NDF/CPP-CIO: Oppressors of the Lumads will be made to pay

Posted to the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP or NDF) Website (Feb 16, 2021):  Oppressors of the Lumads will be made to pay

Marco Valbuena

Chief Information Officer

Communist Party of the Philippines

February 15, 2021

The Party adds its voice to the widespread denunciation of the horrific police raid earlier today against the Lumad bakwit school in the University of San Carlos (USC) Talamban Campus in Cebu City where 21 Lumad students, two Lumad elders and two teachers were manhandled and forcibly taken by the Duterte regime’s fascist thugs.

The CPP condemns the PNP for trampling on the Lumad children’s rights with utter contempt of the sanctuary provided them by the university campus. With the USC police raid, the UP campus shelter of the Lumad children are now also under threat.

The CPP condemns the NTF-ELCAC which undoubtedly is behind this monstrosity. The Lumads and their community schools have long been targeted by the AFP and the NTF-ELCAC for teaching their children how to love and defend their ancestral land and culture.

We also hold the NTF-ELCAC responsible for massacre of the Tumanduk people in Capiz last December 30 where nine of their leaders were murdered in their own homes. The NTF-ELCAC is also responsible for the torture and detention of two Aeta farmers from Zambales and the military oppression against their communities. The Igorot people are also under incessant attacks for standing to defend their land.

The Lumad people of Mindanao and other minority groups across the country are being punished by the Duterte fascist regime for not bowing to the armed might of the military, police and paramilitary monsters that have caused the masses untold suffering. For years now, their communities have stood firm against the government’s plans to allow big mining companies and agribusiness, dams, energy, ecotourism and other big capitalist firms to take over and plunder their ancestral lands.

The Party and all revolutionary forces join in demanding the immediate release of the Lumad children, their teachers and elders collectively known as the Lumad 25. We enjoin the Filipino people to voice out their protest against this latest attack against their democratic rights. Duterte’s military and police forces are set on carrying out more brutalities having been emboldened by the Anti-Terror Law and as the ruling Duterte clique aims to paralyze all those who will resist his scheme to perpetuate his dynasty in power.

The oppressors of the Lumad people will be made to pay. The Party and the New People’s Army (NPA) will do everything to avenge and attain justice for the Lumad people, the Tumanduks, the Aetas and the rest of the minority peoples, the workers, peasants and other democratic classes and sectors.

The fascist criminals will be punished.

https://ndfp.org/oppressors-of-the-lumads-will-be-made-to-pay/

Kalinaw News: Peace rally sa Brgy. Bural, sa Zinundungan Valley, nilahukan ng mahigit 300 residente

From Kalinaw News (Feb 16, 2021): Peace rally sa Brgy. Bural, sa Zinundungan Valley, nilahukan ng mahigit 300 residente



TUGUEGARAO CITY – Nasa mahigit 300 residente ng Barangay Bural, Zinundungan Valley, sa bayan ng Rizal, Cagayan ang nakiisa sa isinagawang peace rally kamakalawa.

Layon ng aktibidad na pinangunahan ni Barangay Captain Evelyn Baloran na itaboy ang mga miyembro ng rebeldeng Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) sa kanilang lugar.

Bilang pagpapakita sa kanilang katapatan sa gobyerno ay sabay-sabay na nanumpa ang mga residente at nangakong tuluyan nang itakwil ang CPP-NPA sa kanilang lugar.

Sinunog din ng mga ito ang bandila ng CPP-NPA-NDF bilang tanda ng kanilang pagtalikod at pagtatakwil sa rebeldeng grupo.Sa pamamagitan din ng isinagawang peace rally, naglabas ng kanilang hinaing ang ilang residente sa mga pang-aabuso at pananakot na ginagawa ng mga makakaliwang grupo.

Kabilang dito si Ginang Venancia Gayagos na nawalan ng anak dahil sa panlilinlang ng mga rebeldeng CPP-NPA. Bukod dito ay isa pang katutubong agta ang nawawala na pinaniniwalaang sumampa rin sa kilusan.Samantala, tiniyak naman ni LtCol Angelo Saguiguit, Commanding Officer ng 17th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, na kabalikat ng mga residente ang kanilang hanay sa mga programa at aktibidad upang maisulong ang kapayapaan at kaunlaran hindi lamang sa bayan ng Rizal kundi sa kanilang buong nasasakupang mga lugar.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/peace-rally-sa-brgy-bural-sa-zinundungan-valley-nilahukan-ng-mahigit-300-residente/

Kalinaw News: 3 NPAs killed, 4 firearms seized in Agusan Sur Clash

From Kalinaw News (Feb 16, 2021): 3 NPAs killed, 4 firearms seized in Agusan Sur Clash



Bancasi, Butuan City – Three (3) NPA members were killed and three (3) firearms to include assorted war materiel were seized after a five (5) minute firefight between the government troops and the CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) at So Damming, Brgy Zillovia, Talacogon, Agusan del Sur at around 2:00pm, February 15, 2021. Troops of 26th Infantry (Ever Onward) Battalion under the operational control of 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade clashed against more or less seven (7) CPP-NPA

Terrorist believed to be members of Guerilla Front 88 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).

Said firefight resulted to the tragic demise of three (3) NPA terrorists and the seizure of the following items at the encounter site: one (1) M16 rifle; two (2) shotguns; one (1) cal. 38; two (2) hand grenades; one (1) anti-personnel mine (APM); assorted ammunitions; five (5) cellphones; one (1) binocular; medical paraphernalia; fifteen (15) sets of Army Battle Dress Attire (BDA); lousy caps; combat boots; numerous ammunitions of different caliber; and various subversive documents.

Brigadier General Maurito L Licudine, the Commander of the 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade, lauded the troops’ decisive victory and its persistent determination in tracking the NPA terrorist who were pestering the communities in the area. “This victory is for the people who for the longest time wanted to live without the intimidation and threat from the NPA Terrorist. We urge the CNT to stop using violence as it will not solve our problems”.

Likewise, BGen Licudine offered his sympathies to the dead NPAs and ensures that the cadavers will be turned over to the families once it will be identified for decent and proper burial. However, he stressed that the tragic fate of the dead NPAs was a reminder of the futility of the armed struggle which the communist terrorist group is espousing and placing the lives of innocent youths and the masses who were deceived and exploited, to extreme danger during skirmishes.

“We reiterate our call to the remaining members of the NPA to voluntarily surrender and heed the call of peace. We want to assure the CNTs that our troops will be relentless in pursuing them, there is no other way for them but to lay down their arms or continue hiding and be hunted. It’s their choice but we insist that they follow the path of peace for the sake of their families and for the people who longed to live normal lives in peace”, BGen Licudine said. No casualty on the government side and
troops are still on pursuit operations.

[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/3-npas-killed-4-firearms-seized-in-agusan-sur-clash/

Tagalog News: Pamamahagi ng rice assistance sa mga decommissioned MILF combatant nagsimula na

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 16, 2021): Tagalog News: Pamamahagi ng rice assistance sa mga decommissioned MILF combatant nagsimula na (By PIA Cotabato City)

LUNGSOD NG COTABATO, Peb. 16 (PIA)-- Nagsimula nang mamahagi ng rice assistance ang pamahalaang nasyunal, sa pamamagitan ng Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), Bangsamoro Government, Task Force for the Decommissioned Combatants and their Communities (TFDCC), at United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), sa mga decommissioned na Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatant.

Sa unang batch ng pamamahagi kamakailan, abot sa 106 na decommissioned MILF combatants ang nakatanggap ng ayuda sa ginanap na seremonya sa Camp Darapanan sa Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao. Nabatid na ang tulong ay bahagi ng decommissioning package.

Samantala, nilinaw ni OPAPP Undersecretary David Diciano ang ilan sa mga isyu na may kaugnayan sa normalization package. Aniya, ang isang milyong pisong package ay hindi ibibigay ng buong cash, sa halip ay hahatiin ito sa iba’t-ibang components tulad ng scholarship, training, at iba pang socio-economic assistance. Ito naman ay bukod pa sa P100,000 cash na ibinigay sa bawat combatant.

Nabatid na nasa kabuuang 40,000 dating MILF combatants ang nakatakdang ma-decommission hanggang makumpleto ang normalization process.

Sa ngayon,12,000 MILF combatants o 30 porsyento na ang na-decommission sa second phase sa ilalim ng Annex on Normalization of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). (LTBolongon-PIA Cotabato City/With reports from BIO-BARMM).

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1066956

CNT member returns to the fold of government in Sarangani

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 16, 2021): CNT member returns to the fold of government in Sarangani (By DPAO-6ID, PA)

KIAMBA, Sarangani, Feb. 16– In the peace effort campaign of the Joint Task Force Central (JTFC), another Communist NPA terrorist surrendered to government troops in Sarangani Province on February 9, 2021.

According to 38th Infantry Battalion commanding officer, Lt. Col. Edgardo Vilchez Jr., a 32-year old man-former extremist turned himself to Army and PNP troops in Sitio Malayo, Brgy. Maligang, Kiamba, Sarangani Province. He was a CNT (Communist-NPA-Terrorirst) member under the Platoon Cherry Mobile, Guerilla Front Daguma, FSMR and was deceived by their terrorist leader alias Yoyo.

“The former terrorist member was long before deceived by the ideology of the Communist Terrorist Group but decided to return to the folds of government. Currently he is on lie-low status prior to his surrender and desires to have a peaceful normal life. He will be accorded with the government’s E-CLIP program to help him go back to the mainstream society,” said LTC Vilchez Jr.

Col. Eduardo Gubat, 603rd Infantry Brigade Commander lauded the 38IB troops in their peace building efforts. “During his withdrawal from the communist party, he turned over one Carbine Rifle, two magazines with four rounds of ammunitions, one Caliber .45 Pistol, one magazine with seven rounds of ammunitions, and a hand grenade.”

Meanwhile, Major General Juvymax R. Uy, 6th Infantry Division and JTFC Commander said that the surrender of former CNT member was due to the relentless Focus Military Operations, their confidence on the government security forces, and the delivery of government services to their communities.

“The peace initiative of 38IB is proven effective thus gained the support of the local government unit, the communities and the security forces in the area.” Maj. Gen. Uy added. (DPAO-6ID, PA)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1066959

Iligan opens halfway house for former rebels

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 16, 2021): Iligan opens halfway house for former rebels (By Claire R. Gigje)

ILIGAN CITY, Feb 15 (PIA) - The Iligan City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) inaugurated a halfway house for former rebels Monday, February 15.

Constructed by the 554th Engineer Battalion, the halfway house, tagged as Happy Home, is located at the former National Steel Corporation (NSC) Compound, Brgy. Suarez, this city.

City Councilor Ian Uy, chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Peace and Order and Safety, said this will serve as a temporary shelter to former rebels while their benefits under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) are being processed.

“Ang halfway house or Happy Home temporaryo nilang pagapuy-an samtang giproseso pa ilang mga papeles. Diri pud pagahimuon ang pagtreat sa radicalization nila ug pagatudluan sa ilang livelihoods aron pagbalik nila sa tagsa-tagsa nila nga komunidad, mahimo silang produktibo,” said Uy.

[The halfway house or happy home will be their temporary shelter while their papers are processed. It will be here where their radicalization will be treated and they will be taught with their livelihoods so that when they return to their own community, they will be productive.

Col. Irineo Sebastian, commander of the 55th Engineer Brigade of the Philippine Army, turns over the symbolic key of the Happy Home halfway house for former rebels to Iligan City Mayor Celso Regencia. Assisting Sebastian is LtCol Hassan Badar, commanding officer of the 554th Engineer Battalion, the army unit responsible for the construction of the halfway house. (Angelo Dologmandin/ PIA-ICIC)

Iligan City Mayor Celso Regencia bared that following this transitory house, a DILG-funded shelter will be constructed in Brgy. Bonbonon at the end of the year or 1st quarter next year to stably house the former rebels.

“Ang atong area ani nga sa kinabag-an na mao ang area sa Brgy. Bonbonon diin ang magfunding sa building mao ang DILG. Hopefully, by the end of this year or the 1st quarter of next year, maimplementar na pud ni para mapadak-an nato ang kaning area aron atoang ma-house ang atong mga FR o former rebels nga ania karon diri sa syudad sa Iligan,” he said.

[Our area really is in Brgy. Bonbonon wherein the funding for the building will be shouldered by the DILG. Hopefully, by the end of this year or the 1st quarter next year, this will be implemented already to widen the area to house the FRs or former rebels who are here in the city of Iligan.]

Regencia also cited that the realization of the halfway houses and assistance to former rebels was through the unified efforts of different government agencies such as the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and Philippine National Police (PNP).

Apart from the halfway house, former rebels also received financial assistance from the DILG and DSWD.

TESDA also provided them with skills training on driving and wielding.

Meanwhile, former rebels expressed gratitude for welcoming them back as they return to the hands of the government.

“Dako nakong pasalamat kay tarong kaayo akong paglakaw karon kay naa ko sa sabakan sa balaod sa gobyerno. Nadawat namo ang ilang giingon nila nga tabang sa amoa,” alias Rolly, once a rebel for four (4) years, stated.

[I am very grateful that I am walking correctly right now because I am already in the hands of the government. We received what they said was their help for us.]

They also encouraged their comrades who are still in the mountains to return to the fold of the law and that it is never too late to turn once again to the government.

“Ang akong ipabati, walay hadlok-hadlok, kita mag-anam anam na og baba sa sabakan sa gobyerno kung kita adunay panlantaw sa atong mga kaigsuonan, kabatan-onan ug ginikanan… Akong ginahangyo sa mga kaubanan nako nga kung naa pay mga nagpahipi karon nga magduol-duol sa atoa, ato silang ingnon nga muanha sa sabakan sa gobyerno kay anaa dinhi ang insakto nga kalambuan,” alias Toto called on.

[I want to express, with no cowardice, let us slowly go down to the care of the government if we thinking for our sisters and brothers, youth and parents… I am requesting my comrades that if some are silently reaching out to us, let us tell them to go to the care of the government because the right development is there.] (CRG/ PIA-ICIC)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1066911

PCOO chief commends RTF-ELCAC for rescuing child-warrior

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 16, 2021): PCOO chief commends RTF-ELCAC for rescuing child-warrior (By Gideon C. Corgue)

PAGADIAN CITY, Feb 16 (PIA) —The chief of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) praised the success of the Regional Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ECAC) especially the surrender of the 14-year-old boy who is a member of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG).

At a press conference held at the mayor's office on Monday, Secretary Jose Ruperto Martin Andanar thanked the Situational Awareness Knowledge Management (SAKM) Cluster of the Regional Task Force to End Local Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC-9) with members of the Midsalip Municipal Task Force-ELCAC for successfully negotiating the surrender of Rudy Sagino, aka Sony who lives in Sitio Pisyu, Barangay Balonay in Midsalip town and is a member of the Main Regional Guerilla Unit- Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (MRGU-WMRPC).

During his surrender, Sagino, who is also a member of the Indigenous People (IP), revealed that he was encouraged to join the NPA units in the mountains, was instructed to carry a pistol, serve as a cook and errand in the camp of the rebels.

“As Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) Region 10, I commend the achievement of ELCAC which enabled the surrender of the warrior child Rudy Sagino. This is what proves that there really are child warriors on the ground,” Andanar said.

Andanar felt very sorry for the child's condition because the lives of the child warriors were very wasted if they remained in the hinterlands.

Andanar also announced that there are many policies created and implemented by President Rodrigo Duterte that provide great help to the poor people such as free education, free medicine, providing healthcare program for the poor, construction of Malasakit Center for the sick, and many others.

"The success of the RTF has served as an inspiration not only in region 9 but throughout the country," Andar concluded.

Andanar along with Director General Ramon Cualoping III of the Philippine Information Agency visited Pagadian to support PIA's advocacy campaign called 'Explain, Explain, Explain' to enlighten the people on important government programs especially the roll out the COVID-19 vaccination program.

(RVC/GCC/PIA9-Zamboanga del Sur)

Generals in Cabinet among PMA Cavalier awardees 2021

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 14, 2021): Generals in Cabinet among PMA Cavalier awardees 2021 (By Ileana Cortes)

CEBU CITY, Feb. 13 (PIA) -- The country's defense chief and three Cabinet members who are at the forefront of managing the COVID-19 health crisis are among the 21 cavalier awardees of the two-day Philippine Military Academy (PMA) alumni homecoming this year.

Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana, Social Welfare Sec. Rolando Bautista, Interior and Local Governement Sec. Eduardo Año, and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Sec. Carlito Galvez Jr., who is also the National Task Force Against COVID-19 Chief Implementer and vaccine czar, are at the top of the list for outstanding achievements in public administration.

Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana is an Outstanding Achievement awardee.

Lorenzana is the oldest retired general in Pres. Rodrigo Duterte’s Cabinet and is a member of PMA Class of 1973.

Galvez and Bautista graduated in 1985, while Año belongs to PMA Class of 1983.

Also in the list of awardees are Lingayen town, Pangasinan Mayor Leopoldo Bataoil of PMA Class of 1976, and retired Army chief Jaime delos Santos, who served as PMA superintendent (Class 1969).

All 21 cavaliers received their awards on Feb. 13 in a program led by the guest of honor, Supreme Court Chief Justice Diosdado Peralta.

Senate Pres. Vicente "Tito" Sotto III was also a key speaker at the alumni assembly on Friday.

The PMA alumni homecoming in Fort del Pilar, Baguio City proceeded this year on Feb. 12-13 with limited in-person participants; only one representative from each class physically attending.

Others will attend via video conferencing to strictly observe physical distancing and minimum health and safety protocols. (idc/PIA-7)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1066810

Roxas City-based people's groups denounce communists

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 16, 2021): Roxas City-based people's groups denounce communists (By Alex Lumaque)

ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Feb. 16 (PIA) – Some Roxas City – based people's groups staged an indignation rally against the Communist Party of the Philippines - News People's Army - National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), Feb. 12, at the People’s Park in Brgy. Baybay, here.

In a simple program, the members of the Hugpong Farmers’ Association, Baybay Fisherfolks Association, Baybay Women’s as well as Youth Organizations and Lawis Fishcage Association coming from the three barangays in the city condemned the CPP-NPA-NDF and their evil doings.

They likewise took an oath of allegiance to the government and promised to support the government initiatives and programs.



“I congratulate the people of Roxas City especially those from the three barangays for denouncing the Communist Terrorist Group in their areas. Let us work hand in hand to end insurgency for our family and for our children’s future,” said 301st Infantry (Bayanihan) Brigade commander Brig. Gen. Marion R. Sison.

During the activity, the participants carried placards and burned the NPA flag to show that there is no room for the communist-terrorist group in their communities.

The peace initiative was organized by the 141st Civil Military Operations Enabler Company of the 301st Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army in view of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order No. 70 which institutionalizes the whole-of-nation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace by ending the local communist armed conflict. (JBG/AAL/Story and photo from Capt. Hazel Joy Durotan/CMO-301Brigade)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1066973

Tagalog News: Pang-aabuso at pananakot ng rebeldeng CPP-NPA, pinatunayan ng mga residente sa isinagawang peace rally

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 15, 2021): Tagalog News: Pang-aabuso at pananakot ng rebeldeng CPP-NPA, pinatunayan ng mga residente sa isinagawang peace rally (By Mark Djeron C. Tumabao)

Mahigit 300 na mga residente ng barangay Bural ang dumalo sa nasabing peace rally upang ipakita na ang mga miyembro ng rebeldeng CPP-NPA na wala silang lugar sa kanilang barangay.

LAL-LO, Cagayan, Peb. 13 (PIA) -- Nagkaroon ng pagkakataon ang mga residente ng Barangay Bural sa Zinundungan Valley sa bayan ng Rizal na mailabas ang kanilang mga hinaing dahil sa mga pang-aabuso at pananakot na ginagawa sa kanila ng mga teroristang Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

Mahigit 300 na mga residente na pinangunahan ni Barangay Captain Evelyn Baloran ang dumalo sa nasabing peace rally upang ipakita na ang mga miyembro ng rebeldeng CPP-NPA na wala silang lugar sa kanilang barangay.

Ayon kay Ginang Venancia Gayagos, nawalan siya ng anak dahil sa panlilinlang ng mga rebeldeng CPP-NPA.

“Sa mga rebeldeng NPA, ibalik niyo ang anak ko! Wala na kayong ginawa kundi sumira ng kinabukasan ng mga kabataan na tinuturuan niyo ng walang katuturan at puro kasinungalingan. Ibalik ninyo ang aking anak! Hindi niyo alam kung gaano kasakit mawalan ng anak,” aniya.

Bukod sa anak ni Gayagos, isang katutubong agta ang nawawala na sumampa rin sa rebeldeng CPP-NPA.

Sabay-sabay din na nanumpa ng kanilang katapatan (Oath of Allegiance) ang mga residente sa gobyerno na pagpapatunay na tuluyan na nilang itakwil ang CPP NPA sa kanilang lugar kasunod ng kanilang ginawang pagsunog sa bandila ng teroristang CPP-NPA-NDF tanda ng kanilang pagtalikod at pagtatakwil sa rebeldeng grupo.

Samantala, sa naging mensahe naman ni Lt. Col Angelo Saguiguit, commanding officer ng 17th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, hangad ng kasundaluhan ang kaligtasan at kapakanan ng mga residente lalo na ng mga kabataan sa naturang lugar.

“Malaking tulong ang naging inisyatiba ng mga residente sa Barangay Bural upang masugpo ang mga teroristang CPP-NPA at maprotektahan pang lalo ang mga kabataan. Tulong-tulong tayong sagipin ang mga kabataan sa mga panlilinlang ng teroristang CPP-NPA. Kayo na rin mismo ang nakapagpatunay na walang magandang maidudulot ang pag-anib at pagsuporta sa mga rebeldeng CPP-NPA,” Dagdag ni Saguiguit.

Siniguro rin ng commanding officer na kabalikat ng mga residente ang hanay ng 17IB sa mga programa at aktibidad upang maisulong ang kapayapaan at kaunlaran hindi lamang sa bayan ng Rizal kundi sa kanilang buong nasasakupang mga lugar. (MDCT/PIA-2)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1066851

Country’s newly - acquired modern warship arrived in NL

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 15, 2021): Country’s newly - acquired modern warship arrived in NL (By Freddie G. Lazaro)

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Feb. 13 (PIA) - - A newly – acquired modern warship by the administration of President Rodrigo R. Duterte was successfully arrived in the waters of the Northern Luzon from South Korea to boost the capability of the naval forces in protecting the Philippine archipelago.

Lieutenant Jaypee Abuan, the spokesperson of the Naval Forces Northern Luzon (NFNL), said the Barko Republika Pilipinas (BRP) Jose Rizal FF150 welcomed the BRP Antonio Luna FF151 - the latest and newest addition to the Philippine Navy’s surface asset, in the vicinity of Capones Island, Zambales on February 9, 2021.

Once commissioned, the BRP Antonio Luna is the second missile-guided frigate of the Philippine Navy and next to the BRP Jose Rizal.

Both missile-guided frigates were acquired by President Duterte’s administration as part of the ongoing modernization program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

The newly-acquired BRP Antonio Luna (FF151) with the BRP Jose Rizal (FF150) executes its first maneuvering exercises at the West Philippine Sea upon its arrival in the country’s maritime territory. The two frigates are acquired by the administration of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to boost the capability of the Philippine Navy. (Courtesy photo from the NFNL)

“The BRP Antonio Luna is set to be commissioned into service in the Philippine Navy after the mandatory quarantine of all its crews headed by Navy Captain Charles Merric A. Villanueva, a seasoned surface warfare officer,” said Abuan.

The warship is presently anchor in the Subic Bay in Zambales for the quarantine of its crews.

The BRP Antonio Luna left Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea on February 5 for its much-awaited maiden voyage to the Philippines.

A simple send-off ceremony was conducted on its departure which was graced by the Philippine Defense and Armed Forces Attache (DAFA) to the Republic of Korea (ROK).

After 2 days of the voyage, FF151 finally entered the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) after crossing the borders of the Philippines and Taiwan, near Mavulis Island, on February 7.

As a time-honored maritime tradition, BRP Jose Rizal, the first missile-guided frigate of the Philippine Navy, and 3 FA50PH fighters of the Philippine Air Force conducted a meeting procedure to BRP Antonio Luna in the vicinity of Capones Island, Zambales on February 9 to formally welcome the newly acquired frigate into the maritime nation’s territory.

The crews of the BRP Jose Rizal (FF150) welcome the arrival of the newly-acquired BRP Antonio Luna (FF151) in the waters of the Northern Frontier. The modern frigate is acquired by the administration of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte as part of the continuing modernization program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (Courtesy photo from the NFNL)

The FF150 and 3 FA50PH fighters rendered passing exercise (PASSEX) or passing honors, a navy’s custom and tradition to honor transiting vessels, and fly-by simultaneously to commemorate the FF151’s arrival in the Philippine waters.

After the meeting procedure, the two frigates executed their first maneuvering exercises (MANNEX) together.

Likewise, to capture this important milestone in the PN and AFP’s history, the Augusta Westland (AW) 159 Wildcat Naval Helicopter conducted a photo exercise (PHOTOEX) while the two missile-guided frigates were conducting various maneuvers at sea.

The steel cutting ceremony of the BRP Antonio Luna was held on September 17, 2018, in HHI's shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea while the keel-laying ceremony was held on May 23, 2019.

The arrival of FF151 is one month ahead of the expected date of delivery on March 6, 2021.

The delivery was set earlier after the successful conduct of harbor and sea trial and actual inspection of the joint DND and PN inspection team at HHI shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea on January 25 to 29, 2021.

On top of that, a series of harbor and sea trials were also conducted by Philippine Navy (PN)'s Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee (TIAC) from September to December last year which all showed satisfactory results.

Meanwhile, the BRP Jose Rizal is under the operational control of the Naval Forces Northern Luzon (NFNL) under the command of Commodore Caesar Bernard N. Valencia during the meeting procedures of the frigates. (JCR/VHS/FGL, PIA 1 with reports from the NFNL)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1066802

3 NPA rebels killed, firearms seized in Agusan Sur skirmish

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 16, 2021): 3 NPA rebels killed, firearms seized in Agusan Sur skirmish (By Alexander Lopez)

RECOVERED FIREARMS. Troops under the Army's 26th Infantry Battalion recover firearms, ammunition, and explosives following a clash with the communist New People’s Army in Barangay Zillovia, Talacogon, Agusan del Sur, on Monday (Feb. 15, 2021). Three rebels were killed during the encounter. (Photo courtesy of 402Bde)

Three suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were killed in an encounter with government troops in the Agusan del Sur town of Talacogon, an official said Tuesday.

Maj. Francisco P. Garello, civil-military operations (CMO) officer of the Army's 402nd Infantry Brigade (402Bde), said Monday's five-minute clash in Barangay Zillovia, Talacogon, resulted in the seizure of high-power firearms, explosives, and ammunition by government troops under the Army's 26th Infantry Battalion.

“The troops from 26IB under the operational control of 402Bde clashed against more or less seven CPP-NPA Terrorist believed to be members of Guerilla Front 88 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC),” Garello said.

CPP stands for the Communist Party of the Philippines which, along with the NPA, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

Garello said authorities were still trying to determine the identities of the slain rebels.

Brig. Gen. Maurito L. Licudine, 402Bde commander, denounced the NPA for "pestering the communities in the area."

“This victory is for the people who for the longest time wanted to live without the intimidation and threat from the NPA terrorists. We urge the CNT (Communist NPA Terrorist) to stop using violence as it will not solve our problems,” Licudine said.

He also offered sympathies to the families of the NPA rebels killed during the skirmish and assured that the remains of their loved ones would be turned over properly

“We want to assure the CNTs that our troops will be relentless in pursuing them, there is no other way for them but to lay down their arms or continue hiding and be hunted. It’s their choice but we insist that they follow the path of peace for the sake of their families and for the people who longed to live normal lives in peace,” Licudine said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1130765

Gov’t troops seize high-powered firearms in Bicol

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 16, 2021): Gov’t troops seize high-powered firearms in Bicol (By Connie Calipay)

SEIZED. The high-powered firearms and other supplies seized by government troops in an encounter with communist terrorist group members in Mobo, Masbate on Tuesday (Feb.16, 2021). The operation was conducted after authorities received a tip from villagers about the presence of rebels in the area. (Photo courtesy of 9ID, Philippine Army)

At least four high-powered firearms were seized by government troops on Tuesday in an operation against the communist terrorist group (CTG) in Bicol.

Capt. John Paul Belleza, the 9th Infantry Division spokesperson, said joint elements from the 2nd Infantry Battalion (2IB) and police received a tip from residents of Barangay Sta. Maria in Mobo, Masbate about the presence of CTG members in the area, prompting the troops to conduct a security operation.

The soldiers encountered at least 15 New People's Army (NPA) members around 6 a.m.

“Gunfight lasted for 15 minutes before the enemies withdrew. Four M-16 rifles were captured from the encounter site,” Belleza said.

Lt. Col. Siegfried Felipe Awichen, battalion commander of 2IB, thanked the residents who reported about the presence of the rebels, leading to the successful operation.

In another recent military operation in Sorsogon, elements of the 22nd Infantry Battalion (22IB) also received information about an alleged CTG hideout in Barangay Calpi in Bulan town.

The troops immediately verified the information and seized an M-16 rifle, two bandoliers, and other CTG supplies inside a nipa hut.

Belleza said Lt. Col. Nelson Mico, battalion commander of 22IB, directed his troops to continue scouring the area to preempt any unlawful activities the CTG is planning to carry out.

The Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB) under Maj. Gen. Henry Robinson Jr., in a statement, lauded the troops for the relentless extensive operations in Bicol that have caused major setbacks on the CTG.

"These scores speak about our ever-persistent fight against communist insurgency… If you will surrender a firearm, you will receive a firearm remuneration which you can use to start a new life. Aside from that, you will receive cash, livelihood, medical and educational assistance. However, the most important benefit of returning to the folds of the law is the attainment of our goal to make Bicol a more peaceful and progressive region," Robinson said.

Last Feb. 1, four CTG members were killed, one was apprehended and 10 high-powered firearms were seized in an armed encounter in Garchitorena, Camarines Sur.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1130824

2 new Navy warships play 'big role' in PH naval diplomacy

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 16, 2021): 2 new Navy warships play 'big role' in PH naval diplomacy (By Priam Nepomuceno)

BRP Jose Rizal (Photo courtesy of Philippine Navy)

The Philippine Navy's two newly-acquired guided missile frigates play a vital role in naval diplomacy and in promoting the country, apart from helping protect its vast waters, Navy chief Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said Tuesday.

"They will also play a big role in naval diplomacy to promote our country and showcase our strength by not only participating in multi-lateral maritime training activities, but also conducting port visits in selected key areas of our allied navies," Bacordo said.

The BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) and BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) will be deployed only to specific missions as ordered by the Armed Forces of the Philippines' top leadership, he added.

"They will still conduct sovereignty patrols and show-the-flag missions covering the whole archipelago with focus on external defense. They will participate in naval exercises here and abroad in order to hone the skills of her crew in naval warfighting," he said.

The frigates are capable of surface, sub-surface, air, and electronic warfare using state-of-the-art electronic sensors, long-range missiles, acoustic guided torpedoes, and an embarked anti-submarine helicopter.

The prospective BRP Antonio Luna left Ulsan, South Korea last Feb. 5 and arrived off Capones Island, Zambales waters last Feb. 9.

The contract for the two ships was placed at PHP16 billion, with another PHP2 billion for weapon systems and munitions.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1130758

Faustino assumes as PH Army chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 16, 2021): Faustino assumes as PH Army chief (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Philippine Army commander, Lt. Gen. Jose Faustino Jr., (File photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

The coronavirus pandemic will not weaken the Philippine Army's (PA) resolve in ensuring the safety of the Filipino people against lawless elements, its new chief said on Tuesday.

"It (Covid-19) has not stopped us from protecting them from unscrupulous people’s evil intentions of using the pandemic to sow fear and to threaten the lives of rural and indigenous communities to enlist their support for terroristic means or armed struggle. We will meet these terrorists head-on and quell their armed struggle with their human and material resources," PA commander, Lt. Gen. Jose Faustino Jr., said in his assumption speech during the change-of-command ceremony at the PA headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City broadcast via Facebook Live.

Faustino also assured the public that the Philippines will continue to live in an atmosphere of peace and development under his watch as PA commander.

"Continuity and dedication to our core values is a measure that must be visible in every soldier most especially throughout this pandemic that has brought even the world’s greatest economies down. Indeed we have been called upon to assist in a different kind of war. Something none of us anticipated or even thought possible during our lifetime," he said.

Faustino added that courage, understanding, and a 'never-say-die' attitude are needed at times like this especially when the country is gearing for the arrival of the Covid-19 vaccines.

"As the country gears up for the vaccine arrival logistical requirements, actual rollout, and inoculation proper at proposed sites which would require soldiers mobilized nationwide in a whole-of-nation approach to address this global health and economic crisis. The PA accounts for the biggest pool of available trained, highly-motivated, mobile, disciplined, resourceful, ready-to-deploy officers and enlisted men and women with the complete skill sets to choose from," he said. "In the coming months this entire skillset may be called upon and I have no doubt that the PA will rise to the challenge as it strives to achieve its vision of being a World-Class Army that is a Source of National Pride."

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, meanwhile, said he is confident that Faustino would exhibit exemplary leadership in defeating old and new security threats.

"On this note let me thank Lt., Gen. Faustino, for his outstanding tour of duty and congratulate him for proving himself most deserving to lead the Army. As a word of advice for Gen. Faustino, remember that this role is far different from the ones you have held before, your concern now goes beyond operations since you are to manage the more than 100,000-strong PA. Your leadership is crucial in ensuring that the organization is responsive not only to the multi-faceted challenges it is currently facing but also proactive to address emerging threats as well," Lorenzana said.

Faustino replaced Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana who formally assumed as Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief last February 4.

Before being appointed to the PA's helm, Faustino, a member of PMA Class of 1988 commanded several units including the 7th Scout Ranger Company, 35th Infantry Battalion, and the 501st Infantry Brigade.

He also held key positions such as the chief-of-staff of the PA and commandant of the PMA before becoming the commander of the 10th Infantry Division and head of the Eastern Mindanao Command.

"Amidst these challenges, you must be an (epitome) of well-proportioned strength and compassion to serve as an inspiration to our troops. This is a tall order indeed as we wish you all the best and pray for your success," Lorenzana told Faustino.
He also lauded the PA for being a reliable force in maintaining peace and providing an atmosphere for sustainable development in the country.

"While the prevailing Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic added to the already heavy load of the Army, it nonetheless rose to the occasion, it ably performed its conventional roles in fighting insurgency and terrorism while leading humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations as well as support to law enforcement functions. thanks to the strong and dynamic leadership that set a clear direction for the organization and managed capacity and capability, capability upgrades that enhanced the army's ability to perform its multifarious duties," Lorenzana added.

Lorenzana also thanked the two military officials' families for their support.

"Before I end let me convey my gratitude to your families, especially Mrs. Sobejana and Mrs.. Faustino for their understanding, the support, and care for their husbands and children so that they can serve so that their husband can serve the country well. The successes are yours too because the strong support system you provide is indispensable to the success of their military career," he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1130800

Palace floats possibility of reviewing MDT, EDCA anew

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 16, 2021): Palace floats possibility of reviewing MDT, EDCA anew (By Azer Parrocha)

Malacañang on Tuesday floated anew the possibility of reviewing the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) and the 2014 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) between the Philippines and the United States (US), stressing that both failed to prevent the entry of Chinese forces in disputed territories in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

In a press briefing from Davao City, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said US troops did not intervene in maritime disputes despite the MDT it signed with the Philippines.

He was specifically referring to how the country lost the Mischief Reef (Panganiban Reef) in 1995 and Scarborough Shoal in 2012 and how China continues to build artificial islands in disputed territories despite the existing MDT.

“Sa akin po, panahon na talaga dapat pag-isipan kung talagang meron ba tayong nakikita diyan sa Mutual Defense Treaty dahil at least tatlong beses na nagkaroon ng dahilan para sila’y tulungan tayo, hindi naman tayo natulungan (I think it’s really time to rethink whether we need the Mutual Defense Treaty because there were three instances where the US could help us but didn’t),” he said.

To prevent the US from converting Subic into a military base as earlier bared by Duterte, Roque also floated the need to review the EDCA, apart from terminating the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA).

Duterte formally notified the US about its intent to revoke the VFA in February 2020.

“Sa tingin ko po, kung gusto na matigil ito ng ating Presidente, kinakailangan balikan muli at pagisipan niya kung bukod sa VFA e dapat na rin tayo magbitiw dito sa tinatawag na EDCA dahil ‘yan po talaga ngayon ang legal na basehan para manatili dito sa ating bayan ang kasundaluhan at equipment ng mga Amerikano (I think that if the President wants to stop this from happening, there is a need to review and rethink not just the VFA, but also the EDCA because that is the legal basis for the presence of US troops and equipment in our country),” he added.

However, Roque clarified that Duterte himself has not yet made any indication to scrap the MDT and EDCA while seeking “compensation" from the US government for utilizing the country's military bases.

“Wala namang indication si Presidente (The President has not made any indication) but he’s just saying na yan ang realidad ngayon (that’s the reality now) and that’s the context by which he was demanding for payment because our military bases are really being utilized by the Americans for prepositioning their troops and equipment,” he said.

Currently, he said there have not been any moves from the US government to offer compensation to extend the validity of the VFA.

“If they ask for what our demand is they will give it. But right now I think it’s premature because there’s no offer, there’s no inquiry so far,” he said.

He said the compensation being sought by Duterte is “generic”. “What’s important is the President said they have to pay,” Roque said.

Meanwhile, Roque brushed aside the challenge made by former Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario to seek PHP230 billion worth of damages from China for its massive destruction of the WPS instead of demanding payment from the US.

“Itong mga ginawa ng Tsina ay nangyari po lahat ‘yan sa administrasyon ng Pangulong Aquino at kung meron pong dapat pananagutan sana talagang gumawa po ng hakbang yung gobyerno ni Presidente Aquino nung sila’y nakaupo pa para magkaroon ng katarungan ang ating bayan (What China is doing now happened during the administration of President Aquino and if there is anyone who should be held accountable, I wish the former administration did something to seek justice for our country),” he said.

Del Rosario, who led the Philippines' arbitral tribunal victory against China in 2016, described Duterte's remarks seeking payment from the US as "unfortunate".

"It is incomprehensible that when partners help each other against a common enemy, one party is asking his partner to pay. This is the gist of the President’s unfortunate position on the VFA. On the other hand, China owes Filipinos more than PHP230 billion in damages for undertaking the most devastating marine destruction in the West Philippine Sea, which will eventually cause a food crisis among Filipinos in the near future. In this case, when will President Duterte demand China to pay?" he said.

Signed in 1998, the VFA allows American forces to enter the Philippines without passport and visa to allow them to participate in joint military drills in the host country.

The MDT seeks to step up the defense and security cooperation between the US and Philippine troops, while EDCA aims to enhance military ties in maritime security and domain.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1130825

Duterte grants amnesty to communist, Moro rebels

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 16, 2021): Duterte grants amnesty to communist, Moro rebels (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte (File photo)

President Rodrigo Duterte has signed four proclamations granting amnesty to members of the communist movement, the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), and the Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Mangagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP-RPA-ABB).

Duterte on Feb. 5 signed Proclamations 1090, 1091, 1092, and 1093 to grant amnesty to members of the said groups who have committed crimes in pursuit of their political beliefs.

Palace released the copy of the proclamations, which shall take effect upon concurrence by a majority of all the members of Congress, on Tuesday.

In his proclamations, Duterte said the government’s peace policy is to nurture a climate conducive for peace, as well as to implement programs for reconciliation and reintegration of rebels into mainstream society.

“There is a need for the government to act on former combatants request for the grant of amnesty so that they may live in peace in the pursuit of productive endeavors without prejudice to any legal arrangement that may result from a negotiated settlement which the government is pursuing with the various rebel and insurgent groups,” the proclamations read.

According to the presidential proclamations, the grant of amnesty in favor of the former rebels will “promote an atmosphere conducive to the attainment of a just, comprehensive, and enduring equanimity.”

Granting amnesty is also in line with the government’s call for peace, unity, and reconciliation to bring closure to past enmity, rancor, and bitterness that has stymied lasting amity among Filipinos, the proclamations said.

The amnesty will not be granted to those who have been proscribed or changed under the Human Security Act of 2007 or Republic Act (RA) 9372 or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 or RA 11479.

The proclamations note that the crimes committed in pursuit of a political belief include “acts and omissions performed or undertaken as part of a plan, program of action or strategy decided by the rebel leadership to overthrow and replace the National Government, any of its political subdivisions, or duly constituted authority, with or without the use of arms.”

The amnesty granted shall not cover kidnap for ransom, massacre, rape, terrorism, and other crimes committed against chastity as defined in the amended Revised Penal Code, crimes committed for personal ends, violation of Comprehensive Dangerous Act of 2002 or RA 9165, and grave violations of the Geneva Convention of 1949.

Other crimes not covered by Duterte’s amnesty are those identified by the United Nations that can never be amnestied such as genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, torture, enforced disappearances, and other gross violations of human rights.

Members of the communist group, MNLF, MILF, and RPMP-RPA-ABB may apply for amnesty, provided that they commit the crime before the issuance of the proclamations.

A person who has been granted amnesty under previous amnesty proclamations is no longer qualified to apply for Duterte’s amnesty.

Three days after the filing of the proclamations, Duterte formed the National Amnesty Commission that will process applications for amnesty of former rebels and determine whether the applicants are eligible.

Applications for the grant of amnesty shall be filed under oath with the Amnesty commission within one year from the effectivity of the proclamations.

If granted amnesty, former rebels will be able to restore their civil or political rights suspended or lost by virtue of criminal conviction, based on the proclamations.

The amnesty will also extinguish any criminal liability for acts committed in pursuit of political beliefs, without prejudice to the grantee’s civil liability for injuries or damages caused to private persons whose right to be indemnified is fully recognized.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1130859

PH has 'right to expect' lethal parity measures in MDT: Locsin

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 16, 2021): PH has 'right to expect' lethal parity measures in MDT: Locsin (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

MANILA – Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. on Tuesday underscored that Manila has a right to "expect some measure of lethal parity" in its Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with the United States.

Citing history, Locsin said it was assumed that the Philippines could hold up its end of the bargain of mutual defense when the MDT was established in 1951.

"US came WW2 (World War II) -- the best armed to the present. We came ruins worse than Warsaw. So we had and have a right to expect some measure of lethal parity in the mutual defense," he said.



The MDT is triggered in the event of an armed attack on the "metropolitan territory" of the United States or the Philippines, including on the island territories under its jurisdiction in the Pacific or on its armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft.

READ: Palace floats possibility of reviewing MDT, EDCA anew

Malacanang earlier floated the possibility of reviewing the MDT, including the 2014 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), noting both agreements' failure to prevent the entry of Chinese forces in disputed territories in the West Philippine Sea.

Locsin's statement also came after President Rodrigo Duterte demanded Washington to pay if it wants the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) to stay.

The government formally terminated the VFA, a US-Philippines deal that exempts American troops from passport and visa regulations upon entry and departure from the Philippines, in Feb. 2020.

The abrogation was then suspended for a period of six months twice, the second one of which was announced last Nov. 2020.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said there is no indication yet that the US government wants to offer compensation to extend the validity of the VFA.

“If they ask for what our demand is they will give it. But right now I think it’s premature because there’s no offer, there’s no inquiry so far,” he said in a virtual briefing on Tuesday.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1130864