplishments in securing sovereignty and territorial integrity of the state, promoting internal stability, attaining the highest standard of capability and preparedness, sustaining operations in support to global peace, and pursuing good governance.

“Vital infrastructures were built in the Kalayaan Island Group, Batanes Group of Islands, Sulu Sea, Philippine Rise, and West Philippine Sea for territorial defense operations,” the defense chief pointed out.

“In compliance with the President’s instructions, the (Armed Forces of the Philippines) also strengthened its presence in the country’s eastern seaboard in Fuga Island,” he added.

Lorenzana also highlighted the DND’s contributions to internal peace and security, noting the successful enforcement of Martial Law in Mindanao and substantial gains made against the communist terrorist groups (CTGs).

“There was no need for an extension beyond December 2019 as our security forces victoriously neutralized foreign and local extremist groups in the area,” he said.

“As part of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, the DNDled lines of effort are likewise commendable. About 14,000 communist insurgents have returned to the fold of the law. Many were given reintegration assistance under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP,” he added.

The DND is celebrating its 81st Anniversary this year virtually due to COVID-19, with the theme “DND@81: Nagtatanggol at kumakalinga sa gitna ng pandemya.”

“Maraming salamat sa inyong buong-puso at buwis-buhay na serbisyo para sa ating bandila at bayan,” Lorenzana said, addressing the men and women of the One Defense Team. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1058463

Army’s 6ID gets 199 new soldiers

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 7, 2020): Army’s 6ID gets 199 new soldiers (By Edwin Fernandez)

READY FOR DUTY. New soldiers listen as 6th Infantry Division officials give them last-minute instructions before their deployment to various parts of Central Mindanao on Friday (Nov. 6, 2020). The 6ID’s area of coverage includes the provinces of Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, North Cotabato, and a part of Lanao del Sur. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

The Army's 6th Infantry Division (ID) received 199 additional infantrymen to serve its area of operation (AOR), an Army official said here Saturday.

The new soldiers recently completed their candidate course and were deployed beginning Friday within the 6ID’s AOR, which includes the provinces of Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, North Cotabato, and a portion of Lanao del Sur.

Of the 199 new soldiers of the “Matindig Class,” 188 were men and 11 were women.

“You are our new strong fighters with dignity,” 6ID commander, Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, said in a statement issued Saturday.

Uy reminded the new batch to protect the people against perceived enemies of the state and, at the same time, initiate peace and development projects in their areas of assignment.

“Stand tall with utmost dignity as soldiers of the Filipino people and warriors of our land,” he said.




https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121077

Reds torch construction equipment in Surigao City

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 8, 2020): Reds torch construction equipment in Surigao City (By Alexander Lopez)

Suspected members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) burned construction equipment on Saturday night in Purok 10, Barangay Mat-I, Surigao City.

In a report, the Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office (SDNPPO) said the construction equipment, a road roller, is owned by JMT Construction.

The said construction company is currently implementing road construction in the area, the report added.

Initial police investigation said the refusal of the owner of the construction company to give extortion money to the rebels was the main reason for the destruction of the equipment.

The equipment costs around PHP3 million.

In an interview Sunday morning, 1Lt. Edmar C. Colagong, 29 Infantry Battalion’s civil-military operations officer, told the Philippine News Agency that more or less 10 armed men were responsible for the destruction of the said equipment.

He added that the armed men belong to Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda 16B (SYP16B), Guerrilla Front (GF) 16 of the Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) of the NPA.

“The 29IB troopers immediately responded upon receipt of the report. Pursuit operation is still ongoing in the area,” Colagong said.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121134

No new terror threat in Lanao Sur, police assures residents

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 8, 2020): No new terror threat in Lanao Sur, police assures residents (By Divina Suson)

Google map of Lanao del Sur

The Provincial Police Office in Lanao del Sur (PPO-LDS) on Sunday assured the public that there is no cause for panic or alarm as there is no new threat of terrorism in the province.

This, after a memorandum circulated on social media ordering all officers-in-charge of municipal police stations and the chief of police of Marawi to be on full alert status after receiving information “from a reliable source that more or less 200 armed men believed to be members of Dawlah Islamiya-Abu Sayyaf Group (DI-ASG) Maute group were sighted consolidating in the areas of Madalum, Marantao and Piagapo towns in Lanao del Sur.

The memorandum was dated Nov. 6 and signed by Lt. Col. Juanito Jamis, the operations officer of PPO-LDS.

“Said group were a composite of Tausog and Maranao-speaking members and planning to conduct atrocities in the areas of Lanao del Sur and its adjacent places,” the memorandum said.

The memorandum, posted in social media without permission from the chief of LDS-PPO, caused worries to residents of Marawi City and Lanao del Sur.

Col. Rex Derilo, chief of LDS police, said validation on the veracity of the information with other security forces and intelligence community is underway.

“At this stage of the validation, wala naman kami nakuhang (we did not have) indicators of such mass up of lawless elements, only raw information,” Derilo said in a statement released to media on Saturday evening.

He said the memorandum intends to direct the ground units to intensify the intelligence efforts and implement target hardening measures, to make them vigilant and ensure the safety and security of the public.

He said the Philippine National Police does not want a repeat of what happened in Marawi in 2017 where presence of armed men gathering in an apartment in Barangay Basak Malutlut was ignored.

The group was later known to be led by the late Isnilon Hapilon, the ASG commander who planned the Marawi siege.

“We have to act on the information though it is yet to be verified before it is too late. On behalf of the PNP in this province, I express my apology that the unauthorized released of that document which is supposed to be internal had caused tremendous alarm to the general public,” Derilo said.

The unauthorized release of the memorandum is now being investigated, according to him.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121148

PNP aids ex-child warrior in filing rap vs. NPA recruiters

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 9, 2020): PNP aids ex-child warrior in filing rap vs. NPA recruiters (By Sarwell Meniano)

SEEKING JUSTICE. A photo of Jake de la Cruz alias “Ka Anda” when arrested during an operation of the Philippine Army on June 1, 2020. He filed on Nov. 5 a complaint against recruiters of the New People's Army who deceived him. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army 20th Infantry Battalion)

The Philippine National Police (PNP) vowed to assist a former child warrior who filed a human trafficking complaint against members of the New People’s Army (NPA) who recruited him.

PNP Northern Samar provincial director, Col. Arnel Apud, said Sunday they are committed to help the former child warrior in his quest to seek justice against NPA recruiters who deceived him.

Jake de la Cruz alias “Ka Anda”, who used to live in a remote village in Northern Samar, said the NPA took advantage of his young age and convinced him to join the armed rebellion for a better future.

In a statement, Apud said he had ordered the women and children protection desk to assist "Ka Anda" in filing charges against the NPA members.

On Nov. 5, “Ka Anda” filed a complaint against two NPA recruiters for violation of Republic Act 9208 or the Anti- =Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003 before the Prosecutor’s Office of Laoang, Northern Samar.

De la Cruz's exact age has to be determined since he has no birth registration record.

The minor is one of the three armed rebels arrested during the strike operation of the Philippine Army in the upland Epaw village, Las Navas, Northern Samar on June 1, 2020.

Government troops recovered two improvised explosive devices, a caliber .45 pistol, a magazine with six live ammunition, and a sling bag containing PHP15,000 cash.

“Ka Anda” said the NPA promised him to be sent to school, but he was treated like a laborer, accompanying rebels while collecting food and money from villagers.

“This kind of recruitment is alarming. I am reminding all parents to be watchful of our children. We cannot allow this kind of deceptive recruitment of NPA to the youth. I urge you to immediately report to the authorities if similar activities occur in your communities,” Apud added.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121161

8 rebels yield in Guihulngan City

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 9, 2020): 8 rebels yield in Guihulngan City (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

VOLUNTARY SURRENDER. One of eight members of the New People's Army (NPA) who surrendered in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental is shown as he turns over his firearm to authorities on Sunday (Nov. 8, 2020). The Philippine Army said this is a result of continuing government efforts to end insurgency and obtain lasting and sustainable peace. (Photo courtesy of 62nd IB, Philippine Army)

Eight members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental have surrendered to authorities over the weekend, a report from the Philippine Army on Monday said.

They were identified as “Ka RR”, Squad 1 member, Sentro de Grabidad (SDG) Platoon, Central Negros 1 operating under the Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, Cebu, Bohol, and Siquijor of the Leonardo Panaligan Command-NPA; and Yunit Militia members Romeo Barbaquil alias "Ka Sammy", Allan Alpas Estrada, Marlou E. Estrada, Reynaldo B. Delantes, Mariano C. Libaton alias "Ka Moloy", Arlita P. Jabalde, and Bernaldo V. Besario, alias "Ka Bobby".

The Army's 62nd Infantry Battalion said the rebels surrendered on Sunday to the Guihulngan City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC).

City Mayor Carlo Jorge “Guido” Reyes was present, along with police and military officials and other task force members during the surrender.

Ka RR turned over a .38-caliber revolver with six rounds of live ammunition; Ka Sammy surrendered two .357-caliber revolvers with 11 rounds of live ammunition; and Allan Estrada a .38-caliber revolver with six rounds of live ammunition.

Records show that since August, the number of suspected NPAs who surrendered in Guihulngan City has reached 42.

Lt. Col. Melvin Flores, acting commanding officer of the 62nd IB, was quoted as saying that he appreciated the initiative of the former rebels, noting that this is the outcome of proper information provided to the people and the collaboration among Guihulngan TF-ELCAC members.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121244

Another ranking NPA leader yields in MisOcc

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 9, 2020): Another ranking NPA leader yields in MisOcc (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Another ranking New People’s Army (NPA) leader has surrendered due to the relentless military operations against them in Misamis Occidental, officials said Monday.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), identified the NPA surrenderer as Mary Grace Tamapad Buhawi, who surrendered Saturday afternoon to the troops of the 10th Infantry Battalion in Sinacaban, Misamis Occidental.

Vinluan said Buhawi, 23, was the platoon leader for Guerrilla Front Sendong of the NPA’s Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee.

Buhawi, according to Vinluan, surrendered following the series of combat operations that made it difficult for her and her team to move from one place to the other.

“We were starving because we have limited food supply, and we are experiencing a lot of hardships moving from one place to another,” Buhawi was quoted as saying by the military official in vernacular.

Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, Joint Task Force ZamPelan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao Provinces) commander, said the military continues to welcome more NPA surrenderers "who signify intent to lay down their arms and return to the fold of the law."

Buhawi is the second-ranking NPA leader who surrendered in Misamis Occidental this month.

On Nov. 4, 24-year-old Cirilo Biosa Sumibay, an NPA team leader, also surrendered to military authorities in the province.

“We believe that it is always best that the members of the different terrorist groups are neutralized through surrender and without firing a single bullet,” Vinluan said as he commended the Joint Task Force Zampelan for the accomplishment.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121196

AFP aids in transport of PhilSys registration kits

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 7, 2020): AFP aids in transport of PhilSys registration kits (By Priam Nepomuceno)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) aided the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) by starting the transport and distribution of the National Identification System (PhilSys) registration kits to 32 provincial offices of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Friday.

This after Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana approved the request of Acting NEDA Secretary Karl Kendrick Chua, who sought AFP logistics and transport support for more than 4,000 registration kits to 655 cities and municipalities in target provinces, the military said in a statement Saturday.

The request aimed to ensure safe and secured transport of PhilSys registration kits, considering the limitations in interisland and provincial transportation as the community quarantine nationwide is still in effect.

The registration kits that were turned over to the AFP from NEDA last October 30, were delivered to the PSA head office in Diliman, Quezon City on November 6.

These are expected to arrive in its target provinces on or before November 12. From the PSA head office, these kits will be distributed to AFP major services.

The Philippine Army was tasked to provide logistics support and deliver the kits to PSA provincial offices in Luzon, while the Philippine Navy for the Visayas, and the Philippine Air Force for PSA provincial offices in Mindanao.

Upon reaching the delivery hubs, which are mostly in military camps, these kits will be turned over to Unified Commands and take over the distribution as well from AFP major services.

Finally, these kits will be handed over to 32 PSA provincial offices nationwide. Registration kits are expected to reach its destination before the conduct of training for the PhilSys registration operations.

Meanwhile, AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Gilbert Gapay said the national ID system will promote a peaceful and secure environment as criminals, terrorists and other lawless elements will find it difficult to assume fake identities to commit crime and terrorism in the community.

“The National ID System will help us and other law enforcement agencies to curb criminality and terrorism as we can now validate and expose criminals’ identities and prevent them from hiding in other law-abiding citizens’ identities. This will also constrain and lose their freedom of movement, and they will be isolated and unable to transact business as no official identification can be presented when demanded,” he said.

Gapay said the new identification system will contribute to the whole nation's efforts of the government in ending local communist armed conflict.

"The national government may now efficiently distribute and deliver government services to its rightful recipient even in far-flung areas. The CTG (communist terrorist group)'s can no longer use the inefficient delivery of government services as a reason to deceive and recruit unknowing Filipinos,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121100

ASG member killed in clash with police in Zamboanga

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 8, 2020): ASG member killed in clash with police in Zamboanga (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

ASG TERRORIST. Firearms recovered after a police operation was conducted to arrest Abu Sayaff Group member Salip Adzhar Alidjam in his residence in Zamboanga Sibugay on Saturday (Nov. 7, 2020). Alidjam was killed in the operation. (PNP photo)

A member of the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) was killed during a police operation in Zamboanga Sibugay, the Philippine National Police-Anti-Kidnapping Group (PNP-AKG) said on Sunday.

In a report to Camp Crame, PNP-AKG chief Brig. Gen. Jonel Estomo identified the fatality as Salip Adzhar Alidjam, a resident of Barangay Musso, Tungawan, Zamboanga Sibugay and known in the area as armed and dangerous.

Alidjam is a member of ISIS/ASG, under the leadership of Alhabsi Misaya, whose group has been involved in a series of kidnapping incidents in the past.

The ASG member was positively identified by a kidnap victim, Indonesian Herman Manggak, who was kidnapped in 2016 and was released after paying PHP4 million ransom.

Estomo said the police operation was conducted on Saturday as the PNP-AKG, in coordination with various local law enforcement units, served a search warrant against the suspect for illegal possessions of firearms and explosives.

After sensing the presence of the police operatives, Alidjam quickly went inside his room and fired upon the lawmen prompting authorities to retaliate that led to the death of the suspect.

Authorities recovered one hand grenade, a .45-caliber pistol, one Garand rifle, and ammunition from the crime scene.

The cadaver was properly turned over to the immediate family for disposition based on the Muslim tradition, according to the report.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121120

DND to hold 81st anniversary activities online

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 9, 2020): DND to hold 81st anniversary activities online (By Priam Nepomuceno)

All activities related to the observation of the Department of National Defense's (DND) 81st founding anniversary this month will be done virtually as part of efforts to contain the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

"Amid the challenges posed on public health by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Department of National Defense is slated to commemorate its 81st founding anniversary through a series of activities facilitated online, starting on Monday, 9 November 2020," DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said in a statement.

The DND commemorates its founding anniversary every November, pursuant to Commonwealth Act No.1, or the National Defense Act of 1935, signed by then President Manuel Quezon and enacted on November 1, 1939.

Online celebration activities include Monday's flag-raising ceremony was attended by personnel from the DND and its bureaus – the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Government Arsenal (GA), the National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP), the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office.

This was followed by a thanksgiving Mass held at the DND Building in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. All events were streamed on the official Facebook page of the DND (facebook.com/DNDPHL).

The DND will also hold an online forum titled "Continuity in the Evolving New Normal: The Philippines' National Security Challenges in the South China Sea" from November 9 to 10 to give its personnel an understanding and update of the country's claims on the West Philippine Sea.

Meanwhile, the webinar "Talakayang Pang Kapayapaan: An Online Forum on the DND's Role in the NTF-ELCAC" set on November 12, meanwhile, shall discuss the DND’s roles, accomplishments, and ways forward relative to the implementation of Executive Order 70 (s. 2018).

The discussion will primarily focus on the Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support (PLEDS), and the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and Amnesty Program (EAP) Lines of Effort.

Marking the milestone with the theme “DND @ 81: Nagtatanggol at kumakalinga sa gitna ng pandemya”, the DND shall also confer awards to its outstanding employees across various categories and bureaus.

The awarding will be also held online on November 13 and the ceremony will be streamed live via the DND's official Facebook page.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121160

DND continues to protect PH sovereignty despite Covid-19

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 9, 2020): DND continues to protect PH sovereignty despite Covid-19 (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. (File photo)

The Department of National Defense (DND) continues to secure the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity while being preoccupied with helping the national government contain the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

"(Not) withstanding our preoccupation with Covid-19 response we have fulfilled our strategic priorities. This includes securing the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the State, promoting internal stability attaining the highest standard capability and preparedness on disasters to sustaining operations in support to global peace and security and pursuing good government," Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in his speech Monday during the virtual celebration of the agency's 81st anniversary.

Lorenzana said this includes the construction of vital infrastructures in the Kalayaan Island Group, Batanes Group of Islands, Sulu Sea, Philippine Rise, and the West Philippine Sea for territorial defense operations.

"In compliance with the President's instructions, the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) also strengthened its presence in the country's eastern seaboard in Fuga Island, (also) we now have a beaching ramp and seaport in the municipality of Pag-asa, this would allow heavy equipment to be brought in for the repair of the airfield and now the materials to improve the living conditions of our troops and civilian citizens living there,'' he added.

Lorenzana also reported that the AFP's air domain coverage in the West Philippine Sea has increased from 27 percent to 57 percent in 2019.

"This was due to our air defense surveillance radars, surveillance aircraft, and long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicles," he added. Lorenzana also considered a milestone for AFP the delivery of the corvette BRP Conrado Yap (PS-39) in 2019 and missile-frigate BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) last May as it reinforces the capabilities of the Philippine Navy (PN).

"Likewise, our brand new 'Super Tucano' close-air-support aircraft (deliveries completed last October) would replace the 'Bronco' OV-10 attack aircraft of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) in close combat support and strike missions," he said.

Lorenzana also cited gains against communist and local terrorist groups as the AFP neutralized thousands of enemies and seized a "sizeable" number of firearms, improvised explosive devices, and anti-personnel mines during the first half of 2020.

"Our troops destroyed hundreds of enemy camps and strongholds and cleared the highest number of guerrilla fronts in the past decade. Three additional fronts were dismantled this year," he added.

As a member of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, Lorenzana said the DND-led lines of efforts were also commendable as about 14,000 communist insurgents have returned peacefully to mainstream society or the folds of the law.

Many were given reintegration assistance under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP.

"Moreover, we pursued the expansion of our bilateral and multilateral engagement to further promote our national interest and international peace. Closer ties have been fostered with South Korea and Japan making us the first ASEAN member state to receive excess Japanese defense equipment. Complementing this, we commenced cooperation with non-traditional partners like Israel, Jordan, Sri Lanka, and Croatia," Lorenzana said.

The DND commemorates its founding anniversary every November, pursuant to Commonwealth Act No.1, or the National Defense Act of 1935, signed by then President Manuel Quezon and enacted on November 1, 1939.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121184

Duterte appoints Sinas as PNP chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 9, 2020): Duterte appoints Sinas as PNP chief (By Azer Parrocha)

Newly-designated PNP chief Maj. Gen. Debold Sinas (File photo)

President Rodrigo Duterte has appointed National Police Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief, Maj. Gen. Debold Sinas, as Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, Malacañang said Monday.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque announced that Sinas’ appointment will be effective Nov. 10, 2020.

“Tinalaga po ni Presidente Rodrigo Roa Duterte si Debold Menorias Sinas bilang bagong Philippine National Police chief effective po bukas Nov. 10, 2020 (President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has appointed Debold Menorias Sinas as new Philippine National Police chief effective tomorrow, Nov. 10, 2020),” he said in a Palace press briefing.

Asked for Duterte’s reason for appointing Sinas, Roque said it is “presidential prerogative”.

“Presidential appointments are really very executive in character. It is a prerogative of the President and he need not make any explanation for his appointment,” he said.

Roque assured that Duterte looked into Sinas’ track record and contribution to the administration’s aggressive anti-illegal drugs campaign.

He described Sinas as an “anti-drug crusader”.

He said Duterte’s marching order to Sinas is to continue the government’s campaign against illegal drugs and ensuring that the country is a safe place to live in.

“Ipagpatuloy pa rin ang war on drugs at ipagpatuloy pa rin ang gains na nakamit natin sa larangan ng peace and order na pinatunayan ng survey ng Gallup poll na number 12 tayo sa buong daigdig na pinaka safe na lugar (Continue the war on drugs and continue the gains we acquired in the field of peace and order which was proven by the Gallup poll wherein the Philippines was ranked as number 12 safest country in the world),” he said.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año agreed with Roque that the President has “absolute prerogative” to appoint the PNP chief from among the current PNP Generals.

“Police Maj. Gen. Sinas is qualified for the position. I expect Gen. Sinas to lead the PNP with intensity in the fight against illegal drugs, criminalities, extremists and communist bandits/terrorists," he said.

Año also said Sinas must “set the standards on the performance and discipline making every policeman counts while leaving no room for scalawags”.

Sinas will be replacing outgoing Gen. Camilo Cascolan.

Sinas, who hails from Butuan City, is an alumnus of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Hinirang Class of 1987.

Before his appointment as Metro Manila police chief in October 2019, he also served as director of the Police Regional Office in Central Visayas (PRO 7), deputy regional director for administration of the PRO 12 (Soccsksargen), and director of the PNP Crime Laboratory.

He will serve as head of the police force until May 2021.

‘Not perfect’

Last May 8, Sinas drew flak for over his pre-birthday celebration at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City that allegedly violated quarantine protocols.

Duterte refused to sack Sinas, because he believed Sinas was a “good and honest” officer.

Roque acknowledged that Sinas was “not perfect”, but insisted that he is Duterte’s “most-trusted” person for the job.

“Hindi man perpekto po si Chief Sinas ay napa-bilib po niya si Presidente sa kaniyang dedikasyon dito sa laban sa pinagbabawal na gamot (Chief Sinas may not be perfect, but he impressed the President with his dedication on the campaign against illegal drugs),” he said.

He urged the public to “trust” the President’s judgement.

“Naniniwala po si Presidente na magiging epektibo po si Chief Sinas sa kaniyang bagong katungkulan (The President believes that Chief Sinas will be effective in his new position) and let’s trust the President in his decision,” Roque said.

Roque said Sinas has six months to prove himself as a worthy head of the country’s police force.

“Let’s give him a chance and he has six months to prove his worth. Let’s see if after six months he will inspire people,” he added.

He also assured that Sinas' appointment will not free him from charges for violating quarantine protocols.

“That’s not how our laws operate,” he said.

Thankful

Cascolan, meanwhile, said he is thankful for the opportunity to serve the people despite having only a more than two-month stint.

"At least we have done so much for two months, we have proven a lot and if ever, tuloy tuloy pa rin ho ang ating trabaho (and our job will continue). I am happy because I was given the chance and never expected it because it was just two months away from my retirement,” Cascolan told reporters in a press briefing in Camp Crame.

He also shrugged off rumors that he would be heading to the Bureau of Customs after his retirement on Tuesday.

Asked what could he consider as his legacy, he said it is the localization program for the policemen or assigning them nearer to their areas of residence.

"You have basically given them what they want and they will work hard for it," he said.

Cascolan believed that when police officers are assigned near or in the area of their residence, they are able to do their jobs better.

He, meanwhile, added that many things were accomplished in the aspect of getting rid of illegal drugs in the community.

Based on the latest data from the PNP, 357,069 suspects were arrested, 7,987 were killed and 1,290,768 surrendered in 234,036 anti-illegal drug operations conducted from July 2016.

Cascolan is the fourth member of PMA Class 1986 to be appointed as Chief PNP. The first was now Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, Oscar Albayalde, and Archie Gamboa.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121181

BRP Pangasinan carries relief personnel, goods to Catanduanes

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 9, 2020): BRP Pangasinan carries relief personnel, goods to Catanduanes (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of Philippine Navy

The Philippine Navy (PN) on Monday said that one of its patrol corvettes, the BRP Pangasinan (PS-31), has successfully transported military personnel and relief goods to "Rolly"-devastated Catanduanes last November 7.

This was said by PN public affairs office chief Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas when sought for updates on the Navy's relief efforts for the areas severely affected by the super typhoon Monday.

She added that the ship's transported troops from the 9th Infantry Division and the Philippine Army construction company along with Philippine National Police (PNP) and Naval Special Operations Group (NAVSOG) personnel to Virac town along with assorted relief goods on November 7, leaving Legazpi City, Albay on November 6.

Roxas said the ship immediately departed from Virac on the same day after unloading its passengers and cargo and proceeded to Masbate to seek shelter there due to the series of typhoons.

After the weather cleared on November 8, the BRP Pangasinan arrived in Legazpi City and is now proceeding to Cebu as of this posting.

BRP Pangasinan arrived in Legazpi City last November 5 after departing from Lapu-Lapu City November 4 transporting some 40 tons of relief goods collected through the initiatives of the Police Regional Office 7 (PRO-7) and in coordination with Naval Forces Central and different local government agencies and non-government organizations (NGOs) in the Central Visayas area.

Meanwhile, landing craft BRP Tausug (LC-295) arrived at the Castilla seaport in Sorsogon last November 6, carrying some 13 tons of cargoes consist of tents, folding canvasses, 60 sacks of rice, 2 sacks of used clothing, and 1000 packs of relief goods.

The ship departed Naval Base Heracleo Alano in Sangley Point, Cavite City on November 4.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121192

Lacson backs P16-B NTF-ELCAC budget for 2021

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 9, 2020): Lacson backs P16-B NTF-ELCAC budget for 2021 (By Benjamin Pulta)

Senator Panfilo Lacson. (File photo)

Senator Panfilo Lacson on Monday backed the proposed budget for 2021 of the government's task force to end communist insurgency.

"I'll join Senate President Sotto's call to retain the PHP16.4-billion allocations to the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC)," Lacson said in a statement.

Lacson, in explaining his decision to support the budget, pointed out that the fund "is not even at the disposal" of the security sector since it is part of the Special Purpose Fund under the Assistance to Local Government Units (ALGU) and is intended to hold and develop barangays that are cleared of New People's Army (NPA) influence.

The budget will fund development programs such as farm-to-market roads and livelihood, as part of confidence-building to prevent the insurgency problem from returning.

He also hopes that through these programs, affected barangays will no longer be vulnerable to attempts by the NPA to recruit members, especially from indigenous peoples.

"Pagkakataon ito pati sa mga NPA sa mga lugar na ito na magbagong-buhay (This is also a chance for NPA members in these are to lead a new life)," Lacson said.

In a Senate hearing on red-tagging chaired by Lacson last week, it was revealed that the communist terrorist groups (CTG) collect up to PHP300 million annually through extortion from telecommunication companies in the country.

The CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front) can make Smart and Globe pay PHP200 to PHP300 million, said Jeffrey "Ka Eric" Celiz, a former NPA cadre who served the movement for 27 years.

Celiz, said aside from telcos, he added that the NPA can also make "triple A" contractors pay protection money.

The payments, he said, were made through bank remittances transacted outside the Philippines.

He added 40 percent of the protection money goes to CPP central committee while 60 percent goes to regional operations.

Celiz added that the extortion activities “are able to circumvent the Anti-Money Laundering Council” since these funds are coursed through an established network of conduit non-government organizations coming from Belgium and the Netherlands in Europe.

In the same hearing, Senate President Vicente Sotto said the extortion activities by the communist groups could be the reason why telco firms prefer to put up cell sites in military installations.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121205