AFP chief says PH will deploy more navy to protect fishermen

From Rappler (Feb 9, 2021): AFP chief says PH will deploy more navy to protect fishermen

'I just want to make clear our navy presence there is not [to] wage war against China but to secure our own people,' says Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana

The Philippines will beef up its naval presence in the South China Sea to protect its fishermen, its new military chief said on Tuesday, February 9, as concerns grow about the operations of China's coastguard in disputed waters.

The move comes after the Philippines protested a new law in China that allows its coastguard to board or open fire on foreign vessels in waters it regards as its territory, which officials said could heighten risks of a miscalculation.

"We will increase our visibility through the deployment of more naval assets, but I just want to make clear our navy presence there is not [to] wage war against China but to secure our own people," Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana said in a media briefing.

China claims about 90% of the South China Sea as its own and deploys its coastguard throughout the strategically important waterway. Those are often accompanied by large numbers of fishing boats seen widely as a Chinese maritime militia, which other claimants accuse of harassing their fishermen.

"That pronouncement by China that their coastguard can open fire at people intruding into their territory is very alarming," Sobejana said.

"It's a very irresponsible statement because our people are not going to the disputed area to go to war but to earn a living."

China's embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the general's remarks.

The Philippines, however, has very limited naval capabilities compared with China's fleet of navy and coastguard. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken last month stressed the importance of a defense pact with Manila and its clear application if the Philippines came under attack.

The United States has held regular patrols in disputed areas of the South China Sea to underline its presence in the region, the latest on Tuesday, when two US carrier groups conducted joint exercises.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/afp-chief-sobejana-deploy-more-navy-south-china-sea-protect-fishermen

Acosta commits support to improve Marine’s firing range facility

From Palawan News (Feb 9, 2021): Acosta commits support to improve Marine’s firing range facility (By Aira Genesa Magdayao)

3rd Palawan District Rep. Gil Acosta Jr. (middle) together with Col. Jimmy Larida (2nd from right), commander of the 3rd Marine Brigade (3MBde), and its officers at the Marine Base Rodolfo Punsalang in Barangay Tiniguiban, Puerto Princesa City. | Photo by Office of 3rd District Palawan

Representative Gil Acosta Jr., 3rd District Palawan, has committed support to the improvement of the 3rd Marine Brigade (3MBde) existing firing range facility as his commitment to support the troops.

This developed as Acosta, together with 3MBde commander Col. Jimmy Larida, led the inauguration ceremony of the 3MBde training barracks at Marine Base Rodolfo Punsalang, Barangay Tiniguiban, Puerto Princesa City.

House Rep. Gil Acosta Jr. of the 3rd District Palawan (middle) and 3MBde commander Col. Jimmy Larida during the inauguration of the training barracks at the Marine Base Rodolfo Punsalang, Barangay Tiniguiban, Puerto Princesa City. | Photo by the 3rd District Palawan

“Lubos ang aking pasasalamat sa mga marines na nagpapanatili ng kapayapaan sa ating lugar. Ang proyekto ng gobyerno para mabigyan kayo ng maayos na imprastraktura ay hindi lang dito matatapos kundi tuloy-tuloy pa,” Acosta said.

According to 3MBde spokesperson Cpt. Orchie Bobis, the facility will serve as classrooms with billeting space of marines and other military counterparts who will undergo training or exercises.

Bobis said the training barracks under the Tatag ng Imprastraktura para sa Kapayapaan at Seguridad or TIKAS, a partnership project between the Department of National Defense and the Department of Public
Works and Highways (DPWH) to improve infrastructure facilities inside military camps.

Larida also thanked Acosta for his commitment to support the marines within Palawan in maintaining the peace and security of the Islands of Palawan.

Also present during the inaugudation ceremony were Engr Amelia Fajardo, DPWH District Engineer and LTC Vito Minlo Sarmiento PAF, representative from WESCOM.

https://palawan-news.com/acosta-commits-support-to-improve-marines-firing-range-facility/

Halfway home para sa mga rebel returnee sa Palawan, malapit nang matapos

From Palawan News (Feb 6, 2021): Halfway home para sa mga rebel returnee sa Palawan, malapit nang matapos  (By Orlan Jabagat)

Nasa 52 porsiyento na ang nagawa sa konstruksiyon ng halfway house na magiging pansamantalang tuluyan ng mga former rebels (FR) habang sumasailalim ang mga ito sa reintegration program. | Larawan mula kay PSWDO Abigail Ablaña

Malapit nang matapos ang konstruksiyon ng halfway home para sa mga sumukong miyembro ng New People’s Army (NPA) sa Palawan na sa ngayon ay nasa 52 porsyento nang nagagawa.

Ayon sa hepe ng Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) na si Abigail Ablaña sa virtual meeting ng PPOC February 3 ang halfway house ay pinondohan ng Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) ng halangang P5 milyon.

Ang kabahagi ng pamahalaang panlalawigan sa proyekto ay ang lupang pinagtayuan nito na matatagpuan sa Barangay Irawan sa Puerto Princesa, ganoon din ang iba pang kagamitan sa loob nito at ang magiging pamamahala dito.

Ayon kay Ablaña, magsisilbi itong pansamantalang tirahan ng mga dating rebelde na nagbalik-loob sa pamahalaan habang ang mga ito ay sumasailalim sa reintegration program.

Sinimulan ang pagpapatayo nito noong Nobyembre 2020 at inaasahang matatapos ngayong Marso.

Nasa 21 former rebels ang kayang ma-accommodate ng nasabing halfway house.

Magiging katuwang ng PSWDO sa pamamahala ng nasabing pasilidad ang Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) partikular ang Western Command (WESCOM) at ang Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Palawan Field Office. (PIA-MIMAROPA, Palawan)

https://palawan-news.com/halfway-home-para-sa-mga-rebel-returnee-sa-palawan-malapit-nang-matapos/

NPA tagged as HR violator for killing IP leader, others

 From the Mindanao Times (Feb 9, 2021): NPA tagged as HR violator for killing IP leader, others (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

THE Commission on Human Rights accused members of the New People’s Army (NPA) of human rights violations for the killing of an indigenous people’s leader and two others on October 4 last year in the Caraga Region.

“By launching an attack, the NPA violates the principles of distinction and precaution. In gist, (the) principle of distinction requires that parties to armed conflict must distinguish between civilians and combatants,” said CHR Caraga Regional Director Jerefe D. Tubigon-Bacang in a 12-page resolution on December 28, 2020.

The resolution added that by killing Datu Jumar Bucales, Alberto Dela Pena and Artemio Muldez, the NPA committed human rights violations. Several others were also injured during the attack.

” Attacks must not be directed against any civilians. On the other hand, principle of precaution directs the parties to undertake constant care to spare civilians. Unfortunately, the NPA failed to do this,” it said.

It said the action of the outlawed group “are expressly prohibited under Republic Act 9851,” the Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law.

Soldiers and members of the Search and Rescue (SARAS) Agusan Sur also rescued one of those injured.

Lieutenant Colonel Joey B. Baybayan, Third Special Forces Battalion commanding officer, said the NPA’s attacks “on civilians and unarmed individuals only proved that they are desperate and violating the CAHRIHL (Comprehensive Agreement on Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law) to terrify the people.”

” They are on the brink of losing their mass base since the Whole-Of-Nation Approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict. Without the masses,” the NPA “will die a natural death,” Baybayan said.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2021/02/09/npa-tagged-as-hr-violator-for-killing-ip-leader-others/

NPA war materials seized in an encounter in MisOcc

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 9, 2021): NPA war materials seized in an encounter in MisOcc (By Shaine Mae R. Nagtalon)

MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL, Feb. 9 (PIA)--Troops of the 10th Infantry Battalion (10IB) clashed with communist terrorist group (CTG) members in Don Victoriano Chiongban (DVC), here, January 30.

“Based on the report from the ground, our soldiers were conducting combat operations when they encountered more or less 20 armed men believed to be members of the Guerilla Front Sendong, Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee in Barangay Tuno, DonVic past 11 in the morning, Saturday,” said WestMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr.

The firefight lasted for about 20 minutes after which enemies withdrew bringing along their casualties with them.

Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Ray Tiongson said the member of the Civilian Active Auxiliary (CAA) was wounded in the encounter while the enemy incurred an undetermined number of casualties as evident in the bloodstains that scampered in the area.

The wounded CAA was immediately brought to the provincial hospital of Pagadian and is still under observation as of press time.

While scouring the encounter site, operating troops recovered two magazines for AK47 loaded with 60 rounds of ammunition, enemy personal belongings, and assorted foodstuff.

“We deployed supplemental troops to conduct pursuit operations in the area,” said Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, commander of the 102IB.

Further, MGen. Generoso Ponio, commander of the Joint Task Force ZamPeLan said the units under his jurisdiction will continue to conduct focused and civil military operations to end terrorism and lawlessness. (10IB/PIA Misamis Occidental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1066391

58IB, POINTY talks 2021 activities for youth

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 9, 2021): 58IB, POINTY talks 2021 activities for youth (By 58IB)

CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental, Feb. 8 - The 58th Dimalulupig Infantry Battalion held a meeting with Propelling Our Inherited Nation Through our Youth, Inc. (POINTY) Misamis Oriental at Balingoan, Misamis Oriental, February 6, to plan progams and activities for the youth of Misamis Oriental for the year 2021.

The agenda of the meeting include reporting of the accomplishments obtained by Pointy in partnership with the Philippine Army for the year 2020, and planning of progams and activities for the youth of Misamis Oriental for the year 2021.

Activities planned are primarily geared to prevent Communist Terrorist Group's (CTG) youth recruitment in the province of Mis Or, such as Indigenous People Youth Leadership Summit (IP-YLS), Provincial Youth Leadership Summit, and Youth Peace Dialogues in the different municipalities of Misamis Oriental.

POINTY is a youth-lead organization dedicated to mold and develop holistic and humanistic leaders of the Northern central Mindanao, and all of Philippines.

POINTY aims to support the Philippine Army, the Local Government Units (LGU) and the Line Government Agencies (LGA) in facilitating Youth Leadership Summits; to support the Government in foiling the deception being done by the threat groups; and to be peace builders and catalysts for development. (58IB)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1066261

ELCAC to sustain talks with state universities, DepEd schools

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 9, 2021): ELCAC to sustain talks with state universities, DepEd schools (By Perla Lena)

PROTECTING THE YOUTH. The Western Visayas Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict VI (RTF-ELCAC 6) holds a dialogue with officials of the Filamer Christian University on Feb. 3, 2021. The regional task force has already responded to separate dialogues initiated by three universities in the region to raise their awareness of the deception committed by the CPP-NPA. (Photo courtesy of 3ID, PA)

The Western Visayas Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict VI (RTF-ELCAC 6) will continue to hold dialogues with willing state universities and colleges (SUCs) as well as reach out to schools under the Department of Education (DepEd) with confirmed recruitment activities by communist terrorist groups (CTGs).

In a phone interview on Tuesday, Associate Provincial Prosecutor Flosemer Chris I. Gonzales, who also sits as chair of the Legal Cooperation Cluster (LCC) of the task force, said the task force has already joined separate dialogues initiated by the Aklan State University (ASU) in Banga, Aklan; Filamer Christian University (FCU) in Roxas City, Capiz; and Central Philippine University (CPU) in this city.

These three schools were among those mentioned by the NTF-ELCAC as the target of NPA recruitment and radicalization.

“There’s a commitment on the part of universities to protect the university. They will undertake measures to prevent infiltration by the CPP-NPA (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army) to conduct recruitment in their schools,” Gonzales said.

There were also “initiatory talks” with the Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT-U) Capiz State University (CAPSu), and the University of Antique (UA).

Meantime, the RTF ELCAC, through Gonzales, also released a statement hitting Kabataan Party-list Rep. Sarah Elago who posted on her Facebook page that the dialogue with ASU will be included as among the incidents of “red-tagging” in universities and schools.

Elago, in her post, said that red-tagging should be investigated and stopped as it serves as a threat and sends a chilling effect on the rights of youth to exercise their freedom to express and organize, among others.

Gonzales said that Elago has a wrong premise because it was the university that invited the regional task force to a dialogue.

“As a result of that dialogue, the ASU has issued a statement to protect their students and the institution from all forms of infiltration, recruitment, and radicalization by any or all terrorist organizations, including the CPP-NPA. It was voluntary on the part of the university to issue a statement against the CPP-NPA,” he said, adding that they recognized the need to protect their students.

He added Elago made the post on red-tagging without reading the statement of ASU.

Gonzales, citing the Supreme Court decision, also said that there is no such a thing as red-tagging.

ASU in its statement, also made it clear that “they shall respect and protect at all times the rights of their students and faculty to freely express their thoughts, ideas, beliefs, and opinions”.

ASU said that they will condemn any form of violent extremism, terrorism, and the deceptive recruitment of their students and their personnel by any organization that espouses violence, terrorism, and ideology that aims to destroy or threaten the freedom and the peace of this country and the government, he added.

Gonzales said Elago seems to make it appear that the Kabataan Party-list does not want the RTF-ELCAC to engage the school through the dialogue, adding that they have no idea as to why.

“This is ironic because the advocacy of the Kabataan Party-list is for the welfare and interest of the youth. But then again, they could not even condemn the recruitment of the youth by the CPP-NPA,” he said.

Gonzales said they have data to prove that in Western Visayas a lot of minors were recruited by the CPP-NPA. Based on affidavits executed by former rebels, many of them were recruited when they were still minors.

He added that if the party-list represented by Elago is sincere, then they should condemn the CPP-NPA.

“If you cannot find it in your heart to condemn the atrocities of the CPP-NPA and you are finding it difficult to fight for the rights of a trafficked child who was forced to join the CPP-NPA as a child warrior, then maybe, your Kabataan party-list is not really sincere in protecting and upholding the rights of the millions of Filipino youth whose future depends on how we protect them from all forms of violence and terrorism-related activities. You must, at this point, consider giving up your seat in Congress since you cannot fight for the rights of those whom your Party-List has intended to protect,” part of the RTF-ELCAC statement said.

Meantime, Major General Eric Vinoya, commander of the Army's 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division (3ID) and the chairman of RTF-ELCAC’s Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support (PLEDS) Cluster, emphasized the importance of the dialogue between RTF-ELCAC 6 and the academe in “understanding the deceptive maneuvers of the CPP-NPA to infiltrate schools”.

“Communication is the key to understand the problem. I am glad that state universities are very much willing to open their doors for us to share enlightenment on the deceptive recruitment activity of the communist-terrorist group,” Vinoya said in a statement.

He added that they look forward to “a more resilient and collective effort in alienating the schools from the CPP-NPA and allow the institutions to mold promising young individuals into worthy citizens of this country”.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1130094

2 Reds in Northern Samar yield, surrender guns

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2021): 2 Reds in Northern Samar yield, surrender guns (By Sarwell Meniano) 

LEAVING NPA. The 36 communist red fighters who surrendered to the police in Eastern Visayas during a ceremony on Feb. 6, 2021. More members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Northern Samar have surrendered to authorities and turned over their firearms, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported on Tuesday (Feb. 9, 2021). (Photo courtesy of PNP Region 8)

More members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Northern Samar have surrendered to authorities and turned over their firearms, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported on Tuesday.

Alias “Fidel”, 28, of Bobon, Northern Samar, yielded to the local police in Silvino Lubos, Northern Samar police provincial office, and 2nd Northern Samar mobile force company.

Afraid to show up at the police station alone, the former NPA fighter asked policemen to pick him up somewhere.

The former rebel turned over a caliber .45, a magazine with six live ammunition, and a fragmentation grenade.

In San Isidro, Northern Samar, alias “Renz”, 28 surrendered to the authorities early Monday in Happy Valley village after a negotiation with the Northern Samar police provincial office led by director Col. Arnel Apud.

The former NPA surrendered a cal. 45 pistol with a magazine and three rounds of ammunition.

“Renz” was designated as finance secretary and listed under NPA provincial white area committee operating in Northern Samar.

He is the 5th former rebel who reintegrated themselves back to the community through the Northern Samar police since January 2021.

“Again, I am stressing that the doors for the rebels who want to have a new life are wide open. I also urge the public to help in disseminating the benefits offered by the government to those who will surrender,” Apud said in a statement.

On Feb. 6, PNP chief Gen. Debold Sinas administered the oath of allegiance to 36 communist red fighters who surrendered to the police in Eastern Visayas.

"The continued surrender of these red fighters that have reached thousands now is a clear indicator of the trust and confidence in the government felt deeply by these NPA members who have openly narrated the deception and miserable experiences they suffered in the hands of their commanders," Sinas said during a simple ceremony at the police regional office headquarters in Palo, Leyte.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1130125

Terror group member slain in SoCot drug bust

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2021): Terror group member slain in SoCot drug bust (By Richelyn Gubalani)

Map of Polomolok, South Cotabato (Google image)

An alleged member of an Islamic State-inspired local terrorist group was killed in a buy-bust in a village in Polomolok town, South Cotabato province on Tuesday morning.

Capt. Randy Apostol, deputy chief of Polomolok municipal police, said suspect Jafar Ewa was slain after resisting arrest and engaging operatives in a shootout during an entrapment around 10:55 a.m. in the vicinity of Purok 1, Barangay Koronadal Proper.

He said Ewa, of Purok 4-A of the same village, initially sold a sachet of suspected shabu worth PHP500 to an undercover police officer.

As other members of the operating team approached to make the arrest, he said the suspect took a handgun from the utility box of his tricycle and opened fire at them.

Apostol said the suspect was fatally wounded during the brief firefight and was declared dead upon arrival at the Polomolok municipal hospital.

The official said Ewa, who worked as a tricycle driver, was a known drug pusher and included on the police station’s target list.

Citing intelligence reports, he said the suspect was reportedly a member of a local cell of the Dawlah Islamiya-Hassan Group.

“He served as a spotter for the group and assigned to monitor the movements of police and military personnel,” he told reporters.

Recovered from the suspect were a single-shot homemade pistol, a sachet of suspected shabu and PHP500 marked bill.

Meanwhile, authorities also arrested a couple employed as job order workers of the city government in a buy-bust on Monday night.

Kath Abad, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)-Region 12 spokesperson, said Mark and Analyn Tesaluna, both of Villa Consuelo Subdivision in Barangay City Heights, were nabbed around 8:30 p.m. in Barangay Dadiangas East after selling a sachet of suspected shabu to a PDEA agent who posed as a buyer.

In a subsequent search, she said the couple yielded two more sachets of suspected shabu weighing 0.03 grams with an estimated street value of PHP2,040.

Abad said the two were both assigned as laboratory aides, under job order status, at the City Agriculture Office.

“They are considered as high-value targets, being government workers,” she told reporters.

The couple, who are detained at the PDEA-12 lockup here, will be charged with violation of Sections 5 and 11 or selling and possession of dangerous drugs, under Article II of Republic Act 9165 or the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1130137

Search underway for missing electric coop worker in NoCot

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2021): Search underway for missing electric coop worker in NoCot (By Edwin Fernandez)

Google map of Arakan, North Cotabato.

The police is searching for a field worker of the Cotabato Electric Cooperative (Cotelco) in North Cotabato, who is believed to have been snatched by suspected communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in a remote village of Arakan town Monday afternoon.

Godofredo Homez, Cotelco general manager, identified the employee as Kier Sedillo, a photovoltaic mainstreaming technician, of Kabacan, North Cotabato, who claimed he was abducted by armed men in the remote village of Kabalantian.

In a statement on Tuesday, Homez said Sedillo was in the village to do repair and maintenance of solar home panels when taken by the gunmen for still unknown reasons.

Sedillo sent a text message to Homez in the vernacular, saying:

“Help me, sir, I am being taken by gunmen. I don’t know where we are heading.”

Homez said he received the text message at 1:46 p.m. Monday and that there has been no word from Sedillo or his captors as of posting.

He said the incident has been reported to police and military authorities in Arakan, one of the remote towns in North Cotabato where NPA terrorists operate.

Homez appealed to the persons who took Sedillo to allow him to return home as soon as possible.

“He (Sedillo) is just a field worker doing his job for communities in the far-flung areas,” the Cotelco official said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1130146

Palace shrugs off CPP call to let Red Cross handle vax delivery

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2021): Palace shrugs off CPP call to let Red Cross handle vax delivery (By Azer Parrocha)

Malacañang on Tuesday shrugged off the suggestion made by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) to let Covid-19 vaccine delivery in far-flung areas be handled by the Red Cross and other civil humanitarian agencies instead of the military.

In a Palace press briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the national government is sticking with its original plan to make the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in charge of vaccine delivery in far-flung areas.

“We have a rollout plan. ‘Yun po ang masusunod kahit anong sabihin pa ng CPP-NPA (That’s what we’re going to follow regardless of what the CPP-NPA (New People’s Army) says),” he said.

He acknowledged that the CPP-NPA have freedom of speech, but noted that the government could not ignore the fact that they are tagged as a terrorist group.

“I guess they have freedom of expression but they are tagged as a terrorist group so parang (it’s like), they can express their opinion pero hanggang dun lang po ‘yun (but it’s just going to stay as an opinion),” he added.

Since the vaccine rollout plan was devised by the country’s leading experts, Roque said it would be the only plan that the national government will follow.

“Ang ating rollout plan po ay binuo po ‘yan sa tulong po ng mga pangunahing eksperto and it will remain (Our rollout plan was devised with help of the country’s leading experts and it will remain),” he said.

In a taped speech aired late Monday night, President Rodrigo Duterte appealed to the CPP and its armed wing, the NPA, to allow the free and safe transport of Covid-19 vaccine deliveries across the country starting this month.

“I am appealing to the Communist Party of the Philippines. The CPP must guarantee that the vaccines in the course of being transported to areas where there are no city health officers or medical persons, na ‘wag ninyo galawin ang medisina (don’t touch the medicine), allow the vaccines to be transported freely and safely,” Duterte.

He also asked the CPP-NPA not to intercept the vaccines and to observe the rules of humanity “because that (vaccine) is for the Filipino people”.

“As I have said, the money belongs to the Filipino people. The credit goes to no one. Sa inyo ito mga taong Filipino (This is for the Filipino people),” he said. “So natural lang na kayong mga (So it is natural that you) members ng CPP and the allied, NPA, NDF [National Democratic Front] or whatever, kindly observe the rules of humanity.”

While the CPP, through its spokesperson Marco Valbuena, assured unhampered delivery of Covid-19 vaccines, it also suggested that vaccine delivery in far-flung areas be handled by the International Committee of the Red Cross, the Philippine Red Cross, and other civilian humanitarian agencies.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1130099

AFP to deploy assets for vaccine rollout

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2021): AFP to deploy assets for vaccine rollout (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP chief-of-staff, Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana. (Screenshot from Laging Handa briefing)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday said all of its assets are ready to help the Department of Health (DOH) in the rollout of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccines in the country.

"Considering po na strategically deployed tayo, kami po'y aktibong tutulong sa DOH sa pag-roll-out ng bakuna, at ang ating mga doctors, nurses, and even ang mga sasakyan natin, both sa lupa, himpapawid at sa dagat ay gagamitin natin for that purpose (Considering that AFP units are strategically deployed nationwide, we will be actively helping the DOH in the rollout of the vaccines, and our doctors, nurses along with all transport assets, land, air, and sea, will be used for that purpose)," AFP chief-of-staff, Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana said in a Laging Handa briefing.

Sobejana said only 25 percent of the AFP personnel will be vaccinated once the Covid-19 vaccines arrive to give way to the country's priority sectors which include medical front-liners, senior citizens, and persons with co-morbidities.

Meanwhile, he said the communist movement's non-interference with the delivery of Covid-19 vaccines would prove that they are humans.

"Diyan natin makikita po kung talaga they are human, because ang gagawin po natin is humanitarian activity tapos i-disrupt nila so makita ng taumbayan na talagang salot sila ng ating lipunan (This will show whether they are really human, because what we are doing is a humanitarian activity and then they will disrupt it, if they do so, our countrymen will see what real scourges of society they are)," Sobejana added.

This came as President Rodrigo Duterte appealed to the communist rebels not to hamper the delivery of the Covid-19 vaccines.

Should the communist terrorists decide to disrupt the government's vaccination plans, he said the AFP still has 75 percent of its personnel to ensure the security of the people being vaccinated.

Meanwhile, AFP spokesperson Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) should not delay the passage of the vaccines as it is not in the best interest of the Filipino people.

"In the best interest of life, welfare, and well-being of fellow Filipinos, the CPP-NPA should not sound chivalrous about allowing the passage without delay of vaccines in all parts of the country," he added.

Arevalo said the communist terrorists should have done the same in many instances in the past instead of killing military personnel who were both security and workhorses in bringing relief goods to calamity-stricken Filipinos in the geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

"While we hope that Mr. (Marco) Valbuena (CPP spokesperson) can make good his commitment, it’s not up for him to dictate which vehicles to use if he cannot provide any alternative; and if the only ones available and can perform the tasks best are the military's sea, air, and land vehicles. Those assets are there, after all, to cater to the interest and welfare of the people we are constitutionally mandated to protect and serve," he added

Arevalo also urged the CPP-NPA not to take advantage of the pandemic to salvage their reputation that they vastly eroded, or attempt to build an image that is in stark contrast with what they are doing.

"They should instead cooperate by simply allowing the government to pass and bring the vaccines to our needy Kababayans," he added.

Arevalo also asked the CPP-NPA to stop their propaganda against the AFP which, unlike them, has proven its commitment—time and again—by innumerable selfless acts during calamities and disasters, pandemics, and other health emergencies.

Meanwhile, Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Ildebrandi Usana, in an interview with "Teleradyo", said the police force is now readying its medical force to augment the country's health professionals in the nationwide vaccination campaign.

This includes 2,705 medical reserve force (MRF) members nationwide and 288 personnel from the PNP national headquarters, according to PNP deputy chief for administration, Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar.

He added that this will only require training and coordination between the PNP and the DOH.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1130100

Sobejana vows to speed up AFP modernization

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2021): Sobejana vows to speed up AFP modernization (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP chief-of-staff, Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana. (Screengrab from Laging Handa briefing)

The country's military will accelerate its modernization program to be at par with its regional counterparts, its new chief said on Tuesday.

"Ia-accelerate po natin ang ating modernization program (We will accelerate our modernization program). We should be at par with our neighbors, so we are almost towards 2028 which we envision to become a world-class Armed Forces that is a source of national pride," said Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff, Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana in a Laging Handa briefing.

Sobejana estimated the completion of AFP modernization at "60 percent", adding that a lot of modern weapon systems and equipment for the military are in the pipeline.

He said this also includes personal or individual equipment of troops as well as hospital and medical facilities that would greatly boost the morale of the soldiers.

Some of the well-known products of the ongoing AFP modernization program are two missile frigates -- the BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) which is now in commission, and the BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) which is expected to arrive in the country this week, 12 FA-50PH light-interim fighter aircraft and the two AgustaWestland AW-159 "Wildcat" anti-submarine helicopters.

When asked how he intends to end the communist insurgency, Sobejana said that there is a need to correctly identify the "enemies of the state".

He added that this is needed considering that the AFP is dealing with the New People's Army, Abu Sayyaf Group, Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, Daulah Islamiyah inspired groups, and remnants of the Maute Group.

"So ang pinakamabigat na challenge is to accurately identify them, now once they are accurately identified, then we will give them a good fight, not necessarily combat because there are a lot of ways of solving problems, so combat is just one (The biggest challenge right now is to accurately identify them, now once they are accurately identified, then we will give them a good fight, not necessarily combat because there are a lot of ways in solving problems, so combat is just one)," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1130107

2nd missile frigate BRP Antonio Luna now in PH waters

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2021): 2nd missile frigate BRP Antonio Luna now in PH waters (By Priam Nepomuceno)

2ND MISSILE FRIGATE. BRP Antonio Luna, the country's second missile frigate, arrives at the vicinity of Capones Island, Zambales on Tuesday (Feb. 9, 2021). The ship will sail in formation with the country's first missile frigate, BRP Jose Rizal through Manila Bay before proceeding to its anchorage area in Subic, Zambales where its crew and Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) personnel will observe a mandatory quarantine. (Photo courtesy of Naval Public Affairs Office)

The country's second guided-missile frigate, the BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), has finally reached Philippine waters as it cruised off the vicinity of Capones Island, Zambales on Tuesday.

In a statement, Philippine Navy (PN) public affairs office chief Commander Benjo Negranza said BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), the country's first guided-missile frigate, rendered the customary meeting procedure and passing exercise with its sister ship.

This was followed by the two ships' first maneuvering exercises, a momentous feat in the PN and Armed Forces of the Philippines' history captured by an AW-109 naval helicopter in a photo exercise.

This procedure was complemented by a fly-by of three FA-50 jets from the Philippine Air Force.

"This time-honored maritime tradition was conducted to commemorate FF-151's arrival to our territorial waters and to extend and maximize the training and systems familiarization opportunities of every crew aboard ship in preparation for independent ship operation," Negranza said.

The prospective BRP Antonio Luna will sail in formation with BRP Jose Rizal through Manila Bay before proceeding to its anchorage area in Subic, Zambales where the crew and Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) personnel will observe a mandatory quarantine.

A simple arrival ceremony will be conducted later this month upon completion of the quarantine period and satisfactory result of their coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) swab test.

"The second fast-frigate of the PN which will be christened as BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) once commissioned to service, entered Philippine waters last February 7 in the vicinity of Mavulis Island, Itbayat, Batanes, after its successful maiden voyage from Ulsan, South Korea," Negranza said.

The ship departed Ulsan for its voyage home last February 5.

The Department of National Defense and PN joint inspection team earlier approved the acceptance and delivery of the said vessel to the Philippines. BRP Antonio Luna completes the PN Frigate Acquisition Project that fulfills the Navy’s thrust of having modern platforms and systems that provide opportunities for its personnel to develop modern mindsets and propel the whole organization into becoming a multi-capable naval force responsive to our maritime nation’s defense and development.

The first frigate, BRP Jose Rizal, was delivered and subsequently commissioned last July 10. BRP Antonio Luna's keel-laying on May 23, 2019, coincided with the launch of BRP Jose Rizal.

The contract for the BRP Jose Rizal and the BRP Antonio Luna was placed at PHP16 billion, with another PHP2 billion for weapon systems and munitions.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1130113

Anti-terror law ‘only weapon’ vs. NPA’s ‘senseless ideologies’

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2021): Anti-terror law ‘only weapon’ vs. NPA’s ‘senseless ideologies’ (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

SUPPORT ANTI-TERROR LAW. Members of the League of Parents of the Philippines and Liga Independencia Pilipinas hold a peace rally to express their support for the Anti-Terror Law in front of the Supreme Court in Manila City on Tuesday (Feb. 9, 2021). The groups urged the Supreme Court and the government to act on the termination of Joma Sison's asylum status in the Netherlands. (Contributed photo)

The Anti-Terror Law is the “only weapon of those who are silently going against the senseless ideologies” of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA), a leader of an anti-communist organization said on Tuesday.

Remy Rosadio, League of Parents of the Philippines (LPP) chair, maintained the necessity of the law anew to end the long-standing violence of communist terrorist groups and other terrorist organizations in the country.

"For us parents, the anti-terror law is our only hope of providing security to our children against illegal recruitment, deceptions, and brainwashing activities of the CPP-NPA," Rosadio said. "For 52 years, the CPP-NPA-NDF has been deceiving us, victimizing our children for their senseless cause."

Members of LPP and Liga Independencia Pilipinas (LIPI), alongside parents of student activists who were reportedly recruited by various militant groups, gathered in front of the Supreme Court on Tuesday to voice out their support for the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 or the Anti-Terror Law.

During the resumption of the oral arguments on the 37 petitions against the law at the high court, anti-communist groups protested against the atrocities perpetrated by NPA, the CPP's armed wing, as well as the alleged recruitment of child warriors by its supposed legal-front organizations.

They also railed against unscrupulous exploitation and abuses by NPA rebels of vulnerable sectors such as indigenous peoples (IP).

The groups also urged the Supreme Court and high-ranking government officials to act on the revocation of CPP founding chair Jose Maria Sison's asylum status in the Netherlands.

Manipulating vulnerable sectors

Rosadio cited the abuses suffered by women and children in the hands of NPA rebels in remote areas of the country.

NPA rebels are also manipulating marginalized sectors to overthrow the government, she added.

"We were silent before because some were afraid to go against the tyranny of the terrorist CPP-NPA and in some remote areas within provinces, the NPA repeatedly abusing poor families and children--and using them to fight against the government," Rosadio said.

Meanwhile, LIPI Secretary-General Jose Antonio “Ka Pep” Goitia said the law will free the country from terrorism.

“It is the policy of the State to protect life, liberty, and property from terrorism, to condemn terrorism as inimical and dangerous to the national security of the country and to the welfare of the people, and to make terrorism a crime against humanity and against The Law of Nations," Goitia said. "The State shall uphold the basic rights and fundamental liberties of the people as enshrined in the Constitution."

During the protest, anti-communist groups burned Sison’s effigy, as they called on the government and the Supreme court to exert more efforts in sending back Sison to the Philippines "so that he can fairly face the filed raps against him."

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1130163

Gov't has duty to pass law preventing terror acts: SC justice

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2021): Gov't has duty to pass law preventing terror acts: SC justice (By Benjamin Pulta)

File photo

The threat of terrorism taking a toll on lives and causing widespread damage to society is real and the government must do something to prevent it, a magistrate of the Supreme Court (SC) said on Tuesday.

“Let me make an analogy. Before a speeding car crashes into a wall or killing several pedestrians, there is a law that regulates speeding. And therefore, even before the harm is done, it is important for certain kinds of acts government looks at prevention or suppression of particular acts before they happen. Is that not correct?” Associate Justice Marvic Leonen asked in interpellating lawyer Algamar Latiph, one of the counsels for the petitions, during the oral arguments on the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.

Leonen enumerated a number of terrorist attacks, mostly in Mindanao starting with the February 2004 bombing of the Superferry 14 en route to Cagayan de Oro City from Manila, where 116 people died after a bomb hidden in a television set exploded as the ship passed the waters of Mariveles town in Bataan.

“One hundred sixteen people mean 116 families, six children less than five years old,” Leonen pointed out, noting that groups with links to the Jemaah Islamiyah, a militant extremist group based in Southeast Asia, has been widely acknowledged as being responsible for the attack.

He also cited the Aug. 24, 2020 twin blasts in Jolo, Sulu which killed 14 persons and wounded 75 persons, and the Jan. 27, 2019 bombing of the Jolo Cathedral.

“Do you agree we should not wait until it happens? We should give our law enforcers the tools to be able to detect and monitor, not only to detect and prosecute but to disturb the actual incident,” he asked Latiph.

Leonen also underscored the need to “cut the means of communications” between a “committed terrorist” with co-conspirators to prevent the actual act from happening.

“There is a criminal element as part of it which is to prosecute and convict in order for it to become a deterrent for the future. But in terms of addressing terrorism, there is also a law enforcement part to try to suppress so that it will not happen,” he said.

He said as terrorism is a threat to international peace, the Philippines is mandated to enact an anti-terrorism law, otherwise "the United Nations (UN) Security Council may sanction any state party of the UN charter if they do not follow their bidding or requirements".

Aside from facing sanctions, he said the Philippines may turn into a "safe haven" for transnational terrorists in the absence of anti-terrorism law.

“Because they will not be able to go our neighboring countries like Malaysia which has very strict rules, or Singapore or even Indonesia for that matter, and they will actually use the hinterlands or other places of Mindanao," he said.

Citing the scheme of international high-value terrorists going to Mindanao to marry a Filipina to get local protection, Leonen said “the concept of us becoming a safe haven might actually be happening even as we speak.”

“If therefore, we do not comply with international law or what is called by the (UN) Security Council in terms of preventing, suppressing or attending to terrorism, we will become the pariah because we will be training the bombers that will go to Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong or even the United States," he said.

Leonen said it is important for the country's laws not to be backward and rudimentary but must be "state of the art" to equip law enforcers in addressing terrorism.

Noting that terrorism is an international phenomenon, Leonen also cited that social media has also become a way for terrorists to lure people into joining their ranks.

"That (social media) is the way many of our disenchanted youth may be radicalized using that medium,” he said as he mentioned reports of Filipino militants recruited to take part in Middle East flashpoints such as Syria and Afghanistan.

He added that a good anti-terror law is not meant to discriminate based on faith but to protect the people.

Addressing the issues raised by leftist groups, Leonen said there are many shades of Marxism.

"Extremism is different from terrorism. Extremism is a belief, terrorism is the method. A belief in this system is not terrorism. So, we punish the method but not the ideology," he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1130160

Go lauds amnesty grant for rebel returnees

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2021): Go lauds amnesty grant for rebel returnees

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go (File photo)

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go hailed President Rodrigo Duterte for measures that seek to enhance the government’s peace building efforts by granting amnesty to and facilitating the reintegration of current and former rebels into normal civilian life.

“Ayokong nagpapatayan ang mga Pilipino sa kapwa Pilipino. Kung may namamatay na sundalo, nauulila ang pamilya. ‘Pag may namatay sa kabilang panig, nauulila rin ang kanilang pamilya (I don’t want to see Filipinos killing each other. If a soldier dies, the family is orphaned. If the enemies die, their families are also orphaned),” Go said in a news release on Tuesday.

He said peace building will not be achieved if it will be done through armed struggle, saying innocent Filipinos are the most affected in war.

Go confirmed that Duterte approved a series of presidential proclamations to help nurture a climate that is conducive to peace and to implement reconciliation and reintegration activities.

These proclamations, he said, shall take effect upon concurrence by a majority of all the members of Congress. These aim to offer amnesty to members of rebel groups.

To carry out the responsibility of administering the amnesty, an Executive Order creating the National Amnesty Commission was also signed by the President, as announced by Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque.

The Commission will be responsible for receiving and processing applications, as well as determining if the applicants are eligible for amnesty, subject to the approval of the President.

Go said that providing reintegration programs, services and support, the government can further address the causes of the former rebels’ socio-economic insecurities and give them an opportunity to start anew.

“Naiintindihan po ng gobyerno ang hirap na pinagdadaanan ng mga kababayan nating may mga pinaglalaban. Kung kaya’t sinisikap natin na maramdaman nila na nandirito lang ang gobyernong nagmamalasakit sa kanila at ginagawa ang lahat para mabigyan ng mas komportableng buhay ang bawat Pilipino (The government understands the hardships our compatriots are going through with those who are fighting. For this, we try to let them know that the government is caring for them and to give them comfortable life),” Go said.

He said the government will continue to help and give opportunities to former rebels who want to return to the fold of the law.

In 2018, Duterte issued Executive Order 17 which directed the adoption of a national peace framework that provided a clear direction for the harmonized and synchronized delivery of services in conflict-affected and vulnerable areas.

“Isinusulong ko na mas pagbutihin pa natin ang mga suporta para sa mga nais magbalik-loob. Dagdagan natin ang mga livelihood assistance na may kasamang skills training, pabahay, lupang sasakahin, libreng gamot, at suporta sa pag-aaral ng kanilang mga anak (I suggest to increase our support to rebel returnees, give more livelihood assistance with skills training, housing, land to till, free medicines, and scholarship for their children),” Go said.

He, however, said new amnesty grants should not cover rebels involved in drugs, kidnapping, terrorism, rape, and other crimes committed for personal interests.

It should also exclude torture, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and other violations of human rights identified by the United Nations, as well as violations of the Geneva Convention of 1949, he added.

“Gusto ko ng kapayapaan, lalong-lalo na sa Mindanao. Suportado ko ito. Iisa ang aming layunin ni Pangulo Duterte, ang magkaroon ng long-lasting peace and development sa ating bansa (I want peace, especially in Mindanao. I support the objective of President Duterte to have long-lasting peace and development in our country),” Go said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1130181

Elago urged to protect youth from CPP-NPA or resign

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2021): Elago urged to protect youth from CPP-NPA or resign (By Marita Moaje)

Kabataan Party-list Rep. Sarah Elago

The Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) in Western Visayas called on Kabataan Party-list Rep. Sarah Elago to protect the youth from communist terrorist groups (CTGs) or resign from her post.

“If you cannot find it in your heart to condemn the atrocities of the CPP-NPA and you are finding it difficult to fight for the rights of a trafficked child who was forced to join the CPP-NPA as a child warrior, then maybe, your Kabataan Party-list is not really sincere in protecting and upholding the rights of the millions of Filipino youth whose future depends on how we protect them from all forms of violence and terrorism-related activities,” said Flosemer Chris Gonzales, chief of the legal cooperation cluster of RTF-ELCAC in Western Visayas, in a statement over the weekend.

Gonzales said Elago must consider giving up her seat in Congress “since she cannot fight for the rights of those whom her party-list has intended to protect.

Gonzales issued the statement as a response to Elago’s social media post on a dialogue that happened between RTF-ELCAC and officials of the Aklan State University (ASU) in late January.

Enlightenment on recruitment issues

During the meeting, RTF-ELCAC discussed with school officials the schemes reportedly employed by rebel groups in recruiting the youth including students from different state universities across the country.

The meeting also sought to enlighten the university on the recent list bared by the NTF-ELCAC regarding schools that have been targeted by the CPP-NPA-NDF for radicalization and recruitment.

The said list included ASU, among other state universities.

Elago, in a Facebook post, said she will include the said incident in their gathered cases of red-tagging in schools in a House resolution, adding that this should be investigated.

Gonzales said “something is very, very wrong” with Elago, railing against her move to subject ASU to a congressional investigation.

He asked Elago if ASU is “wrong in its goal to protect its students” and make a stand against terrorism.

He advised Elago to re-read her oath of office as a member of the House of Representatives, which is to uphold the law and defend the Constitution including defending the country from all enemies, foreign and domestic, that includes terrorist organizations.

“You swore an oath to defend the youth of this country from the deceptive recruitment of the CPP-NPA which in all respects, is a terrorist organization that is an enemy of the state and of the Filipino people,” Gonzales told Elago.

Gonzales said Elago should be the first in condemning the atrocities committed by the CPP-NPA especially on issues regarding supposed recruitment children as “child warriors.”

ASU denounces communist terrorist groups

ASU president Emily Arangote said they were saddened by the claim that the university serves as a recruitment ground for communist rebels especially that they maintain strong ties with their local government unit.

She added that they were not aware of any recruitment of rebel groups inside their school.

However, she extended her gratitude to the NTF-ELCAC for the enlightenment so they could protect the institution from the deceptive recruitment schemes of CTGs.

She also assured that they will never tolerate any groups that may eventually ruin the lives of their students.

“ASU had not and will never support, nor allow, any violent movement aimed at overthrowing the government. We will not allow communist-terrorist groups to destroy the future of our students; hence, ASU is one with the peace-loving Aklanons in denouncing their criminal activities,” Arangote said.

She said they will partner with the RTF-ELCAC to protect the school and its students from any infiltration, recruitment, and radicalization by any CTG.

Gonzales, for his part, advised Elago to read the facts first before jumping to any conclusion and for her to have sensible and fact-based insights to help her in formulating future policies and legislative acts.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1130180