Kalinaw News: Mahigit 100 na mga miyembro ng SPL at MB kumalas sa rebeldeng CPP-NPA

From Kalinaw News (Feb 20, 2021): Mahigit 100 na mga miyembro ng SPL at MB kumalas sa rebeldeng CPP-NPA



CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela- Sabay sabay na nagbalik loob sa pamahalaan ang nasa 150 na mga miyembro ng Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) sa Cagayan ngayong ika-19 ng Pebrero 2021. Iniharap sa mga mamamahayag ang mga nagbalik loob sa isinagawang pulong balitaan sa bayan ng Lal-lo, Cagayan.

52 sa mga ito ay mga miyembro ng Militia ng Bayan (MB) mula sa Barangay Masi, dalawa sa Barangay Bural, habang 18 naman ang mula sa Barangay San Juan, Rizal, Cagayan; 16 ang nanggaling sa Barangay Balagan, at 21 sa Barangay Calassitan, Sto. Niño. Kabilang din sa mga tumalikod sa teroristang Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) ay mula sa grupong Pambansang Katipunan ng Magbubukid (PKM) na mayroong 19 na kasapi, siyam mula sa grupong MAKIBAKA, at 13 mula sa KABATAANG MAKABAYAN. Bilang patunay ng kanilang pagbalik loob sa pamahalaan ay kanilang sinunog ang bandila ng teroristang CPP-NPA.

Nagkaisang nagbalik-loob sa pamahalaan ang mga dating miyembro ng CTG bunsod na rin ng pagsusumikap ng 501st Infantry Brigade sa tulong ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Cagayan at ng Kapulisan na mapaliwanagan ang mga mamamayan sa panlilinlang ng teroristang grupo. Personal din nilang nasaksihan at naranasan ang paghihirap mula sa kamay ng mga rebeldeng CPP-NPA. Anila, walang naitulong sa kanilang pamumuhay at pawang pagsasamantala at pabigat lamang ang mga CPP-NPA sa kanila.

Dahil dito, nanawagan si Ka Fred, isang katutubong Agta na kasama sa mga nagbalik loob mula sa Barangay San Juan, Rizal sa mga miyembro ng teroristang CPP-NPA na itigil na ang pananakot at paggamit sa kanila dahil nais na rin nilang makapamuhay ng maayos at malayo sa banta ng rebeldeng CPP-NPA. “Isardeng yo ti panabbubuteng yo kinyami ta awan mapasamak kadakami nga sibilyan. Agbalbaliw kayun ta kayat mi ti narang-as nga biag. Arakupin tayon ti gobyerno para iti pamilya tayo.”

Inihayag ni Col Steve E Crespillo Inf (GSC) PA, Commander ng 501st Infantry Brigade, na ang kanilang ginawang pagkalas sa teroristang CPP-NPA ay napakalaking tulong upang matugunan ang problema sa insurhensiya sa kanilang mga lugar. Aniya, tama ang naging desisyon ng mga residente dahil dito magsisimula ang pagbabago at pag-unlad ng kanilang komunidad. “Sa tulong ng mga programa ng pamahalaan, sama-sama nating isulong ang pag-unlad sa inyong mga lugar. Tulong-tulong tayo sa pagkamit ng ating pangarap na maayos na pamumuhay at itaboy ang teroristang CPP-NPA papalayo mula sa ang inyong lugar.”

Siniguro naman ni PBGen Crizaldo Nieves, Regional Director ng Police Regional Office 02 ang seguridad ng mga kumalas at kakalas pa sa teroristang CPP-NPA. “Ang pagbibigay ninyo ng tiwala sa pamahalaan ay tutumbasan namin ng nararapat na seguridad. Wala kayong dapat alalahanin dahil nakahanda ang kapulisan at kasundaluhan upang tiyakin ang inyong seguridad.”

Nagpakita naman ng suporta si Cagayan Governor Manuel N. Mamba sa hakbang ng mga residente upang mapalayas ang mga teroristang CPP-NPA sa kanilang barangay at sa buong probinsya ng Cagayan.

Samantala, sa ipinaabot naman na mensahe ni MGen Laurence E Mina PA, Commander ng 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, kanyang kinilala ang mga nagawa at patuloy na ginagawang mga programa ng 501st Infantry Brigade upang mapaliwanagan ang mga mamayan sa panlilinlang at pagsasamantalang ginagawa ng CPP-NPA sa mga mamamayan. Kinilala din ng heneral ang ginagawang pagpapaabot ng mga serbisyo ng pamahalaan sa mga residente ng Cagayan. Pinasalamatan din niya ang mga miyembro ng CTG na kumalas ng suporta sa teroristang CPP-NPA at nagbalik loob sa pamahalaan. “Ang pagbabalik loob ng mga dating taga suporta at miyembro ng teroristang grupo ay bunga sa masigasig na pagganap ng iba’t ibang ahensya ng pamahalaan kabilang ang lokal at panlalawigang pamahalaan at ng kasundaluhan at kapulisan upang tuluyang wakasan ang insurhensiya sa bansa. Hindi magsasawang magpapaliwanag sa mamamayan ang mga alagad ng pamahalaan upang maprotektahan ang taumbayan mula sa panlilinlang ng teroristang CPP-NPA.”

Dumalo rin sa pulong balitaan sina LtCol Angelo Saguiguit, Commanding Officer ng 17IB, LtCol Rowan Rimas, Commading Officer ng Marine Battalion Landing Team-10, PCol Ariel Quilang, Provincial Director ng Cagayan Police Provincial Office at Darwin Sacramed, Provincial Administrator ng Cagayan.

[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/mahigit-100-na-mga-miyembro-ng-spl-at-mb-kumalas-sa-rebeldeng-cpp-npa/

Kalinaw News: 8 former NPA couples marry in Zamboanga del Norte

From Kalinaw News (Feb 20, 2021): 8 former NPA couples marry in Zamboanga del Norte



Del Pilar, Piñan, Zamboanga del Norte – Eight (8) Former NPA Rebel (FR) who surrendered to 97th Infantry “Kalasaglahi” Battalion officially tied the knot and exchanged their vows in a civil wedding ceremony held at Municipal Capitol of Leon B. Postigo, Zamboanga del Norte last 18 February 2021.

The newly wed couples were former members of the dismantled Communist-New People’s Army- Terrorist Cells “HQ-KALAW” Regional Operations Command and Main Regional Guerilla Unit (MRGU) both of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC) of the CPP-NPA-NDF. Last August 2020 the 97th Infantry Battalion was able to dismantle HQ KALAW the Regional Operations Command unit of the WMRPC.

The union of the former NPA rebels couples was sponsored by Local Government Unit (LGU) of Leon B. Postigo led by Hon. Aidaroz M. Hambali who also presided over the wedding ceremony while the food and drinks for the reception was sponsored by LGU Sindangan led by Hon. Rosendo Labadlabad. Wedding gifts were given to the couples by Provincial Government Unit of Zamboanga del Norte led by Gov. Roberto Y. Uy.

On his message in local dialect alias Larry said that, “Dako ko og pasalamat sa 97th IB ug sa nag ka lain-lain na ahensya sa gobyerno na wala mi nila gibayaan ug gipasagdaan sugod nga nag surrender mi sa 97th IB hangtod karon gitabangan gihapon mi nila sa among pag pakasal, karon malipayon mi nga naa na mi matawag na kaugalingong pamilya”.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Manaros M Boransing II the 97th IB Commanding Officer thanked the sponsors and stakeholders of this unit for their generosity that made the event possible.

“We are very thankful to our variuos stakeholders for their sincerity in helping our FRs not only by providing benefits and assistance from our government like the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) but for showing them that they are now part and well accepted by the society.” Lt. Col. Boransing said.

The wedding was also attended by FR’s family and relatives, military and civilian stakeholders.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/8-former-npa-couples-marry-in-zamboanga-del-norte/

Kalinaw News: NPA surrenderee tipped-off war materiel, 10th Infantry Division scores anew

From Kalinaw News (Feb 19, 2021): NPA surrenderee tipped-off war materiel, 10th Infantry Division scores anew



LUPON, DAVAO ORIENTAL – A 51-year old team leader of Abe, Primera, Weakened Guerilla Front 18 (WGF), Sub-Regional Committee 2 (SRC) of SMRC, Elmer Soblia Mangasdang alias MIC- a member of Mandaya tribe and resident of Purok-1, Brgy Fuentes, Pantukan, Davao de Oro voluntarily surrendered with firearms on February 17, 2021 to joint elements of 66 Infantry Battalion, 104 Military Intel Company, Provincial Intel Unit, Davao Oriental Police Provincial Office at Sitio Mangway, Brgy Maragatas, Lupon Davao Oriental.

“I decided to go back to the folds of the law so that I can be with my family again. It is when I experienced unbearable hardship in the movement that made me find a way to get out. Thanks to the Army, they are true to their commitment not to harm NPAs that wanted to surrender.” Initial investigation revealed that sometime 2002 to 2004, he became an active Milisya ng Bayan and further full-time NPA in September 2019. Sometime last week of April 2020, he suffered gastroenteritis and decided to leave the armed group. Since then, he went on lay low and found a way to formally surrender to 10th Infantry Division.

He surrendered with One (1) Caliber 45 with serial number 888223, One (1) M79 Rifle with defaced serial number and One (1) .45 Mag Assy with seven (7) rounds live ammo.

During the follow-up interviews, he revealed the location of other war materiel he knew that prompted joint law enforcement operation at the vicinity of Sitio Mangway, Brgy Maragatas, Lupon, Davao Oriental.

The joint teams of 10ID and PNP seized the Two (2) AK47 Rifles with serial number 50241 and 92965, One (1) Carbine Rifle (Defaced), One (1) Caliber 357 Revolver (Defaced), One (1) Improvised Explosive Device (6×9.5, weighing 14kgs), Three (3) magazine assembly for AK47, and One (1) magazine assembly for Caliber 30 Carbine

” You have made a right decision in coming back and be cared by the government,” said Governor Nelson Dayanghirang as he welcome the returnees during the presentation of surrenderees by 701st Brigade.

Alias Mic is one of the three surrenderees presented and later received cash incentives as part of Davao Oriental’s peace initiative of inticing more NPAs to go back to the folds of the law.

These incentives will help the surrenderees while waiting for their Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program Cash Assistance.

[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/npa-surrenderee-tipped-off-war-materiel-10th-infantry-division-scores-anew/

Pandemic should not stop regional dialogue on conflict resolution

 Posted to the New Straits Times (Feb 19, 2021); Pandemic should not stop regional dialogue on conflict resolution (By By Izzah Ibrahim)

Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) rebels stand guard at the entry of Camp Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat town on the southern Philippine island of Mindanao on September 7, 2019 ahead of a weapons decommissioning ceremony. - AFP/File pic

More than a year's worth of disruption and reactive measures against the Covid-19 pandemic has brought the world to a stop.

Thus unsurprisingly, when discourse surrounding vaccines and more robust recovery measures gained ground, so did the hopes for a rebound in the near future and a return to some semblance of the "old" normal.

Whether such optimism is warranted given the current outlook, it carries the implication that matters previously sidelined will be juggled alongside all things concerning the pandemic, both the good and bad.

One of the notable concerns has been violent conflicts re-emerging once the severity of the pandemic is believed to be contained. On March 23 last year, United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres declared a global ceasefire so that states can focus on caring for its citizens and engaging the international community through cooperative diplomacy.

While this symbolic gesture was endorsed by 180 countries, the Security Council, regional organisations, civil society groups and peace advocates, it would be counter-intuitive to expect that meaningful change can happen without undertaking the necessary measures to tackle the key issues underlying any given conflict.

This is especially relevant for Southeast Asia, where not only is there the struggle to tackle the pandemic's negative impacts, but its own history of conflict can pose potentially complicating effects.

Although the region has not faced a traditional conflict since the Sino-Vietnamese War in 1979, it is still home to unresolved territorial disputes and low-intensity conflicts that have not been conclusively resolved.

While it cannot be discounted that the levels of violence have declined throughout last year, it cannot be expected to remain that way. For example, while insurgent and counterinsurgent activities may seem to be restrained, it did not remove these armed groups from their communities nor the threat they carry.

Groups like the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Southern Philippines have worked to manage an effective Covid-19 response within their autonomous region, but they and other smaller groups still draw foreign fighters into the region and conduct attacks against local security forces.

The Barisan Revolusi Nasional in Thailand's deep south declared a unilateral ceasefire from April to July last year, but insurgent attacks and security forces raids resumed soon after.

The continuation of violence highlights potential obstacles decision-makers will face once the pandemic threat is believed to be manageable.

Sentiments towards the emergency measures by governments and a growing intolerance for political violence have pushed thresholds lower, and further missteps can inadvertently become new contributing factors.

The arrests, crackdowns and emergency measures imposed by the Thai military-based government carries implications for the future of their deep south policies and the outcome of their Malaysian-facilitated peace talks. Similarly, police brutality and misuse of the new counter-terrorism law in the Philippines shows the inattention and lacking political will over their southern region, which carry negative effects to the fragile Bangsamoro Transitional Authority and the likelihood of new incentives for armed groups to retaliate against the government.

Turning inwards to focus on immediate threats is not inherently bad, but it should not be done to the point of debilitating near-sightedness. When it comes to addressing the latent concerns of violent conflict in the region, political engagements with armed groups need to be incorporated as part of the future long-term pandemic recovery measures.

It should not be treated as an unexpected disruption, hastily put together only when the situation demands it. This also means that existing peace agreements and dialogues need to be supported and strengthened.

Such efforts, especially when external mediators are already involved, can become opportune areas for regional governments and institutions such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to collaborate and facilitate dialogue. Past experiences in the region, while contrary to popular belief of inaction and "talk-shops", have shown the region's method of conflict resolution to be constructive.

The start of a new year is often time for reflection and reassessment, and such a mindset should be adopted to prepare states for yet another pandemic-stricken year sooner than later.

[Izzah Ibrahimis a researcher in the Foreign Policy and Security Studies (FPSS) programme of ISIS Malaysia]

https://www.nst.com.my/opinion/columnists/2021/02/667259/pandemic-should-not-stop-regional-dialogue-conflict-resolution

Health Center Brings Joy to Camp Rajamuda

Posted to the Relief Web (Feb 17, 2021): Health Center Brings Joy to Camp Rajamuda (By CFSI) 

 Original report View original

Fatima Digaon-Pigkaulan, 20, enthusiastically anticipates the completion of the first medical center under construction at Brgy. Sadangen in Camp Rajamuda.

She lives adjacent to the site of the internationally-funded project administered by the World Bank to advance the peace process between the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Fatima considers this as a blessing. She hopes to deliver her first baby in May in the maternity ward of the facility expected to be completed next month.

“When I heard about the plan to construct a health center nearby, I almost jumped out of joy. I told my husband that we do not need to go far when I give birth to our child,” said Fatima.

Medical emergencies are usually rushed to the municipality of Buluan, about 45 minutes away from Sadangen. It costs Php 80 (USD 1.66) to hire a motorcycle to reach Buluan.

Fatima owns a sari-sari store while her husband is a farmer. They were also members of the Sadangen Farmer Pamana Marketing Cooperative People’s Organization.

The People’s Organization is the custodian of the Sadangen clinic under the Mindanao Trust Fund-Reconstruction and Development Project (MTF-RDP/3) being managed by the humanitarian Community and Family Services International (CFSI) and the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA).

As a member of the People’s Organization, her husband sometimes assists in the construction of the center, aware of its benefits to the community.

Anadjah Abdulnasser, Fatima’s sister-in-law, is as eager as the couple. Anadjah is the auditor of the People’s Organization.

“Our goal is to finish the project within the targeted time frame,” Anadjah said.

CFSI Executive Director Steven Muncy and BDA representatives visited Sadangen on 09 February.

The PhP1.8 million-health project will also serve three or more remote barangays in General Salipada K. Pendatun (GSKP) municipality with little or no access to basic facilities.

“The health center will not only provide easy access to medical services but will also reduce the time and cost spent by the people in the communities,” said Kadafy Sinolinding, a BDA community development officer.

Sinolinding cited the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) proposal to have the project site as an area of development where a government center would be built.

Also established in the area was a solar-powered water system from the previous MTF-RDP/2.

“The MTF-RDP projects have paved the way for the BLGU to have this development initiative,” he said. “Years from now, we foresee a changed and progressive Barangay Sadangen serving people from various communities.”

Sadangen is one of the 19 barangays in the GSKP municipality. It is one of the service areas for MTF-RDP/3, which is constructing a health clinic in each of the six major MILF camps.

The facility in Sadangen will have a health center, a birthing clinic, and a pharmacy. This will be managed by a trained health worker who will facilitate consultation and treatment, and other programs of the Ministry of Health, such as immunization for measles, polio, and other similar undertakings.

MTF-RDP/3 is a project partnership between CFSI and BDA and is in line with the 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro. It aims to enable identified communities in the conflict-affected areas of Mindanao to access socio-economic opportunities as well as basic services. CFSI functions as the Project Management Unit and Trust Fund Recipient of MTF.

This project’s third phase, scheduled until the end of March, seeks to foster participatory governance through purposeful engagement with several line ministries of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

A total of 39 infrastructure projects have been delivered to the service communities under the MTF, with grants from the European Union, Sweden, Australia, Canada, the United States, and New Zealand.

https://reliefweb.int/report/philippines/health-center-brings-joy-camp-rajamuda

Hadji Salic is helping transform Camp Bilal

Posted to the Relief Web (Feb 19, 2021): Hadji Salic is helping transform Camp Bilal (By CFSI)

[With reports from Lanao Project Management Team Members of CFSI under the Mindanao Trust Fund-Reconstruction and Development Project Phase 3]

Origin View original

Saidali Hadji Salic is well aware of his responsibilities as secretary of the Joint Task Forces on Camps Transformation (JTFCT) in Camp Bilal.

A former member of the 124th Base Command of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Hadji Salic embraced in 2016 an international initiative supporting a socio-economic recovery program to move forward a peace process between the Philippine Government and the MILF.

That was when he joined the Camp Bilal chapter of the JTFCT — a mechanism for self-governance formed to carry out programs of the Mindanao Trust Fund-Reconstruction and Development Project (MTF-RDP) administered by the World Bank.

Started in 2005, the MTF-RDP is being implemented by the humanitarian Community and Family Services International (CFSI) and the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA). The focus of phase 3 of the facility – through March – is the rehabilitation of six previously acknowledged MILF camps, including Bilal.

“This Jihad that I am pursuing now is the struggle towards creating a good community for my fellow Bangsamoro through these projects,” said the 52-year-old Hadji Salic. “It is like striving for our faith and our commitment to having a better and safer society,” he added.

During a capacity-building program for the JTFCT on 22 January 2021, Camp Bilal received top marks in daily construction monitoring submission and supervision of activities throughout the recently concluded phase two of the MTF-RDP.

“This type of job is quite challenging,” he said. “But I make sure that I am present almost every day to monitor the status of the construction and other similar activities,” he added.

JTFCTs play a critical role in the implementation of MTF-RDP projects. They identify community needs and priorities, as well as the type of assistance required. They work closely with CFSI and BDA in monitoring the progress of various activities of MTF-RDP and are being empowered for project development and management, and community organizing.

The USD 3-million MTF-RDP/3 is aimed at providing access to socio-economic opportunities and basic services, including health facilities and skills training in the six MILF Camps.

CFSI is the Trust Fund Recipient of MTF, which is supported with grants from the European Union, Sweden, Australia, Canada, the United States, and New Zealand.

Two road projects are under construction in the Camp Bilal area to allow access for light vehicles.

The proposed 300-meter access road in Sitio Kura-Kura and 400-meter path in Sitio Poblacion will allow easy movement of residents and farmers transporting products to their markets.

A health clinic is also being constructed at Brgy. Tamparan, the proposed integrated area of development for Camp Bilal. The facility will have a standard structure for all six camps, which will include a pharmacy, birthing clinic, and a consultation ward.

To allow the JTFCT members to move around, motorcycles have been provided for monitoring activities.

Hadji Salic was one of the six recipients as Camp Bilal representative. The handover of the vehicles was held on 15 February at BDA Ranaw Office in Marawi City for Lanao-based camps.

“This gift you have entrusted me will be treated as a treasure,” said Hadji Salic. “I will be leading an example by becoming more active not just for my sake but for our community. To help sustain the project, I can give my full support from time to time and monitor rain or shine.”

https://reliefweb.int/report/philippines/hadji-salic-helping-transform-camp-bilal

118 NPA members, supporters yield in Samar

From the Manila Bulletin (Feb 20, 2021): 118 NPA members, supporters yield in Samar (By Marie Tonette Marticio)

One-hundred eighteen members and supporters of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), including nine barangay officials, surrendered to the 19th Infantry Battalion in Matuguinao, Samar last Feb. 15.

MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO

Fifty-six members of the Batakang Organisasyong Pangpartido (BOP), 50 members of the Yunit Milisya (YM), and 12 members of the Organisadong Masa have sworn allegiance to the government after abandoning communist ideologies.

Nine of them were barangay chairmen and council members in the town.

Matuguinao Mayor Aran Boller gave an ultimatum on Feb. 15 to 353 identified CPP-NPA-NDF members and supporters to lay down their arms to achieve lasting peace in the NPA-infested municipality. He warned that those who failed to surrender would be charged under the Anti-Terror Law.

Lt. Col. Jasper Pecson, commander of the 19th Infantry Battalion, cited the success of their anti-insurgency campaign.

The official bared that 195 identified personalities have undergone tactical interrogation but only 118 attended the mass surrender ceremony last Friday.

“Despite not being complete, we say that it is successful because those who have surrendered include barangay officials who have influence and hold key positions in their areas,” he said.

Aside from being charged, those who failed to surrender will be declared persona non grata in their municipality.

To date, Matuguinao has over 300 surrenderers and has started developing its local tourism from being a stronghold of NPA for decades.

https://mb.com.ph/2021/02/20/118-npa-members-supporters-yield-in-samar/

Gov’t, Reds eye resumption of peace talks

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 20, 2021): Gov’t, Reds eye resumption of peace talks (By: Ryan D. Rosauro)

Back-channel efforts are currently going on between the government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) for the resumption of stalled peace negotiations the soonest, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said.

Bello, who used to chair the government panel in talks with the NDFP, told participants of the two-day online Ninth Ecumenical Church Leaders’ Summit on Peace on Thursday that he and former Agrarian Reform Secretary Hernani Braganza were supposed to travel in late December to the Netherlands for informal discussions but was overtaken by the pandemic.

He said the back channel effort was known to the Norwegian government, which was facilitating the negotiations.

“The talk is very much alive. You have to take my word for it,” Bello said.

He added that he is confident the peace negotiations with the NDFP, the political arm of the Communist Party of the Philippines, can resume within the remaining period of the term of President Duterte.

“[Mr.] Duterte is very much inclined to once again walk down that winding path,” Bello said.

Speaking from the Netherlands, Juliet De Lima, chair of NDFP’s interim peace panel, confirmed the back-channel efforts.

De Lima said that up for discussion in the back-channel talk was the formulation of an interim peace agreement, including the declaration of a limited ceasefire and definition of a territory that will be off-limits to either side’s intrusive military activities in order to prevent clashes.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1397900/govt-reds-eye-resumption-of-peace-talks

Sayyaf gunrunner killed in Sulu

From the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 20, 2021): Sayyaf gunrunner killed in Sulu

SULU – Security forces killed an Abu Sayyaf gunman in a firefight Saturday in the southern Philippine province of Sulu, police said.

Police photo shows the body of slain Abu Sayyaf militant Wahid Sahid and weapons seized from his hideout.




Police commandos backed by soldiers fatally shot Wahid Sahid in his hideout in Kansipat village in Panamao town. Security forces were sent to arrest Sahid, who was trafficking illegal weapons in Sulu and Zamboanga City.

Sahid, who noticed the presence of security forces, engaged the members of the police and military who eventually killed him, according to Brigadier General Jonel Estomo, chief of the Anti-Kidnapping Group of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

The slain militant was a follower Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Almujir Yadah. Security forces tracked down Sajid’s hideout through an undercover agent who posed as a weapons buyer.

“Upon the signal of the poser-buyer, the arresting team immediately rushed to the house of the target person who, however, fired instantly at them with an M14 rifle. The law enforcers immediately sought cover and fired back towards the suspect that resulted in his death,” Estomo said in his report to PNP Chief Debold Sinas.

Prior to his killing, Sahid’s group was planning to kidnap members of wealthy families in Zamboanga City.

Security forces recovered Sahid’s automatic rifle and two other M14 rifles and an M4 rifle with a grenade launcher, including two 40mm ammunition. (Mindanao Examiner)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2021/02/sayyaf-gunrunner-killed-in-sulu.html

55th EBde Multi-Sector Advisory Board members take oath

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 20, 2021): 55th EBde Multi-Sector Advisory Board members take oath (By PIA-ICIC)

ILIGAN CITY, Feb. 20 (PIA) - Members of the Multi-Sector Advisory Board (MSAB) of the 55th Engineer Brigade (EBde), Philippine Army formally took their oath Friday, February 19.

Col. Irineo Sebastian, 55th EBde commanding officer, led the oath-taking and pinning of ATR (Army Transformation Roadmap) Stakeholder pin to the members.

The Advisory Board was organized by the Brigade to promote the continuity and sustainability of the ATR and encourage shared responsibility in its success.

 

Col. Irineo Sebastian thanked MSAB members for accepting the call to be the advisers of the Army Engineer in attaining their vision of being a professional army engineer in Mindanao, particularly in Lanao. (PIA-ICIC)

It is composed of Balo-i municipal mayor Hanifa Ali, represented by former mayor Elias Ali; TESDA Regional Training Center officer-in-charge Mario Labisig; PIA Iligan City Information Center manager Apipa Bagumbaran; Al-Jalis As-Salih Inc. Muslim Information Center director Ustadz Abdul Jabbar Ansao Montañer; Balo-i municipal councilor Jamaloding Mamad; Rev. Msgr. Ramonito Torres; NJS Construction and Service General Manager Nabil Sarip; Eagles Club Iligan City Chapter chairman Fernando Perez Chan; and National Power Corporation Vice President Engr. Edmundo Veloso Jr. Col. Sebastian expressed appreciation to the MSAB members for accepting the call to be advisers of the Army Engineer in attaining their vision of being a professional army engineer in Mindanao, particularly in Lanao.

"To the members of the 55th MSAB, may you become an instrument on supporting and evaluating the transformation initiative of the Brigade towards the realization of our vision," he said.

He further said they have selected the members to help the Brigade in its commitment for genuine reform on good governance, operational efficiency, and organization efficiency.

"The MSAB members will play an important role in the attainment of our vision and the accomplishment of our mission," he added.

The MSAB launching is one of the parameters to the compliant status of the army governance pathway. (PIA-ICIC)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1067487

4 NPA members surrender in Aklan

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 20, 2021): 4 NPA members surrender in Aklan (By Jemin B. Guillermo) 

ILOILO CITY, Feb. 20 (PIA) -- Four members of the communist rebel group New People’s Army (NPA) voluntarily surrendered to the government forces at Libacao, Aklan on February 18, 2021.

The Barangay Captain of Manika, Libacao, Aklan turned-over the surrenderers who are active members of Kilusang Rehiyong Panay (KR-PANAY) operating in the areas of Barangay Manika and Barangay Dalagsa-an, Libacao, Aklan, said Police Regional Office 6 Information Officer Lt. Col. Joem Malong in a press release.

According to report, the surrenderers are cousins and are all locals of Libacao town who joined the NPA last December 2020 in return for cash.

However, they decided to leave the group because of the realization of the deceptions made by their recruiters as the promised money to be given to them once they are in the group was not materialized.

The local government unit of Libacao, Aklan will evaluate the four surrenderers for their availment of Enhanced Comprehensive and Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) the soonest possible for them to start a new and better life, the press release added.

Presently, they are under the custody of Libacao Municipal Police Station for safe keeping.

On the other hand, PRO 6 director Police Brig. Gen. Rolando F. Miranda welcomed the surrenderers and urged other rebels to do the same.

“I would like to encourage other communist group members to surrender because the government’s assistance awaits you. Let us help our government in its efforts to end local communist armed conflict in our country,” Miranda added. (PIA6/Story by Lt. Col. JJMalong/PRO6-RPIO)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1067445

Army’s 3ID partners with religious sector for peace, dev’t in Panay

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 20, 2021): Army’s 3ID partners with religious sector for peace, dev’t in Panay (By Jemin B. Guillermo) 

ILOILO CITY, Feb. 20 (PIA) – The Philippine Army has reached out to the religious sector in Panay Island for a stronger partnership to attain peace and development.

The Army’s 3rd Infantry Division, through its 301st Infantry (Bayanihan) Brigade, reached out to the Archdiocese of Jaro in Iloilo City, February 18, said 3ID Public Affairs Office head Major Cenon Pancito III in a press release.

Colonel Orlando Edralin, 301Bde Deputy Brigade Commander, and party met Jaro Archbishop Jose Romeo Lazo to have a brotherly and friendly dialogue.

Bishop Lazo was joined by the directors of the Social Action Centers (SACs) of Iloilo, Capiz, Aklan, and Antique, Pancito said.

During the dialogue, both parties expressed willingness to converge and work together in the future endeavors that will uphold the people’s welfare and the society as a whole.

With this, the 3ID thanked Bishop Lazo and SAC's directors for welcoming the Army and letting them sat with their table to talk about the future collaboration of the two key sectors of the society, he added.

The 3ID likewise underscored the significant role of the religious sector in the Whole-of-Nation Approach in attaining peace and development not only in Panay Island but also in the country.

On February 8, the 3ID also paid a visit to San Jose de Antique Bishop Most Rev. Marvyn Maceda to solidify their partnership. (PIA6/Story and photos from 3ID-DPAO/Phil. Army)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1067467

Tagalog News: PTF-ELCAC ng Romblon, bumisita sa mga residente ng Brgy. Victoria

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 20, 2021): Tagalog News: PTF-ELCAC ng Romblon, bumisita sa mga residente ng Brgy. Victoria (By Paul Jaysent Fos)

Tumungo ng Barangay Victoria, San Andres, Romblon ang mga miyembro ng Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict noong Pebrero 16, upang bisitahin ang mga residente sa lugar at mamigay ng kaunting tulong. (Paul Jaysent Fos/PIA-Romblon)

ODIONGAN, Romblon, Peb. 20 (PIA) -- Tumungo ng Barangay Victoria, San Andres, Romblon ang mga miyembro ng Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) noong Pebrero 16, upang bisitahin ang mga residente sa lugar at mamigay ng kaunting tulong.

Kabilang sa mga national agency na sumama sa tinawag nilang Project Buligan (na ang ibig sabihin ay 'Tulungan' sa Tagalog), ay Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority o TESDA, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) at mga opisyal ng bayan ng San Andres at ng probinsya ng Romblon.

Sa nasabing Project Buligan, kinausap ng personal ng mga miyembro ng PTF ELCAC ang mga residente sa lugar upang alamin ang kanilang pangangailangan sa kanilang barangay.

Namahagi rin sila ng mga hygiene kits, relief goods at facemasks na kaloob ng Romblon National Institute of Technology (RNIT).

Ang Project Buligan ay isang programa na binuo ng PTF ELCAC ng Romblon bilang tugon sa Executive Order 70 ni Pangulong Duterte. (PJF/PIA-Mimaropa)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1067477

Former CPP-NPA’s UGMO members in Ilocos Sur surrender firearms to gov’t

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 19, 2021): Former CPP-NPA’s UGMO members in Ilocos Sur surrender firearms to gov’t (By Joyah Mae C. Quimoyog)

ILOCOS SUR, Feb. 19 (PIA) - Two former members of the CPP-NPA’s Underground Mass Organizations (UGMO) in the province voluntary surrendered high-powered firearms, Improvised Explosive Device (IED) paraphernalia, and other war materials through the joint efforts of the Army’s 81st Infantry Battalion (IB), Ilocos Sur Police Provincial Office (ISPPO), and Criminal Inventigation and Detection Group (CIDG) - Ilocos Sur.

A former Milisya ng Bayan (MB) member from the municipality of Salcedo surrendered one M14 rifle with ammunition and magazines on February 16.

The following day, a certain alias “Pedro”, who is known to be a CPP-NPA terrorist supporter/contact in the municipality of Sta. Lucia and believed to be an MB member, voluntarily surrendered to the Joint Community Support Program (CSP) teams of the 81IB and ISPPO bringing along with him detonating switches for IED, ICOM radios, assorted war materials, and basic medical apparatuses.

The surrendered materials are now in the custody of the Army’s 81IB for proper documentation and disposition.

81st Infantry Battalion Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Rodrigo A. Mariñas, Jr. (right) talks with Sta. Lucia Mayor Joseph Simon Valdez (center) and Ilocos Sur Police Provincial Office Provincial Director Police Colonel Wilson Doromal (left) after the surrender of alias "Pedro" of Sta. Lucia, Ilocos Sur. (Photo by the 81st IB)

Lieutenant Colonel Rodrigo A. Mariñas, Jr., Commanding Officer of 81IB, said that the recent surrenders of firearms and IEDs of the two Milisyang Bayan members were the result of the efforts of the CSP teams deployed in the barangays.

“These events are indications that the CNT’s influence in the province is increasingly dwindling and the people have already awakened and wanted to embrace peace and development in their communities. The Army’s intensified information dissemination on the government’s programs in the far-flung communities in our AOR is already bearing its fruits, thus, we expect more surrender of firearms and IEDs in the next few days,” said Lt. Col. Mariñas.

The said personalities, together with the surrendered firearms and other war materials, were presented to Salcedo MTF-ELCAC Chairman, Mayor Leopoldo Gironella, Jr., and Sta. Lucia Mayor Joseph Simon Valdez.

Mayor Gironella said, “Maituturing na isang matagumpay na hakbang ang pagsuko ng mga itinagong armas ng mga NPA na isang taga-suporta nila dito sa ating bayan, yan po ay patunay na ang ating mga kasundaluhan ay may magandang ugnayan sa ating mga kababayan upang mawakasan na ang ensurhensiya dito po sa ating bayan. At dahil dito, I would like to commend the 702nd Infantry Brigade, especially the 81IB and the barangay officials concerned."

Likewise, Mayor Valdez said, “Isa na naman pong tagumpay sa laban natin sa insurhensiya dito sa bayan ng Sta. Lucia ang pagsuko ng mga contact ng NPA ng kanilang war materials sa barangay Paoc Norte. Ito po ay patunay lamang na ang ating mga kababayan ay handa ng tumulong sa ating kasundaluhan para mawakasan ang insurgency dito sa ating lalawigan.”

Last January 27, two former MB members in Sta. Lucia voluntarily surrendered to the joint elements of the Army and PNP troops bringing along with them firearms and ammunition.

The war materials were entrusted to them by the late Julius Zamora alias “Guyo”, the former Secretary of the Kilusang Larangang Guerilla-South Ilocos Sur (KLG-SIS) of the Ilocos-Cordillera Regional Committee (ICRC) and was one of those killed during an encounter in Brgy. Namatican, Sta. Lucia last February 13, 2020.

Commenting on the recent development in Ilocos Sur, the 7th Infantry Division Commander, Major General Alfredo V. Rosario, Jr., encouraged other CPP-NPA supporters to take courage and support instead the government for a more peaceful and productive life.

"Huwag ninyong sayangin ang inyong lakas at panahon sa isang grupong sanhi lamang ng patuloy na kaguluhan at pagkasira ng maraming buhay. Mas nararapat na makipag-tulungan kayo sa ating gobyerno upang mapangalagaan ang inyong buhay at kinabukasan," Major Gen. Rosario said. (JCR/JMCQ, PIA Ilocos Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1067326

DTI conducts skills training to far-flung brgys under Army’s RCSP

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 20, 2021): DTI conducts skills training to far-flung brgys under Army’s RCSP (By Joyah Mae C. Quimoyog)

VIGAN CITY, ILOCOS SUR, Feb. 20 (PIA) - - The provincial office of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) here, through the 81st Infantry Battalion of the 7th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, reached far-flung villages of the municipalities of Suyo and Sta. Cruz to create livelihood opportunities for its residents and enable them to participate in local economic development activities.

Said municipalities are under the Army’s Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP).

As a member of the Poverty Reduction Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC), the government offices conducted Basic Skills Training on Commercial Baking at Sitio Linggawa, Barangay Pidpid, Sta. Cruz and at Sitio Kinpatubbog, Barangay Poblacion, Suyo, on February 12 and February 14, respectively.

“The extension of capacity building activities through technology training is one of the DTI's interventions to sustain the gains of the government in maintaining peace and development in the insurgency–cleared barangays. With the conduct of skills training in your area, the women participants are expected to be equipped with skills to start a community bakery project that will provide you with additional income, provide residents easier access to food commodities and enable you to become more productive players in the economic development of your respective localities,” said DTI Provincial Director Grace R. Lapastora.

Some 23 members of the Linggawa Farmers Association produced pandesal, Spanish bread, and ensaymada while 20 members of Kinpatubbog Camote Growers Association produced pandesal and camote loaf bread as their outputs of the training, according to reports from DTI Ilocos Sur.

Various baking equipment/supplies were also turned over to the recipients for them to use and eventually start small businesses in their community.

“Hinihingi ko sa inyo, aking mga kabarangay, na sana hindi magtatapos sa training ang inyong pag-unlad dahil sayang ang serbisyo ng gobyerno kung hindi naman natin gagamitin ang ating natutunan sa ating pamumuhay. Pahalagahan natin ang tulong na ito at sana gamitin natin ang ating mga natutunan,” said Barangay Captain Orlando Aglibot of Barangay Poblacion, Suyo.

“Nagpapasalamat kami sa DTI at Philippine Army sa pagpunta ninyo dito sa aming lugar. Kahit na malayo at mahirap ang daanan, naglaan kayo ng oras upang kami’y mabigyan ng tulong. Malaking tulong ang itinuro niyo sa amin upang mapaunlad pa ang aming pamumuhay,” said Bernabe Sec-ay, sitio leader of Sitio Linggawa.

Some of the trainees from Sitio Kinpatubbog, Suyo, Ilocos Sur during the DTI's Skills Training on Commercial Baking on February 14, 2021. (Photo by the DTI Ilocos Sur)

According to the DTI, said technology trainings are preparatory activities to prepare the beneficiaries in the operation of the Shared Service Facility Project which are to be established in each of the sitios later this year.

“The government is expecting you to help yourself also as the success of this project depends largely on your commitment. The DTI assures you of our continuing assistance to improve the viability of this business as we bring our services closer to you,” Dir. Lapastora added.

Moreover, the Philippine Army, represented by 2nd Lt. Anthony William M. Pen, Alpha Company Commander of the 81st Infantry Battalion, said that with the implementation of the Whole-of-Nation Approach to end local communist armed conflict, the collaboration among them and other government agencies are much effective to deliver services in communities especially in far-flung areas.

“Ang Philippine Army ay nagpapasalamat sa DTI sa pagkakataong ipinagkaloob sa amin na magsilbing tulay para maiabot ang kanilang serbisyo sa inyo. Kahit saang sulok po ng bansa, gaano man kalayo ay pupuntahan po namin, maiparamdam lang sa inyo na di kayo pinapabayaan ng pamahalaan,” he said. (JCR/VHS/JMCQ/PIA Ilocos)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1067324

Lorenzana asks public to support return of rebels to mainstream society

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 20, 2021): Lorenzana asks public to support return of rebels to mainstream society (By Susan G. De Leon)

CALOOCAN CITY, Feb. 20 (PIA) -- Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana today pressed for public support for
the government’s anti-insurgency program and give rebels a chance to return to their respective communities and enjoy normal and productive lives with their loved ones.

“These former young rebels can be given another chance to have regular lives, a life where they do not need to run and hide. It’s never too late to have a change of heart and return to the fold of law,” Lorenzana said.

“As long as they are sincere with their intentions, let us welcome these rebels back and laud them for upholding the rule of law. Masaya ako na matapang silang nag-desisyon na magbalik-loob,” he added.

Under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) coordinated by interagency Task Force Balik-Loob, former rebels and former violent extremists are eligible to receive benefits and services from various government agencies to assist them as they return to mainstream
society.

These include financial and livelihood assistance, as well as psycho-social and legal support, among others.

The wide range of benefits under E-CLIP are intended to help former rebels in reintegrating to mainstream society.

Benefits under E-CLIP are based on the needs of the former rebels and their families, including financial assistance, housing, education, skills training, healthcare, legal assistance, and among others through the merging of various national and local government agencies. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1067439

Lorenzana lauds JTF-Sulu efforts to enhance troops’ capability

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 20, 2021): Lorenzana lauds JTF-Sulu efforts to enhance troops’ capability (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

DEFENSE CHIEF'S VISIT. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (in blue polo) lauds the Joint Task Force Sulu in its efforts to further enhance the capability of its troops as he and other top military officials grace Friday afternoon (Feb. 19, 2021) the closing ceremony of the week-long joint training exercise dubbed as Lupah Sug 01-2021. The training aims to enhance the interoperability among the various units of the Armed Forces. (Photo courtesy of Joint Task Force Sulu Public Information Office)

National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana has lauded the efforts of the Joint Task Force (JTF)-Sulu to enhance the capability of its operating troops.

In a statement Saturday, the JTF-Sulu said Lorenzana witnessed Friday afternoon the closing ceremony of the week-long joint training exercise, dubbed as Lupah Sug 01-2021, involving units from the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

“As your Defense Secretary, I am always excited to witness first-hand the efforts of our troops to improve their skills and capacities further so that they can better fulfill their duties and do well in their missions,” the JTF-Sulu quoted Lorenzana as saying.

Lorenzana commended the JTF-Sulu for its successful operations in recent weeks and months and pledged his full support to the task force's endeavors.

“Rest assured that the Defense Department, our national government, especially under the leadership of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, are always ready to provide you with the necessary support, be it through capability upgrades, better infrastructure, rewards and compensation, and morale-boosting programs for you soldiers and your families,” he added.

Lorenzana was accompanied during his visit to Sulu by Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, newly-installed Armed Forces Chief-of-Staff; Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief; Reynaldo Mapagu, defense undersecretary of civil, veterans, and retiree affairs; and Maj. Gen. Rowen Tolentino, Philippine Army chief-of-staff.

Gonzales said Lorenzana's presence inspires "our troops here in Sulu to take it up a notch, to build a strong force that is always ready to face any challenge. For this, we train as we fight."

He said the need for the joint training exercise was highlighted during last year's widely known interdiction operation dubbed as Perfect Storm 2 that led to the neutralization of key Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in November last year.

During the operation, seven ASG bandits were killed when Army’s Special Forces troops aboard a helicopter gunship and a multi-purpose attack craft (MPAC) intercepted a twin-engine speed boat of the ASG off Sulare Island, Parang, Sulu.

The slain ASG bandits were reportedly set to stage an abduction when intercepted by government forces.

“In this joint training, we have learned a lot, and definitely we are gaining headway in closing operational land-air-sea gaps. With the local governments and all of Tausug's support, I am confident that the end of terrorism here in Sulu is within our reach,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131310

Lorenzana urges public to support anti-Red program, returnees

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 20, 2021): Lorenzana urges public to support anti-Red program, returnees (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. (File photo)

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Saturday urged the public to support the government’s anti-insurgency program and give surrendering rebels a chance to return to their communities and live peaceful and productive lives with their loved ones.

“These former young rebels can be given another chance to have regular lives, a life where they do not need to run and hide. It’s never too late to have a change of heart and return to the fold of the law,” Lorenzana said in a statement.

He added that so long as these surrendering rebels are clear with their intentions, they should be greeted warmly for their efforts to rejoin mainstream society.

“As long as they are sincere with their intentions, let us welcome these rebels back and laud them for upholding the rule of law. Masaya ako na matapang silang nag-desisyon na magbalik-loob (I am happy with their bold decision to return to the fold of the law),” Lorenzana said.

Under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) coordinated by the Inter-Agency Task Force Balik-Loob, former rebels and former violent extremists are eligible to receive benefits and services from various government agencies to assist them as they return to mainstream society.

These include financial and livelihood assistance, as well as psychosocial and legal support.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131299

PRRD decision on VFA hinges on Filipinos’ welfare

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 20, 2021): PRRD decision on VFA hinges on Filipinos’ welfare

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go. (File photo)

President Rodrigo Duterte will decide on the fate of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the national interest and welfare of Filipinos in mind.

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go said whatever decision the President will come up with should be respected.

The VFA with the United States is a deal to allow the presence of military forces in the Philippines for military exercises with local troops and humanitarian missions. An important clause states that US military courts will have jurisdiction over crimes committed by its members as long as they are part of official duties.

Go said Duterte, as chief architect of foreign policy, has the prerogative to make decisions for the country.

“I will respect the decision of the President. The Philippines is a sovereign country. We belong to an independent country,” he said Friday during the groundbreaking ceremony of the Northeastern Misamis General Hospital in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental.

He also assured that Duterte is only concerned about the welfare of all Filipinos.

“Whatever decision he makes, it will be for the best interest of Filipinos,” explained Go. “For the President and I, we will not let Filipinos be taken advantage of.”

The President earlier demanded compensation from the US government if it wanted to keep the VFA. He ordered in February last year the abrogation of the 1998 agreement but suspended it due to the pandemic and “heightened superpower tensions.”

The US welcomed the suspension, saying “the US-Philippines alliance remains vital to our robust, deep-rooted bilateral relationship. The United States will continue to partner closely with the Philippines to strengthen our mutual security ties.”

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief, Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, said they respect the wisdom of their commander-in-chief.

“I am a soldier, a good follower. The President is the commander-in-chief and I respect his wisdom,” he said.

Sobejana added the Philippine military should be able to stand alone and not become dependent on other countries.

“As an organization, as the AFP, we should be able to stand alone. If we are so dependent on other countries, we can’t be on top of the situation always,” he said.

Go believes the termination of the VFA “is a chance for us to write a new and better chapter in Philippines–United States relations. We should now be able to renew our friendship, reaffirm our ties and resume cooperation as true co-equals.”

As for his colleagues who oppose the President’s decision, Go said all senators have the right to issue opinions but they are all committed to supporting the legislative agenda.

“We are a separate branch of government and it is the right of each senator to express their views. After all, we are a working democracy,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131338

Incidents in PH's EEZ to show MDT value: Locsin

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 20, 2021): Incidents in PH's EEZ to show MDT value: Locsin (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

Encounters or incidents that may arise involving Filipino vessels within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone would show the value of Manila's 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with Washington DC, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said Saturday.

The statement came after US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said Washington is concerned with the enacted Chinese coast guard law, saying it "may escalate ongoing territorial and maritime disputes".

"Well, we're not reading it. We'll just go about our Exclusive Economic Zone and territorial waters—fishing boats, Coast Guard, Navy boats—as we please until we run up against…whatever. Then we'll know if Mutual Defense Treaty amounts to a hill o'beans, a cup of 'em or jackshit," Locsin said in a tweet.

Price, in a press briefing on Saturday, said the US joins the Philippines and several other Asian nations in "expressing concern" with Beijing's coast guard law.

"Language in that law, including text allowing the coast guard to destroy other countries’ economic structures and to use force in defending China’s maritime claims in disputed areas, strongly implies this law could be used to intimidate the PRC’s maritime neighbors," he said.

Price said the US is "further concerned that China may invoke this new law to assert its unlawful maritime claims in the South China Sea," which were invalidated by the 2016 arbitral ruling.

Manila earlier said it "strongly opposed any application" of the Chinese measure beyond the limits of Beijing's maritime entitlements stated under the international law, including the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) decision on the South China Sea.

The Chinese Embassy in Manila, on the other hand, said the law "will not take strong measures against any fishermen – before or after the formulation of the law" and will not specifically target any certain country.

Philippine Ambassador to Beijing Jose Santiago Sta. Romana recently noted the Chinese Foreign Ministry also reassured Manila that they will not resort to force in the first instance and that "they will still exercise restraint."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131320

Abu Sayyaf gunrunner killed in Sulu clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 20, 2021): Abu Sayyaf gunrunner killed in Sulu clash (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

KILLED. Wahid Sahid, a member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), was killed in a clash with police officers in Panamao, Sulu on Saturday (Feb. 20, 2021). Sahid, a member of the group of ASG sub-leader Almujir Yadah, is also engaged in arms smuggling. (Photo courtesy of PNP-AKG)

An Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) member engaged in smuggling of firearms was killed in an arms buy-bust in Sulu on Saturday.

In a statement, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Debold Sinas said Wahid Sahid, who belongs to the group of ASG sub-leader Almujir Yadah, is also a member of a private armed group operating in the second district of Sulu.

"The police operatives foiled a possible kidnapping activity by Sahid as per order from his ASG Sub Leader Almujir Yadah", Sinas said.

Sahid is also engaged in the smuggling of firearms and providing high-powered firearms to the ASG and kidnap-for-ransom groups in Zamboanga City and Sulu.

Citing the report of the PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG), Sinas said AKG members launched an operation against Sahid in Sitio Buton, Barangay Kansipat, Panamao, Sulu for alleged illegal selling of high powered firearms, ammunitions, and explosives.

After the transaction between Sahid and the police poseur-buyer, the latter gave the pre-arranged signal to the operatives to arrest the suspect.

However, Sahid noticed the presence of the authorities and immediately picked up his M-14 rifle and fired at the arresting team.

This prompted government security troops to retaliate, which resulted in the suspect's death.

Based on intelligence information of AKG, Sahid and his group were monitored in Barangay Labuan, Zamboanga City in January while conducting surveillance on prominent and wealthy families they could possibly kidnap.

Recovered from the encounter site were an M14 rifle with inserted magazine and ammunition used by the suspect; an M14 rifle with inserted magazine and ammunition; an M14 rifle without magazine; an M203 grenade launcher and two 40mm ammunition.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131353