Kalinaw News: MTF – ELCAC paves way for four NPA’s to surrender in Sultan Kudarat province

From Kalinaw News (Mar 11, 2021): MTF – ELCAC paves way for four NPA’s to surrender in Sultan Kudarat province



CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Four (4) Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) members from My phone Platoon, East Daguma Front, Sub Regional Committee Daguma, Far South Mindanao Region surrendered to 7th Infantry (Tapat) Battalion on March 09, 2021.

The former rebels were identified as alias Roy; alias Kenken; alias Mady; and alias Cacao and brought with them one (1) Rifle Caliber 30 M1 Garand; one (1) Rifle Caliber 30 Springfield (Homemade); one (1) Rifle 5.56mm Springfield (Homemade); and one (1) Revolver, Caliber 38. The surrender were realized due to the full effort and campaign of the Municipal Task Force – Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) of Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat.

One of the former rebels expressed, “Daghang mga katuigan nga mikuyog kami sa mga kalihokan sa organisasyon peru sa ulihi wala man diay gihapo’y natabang ang maong organisasyon sa amoa. Gibiyaan lang namo ang among mga pamilya sa walay pulos nga hinungdan.” (It’s such a long time of fighting against the government, we even left our families to follow the ideology of the NPA’s but we just end up with nothing. Joining the NPA rebels was useless.)

Lieutenant Colonel Romel S Valencia, Commanding Officer of 7IB, mentioned, “Karun nga naa na kamo diri, ayaw na kamo og balik pa sa kasadlak nga inyong natagamtaman, ayaw namo og padala sa mga saad sa mga NPA nga walay katumanan” (Now that you are here, don’t ever think of joining Community Terrorist Groups again. You’re in the mainstream of the society now. Don’t ruin the opportunity given to you. Don’t be persuaded by the promises of the NPA’s, that was just a promise, it can’t be true)

Furthermore, BGen. Roy Galido, Brigade Commander, 601st Infantry Brigade said, “Through the convergence of concerned stakeholder’s and efforts of the LGUs on optimizing the information drive awareness regarding Enhanced Comprehensive Integration Program, an opportunity of the NPAs to go back to the mainstream of the society with their respective families, and other sincere efforts have paved the way for the rebels to unequivocally surrender.

JTF Central and 6th ID, PA Commander, Major General Juvymax R. Uy lauded the efforts of 7IB and 601st Bde for closely working with concerned agencies and MTF-ELCAC Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat to make way and realize the desire of the four (4) former rebels for a better and peaceful life.

“The series of surrender of former communist terrorists to the folds of law under the jurisdiction of JTF Central is a clear manifestation that the communities are now aware and against the propaganda and lies of the CPP-NPA, “Maj. Gen. Uy said.

[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/mtf-elcac-paves-way-for-four-npas-to-surrender-in-sultan-kudarat-province/

Kalinaw News: Victims of NPA Terrorist’s Summary Execution Exhume in Paquibato District, Davao City

From Kalinaw News (Mar 11, 2021): Victims of NPA Terrorist’s Summary Execution Exhume in Paquibato District, Davao City



Headquarters 27IB, Panabo City, Davao Del Norte – A joint effort of 27th Infantry Battalion, 1003RD Brigade, 10th CMO Battalion, 16th Infantry Battalion, Paquibato District PNP, 3012nd, AISS, PAF, PNP SOCO DDN, PEACE 911 and Local Officials of Paquibato District, Davao City and Arakan, North Cotabato headed by 1003rd Bde Commander, BGEN NOLASCO A MEMPIN PA and LTC VICTORINO M SEÑO INF (GSC) PA facilitate the exhumation of the remains of three (3) innocent civilians brutally killed by NPA terrorists in Paquibato District, Davao City last March 09, 2021.

The trio was summary executed by NPA Terrorist operating in Paquibato District under Kumander Parago. The slain victims were identified as Dandy Mallorca Rivera, male, 47 years old and resident of Brgy Kinayawan, Arakan, North Cotabato, Ariel Prerez Peletos, male, 51 years old, and Adelio Suganan Ramirez, 55 years old, both residents of Brgy Lasang, Davao City.

Rivera’s skeletal remains were unearthed in an isolated area of Sitio Kulape, Barangay Mapula while the remains of Peletos and Ramirez were exhumed in one (1) gravesite in a remote area of Barangay Pañalum both in Paquibato District. Rivera was missing for 22 years and was reportedly killed sometime in 1999, while the duo was missing for almost seven (7) years and was apparently killed in 2014.

The exhumation of the skeletal remains of the three (3) victims was witnessed by families, relatives and government officials of their respective barangay and municipality. The remains of Ariel Peletos were identified by no less than his grieving wife who was present during the exhumation through the victim’s necklace and shirt.

The discovery of the remains of the trio was made possible through the revelation of former rebel (FR) operating in Paquibato District and former comrade of Kumander Parago. Through the information provided by the FR, troops of 27IB together with the residents and local officials of the barangays endeavor to locate the possible gravesite of the trio. After locating the gravesite for more than a week, 27IB troopers informed the families and relatives of the trio for subsequent exhumation.

LTC VICTORINO M SEÑO INF (GSC) PA, Commander, 27IB expresses his deepest sympathy to the family and relatives of the victims. “While we condemn this cruel act of the NPA terrorist, we extend our utmost condolences to the families and relatives of the victims. Ito po ay patunay na ang Teroristang NPA ay walang pagpapahalaga sa buhay ng inosente at walang kalaban-laban na sibilyan. Pinapatunayan din nang insidenteng ito na ang Teroristang NPA ay hindi naniniwala sa Human Rights at International Humanitarian Law”

Meanwhile, BGEN NOLASCO A MEMPIN PA, Commander, 1003rd Bde also conveys his condolences to the bereaved families and condemns the NPA terrorists for the unjust killing. “It is very disappointing that lives of our fellow Filipinos were lost because of the NPA terrorist’s inhumane summary execution”. While he encourages the community and local officials to be united with the government and military to stand against the NPA terrorists, he reiterates his call to the NPA terrorist hiding in the mountains to come down in peace before they suffer the same fate under the very own hands of their comrades. It can be recalled that sometime in November last year, the remains of @BORG who was executed by his own comrades was exhumed in Sitio Napo, Barangay Paquibato Proper, Davao City who bore gunshot hole on his head.

Although anguished, the families and relatives of the victims convey their utmost appreciation to the efforts and help extended by the local officials, the uniformed sectors and concerned residents of the barangays. “Finally we found them and we can now give them a decent burial which they are longing for”, the families and relatives said.

[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/victims-of-npa-terrorists-summary-execution-exhume-in-paquibato-district-davao-city/

New EastMinCom Commander is ‘Right Man for the Job’: AFP Chief

From Kalinaw News (Mar 10, 2021): New EastMinCom Commander is ‘Right Man for the Job’: AFP Chief

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief Gen. Cirilito Sobejana Jr. expressed confidence and optimism in the leadership of the newly installed Commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) MGen. Greg T. Almerol, saying he is the ‘right man for the job.’

Gen. Sobejana made the public pronouncement in his speech during the Change of Command Ceremony held at the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) Covered Court, Camp Panacan, Davao City on March 8, 2021.

The AFP Chief of Staff said that MGen. Almerol’s diverse experiences, especially his Intelligence, Combat, and Civil-Military Operation competencies, have been instrumental to his designation to several key military positions in the past including his current designation as EastMinCom Chief.

“MGen. Almerol is a seasoned intelligence officer. He is surely familiar with the security situation in Eastern Mindanao,” Sobejana said. In his assumption speech, EastMinCom Commander MGen. Almerol said he is determined to pursue high-value individuals belonging to the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) and asked for multi-sectoral cooperation in dismantling the remaining guerrilla units in Eastern Mindanao.

“The fight against the CTG does not only require pure military actions. We need to collaborate with different Local Government Unit executives. We need everyone to be on board. I believe we can totally eradicate the causes of the communist insurgency,” MGen. Almerol said.

MGen. Almerol also stressed his desire to open all possibilities for a peaceful resolution to the armed conflict but was quick to add that he will never hesitate to use force if there is a compelling reason to do so.

“We should never hesitate to use force against who will disrupt peace. We will strike when innocent civilians are threatened,” he added. He also shared his plans to train more personnel and officers, innovate, and review EastMinCom’s best practices to further improve its war competencies.

Meanwhile, the former EastMinCom Commander LtGen. Jose Faustino Jr and also the incumbent Commanding General of the Philippine Army congratulated MGen. Almerol on his appointment as the new head of EastMinCom. MGen. Almerol assumed several notable positions in the past and is adept in intelligence work, having held the position as Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence of the AFP.

Before he was appointed as EastMinCom Commander, MGen. Almerol served as the 40th Commander of the 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division since September 11, 2020. He was also the Commanding Officer of the 14th Intelligence Service Unit, Intelligence Service Group of the Philippine Army; the Chief of the Central Monitoring Station of the Office Army Assistant Chief of Staff for Intelligence (G2), PA; the Intelligence Officer, and the Group Commander of Special Operations Group, Civil Relations Service, AFP.

He was once the Commander of the 60th Infantry Battalion of the 10th Infantry Division (10ID); the Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations, G3 of 10ID; Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations of the AFP Reserve Command; Commander of 903rd Infantry Brigade, 9ID, and the Deputy Commander of Southern Luzon Command, AFP.

He was promoted to the rank of Major General on March 12, 2020.
MGen. Almerol, a Cagayan de Oro lad, began his military career when he entered the Philippine Military Academy in 1985 and graduated as member of the PMA ‘Makatao’ Class of 1989.

MGen Almerol is married to Mrs Lynette Cumara Almerol and they are blessed with three children Greg Jr, who is currently working in Aukland, New Zealand, and Korina Claire and Lester Glen.

[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/new-eastmincom-commander-is-right-man-for-the-job-afp-chief/

Kalinaw News: Batangas is now “Insurgency Free”, Awaits More Opportunities for the People

From Kalinaw News (Mar 10, 2021): Batangas is now “Insurgency Free”, Awaits More Opportunities for the People



CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal – Batangas hailed as the third province of CALABARZON to be declared as an area with Stable Internal Peace and Security or SIPS after the ceremonial signing of documents held at the Provincial Capitol on March 10, Wednesday.

The Memorandum of Agreement was signed by Gov Hermilando I Mandanas and MGen Greg T Almerol, Commander of 2ID which has operational jurisdiction over CALABARZON, during the Provincial Peace and Order Council, attended by the mayors and government agencies as well as military and police commanders operating in the province.

Batangas successfully met the parameters set under the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ phases of normalization, specifically on the absence of recorded NPA violent activities for at least one year.

Gov Mandanas thanked the different agencies, soldiers, and police who remain committed to its mandate in helping the province in assuring peace, prosperity, and development.

He added that, development will always rely on the attainment of peace as a result of the national and local government’s concerted effort which shows a true zeal of leadership and compassion to its people.

The ceremony also highlights the presentation of surrendered firearms and distribution of food packs to seven former rebels who were earlier granted monetary support amounting to Php 455,000 as well as medical services among other benefits under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP.

MGen Almerol lauded the province of Batangas, soldiers, and police for the seamless relationship in fulfilling the silent prayers and aspirations of our people for a peaceful and prosperous life away from the horrors of terrorism.

“The government’s desire to end insurgency through the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict or PTF-ELCAC of Batangas made the impossible, possible for the people we have sworn to serve.”

He ended his statement by confidently expressing that Batangas will now be able to further enhance the commercial viability, tourism, and other development opportunities that will benefit the people.

Batangas became the fifth province in the 2ID area of responsibility to be declared as SIPS following Cavite on Dec 4, 2018, Romblon on Feb 21, 2019, Marinduque on Mar 25, 2019, and Laguna on September 26, 2019.

[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/batangas-is-now-insurgency-free-awaits-more-opportunities-for-the-people/

Kalinaw News: Remains of 3 people killed by NPA, exhumed

From Kalinaw News (Mar 10, 2021): Remains of 3 people killed by NPA, exhumed

PAQUIBATO, DAVAO CITY – Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) accompanied by 1003rd Brigade, 27th Infantry Battalion, Paquibato Police personnels, Peace 911 and Barangay officials conducted exhumation of the remains of three individuals that where killed by NPA.

According to BGen Nolasco Mempin, 10O3rd Brigade Commander, one Dandy Mallorca Rivera, 47, whose remains recovered at Purok Culape, Barangay Mapula, Paquibato District, Davao City was a plain civilian.

Rivera has a business (horse renting) where he has NPA customers who rent horse from him, however by the time he asked for the payment, Rivera was accused as theft by the left and was subjected to Kangaroo Court.

“Meron siyang napahiram na for rent na kabayo na ginamit siguro from somewhere in Arakan going here Davao area and nung time na binabalikan na niya para maningil para makuha niya ang kabayo, hindi natin alam ang ensaktong estorya, napagbintangan siya na espiya nang militar naging sanhi ito ng kaniyang pagkamatay dahil na kangaroo court sya at dito sa Purok Culape ng Mapula siya inilibing. Yun ang ating ineexhume ngayon para mabigyan ng marangal na libing at maibalik din sa kaniyang pamilya” says BGen. Mempin

Dandy’s sister Marycel told the military by the time his brother was missing since 1999, they had not contact him anymore. “Katong kabayo nga gibaligya kinawat daw niya pero sa tinood lang akoa tong kabayo dili tung kinawatan, buuotan akong manghud. Dili to siya NPA” she said.

(I am the owner of the horses, it was not stolen. He was not an NPA )

Barangay Mapula officials said that it was just this year that a concern citizen approached them who saw the burrying of the victim. Meanwhile other 2 remains of killed people were recovered at Barangay Panalum, Paquibato Dist., Davao City. They were identified as Ariel Peletos and Adelio Suganan Ramirez, both were missing since September 2014 and last seen at Barangay Lasang, Davao City.

According to reports, they were former supporters of NPA who backed out from the group, however this was seen by the left, unacceptable. They were subjected under Kangaroo court too.

Lina Peletos, wife of Ariel Peletos one of the dead, confirms the identity of his husband during the exhumation. There were no claimants for Ramirez. The killings were described as inhumane and unlawful by authorities.

“Itong walang nagki-claim, out of town yung mga relatives is allegedly a former cafgu na umalis na sa pag cafgu, pag cafgu napagbintangan din sila ng mga masa sila. Itong si Adelio may bullet wounds and eto naman si Ariel maraming saksak ng kutsilyo. Without due process ng law and instead they use Kangaroo court system” says Mempin.

“Meron tayong nahikayat na bumaba na isang armado at siya yung nagbigay ng kasabotan na ayun nga na merong pinatay yung NPA terrorist at inilibing sa lugar na ito at ang ginawa ng ating kasundaluhan, mag coordinate sila sa unit kung saan nag surrender ang former rebel” says LTC Victorino Seño, 27th IB Commander.

Paquibato PNP will file murder suit against perpitrators of the crime. They also encouraged the public to report any sightings of NPA activities in their AOR. Assistance will be given to the families spearheaded by the local government of the concerned areas together with Peace 911.

[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/remains-of-3-people-killed-by-npa-exhumed/

Kalinaw News: Bukidnon, Former Rebels received Financial Assistance from the Government

From Kalinaw News (Mar 10, 2021): Bukidnon, Former Rebels received Financial Assistance from the Government

MARAMAG, Bukidnon, A total of 896 Former Rebels (FRs) coming from Bukidnon received financial assistance from Sen. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), in collaboration with the DTI, DA, TESDA, DOLE and 403rd Infantry (Peace Maker) Brigade, the said assistance released was successfully held at the Municipal Gymnasium of Impasugong, Bukidnon on 04 March 2021.

Out of the 896 beneficiaries, 191 surrendered to 88IB, these Former Rebels come from the municipalities of San Fernando, Cabanglasan, Quezon, Maramag and Valencia City.

Present during the said activity were Hon Jose Ma. R. Zubiri Jr, Provincial Governor of Bukidnon with ASec Reveree Niño Contreras from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Brigadier General Ferdinand T Barandon PA, Commander of 403rd Infantry Brigade, Mrs Marieta Daayata Social Worker and Administrative Team Leader, DSWD-Bukidnon, Mr Larry Paraluman, representative from the Department of Agriculture-10, Hon Anthony A. Uy, Municipal Mayor of Impasugong, representatives from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

Notable from the beneficiaries were the former front secretary of the dismantled Guerrilla Front 6 of SRC2, NCMRC, @JAMBY and her husband @WAR who was the former CO of Front Operational Command (FOC, GF6).

According to the couple @JAMBY and @WAR, Dako kaayu ang among pagpasalamat sa financial nga assistance nga among nadawatan, daku kaayo nig makatabang sa amo ug sa among pamilya, ingun man usab sa among mga kauban nga mga naka dawat aning ayuda sa atong gobyerno, salamat kaayo sa inyuhang gihatag nga pagsuporta ug sa paghatag ug tabang kanamo ug kami, kanhing mga taas nga leader sa sayup nga pagtuo sa kalihukan nanawagan sa among mga kanhing mga kauban sauna nga nagpabilin pa gihapon nga unta manurender namo aron mahisama mo kanamo nga naa sa sabakan sa gobyerno malipayun ug gawasnon.

LTC Christian James P Vingno INF (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer of 88IB, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to partner government agencies. “Thank you for being our partner in winning the peace and bringing the government closer to the people, especially to our FRs who became victims of the wrong ideology of the communist terrorists, your assistance will greatly contribute on their new endeavors in re-joining the mainstream society.”

BGen Ferdinand T Barandon, 403rd Brigade Commander also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the FR beneficiaries and partner government agencies. “This is the desire of our dear President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to end the local communist armed conflict, let us unite all the government efforts in attaining peace and inclusive development in the Province of Bukidnon”.

[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/bukidnon-former-rebels-received-financial-assistance-from-the-government/

Armor Div, partners reach out to disadvantaged kids in Tarlac City

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 10, 2021): Armor Div, partners reach out to disadvantaged kids in Tarlac City (By Trixie Joy B. Manalili)

CAPAS, Tarlac, March 10 (PIA) -- Armor Division together with its partner-stakeholders reached out to 36 disadvantaged children sheltered at the St. Joseph Home for Special Children in barangay San Jose, Tarlac City.

Aside from the feeding activity, each child-beneficiary received a bag that contains new clothes and toys, while some sacks of rice, boxes of canned goods, and other food stuff were given for the personnel and orphanage upkeep.

In an interview, Armor Division Commander Major General Efren Baluyot expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to give back and interact with the children at the orphanage.

“This will surely be a continuous activity not only in the Division Headquarters but with all the units of Armor Division. Also, I am thankful for the time, effort and donations extended by our stakeholders, military personnel and other individuals,” he said.

 

Armor Division and its stakeholders conduct feeding activity, and provide gift bags to the disadvantaged children of the St. Joseph Home for Special Children. (Armor Division)

As a part of the collaborative efforts for the activity, the JVP Bread King Corporation (Jelexie Bakeshop) donated 200 pieces of assorted bread products; the Armor Division Press Corps handed-out hygiene products; and the homeowners/members of the Philippine Army Village Housing Association provided clothes, shoes and toys for the kids.

For her part, St. Joseph’s Executive Directress Sr. Leoncia Mateo said she appreciated having Team Armor as the benefactor partner of their organization.

“Generous hearts of the military personnel, and other people and organizations who made the activity enjoyable and successful will always be in the hearts and minds of the children in our care,” Mateo added.

The activity aims to help disadvantaged members of the community through the provision of social support and services especially amid the pandemic. (CLJD/TJBM-PIA 3)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1069125

3 NPA rebels yield to policemen in Leyte

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 10, 2021): 3 NPA rebels yield to policemen in Leyte (By Sarwell Meniano)

NPA FIGHTERS. The Leyte police provincial office in Tacloban City in this undated photo. The office reported on Wednesday that three members of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to policemen in Leyte on Tuesday (March 8, 2021). They also turned over firearms and ammunition. (Photo courtesy of Leyte police)

Three members of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to policemen in Leyte on Tuesday, turning over firearms and ammunition.

Leyte police provincial director Col. Rodelio Samson identified the former rebels only as alias Jack, Arwin, and Ruel. They belong to the NPA’s Amandawin Command in Leyte as intelligence officers.

They yielded to the operatives of the 1st Leyte provincial mobile force company in Gaas village, Baybay City around 3:50 pm on Tuesday.

They turned over two homemade shotguns, two Arisaka rifles, a .45 caliber pistol, and several ammunitions.

“My appeal to the other member of the communist terrorist group to lay down their arms and return to the fold of the law and take advantage of the government’s program and live a normal life with their love ones,” Samson said in a statement on Wednesday.

The police official is upbeat that the surrender of these NPA members will further weaken the communist terrorist group in Leyte province.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1133136

Getting vax part of soldiers' duty to save lives: Army official

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 10, 2021): Getting vax part of soldiers' duty to save lives: Army official (By Marilyn Galang)

VACCINATION ROLLOUT. A ceremonial vaccination for Fort Magsaysay Army Station Hospital’s (FMASH) medical front-line personnel kicks off at the 7th Infantry Division Covered Court in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija on Tuesday (March 9, 2021). It will run until March 11, 2021. (Contributed photo)

FORT RAMON MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija – A top-ranking official of the Philippine Army’s 7th Infantry Division (7ID) said getting vaccinated against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) is part of their commitment to protect not only themselves but also other people’s lives against this unseen enemy.

During the kickoff of the vaccination rollout here Tuesday, 7ID commander Maj. Gen. Alfredo V. Rosario Jr. emphasized the responsibility of the military’s medical front-liners in taking good care of their health to better perform their tasks and obligations to the people.

“We cannot afford to be the ones spreading the virus because we, along with our medical front-liners, are the last line of defense against this pandemic. So, be thankful that the government prioritized our protection, and let’s make use of what is available that can immunize us against the virus,” Rosario said.

Maj. Veronica Lim, acting commander of the Fort Magsaysay Army Station Hospital (FMASH) and Lt. Col. Stevens Navata, commanding officer of the Dental Detachment, were among the first vaccinees in ceremonies held at the 7ID covered court.

The inoculation was witnessed by provincial health team leader, Dr. Edwin V. Santiago of the Department of Health - Nueva Ecija; Dr. Josefina Garcia, provincial health officer; and Dr. Evelyn Abesamis, development management officer.

The vaccination for the FMASH and front-line personnel will run until March 11.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1133137

Batangas now 'insurgency-free': Army

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 10, 2021): Batangas now 'insurgency-free': Army (By Priam Nepomuceno)

INSURGENCY FREE. Commander of the 2nd Infantry Division, Maj. Gen. Greg Almerol (4th from left), and Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas (3rd from right) lead the ceremony for the signing of a memorandum of agreement at the Provincial Capitol on Wednesday (March 10, 2021). Batangas was declared as an area with "stable internal peace and security" due to the absence of recorded New People's Army (NPA) violent activities for at least one year. (Photo courtesy of 2nd Infantry Division, Philippine Army)

The Philippine Army's 2nd Infantry Division (2ID) has declared the province of Batangas as now free from communist insurgency.

Maj. Gen. Greg Almerol, 2ID commander, made the announcement during the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) declaring the province as an area with "stable internal peace and security", between ranking military and provincial government officials held at the Provincial Capitol on Wednesday.

Almerol and Governor Hermilando Mandanas signed the MOA in the presence of members of the Provincial Peace and Order Council, mayors, officials of government agencies in the province, and military and police commanders.

Almerol said the province has already met the parameters set under the Armed Forces of the Philippines' phases of normalization, specifically the absence of recorded New People's Army (NPA) violent activities for at least one year.

Mandanas, meanwhile, thanked the different agencies, soldiers, and police who remained committed to its mandate to help the province attain peace, prosperity, and development.

He added that development would always rely on the achievement of peace as a result of the national and local government’s concerted effort, which shows a true zeal of leadership and compassion to its people.

The ceremony also highlighted the presentation of surrendered firearms and distribution of food packs to seven former rebels who were earlier granted monetary support amounting to PHP455,000, as well as medical services among other benefits under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Almerol lauded the province of Batangas, soldiers, and police for the seamless relationship in fulfilling the silent prayers and aspirations of the Filipino people for a peaceful and prosperous life away from the horrors of terrorism.

"The government’s desire to end insurgency through the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict or PTF-ELCAC of Batangas made the impossible possible for the people we have sworn to serve," he said.

Almerol also expressed hope that Batangas would now be able to further enhance its commercial viability, tourism, and other development opportunities that would benefit the people.

Batangas is the fifth province in the 2ID's area of responsibility to be declared as having stable internal peace and security, after the provinces of Cavite, Romblon, Marinduque, and Laguna.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1133206

BrahMos ideal weapon for Navy missile project

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 10, 2021): BrahMos ideal weapon for Navy missile project (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Philippine Navy chief, Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo. (File photo)

The medium-range ramjet supersonic BrahMos cruise missile system is the ideal weapon for the planned shore-based anti-ship missile project of the Philippine Navy (PN), its chief said Tuesday night.

"The BrahMos Missile and Launching System is the most promising alternative for the Shore-Based Anti-Ship Missile System as assessed by the PN Technical Working Group," Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said in a text message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA) when asked whether the PN intends to acquire the Mach 3-capable BrahMos missile for its inventory.

Bacordo said the project is being pursued as part of the Navy's requirements for a credible defense posture as envisioned in its ongoing modernization program.

"The project proposal was already presented to the Senior Leaders, however (it is) still for further approval by the Commander-in-Chief and subsequent funding," he added.

Earlier, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the acquisition program for the BrahMos would push through after his department and India's Defense Ministry signed on March 2 the implementing agreement concerning the procurement of defense material and equipment.

"As of now, it is a go. The implementing agreement recently signed will facilitate the G2G (government-to-government) mode of procurement," Lorenzana said.

When asked how many BrahMos batteries the country would procure, he answered only one would be acquired.

"One battery only. Three systems na yan (it will consist of three systems)," Lorenzana said.

A missile battery typically consists of three mobile autonomous launchers with two or three missile tubes each, along with the tracking systems.

The BrahMos cruise missile can be launched from a ship, aircraft, submarine, or land and has a top of Mach 3 and capable of carrying warheads weighing 200 kg. to 300 kg.

The acquisition of a land-based missile system is under Horizon Two of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program, which is slated for 2018 to 2022 and geared for the acquisition of equipment for external defense and has a budget of PHP300 billion.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1133128

Calabarzon ops legitimate: PH Mission to UN

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 10, 2021): Calabarzon ops legitimate: PH Mission to UN (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

The Philippine Mission to the United Nations in Geneva defended as "legitimate" the law enforcement operations in Calabarzon that resulted in the deaths of nine activists and the arrest of six others on March 7.

This came in the wake of a statement from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) that denounces what it describes as "arbitrary killing".

"We are appalled at OHCHR prejudging legitimate police operations on Sunday in the Philippines vs persons possessing dangerous firearms and explosive devices. We regret this overreach of OHCHR’s mandate -- clearly uninformed of facts on the ground," the Philippine Mission said over Twitter on Tuesday night.

It said there is "no basis for calling deaths resulting from these operations as arbitrary killing," adding that these were carried out "strictly within the bounds of law, on 40 search warrants secured by the police after a rigorous legal process."

When deaths occur during operations conducted by security forces, investigations are "automatically" launched in the Philippines, it added.

"And this will be true for the search ops in Luzon last Sunday," it said. "We ask OHCHR to correct hasty opinions favoring violators of the law & instead support efforts to uphold law & order."

READ: Gov’t investigating death of activists in Calabarzon raids

At least six died in Rizal province, two in Batangas, and one in Cavite following simultaneous police operations on Sunday.

Initial reports showed that policemen conducted the raids by virtue of search warrants for illegal possession of firearms and explosives.

Col. Chit Gaoiran, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office-4A (Calabarzon), earlier said the raiding team was engaged in a gunfight, resulting in the deaths of the nine individuals.

A Department of Justice-led panel on extrajudicial killings is currently investigating the death of the nine activists. The Commission on Human Rights will also launch an independent probe.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1133161

9 female nurses, 28 other AFP officers get promotion

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 10, 2021): 9 female nurses, 28 other AFP officers get promotion (By Priam Nepomuceno)

PROMOTED. Some 37 senior officers from the AFP's Technical and Administrative Service (TAS) were promoted to higher rank in a ceremony in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Wednesday (March 10, 2021). The newly promoted officers include nine female military nurses who are medical front-liners in the battle against the coronavirus. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

A total of nine female nurses are among the 37 senior military officers who were promoted to higher ranks on Wednesday.

Navy Capt. Jonathan Zata, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief, said all newly-promoted officers are regular and reserve senior officers from the military's Technical and Administrative Service (TAS).

AFP deputy chief-of-staff Vice Admiral Erick Kagaoan presided over the donning of ranks ceremony at the Tejeros Hall, Commissioned Officers Country in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Newly promoted officers from the AFP's Nurse Corps include Colonel Darlene D. Flores and Reserve Colonels Lourdes P. Dacoscos, Barbara Lollini C. Conte, Erlyn N. Espera, Annaliza U. Yanto, Maria Teresa B. Rudio, Arlene M. Mandal, Jeanette S. Rivarez, and Assumption R. Dy, who all belong to the Nurse Corps.

Other promoted officers were from the Medical Corps (five), Medical Administrative Corps (three), Veterinary Corps (five), Judge Advocate General Service (five), Corps of Professors (two), Dental Service (four), and Chaplain Service (four).

The promotees from the Medical Corps were Colonel Nealon Eugene P. Batalla and Reserve Colonels Jonna D. Dalaguit, William P. Uy, Alan E. Romero, and Santiago O. Rodriguez, Jr. who are military doctors assigned in different medical facilities of the AFP.

Meanwhile, the promoted officers from the Medical Administrative Corps were Colonel Marvin A. De Jesus and Reserve Colonels Joseph Alain U. Ibuna, and Jayson A. Aguila.

The promoted officers from the Veterinary Corps are Colonel Paul Vincent D. Fajardo and Reserve Colonels William A. Averion, Peter Tom T. Alangui, Nelson S. Simpliciano, and Perpetuo P. Tan Jr.

Meanwhile, Colonels Allan L. Tiu, Rolando C. Escalona Jr, Rosel L. Tan, and Reserve Colonels Primitivo M. Corpuz, Jr. and Ma. Victoria R. Odulio are from the Judge Advocate General Service while Colonels Jesus Francisco M. Torbela and Aristotle D. Maglasang are regular officers from the Corps of Professors.

The newly-promoted reserve officers from the Dental Service are Colonels Ruel P. Baldeo, Abner E. Viray, Rogelio T. Montero, Jr., and Joel A. Arcilla.

From the Chaplain Service, promoted were Reserve Colonels Carlito T. Buslon, Daneck E. Dang-Awan, Rene E. Tambago and Pablito F. Melchor.

“We honor the distinguished officers who have exemplified our fundamental virtues of patriotism, integrity and service, thereby creating a reputable name for themselves as dependable and competent leaders of our organization,” Kagaoan said.

Earlier, President Rodrigo Duterte confirmed the promotion of the 37 senior military officers to the rank of colonel.

“To our newly promoted colonels, now that you have taken a notch higher in our organization, I would like to remind you that promotion is both a privilege and a duty — a privilege bestowed upon us by the organization and a duty we owe to our country and people. Let us be reminded that ours is a vocation of public service — we serve to protect our fellow Filipinos,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1133165