Tuesday, December 15, 2020

Soldier, 4 BIFF bandits wounded in clash

From the Philippine Star (Dec 16, 2020): Soldier, 4 BIFF bandits wounded in clash (By Roel PareƱo) 

A soldier and four members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters were wounded in an encounter in Kabuntalan, Maguindanao on Monday.

“The casualty was immediately extricated... and is now recuperating at Camp Siongco Station Hospital,” Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., Western Mindanao Command chief, said.

Vinluan said two rifles, a caliber .45 pistol and an improvised explosive device were among those recovered at the scene.

The bandits, led by Omar Abdullah, reportedly fired at personnel of the 34th Infantry Battalion in Sitio Macabenban, Barangay Indatuan.


On Sunday night, six villagers, three of them children, were wounded in an explosion that ripped through a village in Datu Salibo.

Members of the Salibo peace and order council said the victims suffered shrapnel wounds in various parts of the bodies.

According to a report received by Brig. Gen. Samuel Rodriguez of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao police, a mortar round hit the house of the victims in Barangay Sambolawan. – John Unson

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2020/12/16/2064036/soldier-4-biff-bandits-wounded-clash

Suspected ranking NPA rebel arrested in Pangasinan — police

From GMA News Online (Dec 16, 2020): Suspected ranking NPA rebel arrested in Pangasinan — police

A suspected ranking New People's Army rebel was arrested in San Fabian, Pangasinan on Monday, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Wednesday.

Authorities
identified the suspect as one Allan Rey Balanay, 48. Police said Balanay is listed as No. 8 Most Wanted in the Cagayan Valley.


He is accused for various criminal cases of murder, frustrated murder, illegal possession of explosives, and illegal possession of firearms. Police served the warrants of arrest against him last Monday night in Barangay Mabilao.

According to the PNP, Balanay is allegedly an officer of the Henry Abraham Command of the CPP-NPA Northern Front Committee operating in northern Cagayan, the same CPP-NPA unit allegedly responsible for the killing of Mayor Carlito Pentecostes in Gonzaga, Cagayan in 2014.

Balanay is also allegedly involved in the slay of six members of the PNP Regional Public Safety Battalion in Baggao, Cagayan in February 2016.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/768187/suspected-ranking-npa-rebel-arrested-in-pangasinan-police/story/

CPP will not have holiday ceasefire with government

From CNN Philippines (Dec 16, 2020): CPP will not have holiday ceasefire with government



Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 16) — The Communist Party of the Philippines is not declaring a holiday truce with the government this year.

The CPP announced in a statement on Wednesday that it is ordering units of its armed wing, the New People's Army, to “defend the masses and themselves against the attacks of the AFP.”

“In the face of the vicious attacks by Duterte’s military and police officers both in the cities and countryside, the CPP Central Committee is forced to dispense with the traditional holiday ceasefire this year,” the statement read.

President Rodrigo Duterte shut the door on any ceasefire with communist rebels for the remainder of his term, retreating from his call before the United Nations for a global truce so countries can focus on addressing the COVID-19 pandemic.

https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2020/12/16/CPP-will-not-have-holiday-ceasefire-with-government.html

Negros doctor said to be on vigilante hit list killed alongside husband

From the Philippine Star (Dec 16, 2020): Negros doctor said to be on vigilante hit list killed alongside husband

A doctor who was allegedly placed in a hit list by an anti-communist vigilante group was shot dead along with her husband on Tuesday evening, rights group Karapatan reported.

Karapatan said a two people onboard a motorcycle
shot Rose Sancelan and her husband Edwin Sancelan dead in Barangay Poblacion, Guihulngan City in Negros Oriental.


Related Stories
No proof of Negros vigilante group — PNP
Senate report recommends PNP, AFP to probe its men over Negros killings

The rights group said the doctor, who also heads the city’s inter-agency task force against COVID-19, was number one on the hit list of Kawsa Guihulnganon Batok Komunista (Kagubak), a supposed anti-communist vigilante group which has been blamed for the spate of killings on Negros island.

The doctor was tagged as JB Regalado, spokesperson of the Leonardo Panaligan Command of the New People’s Army in Central Negros, Karapatan said.

The rights group noted that along with the doctor, lawyer Anthony Trinidad and Heidie Malalay Flores have also been gunned down after their names appeared on the alleged hit list.

“This is the extreme danger of being red-tagged,” Bayan Muna chairperson Neri Colmenares said in a statement. “State forces and their cohorts may just assassinate you with impunity.”

The existence of Kagubak was among the issues probed by the Senate public order committee in 2019, when it investigated the string of killings in Negros Island. Among its recommendations was to investigate the group so that appropriate charges may be filed against them.

RELATED: Senate report recommends PNP, AFP to probe its men over Negros killings

Despite the killings, the Philippine National Police in 2019 said it found no evidence that Kagubak exists. — Xave Gregorio

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2020/12/16/2064199/negros-doctor-said-be-vigilante-hit-list-killed-alongside-husband

Gunmen attack Zambo checkpoint, cop wounded

From the Manila Times (Dec 16, 2020): Gunmen attack Zambo checkpoint, cop wounded

ZAMBOANGA CITY: Security forces were pursuing Monday two motorcycle gunmen who shot and wounded a policeman manning a checkpoint in the city.

The gunmen stopped at a checkpoint in Curuan village late Sunday and shot one of two policemen, sparking a brief gunfight, according to Capt. Marvin Baclayo, the police station commander in the area.

He said Cpl. Cesar Gacosta was wounded in the attack. Gacosta’s companion traded gunfire with the attackers, forcing them to flee on foot under cover of darkness, leaving behind their motorcycle and a pistol.

“We are tracking down the gunmen,” Baclayo said, adding, they are investigating the motive of the shooting.

No individual or group claimed responsibility for the attack and police cannot say whether the gunmen were wounded in the exchange of fire. “We still don’t know if the gunmen were wounded in the firefight,” Baclayo said.

Baclayo said the wounded cop was hospitalized. He said police recovered at least 10 bullet shells from the site and believed fired from a .45-caliber pistol and a 9mm pistol.

The shooting came as Zamboanga tightened its security following fresh intelligence reports that Abu Sayyaf terrorists may strike at any opportune time. Al Jacinto

https://www.manilatimes.net/2020/12/15/news/regions/gunmen-attack-zambo-checkpoint-cop-wounded/811106/

Basilan congressman says PNP fabricated charges vs 'Abu Sayyaf sub-leader'

 From Rappler (Dec 14, 2020): Basilan congressman says PNP fabricated charges vs 'Abu Sayyaf sub-leader' (By RAMBO TALABONG)



'The police need to be investigated,' says Basilan lawmaker Mujiv Hataman

Basilan Representative Mujiv Hataman said he believes the Philippine National Police (PNP) fabricated its claims against Hadji Faisal Abdulkarim, whom they arrested recently and tagged as an "Abu Sayyaf sub-leader."

In a phone interview with Rappler on Monday, December 14, Hataman said Abdulkarim could not be a leader or even a member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) because his family fought against terrorists.

"I am sure the allegation is fabricated. One of his sons is a member of the CAFGU (Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit, a paramilitary unit), and another is a barangay captain. In their areas, they are the ones who fight against the ASG," Hataman said.

The PNP branded Abdulkarim as a terrorist in a statement on Saturday, December 12. They said he was arrested early Saturday morning in Basilan over a killing of a barangay official in 2014.

Hataman acknowledged that the police might have obtained a valid warrant of arrest against Abdulkarim because he was previously involved in rido or clan feuds.

"What's wrong here is that they used the warrant, this problem, to declare him as an ASG sub-leader. That is a big lie," Hataman said.

He added: "The police need to be investigated."

The lawmaker said that this was not the first time that Mindanao police were involved in questionable operations. He said he had reported incidents to the police's top commanders but he was met with silence.

In his press briefing on Monday, December 14, PNP chief General Debold Sinas said the police stood by their records about Abdulkarim. He added that he will "coordinate" with Hataman to clarify the matter.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/basilan-congressman-says-pnp-fabricated-charges-vs-abu-sayyaf-subleader

Bangsamoro peace process 'fundamentally' on track

Posted to Anadolu Agency (Dec 14, 2020): Bangsamoro peace process 'fundamentally' on track (By Riyaz Ul Khaliq)

Independent 3rd-Party Monitoring Team for Bangsamoro peace process releases 6th public report



The Bangsamoro peace process in the Philippines is "fundamentally" on track, though the novel coronavirus pandemic has delayed the proper implementation of the agreements between the central government and autonomous region, observers said Monday.

Addressing a virtual news conference, members of the Third-Party Monitoring Team (TPMT) for the peace process in the predominantly Muslim south of the country, however, asserted that they did not have the mandate to seek an extension of the transition phase beyond June 2022 when the transitional government's term in office ends.

The TPMT was formed in 2013 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to monitor the implementation of peace agreements signed between the Philippine government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants.

TPMT chair Heino Marius, a former EU diplomat, told the conference that the virus outbreak had resulted in delays in the peace agreements' implementation, including in a third round of decommissioning former fighters.

"Peace agreements should be carried out in a holistic manner but the decisions [to extend the transition phase] are up to the two parties," he insisted.

After a historic referendum was held on Jan. 21 and Feb. 6 last year in southern Mindanao granting autonomy to Moro Muslims in Bangsamoro, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte appointed Al Haj Murad Ebrahim as chief minister to administer the Bangsamoro Transition Authority through June 2022 when the normalization process is expected to be completed.

However, there have recently been demands that the transition period is extended to at least 2025 the so normalization process could be fully achieved.

Huseyin Oruc, deputy president of Istanbul-based IHH (Humanitarian Relief Foundation) and member of the TPMT, said the two parties -- the Philippine national government and Ebrahim-led MILF "have done a lot, definitely, to complete the process."

"Both parties need time," he said. "The MILF is a revolutionary group and [they] are not politicians. It is the first time they came to government and it will take them more time to change the MILF from revolutionary [group] to government."

He explained that it was not easy for the MILF to make a "proper political party" and run in the elections.

"Both parties want more time [...] it will support the peace [process]," he emphasized.

"It is up to the two parties what steps are required to complete the normalization under the transition government," said Marius, adding: "Political and normalization phases should go hand-in-hand to achieve the full transition."

Parliamentary government

Marius praised the autonomous region for its success in forming a parliamentary government system, which he said was a "very big achievement."

"There is the chief minister, cabinet who are busy making legislation, and Bangsamoro Codes was recently adopted," he said, referring to the key legislation passed in October to define the structure and workings of government in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

"Two governments cooperate with each on mutual respect," he said underlining that this was also an expression of Bangsamoro's "right of identity."

"But, overall, there are positive developments vis-a-vis political and normalization processes."

However, Marius said the sides needed urgently to act to establish an automatic transfer mechanism for Bangsamoro's budget, in the form of block grants from the national government. "It needs to be easy and direct without any hurdles," he said.

"It is also very important Bangsamoro normalization goes online as there are also [foreign] donors willing to help," added Marius.

While Bangsamoro is allowed autonomy on some matters, these require all agreements to first be implemented.

The TPMT also applauded the regional government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"It is effective," Marius said. "The government has demonstrated a high degree of commitment."

Delayed formation of police force

In its overall expression, the third-party team voiced concern for the delay in the formation of the regional police force in Bangsamoro from decommissioned fighters of the MILF and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) under the transition plan.

"Decommissioning of 12,000 combatants has been achieved [...] it is a genuine achievement but the third round of decommissioning has not yet commenced, which is running behind the time," said Marius, blaming health and budgetary restrictions caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

Under the agreements between the MILF and the Philippine national government, 40,000 former combatants have to be decommissioned and some of them can be rehabilitated into the regional police forces. Currently, the second batch of 14,000 combatants is undergoing decommissioning.

For his part, Oruc underscored the importance of security and the formation of the police force for the region and its people.

"We hope [two sides] find a better solution [...] an acceptable solution to form police," said Oruc, who has visited the Philippines and Bangsamoro over 40 times in the last seven years.

Marius added that there was a "gap in perspective" between the national and regional governments on the issue, particularly on the criteria for decommissioned​​​​​​​ combatants to join the police force.

Noting that under the region's law, former combatants being recruited as police would not be held to age and education requirements, he added that the team expected the two sides "to arrive at a mutually satisfactory solution soon."

'Rehabilitation of Marawi region slow'

Referring to the restive Marawi region, Oruc said: "I would like to remind all stakeholders that the rehabilitation process of Marawi is slow. It has created frustration in people."

Warning that this threatened to make room for ISIS/Daesh terrorists in the region, he applauded the government and MILF for cooperating against the group.

"We need to take necessary steps and I don't see a big difficulty in it, it just needs more attention," he added.

Another TPMT member, Karen Tanada, said the proposed commission for indigenous people was also yet to be formed in the region.

"There needs more attention on the needs of indigenous people and I expect the [normalization process] to be more participatory with representation from non-Moro indigenous people too," she said.

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/bangsamoro-peace-process-fundamentally-on-track/2076381

Kalinaw News: Former NPAs and IP receive gifts from Youth Group through Army

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 15, 2020): Former NPAs and IP receive gifts from Youth Group through Army



San Mariano, Isabela — Youth Group birthday celebrants gave gifts to former rebels and Indigenous People at the 95th Infantry Battalion Headquarters in Barangay Zone 1.

KASALIKA Youth members Ms Daiserie Salvador and Mr Emman Paguirigan chose to celebrate their birthday by giving various gifts. Members of the Salaknib Former Rebels Integrated Farmers Association (SARIFA) and IPs were happy for the presents.

Sangguniang Bayan member, Hon. Susana Duca, also participated in the event. The SARIFA and IPs are currently under the care of the 95th Infantry Battalion.



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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/former-npas-and-ip-receive-gifts-from-youth-group-through-army/

Kalinaw News: Taga Cotabato Ka Kung Inc conducts outreach program with 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 15, 2020): Taga Cotabato Ka Kung Inc conducts outreach program with 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion



SHARIFF AGUAK, Maguindanao – The 11th Mechanized Infantry Company assisted the Taga Cotabato Ka Kung Inc. (TCKK Inc) in conducting an outreach program in Sitio Damalibi, Barangay Satan last 13 December 2020.

Ms Cathleya Diocolano, head of TCKK Inc, led the distribution of school supplies for Madrasah students. There was also a feeding program.

The soldiers provided entertainment by conducting a magic show for the student. Moreover, TCKK Inc. donated four electric fans for the school.

The military will continue to collaborate with civilian stakeholders in rendering service to far-flung communities.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/taga-cotabato-ka-kung-inc-conducts-outreach-program-with-1st-mechanized-infantry-battalion/

Kalinaw News: Government provide housing to former UGMO members

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 15, 2020): Government provide housing to former UGMO members



MAWAB, Davao de Oro — The Kaibigan Battalion formally turned-over seven housing units to the former members of the Underground Mass Organization (UGMO) of the CPP NPA NDF at Sitio Magpalusong, Cabuyuan, Mabini.

The Kaibigan Pabahay Project 2020 was possible through the support of the PLGU DDO headed by Gov Jayvee Tyron Uy, Cong Ruwel Peter Gonzaga, LGU Mabini headed by Mayor Rey Dayanghirang, Team RPG MBC and the Sto NiƱo Parish headed by Fr Em-em Luego.

This project aims to uplift the living condition as well as provide a decent abode to the former members of the UGMOs who withdrew their support from the NPA.

Sitio Magpalusong was the former guerilla base of the WGF2. It was cleared through focused military operations and massive deployment of CSP Teams.

This effort resulted to the surrender of scores of communist NPA terrorists. Hundreds of mass supporters also withdrew their support from the NPA terrorists.

Now, the said sitio is transforming to a conflict resilient community as peace and order improves. Government programs and projects are now in the pipeline through the collaboration and strong partnership of various stakeholders.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/government-provide-housing-to-former-ugmo-members/

Kalinaw News: Communist Terrorist Group member surrender in Iligan

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 15, 2020): Communist Terrorist Group member surrender in Iligan



CAMP SANG-AN, ZAMBO SUR – A member of Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) surrendered to 4th Mechanized Battalion in Brgy. Rogongon, Iligan City, Monday, December 14,2020 around 6:00 in the morning.

The former rebel is a squad leader who was operating in the areas of Butuan City, Buenavista, Nasipit, and all parts of Agusan del Norte before and transfered to SRC 5, which is operating in hinterland boundaries of Iligan, Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon in year 2019.

The said personality also yielded his M16 Rifle and three (3) magazines with ammunition. The surrendered firearms are now in the custody of the 4Mechanized Battalion for safekeeping and documentation.

Moreover, the CTG member is currently undergoing cudtodial debriefing.

According to Brig. Gen. Facundo Palafox IV, 2Mech commander, PA “The surrender of this rebel is a welcome development in our ongoing efforts in supporting the peace and development agenda of the government.”

“We also urged the surrendered rebel to cooperate with us in order to encourage his comrades to surrender and benifit the program of the government for FRs,” He added.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Generoso “Gene” Ponio, Commander, 1st Infantry Division said, “Our efforts are relentless as we are tirelessly urging the remaining members of the Communist Terrorist Group and their supporters here in Western Mindanao to just lay down their arms, surrender, and return to the folds of the law. We will help you start a new life.”

He also expressed his confidence to the efforts and convergence of stakeholders involved of Task Force ELCAC and its way of addressing the insurgency in his area of responsibility.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/communist-terrorist-group-member-surrender-in-iligan/

Kalinaw News: Soldier wounded, enemy war materials seized in Maguindanao

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 15, 2020): Soldier wounded, enemy war materials seized in Maguindanao

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City- December 14, 2020

An encounter between the military and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters resulted in the wounding of one soldier and the recovery of enemy war materials on the morning of December 14, 2020, the WestMinCom Commander said.

“The battle casualty was immediately extricated from the area and is now recuperating at Camp Siongco Station Hospital,” said Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr. further stated that the troops from the 34th Infantry Battalion were conducting a focused operation in Sitio Macabenban, Barangay Indatuan, Northern Kabuntalan, Maguindanao when they encountered more or less 10 BIFF members under Omar Abdullah, a.k.a. OV10, at around 5:30 in the morning.

A firefight ensued which lasted for 45 minutes after which the enemies scampered in different directions. 34IB Commanding Officer Glen Loreto Caballero said that while the operating troops were scouring the encounter site, they recovered one caliber .45 pistol, one Barret caliber .50, five rifle grenades, one improvised explosive device, one commercial radio, and one motorized Banca engine.

“Our troops are in hot pursuit of the fleeing enemies who brought along their casualties with them,” said Lt. Col. Caballero.Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Roberto Capulong, Commander of the 602nd Infantry Brigade said “Battle staff and adjacent units reinforced the engaged troops to establish blocking points in the area”. Likewise, Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Commander, Joint Task Central ensured that the military is on heightened alert to thwart the retaliatory acts of the BIFF in central Mindanao.



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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/soldier-wounded-enemy-war-materials-seized-in-maguindanao/

TPMT: Bangsamoro peace pact implementation “fundamentally on track” but some elements “require more time to complete

 From MindaNews (Dec 15, 2020): TPMT: Bangsamoro peace pact implementation “fundamentally on track” but some elements “require more time to complete (By CAROLYN O. ARGUILLAS)

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 15 December) – An independent body monitoring the implementation of the peace agreement between the Philippine government (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) said the peace process is “fundamentally on track” with the establishment of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) as a “very big achievement” but noted that some elements “will require more time to complete.”

Speaking from Brussels, Third Party Monitoring Team (TPMT) chair Heino Marius, told a virtual press conference on Monday afternoon (in the Philippines) that it is beyond the mandate of the TPMT to recommend an extension of the three-year transition period as that matter has to be decided upon by both parties, but asked if “more time” means “beyond June 30, 2022,” he replied “yes.”


President Rodrigo Roa Duterte sounds the agong to signal the inauguration of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex in Cotabato City on March 29, 2019. Joining the President is BARMM Interim Chief Minister Al Haj Murad Ebrahim. ROBINSON NIƑAL JR./PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

Republic Act 11054, the enabling law of the 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) provides that the end of the transition period is on June 30, 2022 when the first set of officials elected in May 2022, shall have taken their oath of office. At present, the BARMM is governed by the 80-member, MILF-led Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte.

The BTA has called for an extension of the transition period to 2025 and President Rodrigo Duterte support this call, according to Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Carlito Galvez.

In his opening statement, Marius, a German national who was part of the peace mediation task force of the external service of the European Union, said the issue on extension is not reflected in their report which covers the period from March 2019, when the BARMM was formally inaugurated, to October 2020.

He said they took note of the comments of senior leaders of the GPH and MILF on extension but clarified that “it would exceed the mandate of the TPMT to come up with advice on whether such an extension is justified or not.”

“It is up to the two parties to decide what steps are required to make the transition a success, and if that requires a longer transition then they need to work with Congress in order to secure the necessary amendment of the Bangsamoro Organic Law,” he said.

He said the remaining challenges mentioned in their report “tend to show that the time allocated to the transition period is very tight and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has considerably complicated the picture” and as a consequence, “it has become clear that many elements which form part of the peace process,” particularly the normalization track, “will in all likelihood require time beyond May 2022.”

3 House Bills

At least three bills have been filed at the House of Representatives seeking an extension of the transition period by resetting the first regular elections of the Bangsamoro Government from May 2022 to May 2025.

House Bills 8116 and 8117 were filed on December 1 by Antique Rep. Loren Legarda and Maguindanao 2nd district Rep. Esmael Mangudadatu while House Majority Leader Ferdinand Martin Romualdez filed HB 8117 on December 7.

Mangudadatu, chair of the House Special Committee on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, on Monday said Speaker Lord Allan Velasco has signified he will co-author the three bills. No bill has been filed on the same subject in the Senate as of December 14.

There are only two session days left this year and a total of 41 session days (Mondays to Wednesdays) from December 15 until Congress adjourns sine die on June 4, 2021.

Filing of certificates of candidacy for the May 2022 elections is in October 2021. The Bangsamoro election is supposed to be governed by the Bangsamoro Electoral Code which is still pending in the Parliament.

Mandate

The TPMT report on the period from March 2019 to October 2020 is the 6th public report issued by the body since it was mandated in 2013 by the GPH and MILF to monitor, review and assess the implementation of all their signed agreements.

The TPMT is composed of two nominees from the GPH and two from the MILF (one local and one international each) and a chair jointly nominated. Marius is chair and the other TPMT members are Karen TaƱada of the Quezon City-based Gaston Z Ortigas Peace Institute, Rahib Kudto of the Cotabato City-based United Youth for Peace and Development, Sam Chittick of The Asia Foundation and Husseyin Oruc of the IHH Humanitarian Relief Foundation in Turkey.



Members of the Third Party Monitoring Team that monitors the implementation of the peace agreement between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front during the virtual press conference on Monday afternoon, December 14, 2020. (Top, from left) Husseyin Oruc of the IHH Humanitarian Relief Foundation, Karen TaƱada of Gaston Z Ortigas Peace Institute, and chair Heino Marius. (Bottom, from left) Rahib Kudto of United Youth for Peace and Development and Sam Chittick of The Asia Foundation.

Marius said the parties to the peace agreement were consulted on the report and were given two weeks to come back with comments but “basically what goes into the report is our responsibility since we operate in an independent capacity,”

Chittick said the TPMT issues public reports but also sends the parties confidential reports.

The TPMT report said that what the parties achieved during the period covered by the report is “all the more significant as it has become clear that the COVID-19 pandemic is placing a heavy burden on the transition” from the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao to the BARMM.

‘More time,’ ‘Behind schedule’

“As a result, some elements of the peace process will require more time to complete than originally anticipated,” the TPMT report said, as it also noted that while the political and normalization tracks of the peace process go hand-in-hand and reinforce each other, it is concerned that “certain aspects to ensure human security in the Bangsamoro under the normalization track are behind schedule.”

It cited the delay in the third round of decommissioning of combatants and weapons of the MILF’s Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces, scheduled initially for July 2020, and noted that the parties have yet to clarify the full range of benefits to decommissioned combatants.


Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. (right), Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconcialiation and Unity inspects weapons from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) that were decommissioned during the launch of the second phase of the decommissioning process of MILF weapons and combatants in Simuay, Sultan Kudarat on 7 September 2019. MindaNews photo by MANMAN DEJETO

A mid-term review conducted by the peace advocacy group, Mindanao People’s Caucus, said the government offered a million-peso package but only the cash allocation of 100,000 pesos has been given.

The two parties also have to resolve the issue on how to proceed to the next phase of the decommissioning process when the peace agreement specifies this phase will begin with the operationalization of the Bangsamoro Police Force but this regional police provision was not carried into RA 11054, the enabling law of the peace agreement.

Marius acknowledged “there are issues between the two parties, there’s a gap in perspectives” that have yet to be sorted out.

“We understand the two parties are discussing these things together and we hope we arrive at a mutually satisfying solution soon,” he said.

The report also said other elements that require attention “due to slow progress” include the transformation of MILF camps, amnesty for MILF members, redeployment of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, disbandment of Private Armed Groups within BARMM, as well as transitional justice and reconciliation.

IGRB

The TPMT also commended both parties for the momentum they have shown through the Intergovernmental Relations Body (IGRB) headed by Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez for the government and Education Minister Mohagher Iqbal for the Bangsamoro.

“The TPMT welcomes the momentum in the IGRB, as it is an important role in resolving outstanding issues, and the momentum reflects the determination of both National and BARMM governments to cooperate with each other in a spirit of mutual respect,” the report said.

It cited matters that the IGRB resolved such as the formal inclusion of Cotabato City into the BARMM effective December 15, and the comprehensive, direct and automatic appropriation and release of the annual block grant, that ndicated increasing confidence between the two levels of government.

The report also mentioned the “very slow pace” in the rehabilitation of Marawi City whose commercial district was reduced to rubble and its residents displaced during the five-month war between government forces and the Islamic State-inspired Maute Group and its allies in 2017.

“Return of citizens to the most-affected areas needs to be addressed as a matter of urgency,” the TPMT said. (Carolyn O. Arguillas / MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/peace-process/2020/12/tpmt-bangsamoro-peace-pact-implementation-fundamentally-on-track-but-some-elements-require-more-time-to-complete/

7-month pregnant woman killed in mortar fire in Maguindanao

From MindaNews (Dec 15, 2020): 7-month pregnant woman killed in mortar fire in Maguindanao (By FERDINANDH B. CABRERA)


Shariff Saydona Mustapha municipality in Maguindanao. Map courtesy of Google

COTABATO CITY (MindaNews / 16 Dec) – A seven-month pregnant woman was killed when hit by a mortar fire in Shariff Saydona Mustapha municipality in Maguindanao late evening Tuesday.

Mursid Mamolintao, brother-in-law of victim Rabiyah Damada Lakim, said the latter was apparently hit while on their way out to evacuate as the military fired mortar rounds aimed at rebels belonging to the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

A shrapnel hit her in the neck.

Mamolintao said Lakim was rushed to the nearby Maguindanao Provincial Hospital but died even before reaching the medical center.

She was pregnant with what would have been her second child.

Tension has gripped the area because of sporadic firing between the military and BIFF rebels, depriving residents of a good night’s sleep.

Mamolintao urged the government to find ways to stop the fighting so civilians won’t be caught in the crossfire.

A few days ago, six civilians, including two children, were also hit by mortar fire in the municipality of Datu Salibo, also in Maguindanao.

BIFF started the attacks over a week ago in neighboring Datu Piang municipality and exchange of gunfire between the military and the rebels have not stopped since then.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2020/12/7-month-pregnant-woman-killed-in-mortar-fire-in-maguindanao/

9ID Commander welcomes returning CTG members

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 15, 2020): 9ID Commander welcomes returning CTG members (By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay)

PILI, CAMARINES SUR, Dec. 15 (PIA)— Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB) Chair and 9th Infantry Division (9ID) Commander MGEN Henry A. Robinson Jr., PA, welcomed the ten (10) Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) members who voluntarily surrendered and expressed their intent to return to the folds of the law

Nine (9) regular CNT members and one Sangay ng Partido sa Lokalidad (SPL) member voluntarily surrendered to combined military and police forces, Dec. 10, fifteen (15) days before the celebration of Christmas and decided to live a peaceful life with their loved ones.

“MGen Robinson, welcomed our brothers who decided to turn their backs on false ideologies and experience Christmas and the upcoming years living peacefully with their loved ones. He also lauded the troops for its dedication and sacrifices to stop the CTGs activities, bring them to the folds of the law and for stopping them in luring innocent civilians to join their cause,” Division Public Affairs Office Spokesperson CPT John Paul Belleza said.

Photo credits: DPAO, 9ID

The rebel returnees also handed overeight (8) assorted firearms which consists of M653 rifle, M16 rifle, calibre .30 US M1 garand rifle, 12-gauge shotgun, calibre .45 pistol, two calibre .38 revolvers, homemade 12 gauge shotgun, 3 rifle grenades, 2 anti-personnel mines, one magazine, assorted cartridges for various firearms and terroristic propaganda materials.

“They are now set to undergo debriefing and profiling as part of the enrolment process in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP),” Belleza added.

Under the E-CLIP, FRs will receive cash, livelihood, housing, medical and educational assistance as well as remuneration for every firearm that they turned-in.

MGEN Robinson attributed the continuous rise of CTG members who wish to surrender as an indication of the government’s success through the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC). The successful conduct of the region-wide Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) not to mention the effective interoperability of security forces are also considerable factors for its fight against terrorism.

MGen. Robinson also attributed this development to the growing support of the Bicolanos yearning for just and lasting peace.

“Sa mga kapatid nating dating myembro ng CTG na nagbalik-loob na ngayon sa pamahalaan, hindi kayo nagkamali sa inyong desisyon. Welcome back! Alam kong napakasaya ng inyong pamilya dahil ngayong darating na Pasko at sa mga susunod pa ay kasama na nila kayo. You can now sleep soundly because you are finally home,” MGen. Robinson said.

It can be recalled that just last September, 26 CTG members and one supporter also surrendered and publicly denounced the communist terrorism in Masbate.

“This only proves of the CTG’s defeat here in Bicol. They already lost their mass bases and their manpower and firepower are already crumbling down. There is no way they can ever recover from this. To the remaining members of the CTG, follow the footsteps of your former comrades. Their testimonies are proofs that the government is sincere to help you live a life worth living.”

“Huwag na kayong patuloy na magpalinlang sa mga lider ng inyong kilusan na ginagamit lamang kayo para sa kanilang pansariling kapakanan. Ngayong Pasko, kasama nila ang kanilang pamilya, kumakain ng masarap at natutulog sa maayos na higaan habang kayo ay naririyan sa bundok, nagtitiis ng gutom, pagod at pangungulila sainyong mga mahal sa buhay. You deserve a better life. You deserve to have a merry Christmas and the government is more than willing to give you that,” MGen. Robinson said in closing. (LSMacatangay, with reports from CJPBelleza, 9ID-PIAV/Camarines Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1061803

Tagalog News: CTGs, hinikayat magbalik-loob sa pamahalaan matapos ang engkwentro sa Rizal

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 15, 2020): Tagalog News: CTGs, hinikayat magbalik-loob sa pamahalaan matapos ang engkwentro sa Rizal (By Voltaire N. Dequina)


Bukod sa napaslang na apat na miembro ng CTG, narekober din sa pinangyarihan ang walong matataas na kalibre ng baril at mga subersibong dokumento. (203rd IB, 2ID, PA)

SAN JOSE, Occidental Mindoro, Dis 15 (PIA) -- Muling nanawagan si LTC Alexander Arbolado, Battalion Commander (Bn Comdr) ng 4th IB, 2ID, Philippine Army (PA), sa mga miembro ng Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) na magbalik-loob na sa pamahalaan, matapos ang engkwentro sa Barangay Aguas, Rizal na ikinasawi ng apat na kasapi ng rebeldeng grupo.

Ayon kay Ltc. Arbolado, dakong alas 6:00 ng umaga kahapon, ika- 14 ng Disyembre, nang makatanggap sila ng impormasyon mula sa mga concerned citizen kaugnay sa presensya ng ilang armadong grupo sa Sitio Surong ng nabanggit na Barangay. Agad aniyang nagtungo sa itinurong lokasyon ang tropa ng pamahalaan at nangyari na nga ang sagupaan na tumagal ng kalahating oras.

Bukod sa napaslang na apat na miembro ng CTG, narekober din sa pinangyarihan ang walong matataas na kalibre ng baril at mga subersibong dokumento. “May mga nakatakas at hinabol sila ng ating tropa,” kwento pa ni Arbolado, na ang iba aniya ay pinaniniwalaang nasugatan sa engkuwentro.

“Hindi tayo titigil hanggat hindi natin tuluyang nakakamit ang kapayapaan,” pagtiyak ni Arbolado. Nagpahayag pa ang opisyal ng labis na panghihinayang sa mga nabuwis na buhay sa panig ng CTG na sana ay naiwasan kung pinili ng mga ito na sumuko na lamang sa pamahalaan. “Lagi kaming bukas sa mga may sinserong hangarin na magbalik-loob. Pwede silang magpatulong sa mga taong mapagkakatiwalaan nila o kaya’y lumapit sa ating kapulisan, Gobernador o sinumang opisyal,” saad pa ng 4th IB Bn Comdr.

Samantala, habang patuloy ang panawagan para sa pagsuko ng mga miembro ng CTG, mas pinaigting pa ng pamahalaan ang paghahatid ng mga programa nito sa mga pamayanan na target ng recruitment ng makakaliwang grupo. Ilang araw bago ang enkwentrong ito sa Brgy Aguas, Rizal ay bumisita ang Provincial at Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-MTF-ELCAC) sa Brgy Manoot sa nabanggit ding munisipalidad at nagsagawa ng Serbisyo Caravan at Ugnayan sa Barangay. (VND/PIAMIMAROPA)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1061751

NOLCOM, DIPO-NL solidify partnership vs communist terrorists

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 15, 2020): NOLCOM, DIPO-NL solidify partnership vs communist terrorists (By Carlo Lorenzo J. Datu)

TARLAC CITY, Dec.15 (PIA) -- Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) and the Directorate for Integrated Police Operations Northern Luzon (DIPO-NL) signed Tuesday a plan that will solidify their partnership in ending local communist armed conflict in Regions 1,2,3 and Cordillera.

Joint Campaign Plan “Natalna II” is designed to ensure synergy of military and police efforts in addressing the New People’s Army, criminal elements and private armed groups through close cooperation and inter-operability schemes.

“Addressing operational gaps through the creation of additional clusters under the Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Committee is among the objectives of this joint campaign plan since such is critical to the government security forces’ ability to defeat insurgency as well as in maintaining peace and order in our communities,” NOLCOM Commander Lt.Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr. said.

“Fostering harmonious working relationship with the Philippine National Police (PNP) is one of NOLCOM’s operational thrusts. After all, we are serving the same country under the same flag for the same people towards the attainment of the same objective,” he added.

For his part, DIPO-NL Director PMGen. Ferdinand Daway said that through this endeavor, the AFP and PNP iron-clad partnership is being formalized from the area level down to the grassroots.


Armed Forces of the Philippines Northern Luzon Command, represented by its commander Lt.Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr (left), and the Directorate for Integrated Police Operations Northern Luzon, represented by its director Director PMGen. Ferdinand Daway (right), sign a plan that will solidify their partnership in ending local communist armed conflict in Regions 1,2,3 and Cordillera. (NOLCOM CIO)

“This will be the game changer in our quest for a safe and terror-free society,” Daway stressed.

“We reaffirm our commitment to President Duterte’s order for the AFP and the PNP to complement each other’s efforts being one of the prime movers of the different task forces to end local communist armed conflict,” he added.

AFP and PNP are co-lead agencies of the Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support Cluster, one of the 12 lines of efforts of Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict at the national, regional, provincial, city and municipal levels.

Present during the signing were the different AFP Joint Task Force Commanders and Police Regional Directors in the area. (CLJD-PIA 3)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1061816

8 former rebels receive carpentry tools from DTI

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 15, 2020): 8 former rebels receive carpentry tools from DTI (By Merlito G. Edale Jr.)

CITY OF ILAGAN, Isabela, December 14 (PIA) - At least eight Former Rebels (FRs) under the custody and care of the 86th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army based in Jones town received carpentry tools from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Isabela.

The provision of said tools is under the DTI’s Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa (PPG) in support to Executive Order No. 70 or the whole of nation approach to end local Communist armed conflict of President Rodrigo Duterte.

The giving of assistance to FRs of government agencies is also part of government-initiated programs under poverty reduction, livelihood and employment cluster prior to their return to mainstream society and help them reconstruct their identities as part of their respective communities.

The awarding of the carpentry tools which was held on December 1 at 86th IB headquarters at Barangay Uno, Jones, Isabela was led by DTI Isabela Business Development Division chief Leonor Lee Lopez and Lt. Col. Ali Alejo, commanding officer of 86IB.

Alejo expressed his gratitude to DTI Isabela for the support extended to Former Rebels who have surrendered to the folds of law.

He urged other rebels to surrender and avail the benefits that are accorded by the government and live a peaceful and normal life. (MDCT/MGE/PIA 2-Isabela)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1061674

LGUs declare CPP-NPA-NDF as persona non grata

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 15, 2020): 1,546 LGUs declare CPP-NPA-NDF as persona non grata (By Jerome Carlo R. Paunan)

CALOOCAN CITY, Dec. 15 (PIA) -- The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) disclosed over the weekend that over 1,500 local government units (LGUs) nationwide have declared the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) as persona non grata.

In a report by PTV News Sentro Balita, at least 64 provinces, over 110 cities, and more than 1,372 municipalities, bringing the total to 1,546.

On the other hand, the DILG said over 12,474 barangays have passed a resolution to declare the members of the leftist group as persona non grata in their respective areas.

While at least 169 LGUs are in various stages of their deliberation in their respective provincial, city, and town councils.

DILG Secretary Eduardo AƱo thanked the LGUs for their cooperation to end the communist terrorist groups’ wreaking havoc nationwide.

AƱo said that the time has come for LGUs to make a stand against the end the reign of terror of the CTGs and express their support for democracy, for peace, and for the country.

“Dalawang panig lang naman po ito. Sa isang panig ay ang gobyerno at ang mga Pilipino na tunay na nagmamahal sa demokrasya, kapayapaan at sa bayan. At sa kabilang panig ay ang mga kaaway ng taong bayan na ang gusto ay patalsikin ang gobyerno at magtatag ng communist state. Saang panig tayo?” he asked.

To recall, the issuance of Executive Order 70 shifts the fight against the CTGs and their front organizations from a military-centric approach where the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police are solely responsible to a whole-of-nation approach where all civilian national government agencies, local government units, and civil society organizations take an active part in ending the CTGs by addressing the root causes of the insurgency.

EO 70, which was signed by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte in 2018, created the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict and institutionalized a whole-of-nation approach in achieving inclusive and sustainable peace as a means to end the five-decade problem with communist-terrorists. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1061746

Philippine Navy celebrates early Christmas thru gift giving to elderlies, poor families

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 15, 2020): Philippine Navy celebrates early Christmas thru gift giving to elderlies, poor families (By Jimmyley E. Guzman)

Philippine Navy photo

QUEZON CITY, Dec. 15 (PIA) -- The Philippine Navy celebrated Christmas early by giving gifts to elderly residents and less fortunate families.

“This holiday season, your Navy commits to bring happiness to indigent families,” said Civil Military Operations Group-Philippine Navy Chief of Staff, Commander Ruel Nicolas.

Some 488 family food packs were distributed by the CMOG-PN and Mirasol Outreach Foundation, Inc. to the less fortunate residents of two barangays in Taguig City and to the abandoned elderlies being taken care of by San Lorenzo Ruiz Home of Elderly in Pasay City on December 14, 2020.

Residents of Barangay Fort Bonifacio received 250 gift packs and 300 McDonald’s meals while those in Western Bicutan got some 200 gift packs and 200 McDonald’s meals.

Meanwhile, 38 food packs and 10 Christmas presents were also turned over to the said care facility to bring joy to the homeless elderlies.

“We, in the Navy, also want to show our love and concern to the abandoned elderlies in the same manner we give joy to our parents and grandparents,” Nicolas added.

These community relations activities are in support of the Chief of the Navy's Christmas celebration program that aims to share the Christmas spirit to the less fortunate countrymen during this time of pandemic. (PIA-NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1061786

Soldier hurt in clash; war materiel seized in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15, 2020): Soldier hurt in clash; war materiel seized in Maguindanao (By Noel Punzalan)




Google map of Northern Kabuntalan, Maguindanao.

Army troopers and extremist Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) clashed Tuesday morning in Northern Kabuntalan, Maguindanao, leading to the seizure of BIFF war materiel at the clash site.

“An Army trooper was wounded in the gun battle and is now being treated at this camp’s hospital,” Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, said.

He did not identify the soldier.

Soldiers from the Army’s 34th Infantry battalion chanced upon 10 BIFF gunmen under the faction of Omar Abdullah in Barangay Macabenban around 5:0 a.m., which led to a firefight, he said.

He said the encounter lasted for 45 minutes before the terrorists scampered to various directions.


Recovered by soldiers at the encounter site were a Barret .50-caliber sniper rifle, a .45-caliber pistol, an improvised explosive device, a two-way hand-held radio, five rifle grenades, and a motorized banca engine.


Pursuit operations are ongoing, Uy said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1124773

AFP, PNP boost joint efforts vs. insurgency, criminality

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15, 2020): AFP, PNP boost joint efforts vs. insurgency, criminality (By Zorayda Tecson)




The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) have bolstered cooperation to address the insurgency problem and maintain peace and order in the communities.

Military and police commanders in Northern and Central Luzon signed a joint campaign plan dubbed as “Natalna II” during a ceremony held in this camp on Tuesday.

“Natalna II” is designed to ensure synergy of military and police efforts in addressing communist terrorists, criminal elements, and private armed groups through close cooperation and inter-operability schemes.

Lt. Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr., commander of the AFP’s Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom), said the joint campaign aims to address operational gaps through the creation of additional clusters under the Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Committee (JPSCC).


“This is among the objectives of this joint campaign plan since such is critical to the government security forces’ ability to defeat insurgency as well as in maintaining peace and order in our communities,” Burgos said in a statement.

He also said that fostering harmonious working relationship with the PNP is one of Nolcom’s operational thrusts.

“After all, we are serving the same country under the same flag for the same people towards the attainment of the same objective,” he said.

Present during the activity were the different AFP Joint Task Force commanders from across Northern and Central Luzon as well as the director for Integrated Police Operations of Northern Luzon who was accompanied by the Police Regional Directors of Regions 1, 2, 3 and Cordillera.

“Through this endeavor, we are formalizing the already iron-clad partnership of our organizations from the area level down to the grassroots which will be the game changer in our quest for a safe and terror-free society,” said Maj. Gen. Ferdinand Daway, director of the PNP’s Directorate of Integrated Police Operations Northern Luzon (PNP’s DIPO-NL).

He reaffirmed the police’s “commitment to President Rodrigo Duterte’s order to the AFP and the PNP to complement each other’s efforts being one of the prime movers of the different task forces to end local communist armed conflict”.

The AFP and the PNP are co-lead agencies of the Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support Cluster, one of the 12 lines of efforts of the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict at the national, regional, provincial and municipal levels.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1124819

Cotabato City now officially part of BARMM: AƱo

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15, 2020): Cotabato City now officially part of BARMM: AƱo (By Noel Punzalan)



ADMINISTRATIVE TRANSFER. DILG Secretary Eduardo AƱo (left), together with MILG-BARMM Minister Naguib Sinarimbo (right), inks documents officially handing over Cotabato City to the administrative control of BARMM during ceremonies held Tuesday afternoon at the BARMM center in the city. Also transferred to the BARMM control are the North Cotabato 63 villages, which opted to join the new region following a plebiscite in 2019. (Photo courtesy of BPI-BARMM)

COTABATO CITY–This city is now an integral part of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

This came after the Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo AƱo, together with Department of National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, led here Tuesday afternoon the city's administrative control from Region 12 to the BARMM.

“The city is now under BARMM. Its project and programs now conform with that of BARMM,” AƱo said during a press briefing.

Also turned over to BARMM’s control were the 63 villages in six towns of North Cotabato and the DILG field office in the city.


AƱo assured the national government would remain supportive of the fledging region's transition phase that was formed following the two-part plebiscite held in January and February of 2019.

Apart from the old Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao set-up, the 63 North Cotabato villages that voted to become part of the new region in a plebiscite now form part of the expanded BARMM.

The BARMM is the product of the comprehensive peace agreement between the national government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front aimed at ending the decades-old Moro struggle for self-determination in the south.

“As of now, we have to implement the law,” Lorenzana said, referring to the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) that created the new region.

Minster Naguib Sinarimbo of the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG) said under the BOL, government-line agencies in the city should be devolved to the BARMM as part of the region’s transition phase.

He said the BARMM has long prepared for programs relating to the transfer of the government offices in the city to the region.

“No one will be left out. We will be much stronger in the BARMM as a united people,” Sinarimbo said.

The BARMM official said the city will remain an independent component of BARMM, with its internal revenue allotment (IRA) still under the national government's management.

However, he said the city’s IRA compliance with basic requirements for utilization will now be under the supervision of MILG-BARMM.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1124845

PAF’s Black Hawk choppers now mission-ready

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15, 2020): PAF’s Black Hawk choppers now mission-ready (By Priam Nepomuceno)




File photo

All six newly-commissioned S-70i Black Hawk combat utility helicopters are now equipped with full crew and are now mission-ready, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) said Tuesday.

"All six units of S-70i are now fully crewed and are now mission-ready," PAF spokesperson Lt. Col. Aristides said in an interview when asked if the Air Force now has enough pilots and aircrew to man these new assets.

A fully crewed Black Hawk helicopter consists of two pilots and two crew members.

They are currently undergoing further proficiency training.


Galang added that the pilots of the PAF's newly-acquired Black Hawk helicopters were taken from the ranks of Huey pilots who have amassed a lot of flying time.

He also said that the training of more pilots is in the "pipeline" following completion of their training on the Black Hawk helicopters.

Once more pilots are available, the Black Hawk helicopters can be deployed operationally.

The first five helicopters were delivered via the Antonov An-124 heavy cargo aircraft to Clark Air Base last Nov. 9 while the sixth helicopter arrived aboard a ship on Nov. 27.

The remaining 10 are set to be delivered next year. The helicopters were acquired from Polish company Polskie Zaklady Lotnicze Sp.z.o.o and manufactured under license from Sikorsky USA for USD241 million (around PHP11.5 billion).

The S-70is were procured through a government-to-government transaction with Poland. The negotiations were completed in 2019.

The acquisition of said helicopters is part of Horizon 2 of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program.

These helicopters are capable of transporting cargoes and personnel, medical evacuation, casualty evacuation, aerial reconnaissance, disaster relief operations, troop insertion and extrication, combat resupply, combat search-and-rescue, and limited close air support.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1124759

AFP to highlight modern assets in 85th anniversary fleet review

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15, 2020): AFP to highlight modern assets in 85th anniversary fleet review (By Priam Nepomuceno)



BRP Jose Rizal. (File photo courtesy of Naval Public Affairs Office)

Some of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)'s most modern assets will participate in the fleet review and wing fly to be held in Morong, Bataan on Wednesday, as part of the celebration of its 85th founding anniversary.

Navy Capt. Jonathan Zata, AFP public affairs office chief, said some ships of the naval contingent consists of the brand-new missile frigate, BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), offshore patrol vessel BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16), patrol ship BRP Emilio Jacinto (PS-35), BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602), landing craft BRP Batak (LC-299), patrol craft BRP Abraham Campo (PC-396), and BRP Ang Pangulo (AT-25).

"(Meanwhile) BRP Tarlac (LD-601) will serve as the viewing deck for defense officials and senior military officers," Zata added in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA) Tuesday.


The BRP Tarlac is also expected to serve as a reviewing ship where guest-of-honor and speaker Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana along with other ranking defense and military officials would stay.

"Onboard BRP Batak, a Navy landing craft, is the Philippine Army's Simba armored personnel carrier and the Philippine Marine Corps' V-150," Zata said.

Expected to be present in Wednesday's event are AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Gilbert Gapay, Army commander Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Navy chief Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, and Air Force head Lt. Gen. Allen Paredes.

Zata said a total of 63 naval and air assets will be participating in Wednesday's activities.

The aerial contingent will be spearheaded by three of the Air Force's Mach 1.5 capable FA-50 light-lift jet trainers, the Navy's two brand-new AugustaWestland AW-159 "Wildcat" anti-submarine helicopters, and three AW-109 "Power" and two of the newly-commissioned S-70i "Black Hawk" combat utility helicopters.

Other assets expected in fleet review and wing fly are the Navy's Beechcraft King Air TC-90 aircraft and along with an unspecified number of multi-purpose assault craft (MPAC) and floating assets coming from the Philippine Navy-Affiliated Reserves Units (PNARU).

Having these assets participate in the fleet review and wing fly highlights the ability of various units of the AFP to work together aside from showcasing the progress made in the ongoing modernization program.

The AFP marks its 85th anniversary on Dec. 21 with the theme, "Pinag-isang Lakas na Maaasahan ng Pilipino".

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1124795

CPP-NPA member nabbed in Pangasinan

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15, 2020): CPP-NPA member nabbed in Pangasinan (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

Police arrested a member of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army (CPP-NPA) wanted for a string of criminal cases, in San Fabian, Pangasinan on Monday night.

Philippine National Police Chief, Gen. Debold Sinas, citing reports from Police Regional Office 2 (Cagayan Valley) Director, Brig. Gen. Crizaldo Nieves, identified the arrested suspect as Allan Rey Balanay, 48.

Considered the eighth most-wanted suspect in the region, Balanay was arrested in Barangay San Mabilao, San Fabian at about 10:45 p.m. by police intelligence operatives who came from Cagayan Valley to serve the warrant of arrest against him.


NABBED. Allan Rey Balanay, a member of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army, was arrested in Pangasinan Monday night. Considered the eighth most-wanted suspect in the Cagayan Valley region, Balanay has four separate criminal cases for murder, frustrated murder, Illegal possession of explosives, and illegal possession of firearms. (Photo courtesy of PNP PIO)

Balanay has four separate criminal cases for murder, frustrated murder, Illegal possession of explosives, and illegal possession of firearms filed before Judge Edmar Castillo, executive judge of Regional Trial Court Branch 11 of Tuao, Cagayan.

Sinas said Balanay was listed in PNP records as an officer of the Henry Abraham Command of the CPP-NPA Northern Front Committee operating in northern Cagayan.

"This is the same CPP-NPA outfit held responsible for the killing of Mayor Carlito Pentecostes during the attack on the town hall of Gonzaga, Cagayan in 2014," he added.

Balanay is wanted for his alleged involvement in the February 2016 ambush-slay of six members of the PNP Regional Public Safety Battalion in Baggao, Cagayan.

He is among the 12 CPP-NPA personalities accused of 11 counts of attempted murder in the landmine ambush of Philippine Marines in Gattaran, Cagayan in March 2019.

In 2010, Balanay and 20 other members of the Henry Abraham Command reportedly attacked the warehouse of Unimaster Conglomeration, Inc. in Gonzaga, Cagayan and burned heavy equipment valued at PHP5 million.


The CPP-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/1124868